2008 Chevrolet Impala
This year had 30% to 100% more complaints than this model's typical year.
This verdict reflects complaint volume compared to this model's typical year. Recalls and safety issues below apply regardless of the verdict — always check them.
COMPLAINTS PER YEAR
View as data table
| Year | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 1980 | 0 |
| 1981 | 2 |
| 1982 | 2 |
| 1983 | 3 |
| 1984 | 0 |
| 1985 | 1 |
| 1987 | 1 |
| 1991 | 0 |
| 1992 | 0 |
| 1993 | 2 |
| 1994 | 15 |
| 1995 | 44 |
| 1996 | 88 |
| 1997 | 1 |
| 1998 | 2 |
| 1999 | 4 |
| 2000 | 818 |
| 2001 | 742 |
| 2002 | 795 |
| 2003 | 694 |
| 2004 | 1072 |
| 2005 | 609 |
| 2006 | 524 |
| 2007 | 627 |
| 2008 | 810 |
| 2009 | 824 |
| 2010 | 441 |
| 2011 | 505 |
| 2012 | 258 |
| 2013 | 270 |
| 2014 | 630 |
| 2015 | 298 |
| 2016 | 110 |
| 2017 | 116 |
| 2018 | 59 |
| 2019 | 28 |
| 2020 | 14 |
KNOWN PROBLEM AREAS
26% of complaints: electrical system — 214 distinct reports on file.
CRASH FIRE INJURYShow complaint excerpts
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.
NHTSA ODI report, 20230905
17% of complaints: engine — 134 distinct reports on file.
CRASH INJURY11% of complaints: steering — 90 distinct reports on file.
CRASH FIRE INJURY11% of complaints: vehicle speed control — 88 distinct reports on file.
CRASH FIRE INJURY10% of complaints: power train — 85 distinct reports on file.
CRASH INJURYShow complaint excerpts
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2008 CHEVROLET IMPALA. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING 70 MPH, THE VEHICLE ERRONEOUSLY SHIFTED INTO NEUTRAL, CAUSING THE VEHICLE TO STALL.
NHTSA ODI report, 20121214
SAFETY TIMELINE
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 Chevro
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-
Campaign 12V377000 — check if this car was fixed
Passenger Air Bag OCS Algorithm
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.
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.
Campaign 14V355000 — check if this car was fixed
BUY-SMART CHECKLIST
2008 Chevrolet Impala — pre-purchase inspection
- Test/inspect for electrical system issues (214 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for engine issues (134 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for steering issues (90 reports on file for this year).
- Verify recall 12V377000 (suspension) has been completed.
- Verify recall 14V355000 (electrical system) has been completed.
OTHER YEARS OF THIS MODEL
BEST YEARS
WORST YEARS
FAQ
Is the 2008 Chevrolet Impala reliable?
Based on NHTSA complaint volume compared to this model's typical year, the 2008 Chevrolet Impala is rated "worse than typical".
What are the most common problems with the 2008 Chevrolet Impala?
The most-reported component is electrical system, accounting for 26% of complaints on file.
How many recalls does the 2008 Chevrolet Impala have?
2 recalls on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-07-11 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.