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CHEVROLET
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Impala 2012
User Manual
360 pgs4.91 Mb0
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CHEVROLET Impala 2012 User Manual

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Chevrolet Impala Owner Manual - 2012
2012 Chevrolet Impala Owner Manual M
In Brief . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . .. . . 1-1
Instrument Panel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-2
Initial Drive Information . . . . . . . .1-3
Performance and
Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-17
Keys, Doors, and
Windows . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-1
Keys and Locks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-2
Doors . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . 2-9
Vehicle Security. . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-11
Exterior Mirrors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-13
Interior Mirrors . . . . . . . . . . . . ... .2-14
Windows . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-15
Roof . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . 2-17
Seats and Restraints . . . . . . . . . 3-1
Front Seats . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . .. . . 3-3
Rear Seats . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-8
Safety Belts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-10
Airbag System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ..3-19
Child Restraints . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-33
Storage . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . 4-1
Storage Compartments . . . . . . . . 4-1
Additional Storage Features . . . 4-2
Instruments and Controls . . . . 5-1
Controls . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-2
Warning Lights, Gauges, and
Indicators . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-9
Information Displays . . . . . . . .. . 5-23
Vehicle Messages.. . . . . . . . . . . 5-27
Vehicle Personalization.. . . . . . 5-35
Universal Remote System . . . . 5-40
Lighting . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . 6-1
Exterior Lighting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-1
Interior Lighting . . . . . . .. . . . . . .. . 6-5
Lighting Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-6
Infotainment System . . . . . . . . . 7-1
Introduction . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . 7-1
Radio . . . . . . . . . . ... . . . . . . . . . . . ..7-6
Audio Players . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-13
Phone . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . .. . . . 7-19
Climate Controls . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-1
Climate Control Systems . . . . . . 8-1
Air Vents.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-4
Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . ... . . . . . 8-5
Driving and Operating . . . . . . . . 9-1
Driving Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-2
Starting and Operating . . . . . . . 9-14
Engine Exhaust . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-21
Automatic Transmission . . . . . .9-22
Brakes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-26
Ride Control Systems . . . . . . . .9-27
Cruise Control . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . 9-30
Fuel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-33
Towing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9-39
Conversions and Add-Ons . . . 9-45
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Chevrolet Impala Owner Manual - 2012
2012 Chevrolet Impala Owner Manual M
Vehicle Care . . . . . .. . . . . . . . .. . 10-1
General Information . . . . . . . . . .10-2
Vehicle Checks.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-4
Headlamp Aiming . . . . . . . . . . . 10-24
Bulb Replacement . . . . . . . . . . 10-24
Electrical System . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-28
Wheels and Tires . . . . . . . . . . . 10-33
Jump Starting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-62
Towing . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10-65
Appearance Care . . . . . . . . . . .10-67
Service and Maintenance . . . 11-1
General Information . . . . . . . . . . 11-1
Maintenance Schedule . . . . . . .11-3
Special Application
Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11-8
Additional Maintenance
and Care . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . 11-8
Recommended Fluids,
Lubricants, and Parts . . . . . . 11-11
Maintenance Records . . . . . . . 11-13
Technical Data . . . . . . ......... 12-1
Vehicle Identification.. . . . . . . . 12-1
Vehicle Data. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12-2
Customer Information . . . . . . . 13-1
Customer Information . . . . . . . . 13-1
Reporting Safety Defects . . . . 13-12
Vehicle Data Recording and
Privacy . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13-14
OnStar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . 14-1
OnStar Overview.. . . . . . . . . . . . 14-1
OnStar Services . . . . . . . .. . . . . . 14-2
OnStar Additional
Information . . . . . . . . . . . . ... . . . 14-5
Index . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . i-1
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Chevrolet Impala Owner Manual - 2012

Introduction iii

The names, logos, emblems, slogans, vehicle model names, and vehicle body designs appearing in this manual including, but not limited to, GM, the GM logo, CHEVROLET, the CHEVROLET Emblem, IMPALA, and the IMPALA Emblem are trademarks and/or service marks of General Motors LLC, its subsidiaries, affiliates, or licensors.
This manual describes features that may or may not be on your specific vehicle either because they are options that you did not purchase or due to changes subsequent to the printing of this owner manual.
Litho in U.S.A. Part No. 20864990 B Second Printing
Please refer to the purchase documentation relating to your specific vehicle to confirm each of the features found on your vehicle. For vehicles first sold in Canada, substitute the name "General Motors of Canada Limited" for Chevrolet Motor Division wherever it appears in this manual.
Keep this manual in the vehicle for quick reference.
©
2011 General Motors LLC. All Rights Reserved.

