2005 and Earlier Chevrolet Impala

00impala

I am working on the Pics, my Main Page (the one that has been around for a year is FULL)no more space, I have another page I am working on, I will expidite the pics tonite and get it up and running, it has a slightly different address than my main one. Cabello....was it you that was selling your 5 Spokes? Still using them? Don

roderacer

You are going to have to get used to it...

OR - do what I do and "lay down" in the seat! LOL!

Good choice in cars! You'll love it!

RR

roderacer

Went to Auto Zone and picked up a nice analog tire pressure gauge.

I am running 34 psi all around and the ride is alot more sturdy and stiff (the way I prefer). The noise GA's are... well, NOISIER. But I can deal with it.

Tires are getting rotated Friday. I plan on taking off the center caps myself. Shouldn't have to explain why.

OnStar: An ignition cutoff linked to OnStar may not have been the way to go since disabling the system is so easy. Imagine the car not startting because the cabling is loose, housing is loose, or some other malfunction. Now the car wouldn't start, and calling OnStar for help would be a lost cause as well. Maybe GM thought this out more than I thought originally.

I wasn't aware of the 5 mile cutoff feature. Is that integrated with the Passlock system?

As long as the chop shop is more than 5 miles away, I feel comfortable!

RR

00impala

Find the oldest dullest butter knife you can and get a piece of cloth to place in Slot in the rim for the center cap, Place the knife on top of the cloth and push it away from you just enough until the center cap comes out enough that you can push the knife in towards the lugnuts, then pull the knife towards you and you can get a finger on the cap to remove it, DO NOT USE the Lug Wrench, it will chip the brittle edge along the slot and the clear coat finish will chip, I've done this over and over with no damage except the first time and I learned how to do it correctly. Don

roderacer

Thanks for the info on removing the caps. I could just imagine what the techs would do to them!

I was thinking about using a flathead screwdriver with electrical tape on the bladed edge and prying the cap off. The towel seems like a good tip to use with the screwdriver.

Thanks!
RR

jons01

Why does the Impala roll back when stopped on a hill and you take your foot off the brake? I have had a few close calls where I amost drifted back into the car behind me. No other car I have ever driven, except a manual has ever done this and so far I have not been given a clear reason why it happens.
This is the only thing that really do not like about the car. I assume that it cannot be corrected, but I would like to have an explanation for it. Thanks for any info.

00impala

the screwdriver might still be too hard a surface against the fragile edge, even with the tape,and the cloth over it. try a dull butter knife, you will get a feel for it, that edge is extremely fragile, and it is just waiting to chip off as soon as any pressure is applied to it. Good Luck Don

roderacer

Will do. Better to be safe than sorry, huh.
Thanks!

b4z

I tilted the rod that holds the rear view mirror on, upward. Then angled the actual mirror down to see behind me.
By doing this i moved the bottom of the mirror up over an inch.
I have gotten used to it.
I am 6'8".

teo

The "Rolling" problem is a typical GM vehicle behavior. It seems that when you put the transmission in "Park" there is some slack left in the hooking pinion and this causes the car to roll momentarily until it 'engages'.

Like I said most GM cars with automatic transmissions do this. I do not have an explanation behind the logic of allowing the car to roll a bit in park, but it can catch you by surprise specially if you are parked uphill.

I have made it a habit to ALWAYS engage the foot brake pedal, just in case.

I doubt there is a fix or technical service bulleting in regards to it.

Just be careful when you park and always step on the foot parking brake.

teo

How much can you extended the arm that holds the rear view mirror?

Really haven't touch it as I don't want to accidentally disconnect a cable back there.

b4z

I didn't extend it, i just moved it upward, basically moving the whole mirror up. Before it completely blocked my forward vision. Now it just blocks a corner.

[Deleted User]

Please clarify. How did you move it up? Did you bend the arm? Did you relocate it on the windshield. I'll bet a lot of folks here would like to know exactly how you improved forward visibility. I know I do. I just don't want to break the thing in the process. A detailed explanation would be great.
Thanks

xterracop

Hello I now have over 2200 miles on my impala and have to say it is the best car I have driven. The car is very solid and confortable. The gas mileage is great (which makes the chief happy) and the response of the engine is firm. Most of my dislikes have nothing to do with the car itself just the placement of the equipment. I.E. the placement of the computer causes me to hit my hand on it when I shift to drive. Only a few car related dislikes tho. I wish the seat belt had that little button thing which would stop it from going all the way down each time I take it off. probably not a problem for most but when I have all the crap on I have to wear it is difficult sometimes to reach the buckle. Also the safety feature of when the car is running not being able to lock the doors is a problem . I have a cutoff which allows me to remove the key from the ignition and still let the engine run. I cant lock the door without using the key to lock it. Again minor flaws which are not problems to anyone but cop cars.

