2008 Chevrolet Impala
Safety record from NHTSA: recalls, owner complaints, investigations and service bulletins.
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Vehicles › Chevrolet › Impala › 2008
These records cover every 2008 Chevrolet Impala. To see whether one car still needs a recall repair, decode its VIN or check it with NHTSA.
Recalls
2 recalls name the 2008 Chevrolet Impala. Newest first.
This defect can affect the safe operation of the airbag system. Until this recall is performed, customers should remove all items from their key rings, leaving only the ignition key. The key fob (if applicable), should also be removed from the key ring. General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain model year 2005-2009 Buick LaCrosse, 2006-2011 Buick…
Risk and remedy
Risk
If the key is not in the run position, the air bags may not deploy if the vehicle is involved in a crash, increasing the risk of injury. Additionally, a key knocked out of the run position will cause loss of engine power, power steering, and power braking, increasing the risk of a vehicle crash.
Remedy
GM will notify owners, and dealers will install two key rings and an insert in the key slot or a cover over the key head on all ignition keys, free of charge. The recall began on September 23, 2014. Owners may contact General Motors customer service at 1-800-521-7300 (Buick), 1-800-458-8006 (Cadillac), and 1-800-222-1020 (Chevrolet). GM's number for this recall is 14299.
General Motors (GM) is recalling certain model year 2008-2012 Chevrolet Impala police vehicles because the front lower control arms may fracture. This safety recall does not include non-police Chevrolet Impala vehicles.
Risk and remedy
Risk
A broken control arm can result in the loss of control of the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
GM will notify owners, and dealers will replace both front lower control arms, free of charge. The safety recall began on August 21, 2012. Owners may contact the Chevrolet owner center at 1-866-694-6546.
Owner complaints
810 complaints51 involved a crash10 involved a fire44 injuries1 deaths
What owners report most
Latest complaints
- Air bags
The contact owned a 2008 Chevrolet Impala. The contact stated that while driving at 55 MPH while in cruise control, a group of birds flew out from under a ditch which caused the contact to swerve and lose control of the vehicle. As a result of the incident, the contact crashed into the ditch. The…
The contact owned a 2008 Chevrolet Impala. The contact stated that while driving at 55 MPH while in cruise control, a group of birds flew out from under a ditch which caused the contact to swerve and lose control of the vehicle. As a result of the incident, the contact crashed into the ditch. The air bags did not deploy upon impact which caused the contact's face to hit the steering wheel. The contact was later transported to the hospital via an ambulance where she was treated for a concussion. Additionally, the contact suffered several cuts and bruises to her face with additional bruising to her left leg and hip. A police report was filed; however, the report was unavailable. The vehicle was towed to a dealer where it was deemed totaled. The manufacturer had yet to be notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 150,000. The VIN was not available.
- Chest clip, buckle, harness
This is 1 of 2 car seats that we have, both with the same issue. The pull strap that is used to tighten the shoulder straps to secure the child in appropriately is not functioning properly. You can not pull the shoulder straps to the tightness that is required for the child to be secured properly.…
This is 1 of 2 car seats that we have, both with the same issue. The pull strap that is used to tighten the shoulder straps to secure the child in appropriately is not functioning properly. You can not pull the shoulder straps to the tightness that is required for the child to be secured properly. This is a huge safety risk to my children when we are not able to tighten them correctly. I had the car seat looked at by CPST [XXX XXX] with the City of Waite Park, and there is no user error, the straps aren't pinched anywhere. She herself was having a operating the car seat and advised us to stop using it and get it replaced. I have reached out to Evenflo and they are unwilling to fix the issue. They tell me that the car seat is "far out warranty so they cannot assist me further with the seat." I am in disbelief that they are unwilling to replace the defective seats. I do have a video of Alicia trying to tighten the straps and it shows her struggling to accomplish that. I am unable to attach them here. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
- Tires
Starfire Solarus AS All-Season 225/60R16 98H- Car started shaking violently while I was driving it- seemed to be coming from rear tire. Limped it home, removed driver side rear tire, and noticed substantial bulge where tread was separating. Replaced tire with another brand. Several months later…
Starfire Solarus AS All-Season 225/60R16 98H- Car started shaking violently while I was driving it- seemed to be coming from rear tire. Limped it home, removed driver side rear tire, and noticed substantial bulge where tread was separating. Replaced tire with another brand. Several months later, same thing happened, and removed the remaining Starfire Solarus AS All-Season 225/60R16 98H tire, the passenger side rear tire, and noticed same defect. I bought both tires Mar 15, 2021 on Amazon, but have driven car very little. Unfortunately the shop that installed them didn't note mileage on receipt but the tread looks brand new (other than the defect). Looked at amazon and noticed other customers reporting the same defect! [XXX] I think these tires are very dangerous and are going to cause somebody to get injured or worse, especially since both tires are affected by defects and other consumers are reporting the exact same issue on amazon reviews. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
- Electrical system · Steering
The key gets stuck and I can't remove the key; I can't take the key out and then the battery drains and car is dead.
