By Josh RosenbergWith both sky high new and used car prices, many carbuyers are looking for "older" vehicles as a way to save some significant dollars. And it turns out that the 2011 Impala has aged well and has proven to be a generally reliable vehicle.
Still, all older used cars require maintenance and repairs, usually more than newer cars, so that has to be factored into a buying decision as well.
Here, we'll cover this older Impala's pros and cons, its general reliability reputation along with specific mechanical issues to have checked out before purchase, plus a feature overview of the vehicle from when it came out in 2011.
But first, two very important suggestions ...
1. Things To Do When Considering An "Older" Impala:
Locate Lower Mileage Vehicles: They are certainly out there to be found with careful and patient shopping. Be willing to drive a distance if you have to.
Vehicle History and Maintenance: Ask for the vehicle history report (CarFax or AutoCheck) as well as documented maintenance and repair records. If not provided by the dealer or private seller, it's best to move on.
Pre-Purchase Inspection: Have the vehicle independently inspected before making a final decision. This usually will cost in the $150-$200 range but is well worth it given the potentially thousands in savings over the long term.
2. Know How To Get The Lowest Used Car Price:
Get Dealers To Compete For your Business: When you are searching vehicles to possibly purchase, the following is the absolute best way to get the lowest price, and it is extremely easy and stress-free.
Just go to a national car listing site, (I happen to prefer CarsDirect.com for their massive dealer participation and ease of use, although others will get the job done as well) and find several listed vehicles that you may be interested in.
Then write something like the following in the "Check Availability" box or "Contact Dealer" box or whatever the site you are using uses.
"Hello, I've contacted several dealers about cars I am interested in and am looking for the best value. I am also a serious buyer planning to make a decision soon. Please send me your best out-the-door price. Thank you.
After receiving the offers, follow up by explaining that based on the price, you're leaning in another direction but still really like their car and would certainly consider another offer. When dealers drop out, you'll know you're at the best price.
Using the internet to get dealers to compete for your business is extremely important. More details on this and how to intereact with the dealers can be found here at Best Used Car Buying Techniques.
The Pros And Cons
The 2011 Chevrolet Impala is a full-size sedan that was a popular choice for many buyers during its production. Like any car, it has its own set of pros and cons. Here are some of its key advantages and disadvantages:
2011 Chevy Impala Pros
Spacious Interior: The Impala offers a roomy interior with plenty of space for both passengers and cargo. It's known for its comfortable and supportive seats, making it a good choice for long drives.
Smooth Ride: The Impala is praised for its smooth and comfortable ride, which is well-suited for highway cruising and daily commuting.
Reliable Engine Options: The 2011 Impala was available with a choice of V6 engines that provide decent power and performance. The engines are generally reliable and fuel-efficient for a full-size sedan.
Good Trunk Space: The Impala has a large trunk, making it suitable for carrying luggage and groceries, and it also offers a pass-through feature to extend the cargo area.
Affordable Pricing: The 2011 Impala typically has a lower initial purchase price compared to some of its competitors in the full-size sedan segment, which can make it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers.
You May Also Like:
Do This To Get The Best Price For Your Trade-In
Car Buyers Are Being Forced Into Older Vehicles
How To Get The Lowest Rate Car Loan
Easy Negotiation Tactic To Buy A New Car At The Lowest Price
2011 Chevy Impala Cons
Outdated Interior: The interior design and materials are somewhat dated, especially when compared to more modern vehicles. This results in a less luxurious and less visually appealing cabin.
Lack of Advanced Technology: The 2011 Impala lacks many of the advanced technology features that are standard in more recent vehicles, including infotainment systems, navigation, and advanced safety features.
Subpar Fuel Efficiency: While the V6 engines provide adequate power, the fuel efficiency of the Impala is not particularly impressive, especially when compared to some of its more modern competitors.