Canadian Vehicle Owners

Propriétaires Canadiens
A French language copy of this manual can be obtained from your dealer or from:
On peut obtenir un exemplaire de ce guide en français auprès du concessionnaire ou à l'adresse suivante:
Helm, Incorporated P.O. Box 07130 Detroit, MI 48207
1-800-551-4123 Numéro de poste 6438 de langue française www.helminc.com
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Chevrolet Impala Owner Manual - 2012
iv Introduction

Using this Manual

To quickly locate information about the vehicle, use the Index in the back of the manual. It is an alphabetical list of what is in the manual and the page number where it can be found.

Danger, Warnings, and Cautions

Warning messages found on vehicle labels and in this manual describe hazards and what to do to avoid or reduce them.
Danger indicates a hazard with a high level of risk which will result in serious injury or death.
Warning or Caution indicates a hazard that could result in injury or death.
WARNING
{
These mean there is something that could hurt you or other people.
Notice: This means there is something that could result in property or vehicle damage. This would not be covered by the vehicle's warranty.
A circle with a slash through it is a safety symbol which means “Do Not,” “Do not do this,” or “Do not let this happen.”

Symbols

The vehicle has components and labels that use symbols instead of text. Symbols are shown along with the text describing the operation or information relating to a specific component, control, message, gauge, or indicator.
M : This symbol is shown when
you need to see your owner manual for additional instructions or information.
* : This symbol is shown when
you need to see a service manual for additional instructions or information.
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Chevrolet Impala Owner Manual - 2012
Introduction v
Vehicle Symbol Chart
Here are some additional symbols that may be found on the vehicle and what they mean. For more information on the symbol, refer to the Index.
9 : Airbag Readiness Light # : Air Conditioning ! : Antilock Brake System (ABS) % : Audio Steering Wheel Controls
or OnStar
®
$ : Brake System Warning Light
" : Charging System
I : Cruise Control
B : Engine Coolant Temperature
O : Exterior Lamps
# : Fog Lamps
. : Fuel Gauge
+ : Fuses
3 : Headlamp High/Low-Beam
Changer
j : LATCH System Child
Restraints
* : Malfunction Indicator Lamp : : Oil Pressure
} : Power
/ : Remote Vehicle Start
> : Safety Belt Reminders
7 : Tire Pressure Monitor
d : Traction Control/StabiliTrak
M : Windshield Washer Fluid
®
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Chevrolet Impala Owner Manual - 2012
vi Introduction
2 NOTES
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In Brief 1-1

In Brief

Instrument Panel
Instrument Panel . . . . . . .. . . . . . . 1-2
Initial Drive Information
Initial Drive Information . . . . . . . . 1-3
Remote Keyless Entry (RKE)
System . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-3
Remote Vehicle Start . . . . . . . . . 1-4
Door Locks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-5
Trunk Release . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-5
Windows . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. 1-5
Seat Adjustment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-6
Second Row Seats . . . . . . . . . . . 1-7
Head Restraint Adjustment . . . . 1-7
Safety Belts . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . 1-7
Passenger Sensing System . . . 1-8
Mirror Adjustment . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-8
Steering Wheel Adjustment . . . 1-9
Interior Lighting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-9
Exterior Lighting . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-10
Windshield Wiper/Washer .... 1-10
Vehicle Features
Radio(s) . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-13
Satellite Radio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-14
Portable Audio Devices . . . . . . 1-14
Bluetooth
Steering Wheel Controls . . . . . 1-15
Cruise Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-16
Power Outlets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-16
®
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-15
Performance and Maintenance
Traction Control
System (TCS) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-17
Electronic Stability
Control (ESC) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-17
Tire Pressure Monitor . . . . . . . . 1-17
Engine Oil Life System . . . . . . 1-18
Fuel E85 (85% Ethanol) . . . . . 1-18
Driving for Better Fuel
Economy .... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-18
Roadside Assistance
Program . . . . . . . . . . .... . . . . . . 1-19
®
OnStar
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-19
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1-2 In Brief

