🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Chevrolet

Model:

Impala

Year:

2002

Platform Code:

GM W-Body (Ninth Generation)

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Full-size sedan, family car, often a fleet vehicle.

Competitors:

Ford Crown Victoria, Mercury Grand Marquis, Toyota Avalon, Buick LeSabre.

Value Proposition:

Spacious interior, comfortable ride, V6 and V8 engine options, strong sales volume.

Target Audience:

DIY mechanics, professional technicians, fleet maintenance personnel.

Benefit:

Enables owners and technicians to perform maintenance, diagnostics, and repairs accurately and efficiently, saving time and money.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

All mechanical, electrical, and body systems for the 2002 Chevrolet Impala.

Secondary Coverage:

Troubleshooting, diagnostics, specifications, maintenance schedules, repair procedures.

Estimated Page Count:

Over 1500 pages (typical for a complete workshop manual of this era).

Type:

Complete Workshop Service and Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Downloadable PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Management:

Engine control modules (ECM), fuel injection, ignition system, emissions control, diagnostics (OBD-II).

Powertrain:

Engine mechanical (disassembly, assembly, inspection), cooling system, lubrication system, fuel system, exhaust system, transmission (automatic), clutch (if applicable).

Chassis:

Suspension (front and rear), steering system, brake system (hydraulic, ABS), wheel alignment, drive axles, driveline.

Electrical:

Wiring diagrams, battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, instrument cluster, power accessories (windows, locks, mirrors), climate control electricals, audio system, onboard computers.

Body And Interior:

Body panels, doors, hood, trunk, interior trim, seats, airbags, safety restraints, HVAC system (mechanical and controls).

Routine Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, tire rotations, spark plug replacement.

Major Repairs:

Engine rebuilding, transmission overhaul, suspension component replacement, brake caliper/rotor replacement, starter/alternator replacement.

Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting charts, fault code interpretation, circuit testing, component testing procedures.

Special Procedures:

Air conditioning system service, airbag system service, ABS bleeding procedures, engine timing adjustment (if applicable).

Depth:

Comprehensive, covering everything from basic fluid checks to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed diagnostic procedures and specifications.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF (Portable Document Format)

Searchability:

Fully searchable text for quick access to specific topics.

Print Readability:

High-resolution scans designed for clear printing of text and diagrams.

Binding:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Quality:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code And Variant:

3.8L V6 (VIN 2, L36) and 3.4L V6 (VIN X, LA1).

3.8L V6 (L36) Specs:

Displacement: 231 cu in (3.8L), Bore x Stroke: 3.80 x 3.40 in, Compression Ratio: 9.5:1, Power: 200 hp @ 5200 rpm, Torque: 230 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm.

3.4L V6 (La1) Specs:

Displacement: 204 cu in (3.4L), Bore x Stroke: 3.70 x 3.03 in, Compression Ratio: 9.4:1, Power: 180 hp @ 4800 rpm, Torque: 205 lb-ft @ 3600 rpm.

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline

Injection Type:

Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Pump Pressure:

Typically 45-60 PSI (refer to manual for exact specification).

Ignition Timing:

Electronically controlled, fixed at TDC (refer to manual for specific procedures).

Coolant Type:

GM P/N 12346290 (Orange) or equivalent Dex-Cool (OAT) antifreeze/coolant.

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

4-speed automatic transmission.

Transmission Model:

4T65-E (for 3.8L V6) and 4T60-E (for 3.4L V6).

Optional Transmission:

None offered for this model year.

Transmission Fluid Type:

Dexron III or Dexron VI (refer to manual for specific recommendation).

Transmission Fluid Capacity:

Approximately 12.5 quarts (11.8 liters) for refill after overhaul; refer to manual for exact capacity based on specific service.

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 201.2 inches (5110 mm)

Width:

Approx. 72.7 inches (1847 mm)

Height:

Approx. 55.7 inches (1415 mm)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 110.5 inches (2807 mm)

Passenger Volume:

Approx. 104.2 cu ft (2951 L)

Trunk Volume:

Approx. 16.9 cu ft (479 L)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 3500 - 3700 lbs (1588 - 1678 kg) depending on engine and trim.

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Crash Test Rating:

4 stars (driver), 4 stars (passenger) - 2002 Model Year (US DOT regulations).

NHTSA Side Impact Crash Test Rating:

5 stars (driver), 5 stars (passenger) - 2002 Model Year (US DOT regulations).

ABS:

Standard on all models.

Traction Control:

Available on some models/trims.

Airbags:

Standard dual front airbags, available side-impact airbags (refer to manual for specific configuration).

Seat Belts:

3-point seat belts in all seating positions, front seat pretensioners.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

AM/FM stereo with CD player or cassette player, optional premium sound system.

Display:

Analog gauges, central digital display for odometer, trip computer (on some trims).

Cruise Control:

Standard on most models.

Rear Defogger:

Standard.

Onstar:

Available as an option on select trims.

HVAC System:

Manual or automatic climate control, depending on trim level.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,000-7,500 miles (5,000-12,000 km) or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used. Consult manual for specific recommendations.

Transmission Fluid Change Interval:

Recommended every 30,000-100,000 miles (50,000-160,000 km) or as per manual, depending on driving conditions. It's crucial to check the fluid condition and level regularly.

Coolant Flush Interval:

Initially at 5 years or 100,000 miles, then every 3 years or 50,000 miles thereafter for Dex-Cool. Consult manual for specific interval.

Engine Oil Specification:

API Certified SAE 5W-30. Consult manual for specific viscosity grade based on climate.

Brake Fluid Specification:

DOT 3.

Power Steering Fluid Specification:

GM P/N 12345380 or equivalent Dexron III/VI ATF.

Common Problems 3.8L:

Lower intake manifold gasket leaks, power steering pump failure, oil filter housing leaks, intake manifold gasket leaks (3.4L).

Common Problems Transmission:

Torque converter shudder, transmission solenoid issues, input speed sensor failure (4T65-E).

Common Problems Suspension Steering:

Worn front struts, ball joints, and tie rod ends. Power steering fluid leaks.

Common Problems Electrical:

Faulty window regulators, door lock actuators, HVAC blower motor resistor, gauge cluster issues.

📚 Vehicle History

Chevrolet Legacy:

Chevrolet, founded in 1911, is one of America's oldest and most recognized automotive brands, known for a wide range of vehicles from economy cars to trucks and performance vehicles.

Impala Lineage:

The Impala nameplate has a long history in Chevrolet's lineup, dating back to its introduction in 1958 as a premium trim level. The 2002 model is part of the ninth generation (1994-1996, with a redesign in 1997 for the W-body platform).

Manufacturing Locations:

Primarily produced at GM's Oshawa Car Plant in Ontario, Canada, and other North American facilities.

Sales Trend:

The Impala was a consistent seller in the large sedan segment during this period, catering to a broad customer base.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Model Year Awards:

While specific awards for the 2002 model year are not widely publicized, the Impala consistently ranked well in its segment for value and space.

Consumer Reports Ratings:

Ratings varied by model year and specific issues, generally considered average to above average in its class for its time.

Safety Certifications:

Meets all US Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS) for the 2002 model year.