- Unknown or other
Dash cover crumbled and falling apart. Even though I have kept it cool and covered with a condition. It's falling down into my car fan for heating and cooling
- Power train
At a complete stop, press the gas to go and the car will not go. Kind of like its struggling to catch gear and then all of a sudden it with catch jerk hard. That's an issue for a few reasons. If you have to pull out for somewhere that traffic doesn't stop or yield, and the car is barley rolling…
At a complete stop, press the gas to go and the car will not go. Kind of like its struggling to catch gear and then all of a sudden it with catch jerk hard. That's an issue for a few reasons. If you have to pull out for somewhere that traffic doesn't stop or yield, and the car is barley rolling trying to catch gear, there's the risk of getting hit. When the gear catches, and the jerk happened it's not a small jerk, i feel it's a safety hassard to small children. When my son was 4 months old it started and it jerked him pretty hard. My mother in law is the original owner and had it checked several times with no resolution.
- Air bags · Electrical system · Unknown or other
The engine electric brakes all shut down steering wheel locked up and my daughter smashed into telephone pole on August 31 2023. Airbags didn't deploy for front and side airbags were deflated no air.no warning lights prior that I'm aware of. My daughter was injured PCS and cervical sprain
- Power train
When I turn the ignition key and start my car engine, I then shift the automatic transmission into “drive”, but there is no forward acceleration power, and I have no idea why this is.
- Power train
The gas petal sensor is reading a code P2138 (Accelerator Petal Position Sensors 1-2 not plausible). My father has changed the petal not once but twice and erased the code but it keeps coming back. Also getting a p0172 code as well. A Cheverolet dealership has been called and the representative…
The gas petal sensor is reading a code P2138 (Accelerator Petal Position Sensors 1-2 not plausible). My father has changed the petal not once but twice and erased the code but it keeps coming back. Also getting a p0172 code as well. A Cheverolet dealership has been called and the representative rushed me off phone saying there was not recall for the car. Car was taken to an Autozone and the codes were still coming up. Engine warning light goes off and on every 3 to 4 days after being cleared, then will get a reduced engine power message will appear. Messages warning lights and symptoms started 3 months ago.
- Unknown or other
Unknown
- Steering
My sway bar is broken and needs to be fixed. Like all the rest of Impalas . I'm on social security and I need someone to help please! Martin Montney
- Electrical system · Fuel/propulsion system
While driving at highway speeds the car will act up and the engine will shut off, I get the message on the odometer display that reads, Engine power is reduced, service throttle, starter disabled. This is not a good thing to have happen while driving.
- Structure › Body
The back driver’s side door of my 2008 Impala is not locked, but it cannot be opened. I’ve read online that this happens on other Impalas. Because this is a major safety issue, as well as a major inconvenience, these vehicles should be recalled and repaired at no cost to the owners. People should…
The back driver’s side door of my 2008 Impala is not locked, but it cannot be opened. I’ve read online that this happens on other Impalas. Because this is a major safety issue, as well as a major inconvenience, these vehicles should be recalled and repaired at no cost to the owners. People should be able to enter and exit through all doors of a vehicle, especially during an emergency. Because of this defect, Impalas should be recalled and repaired at no cost to the owner.
- Unknown or other
On these cars the blend doors open when your driving and fogs windows to were you can't see mostly in the winter or colder temperatures. They start to click because of the bad design of them and sometimes the clicking goes away and sometimes it doesnt and the safety risk is when the doors…
On these cars the blend doors open when your driving and fogs windows to were you can't see mostly in the winter or colder temperatures. They start to click because of the bad design of them and sometimes the clicking goes away and sometimes it doesnt and the safety risk is when the doors malfunction it fogs windows and you can't see. Car was taking to auto shop and they confirm that's the problem and the parts for the car are under $100 but over $1200 for labor
- Electrical system
Heating and air conditioning actuators and/or blen door getting stuck so the air will not switch from cold to hot or hot to cold without pulling the glove box out and manually turning them by hand. Heater will blow hot air and then randomly switch to cold air. When it's cold outside, I cannot defrost my windows cause it gets stuck on cold air which impairs visibility.
