Pre-purchase inspection checklist — 2009 Chevrolet Impala
The 2009 Chevrolet Impala has a number of issues, including electrical and airbag-related recalls, as well as many owner complaints about electrical and engine problems. However, there's limited recall data for suspension and seatbelt issues. Buyers should be cautious and inspect these areas thoroughly before purchasing.
NHTSA data on file today
The 2009 Chevrolet Impala has 5 NHTSA recall campaigns and 824 owner complaints on file as of . Recall data is refreshed daily from NHTSA.
Recall campaigns on file
- NHTSA #16V507000 Passenger Presence Sensor Wires May Be Damaged NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #14V355000 Ignition Switch may Turn Off NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #12V377000 Lower Control Arms NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #10V480000 SEAT BELT ASSEMBLY ANCHORAGES/FMVSS 210 NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #08V517000 PASSENGER-SIDE FRONT AIR BAG INFLATOR NHTSA notice
Most-cited components in owner complaints
- Air Bags 232 complaints
- Electrical System 224 complaints
- Engine 179 complaints
- Vehicle Speed Control 130 complaints
- Electronic Stability Control (ESC) 108 complaints
- Power Train 68 complaints
Of the 824 complaints on file, 43 report a crash and 9 a fire; across all 824 complaints, owners report 43 injuries and 1 death (owner-reported, not verified by NHTSA).
Known issues to inspect
Ignition key defects
How to check: Ensure ignition switch turns smoothly and stays engaged.
Airbag sensor malfunctions
How to check: Test airbags by checking dashboard warnings upon startup.
Engine performance issues
How to check: Listen for unusual noises during cold start.
Test-drive walkthrough
- 01
Cold start
What to check: Listen for strange engine noises.
Red flag: Knocking or rattling sounds
- 02
First minute idling
What to check: Check if dashboard warning lights activate.
Red flag: Persistent warning lights
- 03
Low-speed maneuvers
What to check: Ensure steering feels smooth and responsive.
Red flag: Stiff or jerky steering
- 04
Normal city driving
What to check: Monitor airbag warning on the dashboard.
Red flag: Airbag light stays on
- 05
Quick acceleration
What to check: Check engine response and smoothness.
Red flag: Hesitation or poor acceleration
- 06
Heavy braking
What to check: Assess brake responsiveness and noise.
Red flag: Grinding or long stopping distance
Questions for the seller
Use this exact phrasing.
- Has the ignition recall been fixed?
- Any history of airbag deployment issues?
- Are there any engine or transmission repairs?
- Has the vehicle been in any accidents?
- How frequently was the car serviced?
Documents to request
Don't sign anything until you have these.
- Service and repair records
- Proof of recall repairs
- Title and registration documents
- Vehicle history report
Generated by gpt-4o on from the NHTSA recall campaigns and owner-complaint counts on file for the 2009 Chevrolet Impala at the time. AI output can be wrong; confirm anything you find with a mechanic.
Next step
Looking at a specific 2009 Chevrolet Impala? Check the actual car
This checklist covers the model. From your free try.vin dashboard you can go further — paste the seller's listing for a deal score, or drop their photos for an AI condition report.