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2013 Chevrolet Impala Review: Simple, Dependable & Comfortable Full Size Sedan

Rating: 4.28
Based on 90 Owner Reviews β–Ά
Cathleen V | March 31, 2025
The 2013 Chevrolet Impala is a full-size sedan with a long history, known for its spaciousness and comfort. It represents the final model year of the ninth generation. Key trims include the LS, LT, and LTZ. Pricing ranged from approximately $26,000 to $31,000 when new. Its popularity stemmed from its roomy interior, large trunk, smooth ride, and reputation as a reliable and affordable family car or fleet vehicle.
The Good

The 2013 Impala offers a comfortable and spacious interior, appealing to families. Its reliable V6 engine provides adequate performance, while its reputation for dependability offers peace of mind. The value proposition is strong, making it a practical choice for budget-conscious buyers who want a large and comfortable sedan. The classic, understated design also holds appeal.

The Bad

The 2013 Impala's weaknesses include its dated interior design and somewhat uninspired handling. Some owners have reported issues with the electrical system and transmission. The fuel economy isn't class-leading. Potential buyers should carefully inspect for any signs of rust, especially in areas prone to salt exposure, and ensure all electronic features are functioning correctly.

2013 Chevrolet Impala: Quick Overview

Key specs for the 2013 Chevrolet Impala:

  • Engine Options:
    • 3.6L V6 (standard on LT and LTZ; available on LS)
    • 3.5L V6 (standard on LS)

  • Horsepower:
    • 3.6L V6: 300 hp
    • 3.5L V6: 211 hp

  • Fuel Economy:
    • 3.6L V6: 18 mpg city / 30 mpg highway
    • 3.5L V6: 18 mpg city / 29 mpg highway

  • 0-60 Times:
    • 3.6L V6: Approximately 6.8 seconds

  • Towing Capacity: Not recommended for towing.

  • Trim-Level Features:
    • LS: Cloth upholstery, power driver's seat, keyless entry, air conditioning, OnStar, CD player with auxiliary input.

    • LT: (Adds to LS) Alloy wheels, dual-zone climate control, upgraded audio system, remote vehicle start.

    • LTZ: (Adds to LT) Leather upholstery, heated front seats, premium audio system, rear spoiler, chrome accents.

All trims came standard with a six-speed automatic transmission. Options varied by trim and could include features like a sunroof, navigation system, and upgraded safety features. The 3.6L V6 provided a noticeable performance boost over the standard 3.5L V6, making it a desirable upgrade for those prioritizing acceleration. The Impala focused primarily on comfort and practicality, with towing capabilities being virtually non-existent.

2013 Chevrolet Impala Specifications

Vehicle Information
Year 2013
Make Chevrolet
Model Impala
Trim -
Style -
Type Passenger Sedan
Category Compact Car
Manufacturing Details
Made In Canada
Manufacturing City OSHAWA #2 (OST)
Dimensions
Doors 4-Door
Curb Weight -
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating -
Overall Height -
Overall Length -
Overall Width -
Wheelbase Length -
Standard Seating -
Engine & Performance
Engine LEA
Engine Size 1.4L
Engine Cylinders 4
Transmission 6-Speed Automatic
Transmission Type Automatic
Transmission Speeds 6-Speed
Drivetrain Front-Wheel Drive
Additional Features
Anti-Brake System -
Steering Type -
Pricing
Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) -
Invoice Price -
Delivery Charges -

Vehicle History Report

Vehicle
Specifications
Ownership
History
All History
Events
NMVTIS Title
History Check
Salvage/Rebuilt
Check
Accident
Check
Theft
Check
Open Lien
Check
Past Sale
Listings
Safety
Recalls
Odometer
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Market Price
Analysis

What Problems Does the 2013 Chevrolet Impala Have?

