Comprehensive guide to 2000 Chevrolet Impala common problems, maintenance schedules, and ownership costs. Expert insights from owner's manual analysis.
$478
Based on real owner data
5/10
Owner-reported reliability
5
Known problems tracked
The 2000 Chevrolet Impala marked the return of an iconic nameplate, offering a full-size sedan with contemporary styling and modern amenities. Built on GM's W-body platform, it featured either a 3.4L V6 or 3.8L V6 engine paired with a 4-speed automatic transmission. The Impala targeted families and older buyers seeking spacious, comfortable transportation with traditional American sedan characteristics. Standard features included dual front airbags, optional side-impact airbags, power accessories, and a comprehensive safety belt system. With its roomy interior, smooth ride quality, and competitive pricing, the 2000 Impala appealed to those prioritizing comfort and value over sportiness. While generally reliable for its era, owners should be aware of some common issues typical of early 2000s GM vehicles, including intake manifold gasket problems and transmission concerns that can arise with higher mileage.
The plastic intake manifold gaskets on 3.4L V6 engines commonly fail, causing coolant leaks, overheating, and potential engine damage. Symptoms include coolant loss, white exhaust smoke, and engine misfiring. This is a known design flaw affecting many GM vehicles of this era.
The 4T65-E automatic transmission may develop harsh shifting, slipping, or failure to engage gears, particularly in higher mileage vehicles. Issues often stem from worn valve body components, solenoid failures, or internal clutch wear.
Window motors, particularly on the driver's side, commonly fail causing windows to operate slowly or stop working entirely. This is typically due to worn motor brushes or regulator mechanism problems.
The electric fuel pump may fail without warning, causing the engine to stall or fail to start. Symptoms include engine sputtering, loss of power under acceleration, and difficulty starting when the fuel tank is low.
The air bag warning light may illuminate due to faulty sensors, wiring problems, or seat belt pretensioner issues. While the air bags may still function, this requires immediate diagnosis for safety reasons.
| Interval | Service | Priority |
|---|---|---|
| Every 3,000-5,000 miles | Engine Oil and Filter Change | critical |
| Every 6,000 miles | Tire Rotation and Inspection | recommended |
| Every 30,000 miles | Transmission Fluid Service | critical |
| Every 30,000 miles | Air Filter Replacement | recommended |
| Every 50,000 miles | Coolant System Flush | critical |
| Every 60,000 miles | Spark Plug Replacement | critical |
| Every 30,000 miles | Brake Fluid Replacement | recommended |
| Every 100,000 miles | Timing Chain Inspection | recommended |
The 2000 Impala offered two V6 engines: a 3.4L V6 producing 180 horsepower (standard) and a 3.8L Series II V6 producing 200 horsepower (optional). Both engines were paired with a 4-speed automatic transmission.
The 2000 Impala has average reliability for its era, with most issues being predictable and manageable. The main concerns are intake manifold gasket failures on 3.4L engines and transmission problems in higher mileage vehicles. With proper maintenance, many examples reach 200,000+ miles.
Standard safety features include dual front airbags, 3-point safety belts for all positions, anti-lock brakes (ABS), and daytime running lamps. Optional equipment included side-impact airbags for the driver and traction control system.
The 2000 Impala achieves approximately 20-22 mpg city and 29-32 mpg highway, depending on the engine choice and driving conditions. The 3.4L V6 typically offers slightly better fuel economy than the 3.8L V6.
To reset the oil life monitor, turn the radio off, press and hold the DISP button for 5 seconds until SETTINGS appears, scroll to OIL LIFE, press PREV or NEXT to enter submenu, select RESET, then press DISP to confirm.
The 2000 Impala has frontal airbags for driver and passenger, with optional side-impact airbags. Never place a rear-facing child seat in the front passenger seat due to airbag deployment risks. The airbag readiness light should be monitored for any electrical problems.
Enter vehicle customization mode by holding the DISP button for 5 seconds with radio off, scroll to FOB PROG, press PREV/NEXT, press DISP to start, then hold LOCK and UNLOCK buttons simultaneously on the transmitter for 15 seconds when prompted.
Use only GM-approved DEX-COOL coolant (orange-colored, long-life antifreeze) in the 2000 Impala. Never mix different types of coolant, as this can cause system damage and corrosion. The cooling system capacity is approximately 11-12 quarts.
Transmission fluid should be changed every 30,000 miles under normal driving conditions, or more frequently under severe conditions (towing, city driving, extreme temperatures). Use only DEXRON III automatic transmission fluid as specified by GM.
Signs include external coolant leaks (especially around the throttle body area), white exhaust smoke, coolant loss without visible external leaks, engine overheating, rough idle, and the presence of coolant in the oil (milky appearance on dipstick).
Join thousands of Chevrolet owners using Carvetka to track maintenance, expenses, and stay on top of vehicle care.
Last updated: November 23, 2025
Data based on real Chevrolet Impala owner reports and OEM specifications