- Steering · Suspension
Q-What component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is it available for inspection upon request? A-Suspension and steering effective. Any time I drive and make turns it makes like a clunking noise. You can actually feel it in the floor board. It's worse when you are driving down a not so…
Q-What component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is it available for inspection upon request? A-Suspension and steering effective. Any time I drive and make turns it makes like a clunking noise. You can actually feel it in the floor board. It's worse when you are driving down a not so smooth road. You can look at it as soon as possible. Q-How was your safety or the safety of others put at risk? A-Control arm might SNAP causing you to lose control of my vehicle and crash into other drivers. Q-Has the problem been reproduced or confirmed by a dealer or independent service center? A-Firestone has inspected my car. Q-Has the vehicle or component been inspected by the manufacturer, police, insurance representatives or others? A-No my vehicle has not. Q-Were there any warning lamps, messages or other symptoms of the problem prior to the failure, and when did they first appear? A-No warning signs of any kind. This started within the last month or two.
- Suspension › Front › Control arm
The contact owns a 2008 Chevrolet Impala. The contact stated that while driving approximately 35-40 MPH, the vehicle was vibrating and jumping. The contact drove to his brother's residence to inspect the vehicle. The contact removed the front passenger’s side tire and wheel and upon removing the…
The contact owns a 2008 Chevrolet Impala. The contact stated that while driving approximately 35-40 MPH, the vehicle was vibrating and jumping. The contact drove to his brother's residence to inspect the vehicle. The contact removed the front passenger’s side tire and wheel and upon removing the hub, the engine moved. The contact was self-diagnosed that the front lower control arm was fractured. The contact was able to drive to his residence. The vehicle was not repaired. The dealer and manufacturer were not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 218,000.
- Engine · Power train · Unknown or other
car shuts off while in traffic and it says engine power reduced service traction control
- Engine · Steering
TL* the contact owns a 2008 chevrolet impala. The contact stated while driving 60 mph and driving over a pothole, the vehicle loss motive power, stalled, and the steering wheel became difficult to turn. The contact was unable to restart the vehicle. The contact stated that there was no warning…
TL* the contact owns a 2008 chevrolet impala. The contact stated while driving 60 mph and driving over a pothole, the vehicle loss motive power, stalled, and the steering wheel became difficult to turn. The contact was unable to restart the vehicle. The contact stated that there was no warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic but was not diagnosed. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 78,000.
- Electrical system · Engine · Unknown or other
While wife was driving at normal speed car went into limp mode many times over last few months causing accelerator pedal sensor codes.we have since changed this pedal sensor 6 times and same issue and codes pop up. We also changed throttle body w sensor and connector pigtail.i think there IS…
While wife was driving at normal speed car went into limp mode many times over last few months causing accelerator pedal sensor codes.we have since changed this pedal sensor 6 times and same issue and codes pop up. We also changed throttle body w sensor and connector pigtail.i think there IS corrosion in ecm and all these items have failed. These items should have been recalled as manufacturer defects in my opinion.we are still having problems same codes and im not the only one!
- Engine · Unknown or other
I was driving on the interstate and the dash lit up service traction system and engine power reduced. I was currently using cruise control so it shocked me when my car went from 75 to 40 quick. I was in five o'clock traffic and almost rear ended. Check engine light came on as well. I'm planning on getting it looked at.
- Electrical system · Steering · Vehicle speed control
In motion on a city street turning left , pedal stuck brakes not working and hit by on coming car , flipped in air about a block , rolling over again and again , no air bags depleated, broken ribs, concussion, skin lacerations , bruises,glass logged in parts of body , face and feet
- Electrical system
Car was running fine. Put car in part to run into the store and came back and was unable to shift car out of park.
- Steering
Power steering pump just started growling when moving the steering. It IS also a little harder to turn. in motion. When ever the steering wheel IS turned.
- Engine
The car needs and burns too much oil and it's a common problem there's a lot of people complaining about please help I have to change oil every 2 months and there's no leaks or anything just that it burns oil too quick
Defect investigations
NHTSA’s Office of Defects Investigation opened these reviews into vehicles including this one.