All in all I would have to say this is the best squadcar around. Wish they would put the LT1 engine in it like the one I saw mcdill post a while back.

Till my next post......

impalanator

Look closely at the mirror. There are two pivot points. One on either end of the arm the mirror is mounted to. The one closest to the windshield is the one you want to move up (angling the short bar up). Then adjust the mirror itself to see out the back. If you adjust it properly you can darn near hit the DIC with it. However, it's still a large clunky mirror and takes some getting used to.

Teo - I think Jons01 was talking about the fact that the car rolls backward on hills when stopped at a light or stop sign for instance. When you take your foot off the brake and if your not fast enough the car definitely rolls backward (like with a manual). It's really noticable on the Impala compared to older cars. I believe it has to do with the manufacturers trying to increase gas mileage by decreasing resistance to forward movement where ever they can. In this case the transmission. I think you'll notice this tendency on all new cars. I'm sure there is a more technical answer and someone may provide it, but for JONS01 I think the answer your looking for is that it is normal and not to worry.

spider717

I think I remember reading about this before. Has anyone had problems with the remote not working sometimes? A few times I've had to push the button 10-20 times before the car would lock/unlock. Just wondered if anyone else had that problem.

cabello

Honda Accord
Honda Civic
Toyota Camry
Volkswagen Passat (2001.5)
Nissan Maxima
Toyota Avalon
Chevrolet Impala
Ford Taurus
Chevrolet Malibu
Pontiac Grand Am

cabello

Yes, I still have the 5 spokes for sale. I have just been waiting for my tires to wear out. I'm getting 18" wheels very soon. I now have 42,000 miles on the rims and tires. Of course, the wheels look brand new when washed. Just a slight chip where they stick a screw driver to take the lug cover off. I am taking offers. I am in Houston, TX, my page is @ http://www.angelfire.com/tx/bigodaman/

teo

I was thinking about this.... The last time you had your Impala for an A/C performance check up at the dealer, did they:

Give you the ACTUAL temperature reading at the dashboard vents?

The normal operating temperature at the vents should be between 38F and 40F (Freezing cold in other words)

Did you obtain a High/low pressure reading from the test gauges? What were the values? What was the ambient temperature atthe time of the reading?

Remember that if your low pressure value reading came under 60 PSI you could have a compressor related problem or a leak somewhere in the system.

Did they check for leaks in the Compressor seal, evaporator, condenser, pipes or fittings?

Remember that R134a refrigerant leaks (Specially when there are slow leaks) are very difficult to detect with electronic leak detector devices. The factory puts an OEM Dye (Green colorant) on the refrigerant to aid in leak detection but R134a refrigerant is a very light gas and therefore it can escape more easily when there are small bruises in the pipes making detection more difficult.

If you are still having A/C performance issues I would take it right back to the dealer as I strongly believe either one of the parameters noted above will give an indication that for a fact your A/C system is not working to specs.

Also remember that the full R134a refrigerant charge in your Impala should be 2.25 pounds.

Based on the latest Alldata information, there is a TSB for the Impala that affects the A/C performance:

"01-01-38-001 JAN 01 A/C Compressor - Shaft Seal Replacement"

I do not have the full contents with me, but your dealer should be able to access it upon request.

Last, but not least, make sure that your A/C High Pressure metal pipeline (Located on the left front side of the vehicle right behind the engine air filter cover) is not rubbing against the transmission case. It appears that some Impalas built recently don't have proper clearance of the high pressure pipe in respect to the transmission cover case, causing constant rubbing/bruising motion against it and eventually making a hole small enough (Or melting the pipe itself due to heat exposure) for the A/C R134a refrigerant to escape living you suddenly without A/C in the cabin (Loss of refrigerant pressure).

I would suggest for all Impala owners (Specially 2001 owners) to have the dealer check the routing of the High pressure A/C metal pipe (It runs from top to bottom of the car) to make sure that it is not rubbing and it doesn't show any signs of wear. This could or could not affect your car but it is worth to have it check. It takes 5 to 10 minutes to perform. If you ever experience an A/C leak this is the first place to look for a leak. have it checked and if necessary have the dealer replace and re-route the pipe to ensure maximum clearance from the transmission cover case plate. I don't think there is a TSB yet on this issue but I see it forth coming very soon. The procedure to replace/re-route the pipe should take about one hour. The car's A/C system R134a refrigerant must be evacuated, and recharged accordingly to perform the pipeline correction.

