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2020 Chevrolet Impala Report

Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.

Updated May 30, 2026·Ryan Davis
2020 Chevrolet Impala Report

Overall Score

7.6/ 10
Our Verdict
Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

  • The steering system is a primary concern, with owners reporting failures and hard steering.
  • Electrical system issues, often linked to water intrusion from AC leaks, are frequently cited.
  • Powertrain complaints, including transmission problems, suggest potential long-term durability concerns.
  • Airbag system failures, specifically non-deployment in accidents, represent a critical safety risk.
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OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2020 Chevrolet Impala

The 2020 Chevrolet Impala presents a mixed bag for the used car buyer. It boasts excellent safety scores, achieving a perfect 5 out of 5 overall. Its 3.6L V6 engine paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission delivers a respectable 22 MPG combined. However, the ownership experience is tempered by a notable number of owner complaints, particularly concerning steering and electrical systems, with some critical safety implications.

Critical Failure Risk

Owners report issues with power steering, including loss of assist and intermittent hard steering. These problems can manifest early in the vehicle's life and may recur.

Early detection can help you avoid a $1,000-$3,500 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls0
Service Bulletins0
Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

23
Electrical System3
Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Fuel Efficiency
Combined
22
MPG
City
19
MPG
Highway
28
MPG
Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

9.4/ 10

Practicality

4.1/ 10

The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption.

Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Buyers prioritizing strong safety ratings in a sedan.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Buyers prioritizing absolute mechanical reliability above all else.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2020 Chevrolet Impala Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2020 Chevrolet Impala.

  • Recall TimelineOfficial safety notices
  • Owner ComplaintsReal driver reports
  • Failure AnalysisKnown part defects
Specs

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type
Regular
Seating Capacity
5
Transmission
Automatic
Drivetrain
FWD/Front-Wheel Drive
Body Style
Sedan
EPA Combined MPG
22

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Most Common Issues

1. Electrical System

Most reported

Usage: 3 reports

2. Steering

Usage: 3 reports

See all common issues in the maintenance guide

First Service Interval

- Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Brake Inspection - Cabin Air Filter Replacement

Est. shop cost: $100 - $200

7,500 mi

Unlock the full maintenance guide for every scheduled service interval and cost forecast.

Full pre-purchase inspection checklist
Complete maintenance schedule (5 service intervals)
Repair forecasts with mileage and cost context
Full buyer-fit guidance and who should avoid it
Full specs and trim-level context
Full safety recall details
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FAQ

FAQ

Is the 2020 Chevrolet Impala reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2020 Chevrolet Impala is 9.4/10. Reliability score is 9.4/10. NHTSA recalls: 0. Owner complaints: 23.

How practical is the 2020 Chevrolet Impala for daily use?▾

Practicality score is 4.1/10. The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption. EPA combined economy is 22 MPG. Seating capacity is 5.

What is the overall score for the 2020 Chevrolet Impala?▾

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2020 Chevrolet Impala is 7.6/10. Overall score is 7.6/10 (Good). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 8.0/10. Practicality 4.1/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2020 Chevrolet Impala?▾

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Brake Inspection - Cabin Air Filter Replacement at 7,500 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $500 - $1,000. Repair prediction highlight: Steering System (typical at 75,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $800 • Max: $1,500).

What is the MSRP range for the 2020 Chevrolet Impala?▾

Base MSRP is $31,620.

What engine is in the 2020 Chevrolet Impala?▾

Engine specs list 6 • 3.6.

What transmission does the 2020 Chevrolet Impala use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2020 Chevrolet Impala, transmission is Automatic. The paired drivetrain is FWD/Front-Wheel Drive.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2020 Chevrolet Impala?▾

EPA combined estimate is 22 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2020 Chevrolet Impala?▾

8 standard and 5 optional driver assistance features. Key features include Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control.

How many people fit in a 2020 Chevrolet Impala?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2020 Chevrolet Impala, seating capacity is 5.

What body style is the 2020 Chevrolet Impala?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2020 Chevrolet Impala, body style is sedan.

What drivetrain does the 2020 Chevrolet Impala use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2020 Chevrolet Impala, drivetrain is FWD/Front-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic.

What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2020 Chevrolet Impala?▾

NHTSA ratings: Overall 5/5 • Frontal 5/5 • Side 5/5 • Rollover 4/5.

What are the most common electrical system problems on the 2020 Chevrolet Impala?▾

Top complaint category: electrical system (3 reports, 13% of complaints).

Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2020 Chevrolet Impala?▾

Alternatives listed in this guide: 2020 Toyota Avalon and 2020 Honda Accord.

Start Here

Maintenance guide

Costs + intervals

Recall report

Campaigns + remedy notes

Owner complaints

Issue volume + categories

In this guide

  1. 01Overview
  2. 02Who This Car Is For
  3. 03Reliability & Problems
  4. 04Vehicle Specs
  5. 05Unlock Full Report
  6. 06FAQ

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