2011 Chevrolet Impala Problems
Used CHEVROLET IMPALA shoppers should review this model-year complaint and recall record before making an offer. Based on 500 real NHTSA owner complaints, with Engine Problems the most reported area.
Before you buy
This 2011 Chevrolet Impala has 500 NHTSA complaints — top issue: Engine Problems.
A model-year pattern isn't the car in front of you. Check this exact VIN for accidents, open recalls, odometer rollback, and salvage titles.
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2011 Chevrolet Impala Fuel Economy
✓ EPA Official DataEPA-rated fuel economy across 2 2011 Chevrolet Impala trim configurations. The median figure is shown; range reflects all available trims.
Source: EPA FuelEconomy.gov. Figures reflect EPA lab testing; real-world results vary by driving style, load, and conditions. 2 trims analysed.
2011 Chevrolet Impala Safety Ratings
NHTSA 5-Star ProgramOfficial crash test results from the NHTSA 5-Star Safety Ratings program. Stars reflect government-conducted tests; higher is safer.
Overall
Not Rated11.3% rollover risk
Frontal Crash
Not RatedSide Crash
Not RatedRollover
11.3% probability
Source: NHTSA 5-Star Safety Ratings. Ratings are based on government crash tests and may not reflect all trim levels.
Based on NHTSA complaint data, the 2011 Chevrolet Impala has 500 owner complaints, 22 crash-related complaints, and 2 recall campaigns on record. The most frequently reported component is Engine Problems. NHTSA reliability signal: Severe Issues.
- Make
- Chevrolet
- Model
- Impala
- Model year
- 2011
- NHTSA owner complaints
- 500
- Crash-related complaints
- 22
- Safety recall campaigns
- 2
- Top reported component
- Engine Problems
- Reliability signal
- Severe Issues
- EPA MPG combined
- 23
- EPA MPG city / highway
- 19 / 29
- Fuel type
- Regular Gasoline
- NHTSA rollover rating
- 4/5 stars
- Electronic stability control
- Standard
Common problems
Most common 2011 Chevrolet Impala problems
Top owner-reported complaint areas and where they often appear.
Engine Problems
Electronic Stability Control (Esc)
Electrical Faults
Complaint patterns center on Engine Problems, Electronic Stability Control (Esc), Electrical Faults. Use these as a pre-purchase inspection guide, then verify recall and damage history on the specific VIN.
Buyer verdict
Should you buy a used 2011 Chevrolet Impala?
This CHEVROLET IMPALA year shows a meaningful number of reported issues, so buyers should only proceed after a careful records review and inspection.
Model-year complaint trends can reveal recurring trouble spots before you spend money on inspections, financing, or repairs.
May Suit
This year may suit buyers who prioritize complete maintenance records and pass a pre-purchase inspection.
May Want to Avoid
Buyers who want a lower-risk ownership profile may prefer comparing nearby model years before committing.
Pre-purchase
What to check before buying a used 2011 Chevrolet Impala
Inspection Focus
- Inspect the most frequently reported complaint components on this model year
- Confirm recall repairs were completed and documented
- Check for accident damage, title brands, and mileage inconsistencies on the exact VIN
Before You Close the Deal
- Run a VIN check on the specific vehicle you are considering
- Verify all open recalls are completed at nhtsa.gov/recalls
- Request service records for the most-reported complaint components
- Have a certified mechanic inspect the vehicle before purchase
Check the exact car
Shortlist with model-year data. Decide with the exact VIN.
Before buying a used 2011 Chevrolet Impala, run a VIN history report to verify accidents, title brands, odometer records, theft checks, and open recalls for the exact vehicle.
AI verdict
What the complaint data suggests
Editorial interpretation of NHTSA public complaint data. Source: nhtsa.gov. Complaints are owner-submitted and do not confirm a defect. Methodology
The CHEVROLET IMPALA has 500 NHTSA complaints and 2 recalls on record. 22 complaints involve crash-related incidents. This data reflects owner-reported issues submitted to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
Recall context: 2 recall campaigns are on record, so recall completion status should be confirmed on the exact VIN before purchase.
