4. Chevrolet Impala Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (4,1)
iv Introduction
Using this Manual Symbols
{ WARNING
To quickly locate information about The vehicle has components and
the vehicle, use the Index in the These mean there is something labels that use symbols instead of
back of the manual. It is an that could hurt you or other text. Symbols are shown along with
alphabetical list of what is in the people. the text describing the operation or
manual and the page number information relating to a specific
where it can be found. component, control, message,
Notice: This means there is
gauge, or indicator.
something that could result in
Danger, Warnings, and property or vehicle damage. This M : This symbol is shown when
Cautions would not be covered by the you need to see your owner manual
vehicle's warranty. for additional instructions or
Warning messages found on vehicle
information.
labels and in this manual describe
hazards and what to do to avoid or * : This symbol is shown when
reduce them. you need to see a service manual
for additional instructions or
Danger indicates a hazard with a
information.
high level of risk which will result in
serious injury or death.
Warning or Caution indicates a A circle with a slash through it is a
hazard that could result in injury or safety symbol which means “Do
death. Not,” “Do not do this,” or “Do not let
this happen.”
5. Chevrolet Impala Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (5,1)
Introduction v
Vehicle Symbol Chart " : Charging System * : Malfunction Indicator Lamp
Here are some additional symbols I : Cruise Control : : Oil Pressure
that may be found on the vehicle
and what they mean. For more B : Engine Coolant Temperature } : Power
information on the symbol, refer to O : Exterior Lamps / : Remote Vehicle Start
the Index.
# : Fog Lamps > : Safety Belt Reminders
9 : Airbag Readiness Light . : Fuel Gauge 7 : Tire Pressure Monitor
# : Air Conditioning + : Fuses d : Traction Control/StabiliTrak®
! : Antilock Brake System (ABS) 3 : Headlamp High/Low-Beam M : Windshield Washer Fluid
% : Audio Steering Wheel Controls
®
Changer
or OnStar
j : LATCH System Child
$: Brake System Warning Light Restraints
9. Chevrolet Impala Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (3,1)
In Brief 1-3
A. Air Vents on page 8‑4. L. Steering Wheel Adjustment on Initial Drive
B. Remote Trunk Release Button. page 5‑2.
See Trunk on page 2‑9. M. Cruise Control on page 9‑30.
Information
C. Turn and Lane‐Change Lever. N. Hood Release. See Hood on This section provides a brief
See Turn and Lane-Change page 10‑5. overview about some of the
Signals on page 6‑4. important features that may or may
O. Data Link Connector (DLC) not be on your specific vehicle.
D. Instrument Cluster on (Out of View). See Malfunction
page 5‑10. Indicator Lamp on page 5‑16. For more detailed information, refer
to each of the features which can be
E. Hazard Warning Flashers on P. Horn on page 5‑3. found later in this owner manual.
page 6‑3. Q. Steering Wheel Controls on
F. Driver Information Center (DIC) page 5‑3 (If Equipped). Remote Keyless Entry
on page 5‑23. R. Ignition Positions on page 9‑15. (RKE) System
G. Passenger Airbag Status S. Climate Control Systems on The RKE transmitter is used to
Indicator on page 5‑14. page 8‑1. remotely lock and unlock the doors
H. Infotainment on page 7‑1. from up to 60 m (195 ft) away from
T. Power Outlets on page 5‑8. the vehicle.
I. Exterior Lamp Controls on U. Center Console Shift Lever
page 6‑1. (If Equipped). See Shifting Into
J. Instrument Panel Illumination Park on page 9‑19.
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).
10. Chevrolet Impala Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (4,1)
1-4 In Brief
Press L and hold for more than When the vehicle starts, the parking
two seconds to sound the panic lamps will turn on and remain on as
alarm. long as the engine is running. The
doors will be locked and the climate
Press L again to cancel the panic control system may come on.
alarm. The engine will continue to run for
See Keys on page 2‑2 and Remote 10 minutes. Repeat the steps for a
Keyless Entry (RKE) System 10-minute time extension. Remote
Operation on page 2‑3. start can be extended only once.
Canceling a Remote Start
Remote Vehicle Start
To cancel a remote start:
With this feature the engine can be
Press K to unlock the driver door. started from outside of the vehicle. . Aim the RKE transmitter at the
Press again within five seconds to vehicle and press and hold /
unlock all remaining doors. Starting the Vehicle
until the parking lamps turn off.
