Pre-purchase inspection checklist — 2013 Chevrolet Impala
The 2013 Chevrolet Impala has a notable number of owner complaints, with the most critical issue related to the electronic stability control. A notable recall affects the ignition system, potentially impacting airbag functionality. Given the number of complaints and limited recall data, prospective buyers should thoroughly inspect and test drive the vehicle.
NHTSA data on file today
The 2013 Chevrolet Impala has 1 NHTSA recall campaign and 272 owner complaints on file as of . Recall data is refreshed daily from NHTSA.
NCAP overall rating: 4.0 out of 5 stars, for the 1 NHTSA-tested trim.
Recall campaigns on file
- NHTSA #14V355000 Ignition Switch may Turn Off NHTSA notice
Most-cited components in owner complaints
- Electronic Stability Control (ESC) 108 complaints
- Electrical System 52 complaints
- Service Brakes 51 complaints
- Steering 34 complaints
- Power Train 33 complaints
- Engine 30 complaints
Of the 272 complaints on file, 16 report a crash; across all 272 complaints, owners report 12 injuries (owner-reported, not verified by NHTSA).
Known issues to inspect
Ignition system defect
How to check: Ensure recall repair is documented and completed.
Electronic stability control failure
How to check: Check dashboard for ESC warning lights.
Brake system complaints
How to check: Test brakes for responsiveness and noise.
Test-drive walkthrough
- 01
Cold start
What to check: Watch for unusual dashboard lights.
Red flag: Warning lights stay on
- 02
First minute idling
What to check: Listen for unusual noises from engine.
Red flag: Loud knocking or ticking
- 03
Initial acceleration
What to check: Assess smoothness and ESC function.
Red flag: ESC warning light or jerky start
- 04
City driving
What to check: Test brakes for noise and vibration.
Red flag: Squealing or grinding brakes
- 05
Steering on turns
What to check: Feel for resistance or looseness in steering.
Red flag: Steering wheel feels loose
- 06
Highway acceleration
What to check: Observe power delivery and stability.
Red flag: Hesitation or instability over 60 mph
Questions for the seller
Use this exact phrasing.
- Has the ignition recall been serviced?
- Are there any known electrical issues?
- Have the brakes been serviced recently?
- Any history of steering problems?
- What regular maintenance has been done?
Documents to request
Don't sign anything until you have these.
- Recall repair documentation
- Service history records
- Title and registration
- Accident history report
- Warranty and coverage information
Generated by gpt-4o on from the NHTSA recall campaigns and owner-complaint counts on file for the 2013 Chevrolet Impala at the time. AI output can be wrong; confirm anything you find with a mechanic.
Next step
Looking at a specific 2013 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.