Frequently reported problems for the 2013 Chevrolet Impala often revolve around the electrical system. Owners have noted issues with the car's computer, sensors, and various electronic components. Transmission problems, including rough shifting and slipping, have also been reported, though less frequently than electrical issues. Some models may experience premature wear of brake components.
Recalls for the 2013 Impala were related to issues such as potential problems with the ignition switch, which could cause the engine to stall, and concerns about the power steering assist malfunctioning. It's crucial to check the vehicle's VIN against the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) database to confirm that all applicable recalls have been addressed.
Long-term reliability concerns include potential for rust, particularly in regions with harsh winters, and the degradation of plastic interior components. Although the V6 engine is generally considered reliable, proper maintenance, including regular oil changes and cooling system flushes, is essential to prevent issues. Pre-purchase inspections are vital to identify any existing problems and assess the overall condition of the vehicle, especially given its age.

How long will the 2013 Chevrolet Impala last?

A 2013 Chevrolet Impala, with consistent maintenance, could realistically reach 200,000 miles or more. Average annual mileage typically falls between 12,000 and 15,000 miles. Proper maintenance, including timely oil changes, fluid checks, and addressing minor repairs promptly, significantly impacts longevity.
Long-term durability hinges on preventing rust and maintaining the electrical system. Weaknesses tend to emerge in the form of failing sensors, worn suspension components, and potential transmission issues as the vehicle ages. Regular inspections and proactive repairs are key to maximizing its lifespan.
Positive Owner Reviews
Dave D Chevy Fan
Engine runs great. The 300HP V6 makes merging on the highway no problem. Quiet smooth ride. Plenty of room for a road trip. Large trunk. Decent fuel economy. Very reliable. In 78,000 miles I've only had to replace an EVAP solenoid. Brakes were easy to change.
Iain the Amazing
Mark Ackerson was kind and understanding of my first time purchasing a vehicle. Mark encouraged me through the process, overall very friendly to my mom and me. Thanks Mark and Pruitt Ford!
Penni
We have driven V6 Impala's for many years. Gas mileage, leg room, trunk room and reliability have always been a factor in our search for vehicles.
Negative Owner Reviews
Peggy wildflower
Roomy, nice, clean car, but have had two fuel pumps put In and 02 sensner. Still having problems. Them AC fuse under dash caught on fire. Had it fixed, and a year later it is all melted together and no AC or heater. No fire this time so far. All that was while it was covered. But as soon as coverage was done it all messed up again. Then all the brake light, traction control, powersteering, lights stay on. Took and paid 1200 dollars to have it fixed. New wheel bearing, and racket and pinning. A month later still not fixed.
i try to obey speed limits
I rented one of these for the weekend to go out of town. I was surprised how it acted bigger than it actually was. The steering was numb and labored, the ride was like an ocean liner. its not a wonder a lot of rental car agencies use this car. It seems like it tries to please everyone and be everything to everyone. Don't get me wrong, it's not a bad car. Just very plain vanilla and basic. Nothing wrong with that as long as you don't expect more. On a personal note, I am not a big fan of American sedans but I prefer the Dodge Charger not only for much better looks, but overall better performance, driveability and comfort.
me
When I was getting my protector done on my 2013 camaro I just bought they gave me a 2013 Impala LTZ as a loaner car. All I can say is this is by far the worst car i have ever driven. I honestly don't know what people see in these because I cannot think of one nice thing to say about it. The seats are not comfortable and I always felt like I was going to slide right out of the seat while driving even with the seat belt on. The back seat is also very cramped for a car this size. Every time I go from the gas to the break my foot hits the side of it almost getting stuck which is a big safety issue. Once I press the break I get this bumping sound and feeling. The ride was very unsettled for a car that only had 3500 miles on it and I think my 99 Ram truck is smoother. The floor gearshift doesn't even tell you what gear your in, you gotta look up under the speedometer. The side mirrors were very ugly. Once I tried to push the car a little to get it up to speed it went crazy and almost caused me to lose control. The day I took it back I was happy to have my Camaro back.

What Technology & Safety Features are Included?