Press Q to lock all doors. 1. Aim the RKE transmitter at the . Turn on the hazard warning
vehicle.
Lock and unlock feedback can flashers.
be personalized. See Vehicle 2. Press and release Q. . Turn the ignition on and then
Personalization on page 5‑35 for 3. Immediately after completing back off.
additional information.
Step 2, press and hold / until See Remote Vehicle Start on
Press and hold V for the turn signal lamps flash. page 2‑5.
approximately one second to open
the trunk.
Press L and release to locate the
vehicle.
11. Chevrolet Impala Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (5,1)
In Brief 1-5
Door Locks Trunk Release Windows
Manual Locks To open the trunk from the outside,
From outside the vehicle, use the press V on the RKE transmitter.
key in the door or the Remote See Remote Keyless Entry (RKE)
Keyless Entry (RKE) transmitter to System Operation on page 2‑3.
lock or unlock the vehicle. From the Or, use the key in the lock cylinder,
inside, pull up or push down on the if equipped.
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. The power window switches are on
Q: Press the bottom of the switch the driver door armrest. Each
to lock all doors. passenger door has a switch that
controls only that window.
K : Press the top of the switch to To lower the window, press and hold
unlock all doors.
the front of the switch to the first
For more information, see: position until the window is at the
To open the trunk from the inside, desired level. To raise the window,
. Power Door Locks on page 2‑7.
press V. See Trunk on page 2‑9. pull up and hold the front of the
. Delayed Locking on page 2‑7. switch.
For more information, see Power
Windows on page 2‑16.
12. Chevrolet Impala Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (6,1)
1-6 In Brief
Seat Adjustment To adjust the seatback, see “Manual See Power Seat Adjustment on
Reclining Seatbacks” under page 3‑4.
Manual Seats Reclining Seatbacks on page 3‑5.
Power Reclining Seatback
Power Seats
To adjust a manual seat:
To adjust a power seatback,
1. Lift the bar under the front edge To adjust a power seat, if equipped: if equipped:
of the seat cushion to unlock
the seat.
. Move the seat forward or . Tilt the top of the control
rearward by sliding the control rearward to recline.
2. Slide the seat to the desired forward or rearward.
position and release the bar.
. Tilt the top of the control forward
. Raise or lower the front or rear to raise.
3. Try to move the seat back and of the seat cushion by moving
forth to be sure the seat is See “Power Reclining Seatbacks”
the front or rear of the control up under Reclining Seatbacks on
locked in place. or down. page 3‑5.
See Seat Adjustment on page 3‑3.
13. Chevrolet Impala Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (7,1)
In Brief 1-7
Manual Lumbar Second Row Seats Safety Belts
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
Move the lever up or down to Refer to the following sections for
increase or decrease lumbar Do not drive until the head restraints important information on how to use
support. for all occupants are installed and safety belts properly.
adjusted properly.
See Lumbar Adjustment on . Safety Belts on page 3‑10.
page 3‑4. To achieve a comfortable seating
position, change the seatback . How to Wear Safety Belts
recline angle as little as necessary Properly on page 3‑11.
while keeping the seat and the head . Lap-Shoulder Belt on page 3‑12.
restraint height in the proper
position.
. Lap Belt on page 3‑17.
See Head Restraints on page 3‑2
. Lower Anchors and Tethers for
and Seat Adjustment on page 3‑3. Children (LATCH System) on
page 3‑41.
14. Chevrolet Impala Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (8,1)
1-8 In Brief
Passenger Sensing Mirror Adjustment
System Exterior Mirrors
The passenger sensing system will
turn off the right front passenger
frontal airbag under certain
conditions. The driver airbags, United States
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.
Canada
See Passenger Sensing System on
page 3‑26 for important information. 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.
15. Chevrolet Impala Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (9,1)
In Brief 1-9
Interior Mirror Steering Wheel Interior Lighting
Vehicles with a manual rearview Adjustment Dome Lamp
mirror can be adjusted by holding
the mirror in the center to move it for The center mounted dome lamp
a clearer view behind the vehicle. overhead comes on when a door is
Adjust the mirror to avoid glare from opened. This lamp can also be
the headlamps behind. Pull the turned on by turning the instrument
lever, located at the bottom of the panel brightness control clockwise.
mirror for nighttime use. Return the Reading Lamps
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 The tilt wheel lever is located on the
will automatically adjust to reduce left side of the steering column.
the glare of lights from behind the
vehicle. See Automatic Dimming To adjust the steering wheel:
Rearview Mirror on page 2‑15. 1. Hold the wheel and pull the lever The vehicle has reading lamps that
toward you. also act as the dome lamp. Press
2. Move the steering wheel up the button near each lamp to turn
or down. them on and off.