- Passenger Air Bag OCS Algorithm
The Agency received a petition on November 14, 2013 requesting an investigation into the operation of the passenger air bag Occupant Classification System (OCS) software logic and algorithm.The petitioner states that due to this alleged defect, the passenger air bag may be suppressed at point of impact and not…
The Agency received a petition on November 14, 2013 requesting an investigation into the operation of the passenger air bag Occupant Classification System (OCS) software logic and algorithm.The petitioner states that due to this alleged defect, the passenger air bag may be suppressed at point of impact and not provided the occupant protection as needed in a crash.On July 22, 2014, NHTSA opened DP14-001 to further review the crash event and perform a more comprehensive search and analysis of the Fatality Analysis Reporting System (FARS).The Agency also collected manufacturers reports on the alleged OCS issue on the subject Impala vehicles and other GM and non-GM peer vehicles.After examination of the petition and available data relating to the subject vehicle's OCS and the specific crash incident where the OCS allegedly failed to operate properly, NHTSA did not identify an issue with the MY2008 Impala involved in the subject crash, nor has it identified a safety-related defect trend existing in the OCS used in the MY 2006-2008 Impala vehicles, in GM peer vehicles or in other non-GM peer vehicles.NHTSA has concluded that further expenditure of the agency's investigative resources is not warranted. The agency accordingly has denied the petition.However, the agency will take further action if warranted by changing future circumstances. The official petition denial, as published in the Federal Register, is available in the document file for this defect petition.The single complaint and crash noted in the Failure Report above is the petitioner's VOQ (10568388) and can be reviewed online at https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=10568388.
Service bulletins
Technical service bulletins and other communications the manufacturer sent dealers about this vehicle. Ask a dealer for the full document by its number.
- 11011782This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about the use of J-35616-64B terminal test probe, replacement terminals, and terminated leads. The J-35616-64B is the latest test probe released for checking tension or probing the .64 series terminals. The test probe terminal has been released in the terminal repair kit (J-38125-620H) located in Lear Tray 7 part number 963716-2. There are 5 terminated leads in a package part number is 13505346, which can be ordered through your normal General Motors Customer Care and Aftersales parts channel.
- 11009531This service bulletin provides information for maintenance cleaning of the fuel injectors and gasoline detergent additive.
- 11009156This Preliminary Information communicates to the dealer the process for downloading or updating operating software for the Tire Pressure Monitor, Active Fuel Injector tester, multi media tester, PICO Scope, GR8 starting/charging tester and Vehicle Data Recorder tools, giving website address and step by step instructions to complete the update.
- 11009088This service bulletin provides information on some vehicles that may rock or move slightly forward or rearward while in Park at start up after cold soak. This condition may be accompanied by a clunk noise. This is a slight movement that is more often seen visually, rather than felt, when viewed from the outside and using the auto-start feature, if equipped.
- 11008956This service bulletin provides information for dealers/technicians on When and How to Submit a Field Product Report (FPR) (U.S. and Canada Dealers Only).
- 11007936This service bulletin provides information to dealership personnel on diagnosis and replacement of shock absorber and strut due to fluid leak.
- 11007935This service bulletin provides information to dealership personnel on diagnosis and replacement of shock absorber and strut due to fluid leak.
- 11007744This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about vehicles that the Heater-Vent-Air Conditioning blows warm air. Before calling General Motors Technical Assistance Center technician will need to have high and low pressures, outside temperature, humidity, and vent temperature.
- 11007743This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about vehicles that the Heater-Vent-Air Conditioning blows warm air. Before calling General Motors Technical Assistance Center technician will need to have high and low pressures, outside temperature, humidity, and vent temperature.
- 11007208This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about changing the tire and wheel size on vehicles. General Motors will only support a tire calibration for tires that have been sized, tested and designed for the vehicle in question and its applications. Technician should not use the information that is provided by the antilock braking system tire size selection.
- 11007196This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about vehicles that have an intermittent no crank, no start, or start stall concern with the security light coming on. Technician may find Diagnostic Trouble Codes B3055, B3060, and/or B3935. Technician should not replace any parts for this concern. If unable to duplicate the concern ask if the customer uses any Radio Frequency Identification Devices when the concern is present. Dealer should also direct their customers to the appropriate section in the Owner manuals that references that the device complies.
- 11007116This bulletin provides information on identifying Non-GM Engine Calibrations for Gasoline Engines using the Tech 2 or GDS 2.
- 11007095This bulletin provides information on the TOP TIER Detergent Gasoline Licensed Brands and the TOP TIER Diesel Fuel Licensed Brands that are recommended for use in all GM vehicles and the TOP TIER FUELS website URL.
- 11007091This service bulletin provides guidelines and diagnostic/repair information to technicians regarding vehicle engine oil consumption.
- 11006682This service bulletin provides information on a guide to help reduce repeat visits for the same customer concern.