- 500 total complaints filed with NHTSA
- 2 federal recall campaigns
- 22 crash-related complaints on record
- Review NHTSA complaint history for the most-reported components
- Check recall completion status at nhtsa.gov/recalls
- Verify service records for frequently complained components
Full breakdown
All 2011 Chevrolet Impala complaints by category
Every owner-reported complaint category filed with NHTSA for the 2011 Chevrolet Impala. Use this as a pre-purchase inspection checklist.
| Component | Complaints | Crashes | Fires | Avg Mileage | Volume |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine Problems | 134 | 3 | 2 | — | |
| Electronic Stability Control (Esc) | 132 | — | 1 | — | |
| Electrical Faults | 95 | 4 | — | — | |
| Seat-Related Issues | 72 | 3 | — | — | |
| Unintended Acceleration | 69 | — | 1 | — | |
| Transmission / Drivetrain | 64 | — | 1 | — | |
| Brake System | 39 | 4 | 1 | — | |
| Airbag Malfunctions | 37 | 15 | — | — | |
| Steering Defects | 35 | 3 | — | — | |
| Uncategorized Issues | 31 | 1 | — | — | |
| Visibility | 22 | — | 1 | — | |
| Traction Control System | 18 | 1 | 1 | — | |
| Suspension Failures | 17 | 2 | — | — | |
| Fuel/Propulsion System | 16 | — | — | — | |
| Wheel Issues | 13 | — | — | — | |
| Structural Problems | 7 | 2 | — | — | |
| Tire Issues | 7 | — | — | — | |
| Seat Belt Issues | 6 | 1 | — | — | |
| Visibility/Wiper | 5 | — | — | — | |
| Headlight/Taillight Failures | 5 | — | — | — | |
| Hydraulic | 4 | — | — | — | |
| Equipment Adaptive/Mobility | 2 | — | — | — | |
| Equipment | 2 | — | — | — | |
| Air | 1 | — | — | — | |
| Door Lock Issues | 1 | — | — | — | |
| Fuel System | 1 | — | — | — | |
| Gasoline | 1 | — | — | — | |
| Back Over Prevention | 1 | — | — | — |
Source: NHTSA Complaints Database. Complaint counts may exceed total complaints because one report can span multiple categories.
In their words
Real owner complaints
Read what owners actually reported to NHTSA for the 2011 Chevrolet Impala. Type a keyword (e.g. “transmission”, “stalling”, “brakes”) to filter.
After getting into my parked car and starting it, the Stabilitrak warning message came on my display. This is the 2nd tike that this occurred. The first time it occured, my mechanic diagnosed it as a failed throttle body, which I replaced myself, (easy removal/installation). Now…
Service stabilitrak warning, followed by reduced engine power, then car starts jerking.
i own a 2011 chevy impala 4 door that has a very serious engine issue. I was on my way home and suddenly the service stability trac, and check engine light came on, then the message center displayed reduced engine power and low oil pressure then the engine shut off. I tried to re…
The Mechanic Wedige Automotive in Elkhorn Wi, use AC Delco Parts, Just in This year He installed The Rear Swaybar links part#45G0403 The same part Broke Twice and put the same for the third time. We don't know if is going to brake for the third time, but we are afraid that if w…
This problem has happened for many many years. Made appointments @ Fuccillo Chevy dealer, by then it’s gone off & they don’t know! Well, just occurred again when getting new tires @Dunn pulling in. 2011 impala Stabilitrak, engine power loss, then check engine light! Thank goodne…
The contact owns a 2011 Chevrolet Impala. The contact stated that the vehicle lost electrical power. The ignition switch was stuck in accessory mode and the contact was unable to release the key from the ignition switch. Additionally, the contact stated that the vehicle experienc…
Grinding from turning. Numerous Radiators, Transmission problems over and over. Jerking not pulling. Stalling in the road.Control Arm needed again. Brakes and Rotors grinding.