3. Release the lever to lock the
steering wheel in place.
Do not adjust the steering wheel
while driving.
16. Chevrolet Impala Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (10,1)
1-10 In Brief
Map Lamps P : Briefly turn to this position to Windshield Wiper/Washer
The vehicle has map lamps on the manually turn the automatic lamp
rearview mirror. Push the button control and Daytime Running
near each lamp to turn the map Lamps (DRL) off or on. For vehicles
lamps on and off. first sold in Canada, the off position
only works when the vehicle is
For more information on interior shifted into the P (Park) position.
lighting, see:
AUTO: Automatically operates the
. Instrument Panel Illumination headlamps and other exterior lamps
Control on page 6‑5. at normal brightness.
. Courtesy Lamps on page 6‑5. ; : Turns on the parking lamps,
instrument panel lights, taillamps,
Exterior Lighting and license plate lamps.
2 : Turns on the headlamps and The lever is located on the left side
other exterior lamps. of the steering column.
# : (If Equipped) Turns on the fog 8: Single wipe, turn to 8 , then
lamps. release. Several wipes, hold the
For more information, see: band on 8 longer.
. Exterior Lamp Controls on 9 : Turns the windshield
page 6‑1. wipers off.
. Fog Lamps on page 6‑4.
The exterior lamps control is located . Daytime Running Lamps (DRL)/
on the instrument panel to the left of
Automatic Headlamp System on
the steering wheel.
page 6‑3.
17. Chevrolet Impala Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (11,1)
In Brief 1-11
6: Turn the band up for more Climate Controls
frequent wipes or down for less
frequent wipes. 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
6 : Slow wipes. systems.
? : Fast wipes.
Windshield Washer
Push the paddle L at the top of the
lever to spray washer fluid on the
windshield.
See Windshield Wiper/Washer on
page 5‑4.
Dual Zone with Optional Heated Seat Controls
A. Fan Control F. Driver and Passenger Heated
B. Outside Air Seats (If Equipped)
C. Recirculation G. Driver and Passenger
Temperature Controls
D. Air Delivery Mode Control
H. Rear Window Defogger
E. Air Conditioning
18. Chevrolet Impala Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (12,1)
1-12 In Brief
Single Zone
A. Fan Control E. Air Delivery Mode Control
B. Outside Air F. Air Conditioning
C. Temperature Control G. Rear Window Defogger
D. Recirculation See Climate Control Systems on
page 8‑1.
21. Chevrolet Impala Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (15,1)
In Brief 1-15
Bluetooth® Steering Wheel Controls c / x : Press to go to the
previous radio station stored as a
For vehicles with a Bluetooth
favorite, the next track if a CD is
system, it allows users with a
playing, reject an incoming call,
Bluetooth‐enabled cell phone to
or end a current call.
make and receive hands-free calls
using the vehicle’s audio system SRCE: Press to choose between
and controls. the radio, CD, and auxiliary
input jack.
The Bluetooth‐enabled cell phone
must be paired with the Bluetooth + e − e : Press to increase or
system before it can be used in the decrease volume.
vehicle. Not all phones will support
all functions. For more information, ¨ : Press to go to the next radio
visit www.gm.com/bluetooth. station while in AM, FM, or XM.
Press to go to the next track or
For more information, see Bluetooth If equipped, these controls are chapter while sourced to the CD.
on page 7‑19. located on the right side of the For more information, see Steering
steering wheel. Wheel Controls on page 5‑3.
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® or Bluetooth systems,
if equipped.
22. Chevrolet Impala Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (16,1)
1-16 In Brief
Cruise Control +RES: Press briefly to make the Power Outlets
vehicle resume to a previously set
speed, or press and hold to The vehicle has three 12‐volt outlets
accelerate. which can be used to plug in
electrical equipment, such as a cell
SET−: Press to set the speed and phone or MP3 player.
activate cruise control or make the
vehicle decelerate. On vehicles with a center console,
one outlet is located inside the
[ : Press to disengage cruise center floor console and two outlets
control without erasing the set are located at the front of the
speed from memory. console bin under the instrument
For more information, see Cruise panel.