Instrument Panel

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In Brief 1-3
A. Air Vents on page 8‑4.
B. Remote Trunk Release Button.
See Trunk on page 2‑9.
C. Turn and Lane‐Change Lever.
See Turn and Lane-Change Signals on page 6‑4.
D. Instrument Cluster on
page 5‑10.
E. Hazard Warning Flashers on
page 6‑3.
F. Driver Information Center (DIC)
on page 5‑23.
G. Passenger Airbag Status
Indicator on page 5‑14.
H. Infotainment on page 7‑1.
I. Exterior Lamp Controls on
page 6‑1.
J. Instrument Panel Illumination
Control on page 6‑5.
Dome Lamp Control. See Dome Lamps on page 6‑6.
K. Traction Control System (TCS)
on page 9‑27 (If Equipped).
L. Steering Wheel Adjustment on
page 5‑2.
M. Cruise Control on page 9‑30.
N. Hood Release. See Hood on
page 10‑5.
O. Data Link Connector (DLC)
(Out of View). See Malfunction Indicator Lamp on page 5‑16.
P. Horn on page 5‑3.
Q. Steering Wheel Controls on
page 5‑3 (If Equipped).
R. Ignition Positions on page 9‑15.
S. Climate Control Systems on
page 8‑1.
T. Power Outlets on page 5‑8.
U. Center Console Shift Lever
(If Equipped). See Shifting Into Park on page 9‑19.

Initial Drive Information

This section provides a brief overview about some of the important features that may or may not be on your specific vehicle.
For more detailed information, refer to each of the features which can be found later in this owner manual.

Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) System

The RKE transmitter is used to remotely lock and unlock the doors from up to 60 m (195 ft) away from the vehicle.
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1-4 In Brief
Press K to unlock the driver door. Press again within five seconds to unlock all remaining doors.
Q to lock all doors.
Press
Lock and unlock feedback can be personalized. See Vehicle Personalization on page 5‑35 for additional information.
Press and hold approximately one second to open the trunk.
Press
L and release to locate the
vehicle.
V for
L and hold for more than
Press two seconds to sound the panic alarm.
L again to cancel the panic
Press alarm.
See Keys on page 2‑2 and Remote
Keyless Entry (RKE) System Operation on page 2‑3.

Remote Vehicle Start

With this feature the engine can be started from outside of the vehicle.
Starting the Vehicle
1. Aim the RKE transmitter at the vehicle.
2. Press and release
3. Immediately after completing Step 2, press and hold
the turn signal lamps flash.
Q.
/ until
When the vehicle starts, the parking lamps will turn on and remain on as long as the engine is running. The doors will be locked and the climate control system may come on.
The engine will continue to run for 10 minutes. Repeat the steps for a 10-minute time extension. Remote start can be extended only once.
Canceling a Remote Start
To cancel a remote start:
.
Aim the RKE transmitter at the vehicle and press and hold
until the parking lamps turn off.
.
Turn on the hazard warning flashers.
.
Turn the ignition on and then back off.
See Remote Vehicle Start on page 2‑5.
/
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In Brief 1-5

Door Locks

Manual Locks
From outside the vehicle, use the key in the door or the Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) transmitter to lock or unlock the vehicle. From the inside, pull up or push down on the manual door lock knobs.
See Door Locks on page 2‑6.
Power Door Locks
Power door lock switches are located on the front doors near the handle.
Q : Press the bottom of the switch
to lock all doors.
K : Press the top of the switch to
unlock all doors.
For more information, see:
.
Power Door Locks on page 2‑7.
.
Delayed Locking on page 2‑7.

Trunk Release

To open the trunk from the outside, press
V on the RKE transmitter.
See Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) System Operation on page 2‑3.
Or, use the key in the lock cylinder, if equipped.
To open the trunk from the inside, press
V. See Trunk on page 2‑9.