You don't want to have a vacation ruined due to sudden loss of A/C refrigerant or in a very hot day like the ones we are having now.

make it a habit with the Impala and any other car to perform annual A/C performance checkups.

ghostwolf

Mine only works from a close distance, where on my van, I can be a quarter of a mile away, inside a hotel room and lock/unlock the doors. I'm not sure why they made these things so weak, I've been wanting to take it to someone to increase the power of the thing. Don't know if its just mine or if the one on my van has spoiled me into thinking they should all work so well.

ghostwolf

00impala

http://community.webtv.net/dman4ford/VARIOUSPICTURESOFMy Other older webpagehttp://community.webtv.net/dman4ford/00IMPALALS

teo

bh0001

I've read with interest the posts about bumping up the tire pressure to 32 or 34 from the recommended 30. However, I'm very hesitant to do this.

I was always taught that the manufacturer's recommended tire pressure is the ONLY pressure to use. With all the horror stories in the news about tires, I don't want to tempt the tire failure gremlins.

Is there really a difference in moving up to 32 or 34, and is it "proper" to ignore the "approved" inflation level?
Brad

00impala

I found a 3 month old set of Impala 5 Spokes for around $300.00. I think they were on a Base 2001 Monte Carlo with that appearance Package and the guy wants to change them, not too bad for $75.00 per rim? I hate those small chips, I chipped one of mine the first time I tried to remove the Center cap, I have learned how to get them off without damaging them now. Don

00impala

The Manufaturer Tire Inflation setting is to acheive Maximum MPG, You can vary it, within reason that is, I don't think 2 pounds here or there is going to harm anything, I was at the dealer when I got my AMP installed and there was thins elderly couple squabbling over the pressure for their Full size van, they said 50 lbs, I thought they were nuts, But they were serious, No wonder there are blow outs, they were adament that the tires took 50 lbs, they mentioned towing a trailer, the old lady said it should be 50 with or without the trailer? What the heck? it had normal passenger sized tires on it too. I hope the service director let them leave with no more than 35 psi. Don

b4z

The manufacturer's suggestion is usually for maximum comfort. The tire's sidewall will tell you what the maximum is.
35 lbs won't hurt anything.

sweetpolly

It could be your battery need replacing in your key fob. My remote works from a really far distance. Mine will even work from inside my apartment building (upstairs), to lock or unlock my car, which is parked on the street, either in front of my building or across the very wide (4 lanes) street I live on.

casl

There is a TSB on the Intermittent Operation of the Remote Keyless Entry System. They will replace the instrument panel cluster to fix the problem.

I had this done a couple of months ago on my 2k and haven't been experiencing the problem anymore like I used to (although in my driveway, it still doesn't like to respond to the second click of the button to unlock all the doors).

teo

Refer to this TSB when dropping your car at the dealer for service:


"00-08-52-004A OCT 00 Keyless Entry System - Intermittent Operation"

I have never ever experienced Keyless entry remote problems. I must admit that my remote fobs work better in my 2001 LS than they did on my 2000 LS.

I believe the fix involves replacing the dashboard head control unit, probably a day or so job. Also take into consideration additional time if parts need to be ordered for the TSB repair.

b4z

What impalanator said is a good explanation.

[Deleted User]

My fob has lost distance too. Considering it worked fine when new, and it is not a matter of intermittant functions, only loss of distance, I'd say it was a battery issue.

One of these days, I'll get up off my ascot and buy a new battery for it. Brainstorm! First, I'll switch to the other fob! D'oh!

[Deleted User]

Thanks for that detailed analysis! My car is in the shop right now having the seat back mechanism replaced, and an engine and fuel system diag.

I'll ask them to check the A/C doohickey and whatsis, as well.

BTW, 38-40 isn't freezing. 32 is. But, you live in Florida don't you? So, 60 must feel like freezing to you! ;-D

teo

I have posted 3 pics of my Impala in the gallery section of the Impala's owners club....

[Deleted User]

I only see error graphics from Photo Point. I'd like to see that car of yours. What make and model is it again?

jeffreyw1

Don, Thanks for posting those pictures! The new car looks great and you got a great deal on those rims. By the way, where did you find them?

teo

I can view the pics straight from the club gallery....hmmm

Does anyone has the same viewing problem?

Host: can you confirm this?

Garypen: '01 Impala LS (Sandrift/Spoiler/Onstar/Stereo CD only/Cloth)

teo

I see the problem now....

The Stupid Photopoint site has been up and down the whole day...try again later..

roderacer

Maybe try the extra one that was included with the car. If BOTH fobs do not seem to operate the entry system properly or at a reasonable distance, then I would persue it further. If not, then the battery is a good way to go.