Handling and Maneuverability: The Impala is not known for its agile handling, and it can feel somewhat unwieldy in tight spaces and during parking.
Limited Updates: By 2011, the Impala had not received significant updates for several years, so it may not feel as contemporary as some other models in its class.
Overall, the 2011 Chevrolet Impala is a practical and spacious choice for those who prioritize interior space and a comfortable ride over the latest tech and luxury features. However, it may not be the best option for those seeking the most up-to-date technology, fuel efficiency, or a sportier driving experience.
2011 Chevy Impala Reliability
The 2011 Impala is generally considered a reliable car. It has a reputation for being a workhorse in the sense that it tends to be durable and can withstand high mileage when properly maintained.
However, as with any used vehicle, the reliability of a specific vehicle can depend on factors such as its maintenance history and how it has been driven. Here are a few key points to consider regarding its reliability:
Engine Reliability: The Impala was offered with a choice of V6 engines in 2011, and these engines are known for their reliability. Proper maintenance, including regular oil changes and other routine service, is essential to keep the engine in good working condition.
Transmission: The automatic transmissions used in the 2011 Impala have a reputation for durability. Again, proper maintenance and addressing any issues promptly can contribute to transmission reliability.
Build Quality: While the interior materials and design may be considered somewhat dated, the Impala's overall build quality is decent. It's often praised for its robust construction.
Longevity: Many owners have reported their Impalas running well with high mileage, which suggests that with proper care, these vehicles have remained reliable over the long term. They are generally expected to reach 150,000 - 200,000 miles with proper care.
2011 Chevy Impala Mechanical Problem Watchlist:
All used cars have mechanical issues. And while the 2011 Impala is considered generally reliable, here are some common problems they've had which you need to check for before purchase:
Transmission Issues: Some owners have experienced transmission problems, such as rough shifting, slipping, or failure to engage properly.
Electrical Problems: Electrical issues, such as malfunctioning power windows, door locks, or dashboard lights, have been reported by some Impala owners. These issues may be caused by wiring problems or faulty components.
Suspension and Steering Components: Suspension and steering components, such as struts, shocks, tie rod ends, and sway bar links, can wear out over time, leading to a less comfortable ride or handling issues.
Cooling System Problems: Some Impala owners have reported problems with the cooling system, including issues with the radiator, thermostat, or water pump. Overheating can lead to engine damage if not addressed promptly.
Brake Issues: Brake problems, including worn brake pads and rotors, can occur over time and are typical wear-and-tear items that need regular replacement.
Exhaust System Concerns: Exhaust leaks or issues with the catalytic converter have been reported by some owners.
Engine Oil Leaks: Some Impalas may develop oil leaks, which can lead to reduced engine performance and the need for repairs.
Power Steering Problems: Issues with power steering components, such as the power steering pump or hoses, can affect steering performance.
It's important to note that the likelihood and severity of these issues can vary depending on factors like how well the car has been maintained and the driving conditions. Regular maintenance and timely repairs may have mitigated many of these potential problems in a specific vehicle.
More Car Buying Tips:
This One Tip Will Save Thousands On Car Insurance
The Truth About Wholesale And Trade-in Values
The Best Used Cars For Gas Mileage
2011 Chevy Impala Overview
While the 2011 Chevrolet Impala may have been getting a bit outdated when it came to some design and powertrain issues, it was still a solid family sedan choice thanks to its smooth and quiet drive, spacious and comfortable cabin, large trunk, decent standard feature list, top-notch safety ratings and respectable fuel economy for a V6.
True, some may be somewhat put off by the Impala's aged and perhaps a bit bland styling and its 4-speed automatic transmission (rather than more updated competitors with five or six speeds), but this older Impala still offers an attractive starting price and seating for up to six passengers.
That said, it's always a good idea to check out worthy rivals in order to make the most informed final buying decision. Other strong choices in the full-size sedan class would include the Ford Taurus, the then newly redesigned Hyundai Sonata, as well as the Toyota Avalon.