The 2013 Chevrolet Impala's built-in tech and entertainment features were relatively basic compared to newer vehicles. Standard features included a CD player with auxiliary input, OnStar, and power accessories. Higher trims offered features like dual-zone climate control and an upgraded audio system.
Driver-assistance features were limited. Available options included remote start and rear parking sensors. Safety features included standard antilock brakes, stability control, and a suite of airbags. Optional features included side blind zone alert and rear cross-traffic alert.
Crash-test ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) were generally positive. The 2013 Impala received an overall score of 4 out of 5 stars. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) gave the 2013 Impala a "Good" rating in moderate overlap front tests but a "Marginal" rating in side-impact tests. The technology suite was not the Impala's strongest selling point; it primarily focused on providing a safe and comfortable ride.

What Colors Options are Available?

Exterior Colors
Black
Summit White
Silver Ice Metallic
Ashen Gray Metallic
Crystal Red Tintcoat
Cyber Gray Metallic
Atlantis Blue Metallic
Champagne Silver Metallic
Dark Cherry Metallic
Superior Blue Metallic
Gold Mist Metallic
Red Jewel Tintcoat
Sport Red Metallic
Brownstone Metallic
Interior Colors
Ebony
Neutral
Gray
Pewter
Brick
Dark Titanium

2013 Chevrolet Impala Prices and Market Value

When new, the 2013 Chevrolet Impala ranged from around $26,000 to $31,000, depending on the trim and options. Current used market prices typically range from $6,000 to $12,000, influenced by mileage, condition, and location.
The Impala has experienced significant depreciation due to its age and the large number of these vehicles sold into rental fleets. Factors affecting resale value include a clean title, well-documented maintenance history, lower mileage, and absence of significant damage or rust. Demand for large sedans has also decreased, further impacting resale value.

2013 Chevrolet Impala Cost of Ownership

The 2013 Chevrolet Impala generally presents moderate ownership costs. Insurance rates are typically affordable. Fuel costs depend on driving habits but are average for a V6-powered sedan. Maintenance is relatively straightforward, and parts are readily available. Repair costs can vary; electrical issues can be expensive to diagnose and fix. Overall, it's not the most economical car, but it's not excessively costly either, especially if preventative maintenance is prioritized.

2013 Chevrolet Impala Fuel Efficiency

Fuel Type Flex Fuel (Gas / Alcohol)
Fuel Capacity -
City Mileage -
Highway Mileage -

2013 Chevrolet Impala Safety Rating

NHTSA
Overall Rating
Overall Frontal Star Rating
Side Overall Star Rating
Overall Rollover Star Rating
Combined Front Seat Rating
Combined Rear Seat Rating
Overall Frontal Star Rating
Frontal Barrier Star Ratings Not Tested
Overall Side Star Rating
Side Barrier Star Ratings
Side Pole Star Rating
Combined Side Barrier And Side Pole Star Ratings Not Tested
Rollover Resistance Star Rating

2013 Chevrolet Impala Recalls & Defects

Electrical System:ignition
Recall date 2014-06-23
Recall no. 14v355000
Source NHTSA
Summary This Defect CAN Affect THE Safe Operation OF THE Airbag System. Until This Recall IS Performed, Customers Should Remove All Items From Their KEY Rings, Leaving Only THE Ignition Key. THE KEY FOB (IF Applicable), Should Also BE Removed From THE KEY Ring. General Motors LLC (Gm) IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2005-2009 Buick Lacrosse, 2006-2011 Buick Lucerne, 2000-2005 Cadillac Deville, 2006-2011 Cadillac Dts, 2006-2014 Chevrolet Impala, and 2006-2007 Chevrolet Monte Carlo Vehicles. IN THE Affected Vehicles, THE Weight ON THE KEY Ring and Road Conditions or Some Other Jarring Event MAY Cause THE Ignition Switch TO Move OUT OF THE RUN Position, Turning OFF THE Engine.
Consequence IF THE KEY IS NOT IN THE RUN Position, THE AIR Bags MAY NOT Deploy IF THE Vehicle IS Involved IN A Crash, Increasing THE Risk OF Injury. Additionally, A KEY Knocked OUT OF THE RUN Position Will Cause Loss OF Engine Power, Power Steering, and Power Braking, Increasing THE Risk OF A Vehicle Crash.
Remedy GM Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Install Two KEY Rings and AN Insert IN THE KEY Slot or A Cover Over THE KEY Head ON All Ignition Keys, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began ON September 23, 2014. Owners MAY Contact General Motors Customer Service AT 1-800-521-7300 (Buick), 1-800-458-8006 (Cadillac), and 1-800-222-1020 (chevrolet). Gm's Number FOR This Recall IS 14299.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.

