Vehicle Segment:
Full-Size Sedan
Target Audience:
Families, Fleet Buyers, Commuters Seeking Comfort and Space
Key Competitors 2012:
Ford Taurus, Toyota Avalon, Dodge Charger, Chrysler 300
Notable Attributes:
Spacious Interior, Comfortable Ride, Strong V6 Engine Options, Long-Distance Cruising Capability
Manual Advantage:
Provides dealership-level diagnostic and repair procedures, ensuring accurate and efficient maintenance. Crucial for DIY mechanics and independent shops.
Powertrain:
Engine Mechanical, Engine Control, Fuel System, Lubrication System, Cooling System, Exhaust System, Ignition System, Emissions Control
Drivetrain:
Transmission (Automatic), Drivetrain Components (Axles, CV Joints), Torque Converter
Chassis:
Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering System, Brakes (Hydraulic & ABS), Wheels & Tires
Electrical:
Body Control Module (BCM), Powertrain Control Module (PCM), Instrument Cluster, Lighting Systems, Audio Systems, HVAC Controls, Power Accessories (Windows, Locks, Mirrors), Charging System, Starting System, Cruise Control
Body:
Body Structure, Exterior Panels, Interior Trim, Doors, Hood, Trunk, Seats, Safety Restraints (Airbags, Seatbelts)
Maintenance:
Scheduled Maintenance Intervals, Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Fluid Checks & Replacements, Spark Plug Service, Belt Replacement
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting Flowcharts, Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), Component Testing, Sensor Data Analysis, Scan Tool Procedures
Repair:
Engine Reassembly, Transmission Overhaul, Brake Component Replacement, Suspension Component R&R, Electrical Component Diagnosis & Replacement, Body Panel Repair & Replacement
Calibration Programming:
PCM Reprogramming, Keyless Entry Programming, Powertrain Control Module (PCM) Relearn Procedures, Body Control Module (BCM) Configuration
Depth Of Coverage:
Factory-Level Detail, Including Specifications, Tolerances, Torque Values, Wiring Diagrams, Exploded Views, Special Tools Required
Engine Type:
3.6L V6 DOHC VVT
Displacement:
3.6 Liters (3564 cc)
Bore X Stroke:
94.0 mm x 85.6 mm (approx.)
Compression Ratio:
11.5:1 (approx.)
Horsepower:
288 hp @ 6400 rpm
Torque:
262 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Sequential Port Fuel Injection (SFI)
Fuel Type:
Regular Unleaded Gasoline (87 Octane Recommended)
ECU Model:
E39 - Powertrain Control Module (PCM)
Variable Valve Timing:
Yes (Dual Cam Phasing)
Cylinder Block Material:
Aluminum Alloy
Cylinder Head Material:
Aluminum Alloy
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 Synthetic Blend (GM dexos1™)
Engine Oil Capacity:
5.5 Quarts (5.2 Liters) with filter change
NHTSA Overall Safety Rating:
4 out of 5 stars (for similar models in this generation)
IIHS Top Safety Pick:
Not designated Top Safety Pick for 2012 model year
Traction Control:
Standard (TCS)
Stability Control:
Standard (StabiliTrak)
Braking System:
Four-Wheel Anti-lock Brakes (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD)
Airbags:
Frontal, Side-Impact, Curtain (Front and Rear)
Seatbelts:
3-point active belts with pretensioners and load limiters
Child Seat Anchors:
LATCH system
Infotainment System Availability:
Available (Depending on trim level)
Audio Features:
AM/FM Stereo, CD Player, MP3 Playback, Auxiliary Audio Input, Available Bose® Premium Audio System.
Navigation System:
Optional Factory Navigation System with Touchscreen Interface.
Parking Assist:
Available Rear Park Assist.
Camera:
Available Rearview Camera (integrated with navigation or rearview mirror display).
Bluetooth Availability:
Available Bluetooth for hands-free calling and audio streaming.
Usb Port Availability:
Available USB port for media playback and device charging.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 12 months, whichever comes first (using synthetic blend oil).
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or as needed based on driving conditions.
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or annually.
Spark Plug Replacement:
100,000 miles (160,000 km) for iridium-tipped spark plugs.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Recommended every 60,000-100,000 miles (96,000-160,000 km) or based on driving conditions (refer to manual for specific checks).
Coolant Flush Replacement:
Every 5 years or 150,000 miles (240,000 km) with Dex-Cool coolant.
Engine Coolant Type:
GM DEX-COOL® Long-Life (Orange)
Power Steering Fluid Type:
GM Power Steering Fluid (P/N 89021772 or equivalent)
Common Complaints 2012 Impala:
Power steering fluid leaks (especially around pump and hoses), Active Fuel Management (AFM) lifter noise/disabling issues, transmission solenoid issues, interior trim rattles, potential oil consumption in high-mileage 3.6L engines.
Manual Utility For Issues:
The manual provides diagnostic procedures and repair steps specifically for addressing these common issues, including AFM system checks and power steering component replacement.
Chevrolet Legacy:
Founded in 1911, Chevrolet is one of America's oldest and most recognized automotive brands, known for a broad range of vehicles from compact cars to heavy-duty trucks.
Impala Lineage:
The Impala nameplate has a storied history, dating back to 1958. The 2012 model represents the seventh generation (Upsilon) of the Impala, which saw a significant redesign from its predecessor.
Generation U Key Changes:
Introduction of the Lambda platform (shared with Cadillac XTS, Buick LaCrosse), significantly updated styling, and the adoption of the 3.6L V6 as the primary engine, replacing older V6 and V8 options.
Manufacturing Location:
Detroit-Hamtramck Assembly Plant, Michigan, USA
Production Years For Generation:
2006-2013
Significant Awards Impala Generation:
While specific awards for the 2012 model are less prominent, the Impala nameplate has historically been recognized for value and comfort in the large sedan segment.
Consumer Reports General Rating Trend:
Typically rated as average or below average for predicted reliability in this generation, often due to transmission and engine component issues.
Emissions Certification:
Meets EPA emissions standards for the model year.