Great looking car, Don! Congrats!

RR

jons01

Your explanation for the drifting backward characteristic of the Impala when stopped on an incline and the foot is taken off the brake is the same that a service manager told me. I guess it is the price to pay for better gas mileage, but I wonder if happens on most other cars. I have driven others and have not noticed it, including our second car - a 2001 Camry (which also gets good gas mileage).

I am getting used to going quickly from brake to gas pedal to maintain position, but I wish that I did not have to. Hopefully, GM will correct the problem on future models

It is a relatively minor item and it would not deter me from buying another Impala. I still can't believe that I got such a great car for the price!

teo

b4z

Would like all the members to post their colors.
I have the dark blue.

roderacer

Black w/ Neutral leather interior.

RR

teo

Sandrift Metallic/Neutral Sport Cloth

2000 LS: Light Driftwood Metallic/Light Oak Sport Cloth

RR: Black is a beautiful color in the Impala but too hot for our climate.

I personally dislike "Mouse Gray" interiors because they look boring and depressing...just my opinion. However, the plus side of a gray interior is that it hides dirt very well. I am a sucker for a well executed black leather interior like the ones found on German cars...that's my only exception to dark colored interiors.

Leather seats don't work well in hot weather...too sticky. Also the quality of the leather in the Impala is not of my liking and I don't think it will look too pretty when it ages with creases, folds and peeling. Again just a personal opinion. They are easier to clean that cloth upholstery but you can get a can of Scotch Guard to aid in cleaning occassional spills..

I love beige interiors. Car's looks airy, spacious, inviting and luxurious, quite a different contrast.

My favorite Impala colors are: Sandrift, Navy Blue, Black and Dark Carmine. I have not seen the new 2002 revised versions of Green and Red paints.

b4z

So far we have:
b4z: dark blue
roderacer: black
teo: sandrift

I am trying to see if there is a trend here. I have noticed that the blue has become real popular on this board recently.

Does anyone have the bronze mist metallic?
Impalans, let us know what color you have.

[Deleted User]

Silver on the outside, Gray on the inside.

The gray leather seats get very dirty very quickly, at least mine do.
The gray door panels and console box cover seem to scuff easily, as well.
I'll be whipping out my Simple Green, ArmorAll (grease-free interior formula) and leather conditioner this weekend.

I think placing an order to Zaino Bros. is in the cards, as well.

mediumfry

My internet service puked for a while. Got about 500 posts behind.

Couple short comments.

I'm still proud of my 2001 and am also glad they changed some things for 2002. Makes mine more unique.

Don't think Michigan is full of 9899olds folks. There are a few decent folks here. Many work for a living and try to treat others with respect and dignity.

Seen lots of hits on quality for the Impala. Mine isn't perfect, still making noises in the front/steering. But if Yugo made this nice of car for the price I'd consider buying it. Who cares about reputation? I'm sure I'll get some response on that one...

My "A" pillars (on the sides of the windshield) cause more blind spot than any other place.

Glad to have a cop posting with us. Nice car.

Nathan's website still rocks.

I love my 5-spokes but don't think the coating on them is going to last. Starting to look a little checked. Hope they don't get much worse over time.

~17,000 miles on mine and only 1/32nd inch gone off the GA tread. Can't believe how well these are wearing. And I can't wait to get some Michelins.

Still a smooth, quiet, very enjoyable car.

Hope yours is too.

hunter39

Regal Blue 00' Discontinued though I'm not sure why, it's a beautiful color... I have grey leather interior. yes it's very hot here in AZ but you get used to it, Like Garypen said earlier, it get's down to 75 and I'm looking for a sweatshirt!

mcdill

Our 2000 impala started getting the ticking engine cradla at about 8000 miles , I am proud to report that it now has a little over 30,000 on it and the ticking is completely gone , as mysteriously as it came ... it went , I have been listening closely for the last 2000 miles , and Havent heard it tick , so tonight I made a final ruling , no more ticking .thanks----mattmcdill

spider717

I have the Dark navy blue metalic. I think the interior is the neutral one. it's the one thats dark gray, I saw the same car as mine when I was looking initially. It had leather seat, no hole in the roof, and the tan interior. Well, I personally hate leather, I need a nice big hole in my roof, and the tan interior looked kinda cheezy. I wouldn't change one thing about my baby. (except a manual trans).

jhavign

Did anyone here have a problem with the steering column making a thumping sound? I remember hearing something about the steering column shaft or could it be in the engine cradle? I have 2000 LS, Silver with grey interior, 14,000 miles.