2013 Chevrolet Impala Insurance

Insurance for a 2013 Chevrolet Impala is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Passenger Sedan with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.

How Does the 2013 Chevrolet Impala Compare to Other Passenger Sedan?

Compared to its rivals like the Toyota Avalon, Ford Taurus, and Chrysler 300, the 2013 Chevrolet Impala falls somewhere in the middle. The Avalon offers superior reliability and a more refined interior, but it typically commands a higher price. The Taurus provides a more modern design and available all-wheel drive but can be less fuel-efficient.
The Chrysler 300 offers bolder styling and available V8 power, but its reliability can be questionable. The Impala excels in value and interior space. In terms of features, the Impala lagged behind some competitors in tech offerings.
Alternatives to consider include the Buick LaCrosse (which shares a similar platform but offers a more upscale experience) and the Hyundai Azera (known for its value and feature-rich trim levels). If reliability is a top priority, the Toyota Avalon is a better choice, even at a higher price point. For those seeking more modern features, exploring later model year used sedans might be preferable.

Ranks #1078 Sedan

1 2023 Toyota Camry (5.0β˜…)
2 2023 Honda Accord (0.0β˜…)
3 2023 Lexus ES (0.0β˜…)
4 2024 Subaru Legacy (5.0β˜…)
5 2022 Mazda MX-30 (4.0β˜…)
6 2024 BMW M3 (0.0β˜…)
7 2023 Ford Mustang (5.0β˜…)
8 2023 Mercedes-Benz AMG GT (0.0β˜…)
9 2023 Audi A3 (0.0β˜…)
10 2023 Chevrolet Camaro (5.0β˜…)
11 2023 Hyundai Elantra Hybrid (0.0β˜…)
12 2023 Nissan Altima (4.0β˜…)
1078 2013 Chevrolet Impala (5.0β˜…)

Final Verdict: Is the 2013 Chevrolet Impala a Good Passenger Sedan?

The 2013 Chevrolet Impala is a decent option for buyers seeking a spacious, comfortable, and affordable full-size sedan. It's ideal for families needing a roomy interior or those who prioritize value over cutting-edge technology. It's worth buying as a used car, especially if found in good condition with a documented maintenance history. The LT or LTZ trims offer a better balance of features. A pre-purchase inspection is crucial to identify any potential issues, especially related to the electrical system and transmission. Consider alternatives if reliability or advanced features are high priorities.

2013 Chevrolet Impala Owner Reviews

4.28
Consumer Rating, Based on 90 Consumer Reviews
Overall rating
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Justin Wayne on September 9, 2024

The car is fun to drive.

The car is fun to drive. It's quick, and steering is very responsive, but there isn't any feedback on the road. Tire noise is excessive. The seats, however, are very comfortable. The optional column shifter is nice when you need to transport more people. Cargo space is phenomenal. It also returns good fuel economy, as I average 22 mpg. Although, honestly, the car is too quiet. There really isn't any engine or exhaust notes to be heard, slightly disappointing. Interior quality is fair, but heavy in plastic. The reliability is average, with no motor or electrical issues, but the transmission keeps jumping. No matter what repairs or transmission replacements that I do, it always shudders or jumps, occasionally. However, I still recommend the car to someone who needs a car that can pass others on the road easily.