Windows

The power window switches are on the driver door armrest. Each passenger door has a switch that controls only that window.
To lower the window, press and hold the front of the switch to the first position until the window is at the desired level. To raise the window, pull up and hold the front of the switch.
For more information, see Power Windows on page 2‑16.
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1-6 In Brief

Seat Adjustment

Manual Seats
To adjust a manual seat:
1. Lift the bar under the front edge of the seat cushion to unlock the seat.
2. Slide the seat to the desired position and release the bar.
3. Try to move the seat back and forth to be sure the seat is locked in place.
See Seat Adjustment on page 3‑3.
To adjust the seatback, see “Manual Reclining Seatbacks” under Reclining Seatbacks on page 3‑5.
Power Seats
To adjust a power seat, if equipped:
.
Move the seat forward or rearward by sliding the control forward or rearward.
.
Raise or lower the front or rear of the seat cushion by moving the front or rear of the control up or down.
See Power Seat Adjustment on page 3‑4.
Power Reclining Seatback
To adjust a power seatback, if equipped:
.
Tilt the top of the control rearward to recline.
.
Tilt the top of the control forward to raise.
See “Power Reclining Seatbacks” under Reclining Seatbacks on page 3‑5.
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In Brief 1-7
Manual Lumbar
Move the lever up or down to increase or decrease lumbar support.
See Lumbar Adjustment on page 3‑4.

Second Row Seats

On vehicles with the flip and fold feature, the bottom seat cushions can be flipped forward and the seatback folded down to create an extended cargo area.
The vehicle also has an under seat storage area.
See Rear Seats (Split Folding) on page 3‑8.

Head Restraint Adjustment

Do not drive until the head restraints for all occupants are installed and adjusted properly.
To achieve a comfortable seating position, change the seatback recline angle as little as necessary while keeping the seat and the head restraint height in the proper position.
See Head Restraints on page 3‑2 and Seat Adjustment on page 3‑3.

Safety Belts

Refer to the following sections for important information on how to use safety belts properly.
.
Safety Belts on page 3‑10.
.
How to Wear Safety Belts Properly on page 3‑11.
.
Lap-Shoulder Belt on page 3‑12.
.
Lap Belt on page 3‑17.
.
Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH System) on page 3‑41.
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1-8 In Brief

Passenger Sensing System

The passenger sensing system will turn off the right front passenger frontal airbag under certain conditions. The driver airbags, seat‐side impact airbags, and roof‐rail airbags are not affected by this.
The passenger airbag status indicator will be visible on the instrument panel when the vehicle is started.
United States
Canada
See Passenger Sensing System on page 3‑26 for important information.

Mirror Adjustment

Exterior Mirrors
Controls for the outside power mirrors are on the driver door armrest.
Press the left or right side of the selector located above the control pad to adjust the driver or passenger mirror. Then press the control pad to move the mirror in the desired direction.
See Power Mirrors on page 2‑14.
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In Brief 1-9
Interior Mirror
Vehicles with a manual rearview mirror can be adjusted by holding the mirror in the center to move it for a clearer view behind the vehicle. Adjust the mirror to avoid glare from the headlamps behind. Pull the lever, located at the bottom of the mirror for nighttime use. Return the lever to its original position for the day position.
See Manual Rearview Mirror on page 2‑14.
On vehicles with an automatic dimming rearview mirror, the mirror will automatically adjust to reduce the glare of lights from behind the vehicle. See Automatic Dimming Rearview Mirror on page 2‑15.

Steering Wheel Adjustment

The tilt wheel lever is located on the left side of the steering column.
To adjust the steering wheel:
1. Hold the wheel and pull the lever toward you.
2. Move the steering wheel up or down.
3. Release the lever to lock the steering wheel in place.
Do not adjust the steering wheel while driving.

Interior Lighting

Dome Lamp
The center mounted dome lamp overhead comes on when a door is opened. This lamp can also be turned on by turning the instrument panel brightness control clockwise.
Reading Lamps
The vehicle has reading lamps that also act as the dome lamp. Press the button near each lamp to turn them on and off.
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1-10 In Brief
Map Lamps
The vehicle has map lamps on the rearview mirror. Push the button near each lamp to turn the map lamps on and off.
For more information on interior lighting, see:
.
Instrument Panel Illumination Control on page 6‑5.
.
Courtesy Lamps on page 6‑5.