Control on page 9‑30. On vehicles without a center
console, two are located under the
The cruise control buttons are climate controls and another outlet
located on the left side of the for the rear seat passengers is at
steering wheel. the rear of the center front seat.
J: Press to turn cruise control on Remove the cover to access and
and off. The indicator is lit when replace when not in use.
cruise control is on. See Power Outlets on page 5‑8.
23. Chevrolet Impala Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (17,1)
In Brief 1-17
Performance and Electronic Stability Tire Pressure Monitor
Maintenance Control (ESC) This vehicle may have a Tire
The Electronic Stability Control Pressure Monitor System (TPMS).
Traction Control system assists with directional
control of the vehicle in difficult
System (TCS) driving conditions. The system turns
The vehicle may have a traction on automatically every time the
control system which limits vehicle is started.
wheel spin. The system turns on . To turn off both traction control
automatically every time the vehicle
and ESC, press and hold the
is started. The TPMS warning light alerts you
ESC OFF button Y located on to a significant loss in pressure of
. For vehicles with traction control,
press and release the ESC the instrument panel until g one of the vehicle's tires. If the
illuminates and the appropriate warning light comes on, stop as
OFF button Y located on the DIC messages display. See Ride soon as possible and inflate the
instrument panel to turn off Control System Messages on tires to the recommended pressure
traction control. The appropriate page 5‑31. shown on the Tire and Loading
DIC message displays. See Information label. See Vehicle Load
. Press and release the ESC OFF
Ride Control System Messages Limits on page 9‑10. The warning
on page 5‑31. button Y again to turn on both light will remain on until the tire
. Press and release the ESC OFF systems. pressure is corrected.
button Y again to turn on For more information, see Electronic
traction control. Stability Control (ESC) on
page 9‑29.
For more information, see Traction
Control System (TCS) on
page 9‑27.
24. Chevrolet Impala Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (18,1)
1-18 In Brief
During cooler conditions, the low tire Resetting the Oil Life System Driving for Better Fuel
pressure warning light may appear
when the vehicle is first started and
1. Display OIL LIFE REMAINING Economy
on the DIC.
then turn off. This may be an early Driving habits can affect fuel
indicator that the tire pressures are 2. Press and hold the SET/RESET mileage. Here are some driving tips
getting low and the tires need to be button on the DIC for more than to get the best fuel economy
inflated to the proper pressure. five seconds. The oil life will possible.
change to 100%.
The TPMS does not replace normal . Avoid fast starts and accelerate
monthly tire maintenance. It is the See Engine Oil Life System on smoothly.
driver’s responsibility to maintain page 10‑10. . Brake gradually and avoid
correct tire pressures.
abrupt stops.
See Tire Pressure Monitor System Fuel E85 (85% Ethanol)
. Avoid idling the engine for long
on page 10‑41. Vehicles that have a FlexFuel badge periods of time.
and a yellow fuel cap can use either
Engine Oil Life System unleaded gasoline or ethanol fuel . When road and weather
containing up to 85% ethanol (E85). conditions are appropriate, use
The engine oil life system calculates See Fuel E85 (85% Ethanol) on cruise control.
engine oil life based on vehicle use page 9‑36. For all other vehicles,
and displays a DIC message when
. Always follow posted speed
use only the unleaded gasoline limits or drive more slowly when
it is necessary to change the engine described under Recommended
oil and filter. The oil life system conditions require.
Fuel on page 9‑33.
should be reset to 100% only
following an oil change.
25. Chevrolet Impala Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (19,1)
In Brief 1-19
. Keep vehicle tires properly
inflated.
Roadside Assistance Online Owner Center
.
Program The Online Owner Center is a
Combine several trips into a complimentary service that includes
single trip. U.S.: 1-800-243-8872 online service reminders, vehicle
. Replace the vehicle's tires with TTY Users: 1-888-889-2438 maintenance tips, online owner
the same TPC Spec number manual, special privileges,
Canada: 1-800-268-6800
molded into the tire's sidewall and more.
near the size. As the owner of a new Chevrolet,
Sign up today at:
you are automatically enrolled in the
. Follow recommended scheduled Roadside Assistance program. U.S.: chevrolet.com (click on
maintenance. “Owners,” then “Manage My
See Roadside Assistance Program
Chevrolet/Owners Login”)
on page 13‑5.