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Cheryl on October 19, 2023

Anti-lock brake issues

I have had major problems with the anti-lock brake system. I've taken it in and been told that my transmission was going out. I have spoken to other Chevy owners and they have had the same experience with it their anti-lock breaking system

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Maier on March 14, 2023

2013 Chevy impala ltz

Bought car 2013 chevy impal Ltz 30,000 miles , after 218,000 miles change transmission but now motor still same at 281,000 miles this car it bullet proof really good on snow with good tires and good on gas

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Brad smith on February 20, 2023

Great Impala

Great car better mileage then my Toyota Camry. Purchased in 2014 was a dealer company demo, I drive this car 60 miles a day 5 days a week and never any problems. Love this car.

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Ronald Hock on November 19, 2022

Be Warned, use caution, allot of lemons.

over 10,000.00 spent fixing some chronic troubles along with wear and tear. in 2022 alone here are some. 1)chronic actuator troubles ,3 and counting, just letting it click now. 2)bad cabling on engine block ,this cost over 3,000 dealer could not fix (no experts at midway chevy,) went to AAA to fix finally they fixed it 3) bad gas sensor. local garage could not repair, took to Midway chevy to fix. 4) front end work , can't name all that was done. (allot more then a couple thousand) 5I and more.( I also have all the record receipts) 6) I would never buy another 2013 Impala, The last year that model was made prior to improvements. I hope the newer models are better. my model was not . of the

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Bobbi4fr on May 11, 2021

This car sucks

I had to replace air/heat control discs 4 times. Seat belts locked for no reason. Had to replace window motor. This car has nickel and dime me since I bought it

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Bill on April 10, 2021

Great ride quality, plenty of performance

I have the Impala LTZ. Plenty of legroom, & the smooth ride, & leather interior quality exceeded my expectations! I bought it used, and it’s clear it hasn’t been abused. The DOHC V6 is rated at 300 hp, & I get over 30 miles per gallon on the interstate, my daily commute. Power, luxury, and economical checks all the boxes!

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HOTLAP on September 6, 2020

Probably the best car I've owned

I've had this 2013 for six years now and drive about 70 miles each way to work on the highway. This car rides smooth, is quiet, has comfortable seats, gets great mileage, has more than enough power and has given me no problems for thousands of miles. What more could you ask, at the price these sell for it truly is the best value and bang for the buck in a used car bar none. If something happened to mine I would go in search of the exact same car to replace it with. We also get nasty winters here in the tundra and this car starts right up at minus 30 degrees.

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Dave D Chevy Fan on July 22, 2020

Smooth ride and quiet interior. Plenty of H.P.

Engine runs great. The 300HP V6 makes merging on the highway no problem. Quiet smooth ride. Plenty of room for a road trip. Large trunk. Decent fuel economy. Very reliable. In 78,000 miles I've only had to replace an EVAP solenoid. Brakes were easy to change.

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Alex on July 5, 2020

Its definitely a car

Ive had mine for about two years now and despite the low price I got it for, it has been a money pit. parts may be cheap but that doesn't excuse the fact that I have had to put almost 6k worth of parts into it to keep it rolling, and it now has two problems that no mechanic can figure out that will probably spell the end of this car. Despite this, it is a fun car to drive, and now that I installed a touch screen and a back up camera, it is comparable to most modern cars. If you are in the market for one of these, just be aware that you will probably have to put money into it every 5k miles

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Cathleen V

Cathleen is an exceptional freelance writer covering hot topics in the automotive world from a gearhead's perspective. Her articles delve into various aspects of automotive technology and history, offering readers detailed insights into engine performance, reliability, and maintenance. Through her engaging and informative writing, Cathleen provides valuable information to automotive enthusiasts and consumers alike, helping them make informed decisions about vehicle maintenance and purchases.