Exterior Lighting

The exterior lamps control is located on the instrument panel to the left of the steering wheel.
P : Briefly turn to this position to
manually turn the automatic lamp control and Daytime Running Lamps (DRL) off or on. For vehicles first sold in Canada, the off position only works when the vehicle is shifted into the P (Park) position.
AUTO: Automatically operates the headlamps and other exterior lamps at normal brightness.
; : Turns on the parking lamps,
instrument panel lights, taillamps, and license plate lamps.
2 : Turns on the headlamps and
other exterior lamps.
# : (If Equipped) Turns on the fog
lamps.
For more information, see:
.
Exterior Lamp Controls on page 6‑1.
.
Fog Lamps on page 6‑4.
.
Daytime Running Lamps (DRL)/ Automatic Headlamp System on page 6‑3.

Windshield Wiper/Washer

The lever is located on the left side of the steering column.
8 : Single wipe, turn to 8 , then
release. Several wipes, hold the band on
8 longer.
9 : Turns the windshield
wipers off.
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In Brief 1-11
6 : Turn the band up for more
frequent wipes or down for less frequent wipes.
6 : Slow wipes. ? : Fast wipes.
Windshield Washer
Push the paddle lever to spray washer fluid on the windshield.
See Windshield Wiper/Washer on page 5‑4.
L at the top of the

Climate Controls

This vehicle may have a dual or single climate control system. The heating, cooling, defrost, defog, and ventilation can be controlled with either of these systems.
Dual Zone with Optional Heated Seat Controls
A. Fan Control
B. Outside Air
C. Recirculation
D. Air Delivery Mode Control
E. Air Conditioning
F. Driver and Passenger Heated
Seats (If Equipped)
G. Driver and Passenger
Temperature Controls
H. Rear Window Defogger
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1-12 In Brief
Single Zone
A. Fan Control
B. Outside Air
C. Temperature Control
D. Recirculation
E. Air Delivery Mode Control
F. Air Conditioning
G. Rear Window Defogger
See Climate Control Systems on page 8‑1.
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In Brief 1-13

Vehicle Features

Radio(s)

O : Press to turn the system on
and off. Turn to increase or decrease the volume.
Radio with CD (Base)
BAND: Press to choose between
FM1, FM2, AM, or XM™ (if equipped) on the Radio with CD (Base).
f : Select radio stations. © ¨ : Seek or scan stations. 4 : For vehicles with RDS, press to
display additional text information related to the current FM-RDS or XM station; or CD, MP3, or WMA song. If information is available during XM or CD playback, the song title information displays on the top line of the display and artist information displays on the bottom line. When information is not available, “No Info” displays.
For more information about these and other radio features, see Infotainment on page 7‑1.
Storing a Favorite Station
Depending on which radio the vehicle has, radio stations are stored as either favorites or presets.
For radios with a FAV button, a maximum of 36 stations can be stored as favorites using the 6 softkeys located below the radio
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1-14 In Brief
station frequency tabs and by using the radio FAV button. Press FAV to go through up to 6 pages of favorites, each having 6 favorite stations available per page. Each page of favorites can contain any combination of AM, FM, or XM stations.
For radios without a FAV button, up to 18 stations (6 FM1, 6 FM2, and 6 AM), can be programmed on the 6 numbered buttons.
See Operation on page 7‑2.
Setting the Clock
To set the time for the Radio with CD (Base):
1. Press the begins flashing on the display.
Press minutes begin flashing on the display.
H button until the hour
H a second time and the
2. To increase or decrease the time, do one of the following while the hours or minutes are flashing:
.
Turn the f knob.
.
Press ¨ SEEK or © SEEK.
.
Press \ FWD or s REV.
3. Press the
H button again until
the clock display stops flashing to set the currently displayed time, or wait five seconds until the flashing stops and the current time displayed is automatically set.
For detailed instructions on setting the clock for your specific audio system, see Clock on page 5‑6.

Satellite Radio

XM is a satellite radio service based in the 48 contiguous United States and 10 Canadian provinces.
XM satellite radio has a wide variety of programming and commercial-free music, coast to coast, and in digital-quality sound.
A fee is required to receive the XM service.
For more information, refer to:
.
www.xmradio.com or call 1-800-929-2100 (U.S.)
.
www.xmradio.ca or call 1-877-438-9677 (Canada)
See Satellite Radio on page 7‑8.