Canada: chevroletowner.ca
Roadside Assistance and OnStar
If you have an active OnStar OnStar®
subscription, press the Q button If equipped, this vehicle has a
and the current GPS location will be comprehensive, in-vehicle system
sent to an OnStar advisor who will that can connect to a live Advisor
assess your problem, contact for Emergency, Security, Navigation,
Roadside Assistance, and relay Connection, and Diagnostic
your exact location to get the help Services. See OnStar Overview on
you need. page 14‑1 for more information.
28. Chevrolet Impala Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (2,1)
2-2 Keys, Doors, and Windows
Keys and Locks If you are locked out of your vehicle,
contact Roadside Assistance. See
Roadside Assistance Program on
Keys page 13‑5 for more information.
With an active OnStar subscription,
{ WARNING an OnStar Advisor may remotely
Leaving children in a vehicle with unlock the vehicle. See OnStar
the ignition key is dangerous for Overview on page 14‑1.
many reasons. Children or others
could be badly injured or even Remote Keyless Entry
killed. They could operate the (RKE) System
power windows or other controls See Radio Frequency Statement on
The key can be used for the ignition
or even make the vehicle move. page 13‑15 for information
and the driver's door. If the vehicle
The windows will function with the is a taxi model, the key can also be regarding Part 15 of the Federal
keys in the ignition and children used in the trunk. Communications Commission (FCC)
could be seriously injured or killed rules and Industry Canada
if caught in the path of a closing See your dealer if a replacement Standards RSS-GEN/210/220/310.
window. Do not leave the keys in key or additional key is needed.
a vehicle with children. Notice: If the keys get locked in
the vehicle, it may have to be
damaged to get them out. Always
carry a spare key.
29. Chevrolet Impala Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (3,1)
Keys, Doors, and Windows 2-3
If there is a decrease in the RKE when Q is pressed again within
operating range: five seconds. See Vehicle
. Check the distance. The Personalization on page 5‑35 for
transmitter may be too far from additional information.
the vehicle.
Pressing Q may arm the content
. Check the location. Other theft‐deterrent system. See
vehicles or objects may be Anti-theft Alarm System on
blocking the signal. page 2‑11.
. Check the transmitter's battery. K (Unlock): Press once to unlock
See “Battery Replacement” later the driver door. If K is pressed
in this section.
again within five seconds, all
. If the transmitter is still not With Remote Start Shown, Without remaining doors unlock. The interior
working correctly, see your Remote Start Similar lamps come on and stay on for
dealer or a qualified technician / (Remote Vehicle Start): For 20 seconds or until the ignition is
for service. vehicles with this feature, press to turned on. If enabled through the
start the engine from outside the DIC, the parking lamps flash twice
Remote Keyless Entry vehicle using the RKE transmitter. to indicate unlocking has occurred.
(RKE) System Operation See Remote Vehicle Start on See Vehicle Personalization on
page 2‑5 for additional information. page 5‑35.
The Remote Keyless Entry (RKE)
transmitter functions work up to Q (Lock): Press to lock all the Pressing K on the RKE transmitter
60 m (195 ft) away from the vehicle. doors. If enabled through the Driver disarms the content theft‐deterrent
Information Center (DIC), the system. See Anti-theft Alarm
There are other conditions which parking lamps flash once to indicate System on page 2‑11.
can affect the performance of the locking has occurred. If enabled
transmitter. See Remote Keyless through the DIC, the horn chirps
Entry (RKE) System on page 2‑2.
30. Chevrolet Impala Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (4,1)
2-4 Keys, Doors, and Windows
V (Remote Trunk Release): When the replacement transmitter
Press and hold for about is programmed to the vehicle, all
one second to open the trunk. The remaining transmitters must also be
transmission must be in P (Park). programmed. Any lost or stolen
transmitters no longer work once the
L (Vehicle Locator/Panic new transmitter is programmed.
Alarm): Press and release to Each vehicle can have up to eight
locate the vehicle. The turn signal transmitters programmed to it. See
lamps flash and the horn sounds your dealer to program new
three times. Press and hold L for transmitters.
more than two seconds to activate
the panic alarm. The turn signal Battery Replacement
lamps flash and the horn sounds Replace the battery if the REPLACE
repeatedly for 30 seconds. The To replace the battery:
BATTERY IN REMOTE KEY
alarm turns off when the ignition is message displays in the DIC. See 1. Separate the transmitter with a
turned to ON/RUN or L is pressed “REPLACE BATTERY IN REMOTE flat, thin object, such as a flat
again. The ignition must be in KEY” under Key and Lock head screwdriver.