Trims, Standard Features And Options:
The 2011 Chevy Impala is available in three trims: LS, LT and LTZ. Standard seating accommodates five passengers, but there is an optional front bench seat offered on the LS and LT models to expand capacity to six.
Standard features on the already fairly decently equipped base Impala LS include power windows, power mirrors, power doorlocks, 17-inch alloy wheels, air conditioning, a 6-way-power driver seat, keyless entry, cruise control, automatic headlights, a tilt steering wheel, OnStar and a 6-speaker CD stereo system with satellite radio and an auxiliary audio jack.
Moving up to the Impala LT adds remote ignition, dual-zone manual climate control, a different set of 17-inch alloy wheels, steering-wheel audio and Bluetooth controls (optional on the LS), an upgraded trip computer, foglamps and a leather-wrapped steering wheel.
Also available on the LT is an optional Luxury package that includes leather upholstery, a 6-way power passenger seat, heated front seats, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, heated mirrors, a fold-flat rear seat, a rear spoiler and an 8-speaker Bose audio system.
The top-level Impala LTZ then adds a larger V6 engine, a "luxury-tuned" suspension, an 8-way power driver seat, 18-inch alloy wheels and the LT's Luxury package. In addition, a sunroof is an available option on both the LT and LTZ.
Engines, Powertrain And Gas Mileage:
Powering the Chevy Impala LS and LT is a 3.5-liter V6 engine that produces 211-horsepower and 216-pound-feet of torque. Under the hood of the LTZ is a 3.9-liter V6 that pumps out 224-horsepower and 235-pound-feet. Both are overhead valve engines paired with a 4-speed automatic transmission and all models are front-wheel drive.
The EPA-estimated gas mileage for the 2011 Impala with the 3.5 liter engine comes in at 19 mpg city and 29 mpg on the highway. Fuel economy for the 3.9-liter V6 stands at 17 mpg city and 27 mpg highway.
Safety:
Standard safety features for all 2011 Chevrolet Impalas include stability and traction control, antilock brakes (ABS), front side airbags, side curtain airbags and OnStar telematics.
The Impala also excelled in government crash tests, receiving the highest possible score of five stars in all frontal-impact and side-impact occupant protection categories.
Interior:
While the 2011's cabin is attractive enough overall, some may find it somewhat uninspired. That said, it's quiet and quite roomy with user-friendly features and seats that are comfortable and supportive. And fairly rare for sedans today is seating for up to six adults via the optional 40/20/40-split front bench (available on LS and LT models).
Also very useful is its large trunk with a cargo capacity of a generous 18 cubic feet. Longer items can also be conveniently stored thanks to its fold-flat rear seatbacks and large trunk pass-through (optional the LS and LT, standard on the LTZ).
Drive:
The 2011 Impala provides an impressively smooth, comfortable and quiet ride. This is a strong selling point for those who value this type of driving experience. However, the suspension tuning which provides this comes at the sacrifice of some handling abilities.
The Impala's V6 engines get the job done and while most drivers will be satisfied with their power, overall performance has started to lag competitors with newer and more robust V6s as well as 6-speed transmissions. Overall, the 2011 Impala provides a pleasant and comfortable ride.
Also, Always Know The Value Of Your Trade-In
Whether you are trading or selling on your own, it's just a good idea ... even whether you are in the market or not at the moment. You can then use this important information for a number of purposes ... to negotiate with a dealer, or to know how to price your car in the retail market, or simply to know the value of one of your assets, which is always a good idea.
Getting trade-in values online tend to vary a lot from site to site. But I've found the one at Edmunds Trade-In Quotes is particularly comprehensive and accurate.
It's free and just takes a couple of minutes. I think what helps its accuracy is the inputs will include either your plate# or VIN# followed by many simple, but specific, yes/no questions. It really focuses in on the detail of the specific vehicle.