- 11006621Vehicle Wide Programming (VWP) is a new process to update software on GM Vehicles. It provides the ability via a single selection within Techline Connect to first identify which modules need updating and then proceed to updating affected modules (with some exceptions). The updating of modules is completed in parallel instead of the technician needing to update one module at a time. This allows a more streamlined approach for dealers and customers.
- 11006421GM is receiving damaged (cracked or broken) transmission cores returned to the reman facilities. The damage is being caused either in the removal process by the technician, or inadequate packaging or shipping. This bulletin advises the dealers to be more careful not to damage the transmissions during removal and to package the core properly for return.
- 11004761This service bulletin advises of a new fuel injection cleaner kit used for decarbonizing the intake valves to correct conditions of rough idle, Crank no start, extended crank or misfire, MIL with DTCs, and explains how Top Tier fuels should be used to reduce carbon build-up.
- 11004727This service bulletin provides information for maintenance cleaning of the fuel injectors and gasoline detergent additive.
- 11004557This bulletin provides information for use on a Product Assistance Claim (PAC), which is formerly known as a Product Allegation Resolution (PAR) claim.
- 11002312This service bulletin provides information for dealers/technicians on Service Programming System (SPS) Error Codes E4398, E4399, E4401, E4403, M4404, M4413, M6954, M6955, E4414, E4423, E4491, E4492, or E6961 and resolution information.
- 11001325This warranty administration bulletin provides policy information to cover GMs policy on performing GM covered vehicle services and maintenance on vehicles originating/sold in Canada.
- 11001321This bulletin provides information on the harmful effects of water or ethylene glycol in transmission fluid.
- 11000576This Warranty Administration bulletin provides retail and wholesale service personnel with the policies/procedures and the warranty transaction submission procedures that support the Personal Property Damage process.
- 11000162The intent of this service bulletin is to identify aftermarket ALDL or DLC interface devices as potential sources for causing multiple customer concerns that do not have other diagnostic methods to identify them.
- 11000160This service bulletin provides information on proper use of floor mats.
- 11000158This service bulletin includes information on Interior Cleaning - Instrument Panel (IP), Hard or Plastic Surfaces, Seats, Carpet, Leather, Vinyl, Fabric Cleaner, Stain Remover, Restorer - Product Availability.
- 11000119This service bulletin provides technicians with information to help identify the differences between what is considered a fluid leak, and what is considered fluid seepage.
- 10254240Information on COAX Repair Kit Availability.
- 10253770This service bulletin provides information for dealers/technicians on Tire Radial Force Variation (RFV).
- 10253632Rear and Side Tempered Glass Spots.
- 10252735This bulletin provides information for electrical ground repairs using new General Motors replacement fasteners with conductive finish.
- 10252163XM Audio Traffic And Travel Link Availability And Operation.
- 10251890This technical bulletin advises of a new fuel injection cleaner kit used for decarbonizing the intake valves to correct conditions of rough idle, Crank no start, extended crank or misfire, MIL with DTCs, and explains how Top Tier fuels should be used to reduce carbon build-up.
- 10251888This warranty administration bulletin provides policy information for GM courtesy transportation and roadside assistance programs.
- 10250775This service bulletin provides service information to technicians on guidelines to replace Oil Cooler, Oil Cooler Lines and Oil Tank if the engine was replaced where large amounts of debris has flowed throughout the oiling system.
- 10250505This service bulletin provides information on the cold start control system in DI engines to reduce cold start emissions and improve fuel economy.
- 10250347This Warranty Admin service bulletin provides guidelines for Dealers Not Required and for Dealers Required to Contact the PQC for engine or transmission assembly replacement and explains the PQC process, GWM Transaction submission, vehicle service record retention and proper handling of assembly returns for Canadian Dealers only.
- 10250013High Voltage Safety ? High Voltage Disabling
- 10249980This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about vibration complaints that are one of the most challenging complaints to accurately diagnose and repair. Technician will need to use Pico Oscilloscope Diagnostic Kit to effectively diagnosis vehicles. Technician should drive the vehicle will using the Pico Oscilloscope to record data. After the data is recorded it should be reviewed to determine the root cause of the concern. If a repair attempt made the concern better but not eliminated or had no affect at all, and are requesting assistance from General Motors Technical Assistance Center record another Pico file and save it to the computer. After the new Pico Oscilloscope data has been saved email the data to General Motors Technical Assistance Center in the subject line include ?Vibration? ?Business Associate Code? and the last 8 of the Vehicle Identification Number.
Every Chevrolet Impala model year
Bars are owner complaints, dots mark years with recalls. Select a year to open its report.