Portable Audio Devices

This vehicle may have an auxiliary input jack, located on the audio faceplate. External devices such as
®
iPods
, MP3 players, etc. can be connected to the auxiliary input jack using a 3.5 mm (1/8 in) input jack cable.
See “Using the Auxiliary Input Jack” under Auxiliary Devices on page 7‑18.
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In Brief 1-15
Bluetooth
For vehicles with a Bluetooth system, it allows users with a Bluetooth‐enabled cell phone to make and receive hands-free calls using the vehicle’s audio system and controls.
The Bluetooth‐enabled cell phone must be paired with the Bluetooth system before it can be used in the vehicle. Not all phones will support all functions. For more information, visit www.gm.com/bluetooth.
For more information, see Bluetooth on page 7‑19.
®

Steering Wheel Controls

If equipped, these controls are located on the right side of the steering wheel.
w : Press to go to the next radio
station stored as a favorite, or the next track if a CD is playing.
b / g : Press to silence the vehicle
speakers only. Press again to turn the sound on. Press and hold longer than two seconds to interact with the OnStar if equipped.
®
or Bluetooth systems,
c / x : Press to go to the
previous radio station stored as a favorite, the next track if a CD is playing, reject an incoming call, or end a current call.
SRCE: Press to choose between the radio, CD, and auxiliary input jack.
+
e − e : Press to increase or
decrease volume.
¨ : Press to go to the next radio
station while in AM, FM, or XM. Press to go to the next track or chapter while sourced to the CD.
For more information, see Steering Wheel Controls on page 5‑3.
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1-16 In Brief

Cruise Control

The cruise control buttons are located on the left side of the steering wheel.
J : Press to turn cruise control on
and off. The indicator is lit when cruise control is on.
+RES: Press briefly to make the vehicle resume to a previously set speed, or press and hold to accelerate.
SET−: Press to set the speed and activate cruise control or make the vehicle decelerate.
[ : Press to disengage cruise
control without erasing the set speed from memory.
For more information, see Cruise Control on page 9‑30.

Power Outlets

The vehicle has three 12‐volt outlets which can be used to plug in electrical equipment, such as a cell phone or MP3 player.
On vehicles with a center console, one outlet is located inside the center floor console and two outlets are located at the front of the console bin under the instrument panel.
On vehicles without a center console, two are located under the climate controls and another outlet for the rear seat passengers is at the rear of the center front seat.
Remove the cover to access and replace when not in use.
See Power Outlets on page 5‑8.
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Chevrolet Impala Owner Manual - 2012
In Brief 1-17

Performance and Maintenance

Traction Control System (TCS)

The vehicle may have a traction control system which limits wheel spin. The system turns on automatically every time the vehicle is started.
.
For vehicles with traction control, press and release the ESC
OFF button instrument panel to turn off traction control. The appropriate DIC message displays. See
Ride Control System Messages on page 5‑31.
.
Press and release the ESC OFF button
traction control.
For more information, see Traction
Control System (TCS) on page 9‑27.
Y located on the
Y again to turn on

Electronic Stability Control (ESC)

The Electronic Stability Control system assists with directional control of the vehicle in difficult driving conditions. The system turns on automatically every time the vehicle is started.
.
To turn off both traction control and ESC, press and hold the
ESC OFF button the instrument panel until
illuminates and the appropriate DIC messages display. See Ride
Control System Messages on page 5‑31.
.
Press and release the ESC OFF button
Y again to turn on both
systems.
For more information, see Electronic
Stability Control (ESC) on page 9‑29.
Y located on
g

Tire Pressure Monitor

This vehicle may have a Tire Pressure Monitor System (TPMS).
The TPMS warning light alerts you to a significant loss in pressure of one of the vehicle's tires. If the warning light comes on, stop as soon as possible and inflate the tires to the recommended pressure shown on the Tire and Loading Information label. See Vehicle Load Limits on page 9‑10. The warning light will remain on until the tire pressure is corrected.
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Chevrolet Impala Owner Manual - 2012
1-18 In Brief
During cooler conditions, the low tire pressure warning light may appear when the vehicle is first started and then turn off. This may be an early indicator that the tire pressures are getting low and the tires need to be inflated to the proper pressure.
The TPMS does not replace normal monthly tire maintenance. It is the driver’s responsibility to maintain correct tire pressures.
See Tire Pressure Monitor System on page 10‑41.

