2018 Chevrolet Impala Safety Report
2018 Chevrolet Impala: Strong crash ratings, but concerning patterns of steering, powertrain, and brake issues, plus one recall for braking performance.
AI Safety Analysis for the 2018 Chevrolet Impala
Reliability Score
The 2018 Chevrolet Impala receives a reliability score of 65 out of 100 based on analysis of NHTSA complaint data, recall history, crash reports, and safety ratings. This indicates average reliability — some notable concerns exist that prospective buyers should be aware of.
Known Issues for the 2018 Chevrolet Impala
The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2018 Chevrolet Impala:
| Issue | Severity | Frequency | Typical Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sudden Loss Of Power Steering Multiple reports of power steering suddenly failing while driving, making the vehicle very difficult to steer and control, often without prior warning. |
High | Common | unknown miles |
| Transmission Shifting Problems Vehicle hesitates, jerks, gets stuck in gear, or rapidly shifts to park and back while driving, leading to loss of acceleration or unexpected deceleration. |
High | Occasional | unknown miles |
| Brake Performance Reduction (Recall Related) Vehicle fails to respond to brake pedal depression or requires excessive force to stop, linked to a recall concerning caliper components. |
High | Occasional | unknown miles |
| Airbag Malfunctions Airbag warning light illumination, passenger airbag sensor malfunction, and uncommanded airbag deployment reported. |
High | Occasional | unknown miles |
| Reduced Engine Power / Loss Of Acceleration Vehicle suddenly loses power or fails to accelerate while driving, sometimes accompanied by a 'Reduced Engine Power' warning. |
Medium | Occasional | unknown miles |
| Hvac Evaporator Core Leaks Evaporator core failure leading to refrigerant leaks and inoperative A/C system, noted as a common issue online and in complaints. |
Low | Common | 30000-50000 miles |
Common Problems Reported by Owners
Based on NHTSA complaint data, the following components account for the majority of reported issues with the 2018 Chevrolet Impala:
Frequent complaints about sudden loss of power steering assist, making the vehicle difficult to control.
Issues include transmission shifting problems (getting stuck in gear, hard shifts, unexpected shifts to park) and loss of acceleration.
Reports of reduced braking performance, spongy brakes, and the vehicle failing to stop when the pedal is depressed, aligning with a recall.
Malfunctions such as warning light illumination, sensor failures, and uncommanded deployment.
General electrical issues, including tire pressure sensor system failures and headlight condensation affecting visibility.
Problems like reduced engine power warnings, hesitation, and difficulty starting the vehicle.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2018 Chevrolet Impala
Is the 2018 Chevrolet Impala safe?
Based on NHTSA data, the 2018 Chevrolet Impala received excellent crash test ratings, including a 5-star overall safety rating. However, consumer complaints highlight significant safety concerns such as sudden loss of power steering, transmission issues, and brake performance problems, which have led to 6 reported crashes and 2 injuries. There is also one recall related to reduced braking performance.
What are common problems with the 2018 Chevrolet Impala?
The most reported issues for the 2018 Chevrolet Impala include sudden loss of power steering (6 complaints), various powertrain/transmission problems (5 complaints), and brake performance issues (3 complaints). Airbag malfunctions and electrical system problems are also frequently cited.
Has the 2018 Chevrolet Impala been recalled?
Yes, the 2018 Chevrolet Impala has been subject to one recall. This recall addresses a potential issue with the 'SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:DISC:CALIPER' which could lead to a reduction of braking performance and increase the risk of a crash.
Are there any known steering issues with the 2018 Impala?
Yes, steering issues are a significant concern for the 2018 Chevrolet Impala. There are 6 complaints specifically about the steering system, with multiple reports of sudden and complete loss of power steering assist while driving, making the vehicle extremely difficult to control.
What are the crash test ratings for the 2018 Chevrolet Impala?
The 2018 Chevrolet Impala received high marks in NHTSA crash tests: a 5-star overall safety rating, 5 stars for frontal crash, 5 stars for side crash, and 4 stars for rollover.
Buyer Advice
Our recommendation: While the 2018 Chevrolet Impala boasts strong crash test ratings, potential buyers should be aware of recurring complaints regarding steering, powertrain, and brake issues, and ensure all recall work, especially for brakes, has been completed.
NHTSA Data Summary for 2018 Chevrolet Impala
This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2018 Chevrolet Impala. The data includes 57 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 1 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, 6 reported crashes, 2 reported injuries, and safety rating assessments associated with this vehicle.
The NHTSA has assigned the 2018 Chevrolet Impala an overall safety rating of 5 out of 5 stars, with a frontal crash rating of 5 stars, a side crash rating of 5 stars, and a rollover rating of 4 stars. These ratings are determined through controlled crash testing conducted by the NHTSA.
All data presented in this report is sourced from public NHTSA databases. Our AI analysis identifies patterns across complaint narratives, correlates them with recall history, and produces the safety assessment above. This analysis is updated as new complaints and recalls are filed with the NHTSA.
Consumers are encouraged to report vehicle safety problems to the NHTSA at nhtsa.gov. If your vehicle is subject to a recall, contact your dealer to schedule the free repair.