Pre-purchase inspection checklist — 2000 Chevrolet Impala
The 2000 Chevrolet Impala shows considerable concern with its high number of recalls and complaints, particularly in the electrical and engine systems. However, information is limited about specific consistent failures. Prospective buyers should be attentive to recalls and complaints when inspecting this model.
NHTSA data on file today
The 2000 Chevrolet Impala has 10 NHTSA recall campaigns and 816 owner complaints on file as of . Recall data is refreshed daily from NHTSA.
Recall campaigns on file
- NHTSA #15V701000 Engine Oil Dripping On Manifold may Cause Fire NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #14V400000 Ignition Switch may Turn Off NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #09V116000 ENGINE COMPARTMENT FIRE NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #09E005000 STEERING KNUCKLE BREAKING/LOSS OF STEERING CONTROL NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #08E063000 INTERMEDIATE STEERING SHAFT/LOSS OF STEERING NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #07E021000 AFTERMARKET FUEL PRESSURE REGULATORS NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #04V090000 GM/FUEL PRESSURE REGULATOR NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #01V136000 GM/FMVSS 301/FUEL RETURN LINE NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #00V371000 GM/SIDE IMPACT AIR BAG MODULE NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #00V228003 GM/FMVSS 209/TRW SEAT BELT BUCKLES NHTSA notice
Most-cited components in owner complaints
- Electrical System 183 complaints
- Engine and Engine Cooling 154 complaints
- Steering 124 complaints
- Air Bags 80 complaints
- Engine 71 complaints
- Exterior Lighting 67 complaints
Of the 816 complaints on file, 49 report a crash and 73 a fire; across all 816 complaints, owners report 53 injuries and 2 deaths (owner-reported, not verified by NHTSA).
Known issues to inspect
Ignition key issues
How to check: Check the operation of the ignition switch and fob.
Oil dripping on exhaust
How to check: Inspect for oil leaks under the engine.
Steering knuckle issues
How to check: Ensure steering is responsive and smooth.
Test-drive walkthrough
- 01
Cold start
What to check: Listen for unusual engine noises or hard starts.
Red flag: Persistent knocking or no start
- 02
First minute idling
What to check: Check for unstable idle or stalling.
Red flag: Rough idle or engine stalls
- 03
Initial acceleration
What to check: Monitor for hesitations or lack of power.
Red flag: Hesitation or weak acceleration
- 04
City driving
What to check: Feel for smooth gear shifts without slipping.
Red flag: Transmission slipping or clunks
- 05
Highway acceleration
What to check: Check steering stability and power consistency.
Red flag: Steering pulls or power loss
- 06
Braking from speed
What to check: Observe any vibrations or brake fade.
Red flag: Vibrations or weak braking
- 07
Parking maneuvers
What to check: Steering should be easy with no noises.
Red flag: Stiff steering or clunking noises
Questions for the seller
Use this exact phrasing.
- Has the ignition recall been addressed?
- Are there any ongoing electrical issues?
- Has the steering system been repaired?
- Are there any active check engine lights?
- Has the vehicle had regular oil changes?
Documents to request
Don't sign anything until you have these.
- Proof of recall repairs
- Complete service history
- Current vehicle inspection report
- Title and registration
- Emissions test results
Generated by gpt-4o on from the NHTSA recall campaigns and owner-complaint counts on file for the 2000 Chevrolet Impala at the time. AI output can be wrong; confirm anything you find with a mechanic.
Next step
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