Engine Oil Life System

The engine oil life system calculates engine oil life based on vehicle use and displays a DIC message when it is necessary to change the engine oil and filter. The oil life system should be reset to 100% only following an oil change.
Resetting the Oil Life System
1. Display OIL LIFE REMAINING on the DIC.
2. Press and hold the SET/RESET button on the DIC for more than five seconds. The oil life will change to 100%.
See Engine Oil Life System on page 10‑10.

Fuel E85 (85% Ethanol)

Vehicles that have a FlexFuel badge and a yellow fuel cap can use either unleaded gasoline or ethanol fuel containing up to 85% ethanol (E85). See Fuel E85 (85% Ethanol) on page 9‑36. For all other vehicles, use only the unleaded gasoline described under Recommended Fuel on page 9‑33.

Driving for Better Fuel Economy

Driving habits can affect fuel mileage. Here are some driving tips to get the best fuel economy possible.
.
Avoid fast starts and accelerate smoothly.
.
Brake gradually and avoid abrupt stops.
.
Avoid idling the engine for long periods of time.
.
When road and weather conditions are appropriate, use cruise control.
.
Always follow posted speed limits or drive more slowly when conditions require.
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Chevrolet Impala Owner Manual - 2012
.
Keep vehicle tires properly inflated.
.
Combine several trips into a single trip.
.
Replace the vehicle's tires with the same TPC Spec number molded into the tire's sidewall near the size.
.
Follow recommended scheduled maintenance.

Roadside Assistance Program

U.S.: 1-800-243-8872
TTY Users: 1-888-889-2438
Canada: 1-800-268-6800
As the owner of a new Chevrolet, you are automatically enrolled in the Roadside Assistance program.
See Roadside Assistance Program on page 13‑5.
Roadside Assistance and OnStar
If you have an active OnStar subscription, press the
and the current GPS location will be sent to an OnStar advisor who will assess your problem, contact Roadside Assistance, and relay your exact location to get the help you need.
Q button
In Brief 1-19
Online Owner Center
The Online Owner Center is a complimentary service that includes online service reminders, vehicle maintenance tips, online owner manual, special privileges, and more.
Sign up today at:
U.S.: chevrolet.com (click on “Owners,” then “Manage My Chevrolet/Owners Login”)
Canada: chevroletowner.ca
OnStar
If equipped, this vehicle has a comprehensive, in-vehicle system that can connect to a live Advisor for Emergency, Security, Navigation, Connection, and Diagnostic Services. See OnStar Overview on page 14‑1 for more information.
®
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Chevrolet Impala Owner Manual - 2012
1-20 In Brief
2 NOTES
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Chevrolet Impala Owner Manual - 2012
Keys, Doors, and Windows 2-1

Keys, Doors, and Windows

Keys and Locks
Keys . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . 2-2
Remote Keyless Entry (RKE)
System . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-2
Remote Keyless Entry (RKE)
System Operation . . . . . . . . . . . 2-3
Remote Vehicle Start . . . . . . . . . 2-5
Door Locks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-6
Power Door Locks . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-7
Delayed Locking . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-7
Automatic Door Locks . . . . . . . . . 2-8
Lockout Protection . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-8
Doors
Trunk . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-9
Vehicle Security
Vehicle Security . . . . . .. . . . . . . . 2-11
Anti-theft Alarm System . . . . . . 2-11
Immobilizer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-12
Immobilizer Operation . . . . . . . 2-12
Exterior Mirrors
Convex Mirrors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-13
Power Mirrors . . . . . . . . . . . ..... 2-14
Heated Mirrors . . . . . . . . ... . . . . 2-14
Interior Mirrors
Manual Rearview Mirror . . . . . . 2-14
Automatic Dimming Rearview
Mirror . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-15
Windows
Windows . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ...... 2-15
Power Windows . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-16
Sun Visors . . . . . . . . . ... . . . . . . . 2-17
Roof
Sunroof . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. 2-17
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Chevrolet Impala Owner Manual - 2012
2-2 Keys, Doors, and Windows