Stabilizer control an brake system wheel barrier or Tyrod when driving its like the wheels start trying to twist another way almost crashed on the highway with my grandkids in the vehicle i having driving the vehicle since an irecentl looked up recall an it says stabilizing an br…
The contact owns a 2011 Chevrolet Impala. The contact stated that the passenger's side air bag inadvertently deactivated while a passenger was seated in the passenger's side front seat. The air bag warning light was illuminated and the Air Bag System message was displayed. The ve…
Service stabilitrak warning light goes off and on intermittently when this happens the traction control light comes on when hooked up it shows no codes everything I’ve read on line is that it’s a electrical issue to replace wheel bearings or gas pedal or other list of sensors sho…
Today, 6-12-2022, driving on US Highway 80 at 65 mph headed toward Phenix City, AL from Columbus, GA, the the engine shuddered, then the "Stabilitrack Service Light" came on, along with the check engine light, and a message for "reduced engine power." Then, the engine suddenly …
The seat belt will not click in place. I have to push the release button several times to get the seat belt to click in place. It will release with no problem. It seem like something either came loose or broke off
The car was stopped at a stop sign, turned right onto the highway and the front wheels locked. The car would not move in any gear, even in neutral. A tow truck had to place front wheels on skids and drag onto the bed. The transmission repair shop never saw anything like it, all t…
The contact owns a 2011 Chevrolet Impala. The contact stated that the occupant sensor in the passenger’s seat occasionally failed to recognize an occupant seated in the passenger’s side front seat. The air bag off warning light would remain illuminated on the instrument panel. Th…
Airbag light won't go off
The car was purchased 06/23/2021. Approx 2 weeks or less later the car had to be taken to the shop where it was purchased at due to the engine going in the car. There have been 3 loaner cars given while car is being fixed however after now 4 months the car is still just sitting a…
Brake assist, traction control, stablitrack, and ABS lights continually coming on. When breaking while making a turn the breaks slip or give and then suddenly grab hold causing a grinding sound. Car wobbles while these lights are on causing a noticeable change in stability and …
The contact owns a 2011 Chevrolet Impala. The contact stated while driving approximately 55 mph, the vehicle stalled without warning. The contact mentioned that the key was unable to be removed from the ignition. The vehicle was unable to restart. The vehicle was towed to an empt…
When someone sits in the passenger seat the air bag light comes on. This has been going on in the both of the Impala's that we have had. This is the second one different year.
2011 Chevrolet Impala. Consumer writes in regard to illuminated ABS light. THE CONSUMER STATED THE BRAKE ASSIST, STABILITRAK, AND TRACTION CONTROL LIGHTS WERE ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WOBBLES.
Source: NHTSA Complaints Database. Real owner reports for the 2011 Chevrolet Impala.
Safety recalls
2011 Chevrolet Impala recalls
2 campaignsNHTSA recall campaigns for the 2011 Chevrolet Impala. 2 recall campaigns are on record, so recall completion status should be confirmed on the exact VIN before purchase. Recalls are free to fix at authorized dealers, but completion status must be verified on the exact VIN.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION
SUSPENSION:FRONT:CONTROL ARM:LOWER ARM
Research more
Keep researching before you buy
Compare brands and categories, then check the exact car's history by VIN.
Questions
2011 Chevrolet Impala buying FAQ
Buyer-focused answers based on real NHTSA complaint and recall data for this model year.
Is the 2011 Chevrolet Impala reliable?▾
Severe Issues. NHTSA currently shows 500 owner complaints, 22 crash-related complaints, and 2 recall campaigns for this model year. This CHEVROLET IMPALA year shows a meaningful number of reported issues, so buyers should only proceed after a careful records review and inspection. Treat this as a model-year signal, then verify the exact vehicle's condition and history before purchase.
What are the most common problems with the 2011 Chevrolet Impala?▾
#1: Engine Problems (134 complaints). #2: Electronic Stability Control (Esc) (132 complaints). #3: Electrical Faults (95 complaints)
At what mileage do problems start on the 2011 Chevrolet Impala?▾
Mileage data is not available or insufficient for this model year.
How safe is the 2011 Chevrolet Impala?▾
Complaint data is not the same as crash-test scoring, but it does highlight possible risk patterns. For the 2011 Chevrolet Impala, NHTSA complaints include 22 crash-related reports and 5 fire reports out of 500 total complaints. 25 injury reports are also on file. For controlled crash-test ratings, check nhtsa.gov/ratings.
Does the 2011 Chevrolet Impala have any recalls?▾
Yes. 2 NHTSA recall campaigns affect the 2011 Chevrolet Impala. A major recall area is ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION. 2 recall campaigns are on record, so recall completion status should be confirmed on the exact VIN before purchase. Always verify open recalls by VIN because completion status varies by vehicle.
Should I buy a 2011 Chevrolet Impala?▾
This CHEVROLET IMPALA year shows a meaningful number of reported issues, so buyers should only proceed after a careful records review and inspection. Model-year complaint trends can reveal recurring trouble spots before you spend money on inspections, financing, or repairs. Pay extra attention to Engine Problems during inspection. Before committing, run a VIN history report to verify accidents, title brands, odometer records, and recall completion for the exact car.
Source: NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) complaint and recall databases, aggregated by VinSpectorAI.
Wider context: See the full Chevrolet Impala reliability report with year-by-year comparison.
Owner Reliability Rating
Rate the 2011 Chevrolet Impala based on your ownership experience.
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Ratings are based on owner experience and are separate from NHTSA data shown above.
Before you buy
Check the exact vehicle history before you buy
Model-year complaints and recalls reveal patterns. A VIN report confirms whether the exact car has accident history, title brands, mileage issues, or open recalls.