Keys and Locks

Keys

WARNING
{
Leaving children in a vehicle with the ignition key is dangerous for many reasons. Children or others could be badly injured or even killed. They could operate the power windows or other controls or even make the vehicle move. The windows will function with the keys in the ignition and children could be seriously injured or killed if caught in the path of a closing window. Do not leave the keys in a vehicle with children.
The key can be used for the ignition and the driver's door. If the vehicle is a taxi model, the key can also be used in the trunk.
See your dealer if a replacement key or additional key is needed.
Notice: If the keys get locked in the vehicle, it may have to be damaged to get them out. Always carry a spare key.
If you are locked out of your vehicle, contact Roadside Assistance. See
Roadside Assistance Program on page 13‑5 for more information.
With an active OnStar subscription, an OnStar Advisor may remotely unlock the vehicle. See OnStar Overview on page 14‑1.

Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) System

See Radio Frequency Statement on page 13‑15 for information
regarding Part 15 of the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) rules and Industry Canada Standards RSS-GEN/210/220/310.
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Chevrolet Impala Owner Manual - 2012
Keys, Doors, and Windows 2-3
If there is a decrease in the RKE operating range:
.
Check the distance. The transmitter may be too far from the vehicle.
.
Check the location. Other vehicles or objects may be blocking the signal.
.
Check the transmitter's battery. See “Battery Replacement” later in this section.
.
If the transmitter is still not working correctly, see your dealer or a qualified technician for service.

Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) System Operation

The Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) transmitter functions work up to 60 m (195 ft) away from the vehicle.
There are other conditions which can affect the performance of the transmitter. See Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) System on page 2‑2.
With Remote Start Shown, Without
Remote Start Similar
/ (Remote Vehicle Start): For
vehicles with this feature, press to start the engine from outside the vehicle using the RKE transmitter. See Remote Vehicle Start on page 2‑5 for additional information.
Q (Lock): Press to lock all the
doors. If enabled through the Driver Information Center (DIC), the parking lamps flash once to indicate locking has occurred. If enabled through the DIC, the horn chirps
Q is pressed again within
when five seconds. See Vehicle Personalization on page 5‑35 for additional information.
Pressing theft‐deterrent system. See
Anti-theft Alarm System on page 2‑11.
Q may arm the content
K (Unlock): Press once to unlock
the driver door. If again within five seconds, all remaining doors unlock. The interior lamps come on and stay on for 20 seconds or until the ignition is turned on. If enabled through the DIC, the parking lamps flash twice to indicate unlocking has occurred. See Vehicle Personalization on page 5‑35.
Pressing disarms the content theft‐deterrent system. See Anti-theft Alarm System on page 2‑11.
K on the RKE transmitter
K is pressed
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Chevrolet Impala Owner Manual - 2012
2-4 Keys, Doors, and Windows
V (Remote Trunk Release):
Press and hold for about one second to open the trunk. The transmission must be in P (Park).
L (Vehicle Locator/Panic
Alarm): Press and release to locate the vehicle. The turn signal lamps flash and the horn sounds
three times. Press and hold more than two seconds to activate the panic alarm. The turn signal lamps flash and the horn sounds repeatedly for 30 seconds. The alarm turns off when the ignition is
turned to ON/RUN or again. The ignition must be in LOCK/OFF for the panic alarm to work.
Programming Transmitters to the Vehicle
Only RKE transmitters programmed to the vehicle will work. If a transmitter is lost or stolen, a replacement can be purchased and programmed through your dealer.
L for
L is pressed
When the replacement transmitter is programmed to the vehicle, all remaining transmitters must also be programmed. Any lost or stolen transmitters no longer work once the new transmitter is programmed. Each vehicle can have up to eight transmitters programmed to it. See your dealer to program new transmitters.
Battery Replacement
Replace the battery if the REPLACE BATTERY IN REMOTE KEY message displays in the DIC. See “REPLACE BATTERY IN REMOTE KEY” under Key and Lock Messages on page 5‑31 for additional information.
Notice: When replacing the battery, do not touch any of the circuitry on the transmitter. Static from your body could damage the transmitter.
To replace the battery:
1. Separate the transmitter with a flat, thin object, such as a flat head screwdriver.
.
Carefully insert the tool into the notch located along the parting line of the transmitter. Do not insert the tool too far. Stop as soon as resistance is felt.
.
Twist the tool until the transmitter is separated.
2. Remove the old battery. Do not use a metal object.
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