LOCK/OFF for the panic alarm Messages on page 5‑31 for . Carefully insert the tool
to work. additional information. into the notch located along
Programming Transmitters to Notice: When replacing the the parting line of the
battery, do not touch any of the transmitter. Do not insert
the Vehicle the tool too far. Stop as
circuitry on the transmitter. Static
Only RKE transmitters programmed from your body could damage the soon as resistance is felt.
to the vehicle will work. If a transmitter. . Twist the tool until the
transmitter is lost or stolen, a transmitter is separated.
replacement can be purchased and
programmed through your dealer. 2. Remove the old battery. Do not
use a metal object.
31. Chevrolet Impala Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (5,1)
Keys, Doors, and Windows 2-5
3. Insert the new battery, positive doing so. Check local regulations for 2. Press and release Q , then
side facing down. Replace with a any requirements on remote starting
immediately press and hold /
CR2032 or equivalent battery. of vehicles.
for two to four seconds or until
4. Snap the transmitter back Do not use the remote start feature the vehicle's turn signal lamps
together. if your vehicle is low on fuel. Your flash. The doors will lock.
vehicle may run out of fuel.
When the vehicle starts, the
Remote Vehicle Start If your vehicle has the remote parking lamps turn on and
Your vehicle may have a remote start feature, the RKE transmitter remain on while the engine is
starting feature that allows you to functions will have an increased running.
start the engine from outside the range of operation. However, the
range may be less while the vehicle The remote start feature provides
vehicle. It may also start the two separate starts per ignition
vehicle's heating or air conditioning is running.
cycle, each with 10 minutes of
systems and rear window defogger. There are other conditions which engine running time, or one start
When the remote start system is can affect the performance of the with a time extension. The first start
active and the vehicle has an transmitter. See Remote Keyless must expire or be canceled to get
automatic climate control system, it Entry (RKE) System on page 2‑2. two separate 10-minute starts.
will automatically regulate the inside
temperature. Normal operation of / (Remote Start): This button will If it is the first remote start since the
these systems will return after the be on the RKE transmitter if you vehicle has been driven, repeat the
ignition key is turned to ON/RUN. have remote start. previous steps, while the engine is
To start the vehicle using the remote still running, to extend the engine
Laws in some communities may running time by 10 minutes from the
restrict the use of remote starters. start feature:
time you repeat the steps for remote
For example, some laws may 1. Aim the transmitter at the starting. The remote start running
require a person using remote start vehicle. time can be extended one time and
to have the vehicle in view when only after the first remote start.
32. Chevrolet Impala Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (6,1)
2-6 Keys, Doors, and Windows
After entering the vehicle during a Ignition Positions on page 9‑15 for Door Locks
remote start, insert and turn the key information regarding the ignition
to ON/RUN to drive the vehicle. positions on your vehicle.
The engine will shut off The remote vehicle start feature will
{ WARNING
automatically after 10 minutes, not operate if any of the follow Unlocked doors can be
unless a time extension has been occur: dangerous.
done or the vehicle's key is inserted . The vehicle's key is in the . Passengers, especially
into the ignition switch and turned to ignition. children, can easily open the
ON/RUN.
. The vehicle's hood is open. doors and fall out of a moving
To manually shut off a remote start, vehicle. When a door is
do any of the following. . The hazard warning flashers locked, the handle will not
are on. open it. The chance of being
. Aim the RKE transmitter at the
vehicle and press and . The check engine light is on. thrown out of the vehicle in a
See Malfunction Indicator Lamp crash is increased if the
release /. doors are not locked. So, all
on page 5‑16.
. Turn on the hazard warning passengers should wear
flashers.
. The engine coolant temperature safety belts properly and the
is too high. doors should be locked
. Turn the ignition switch out of . The oil pressure is low. whenever the vehicle is
LOCK/OFF and then back to
driven.
LOCK/OFF. . The content theft-deterrent alarm
has been activated. . Young children who get into
After the engine has been started
unlocked vehicles may be
two times, or one time with a time . Two remote vehicle starts,
unable to get out. A child can
extension, the vehicle's ignition or one start with a time
be overcome by extreme heat
must be turned to ON/RUN using extension, have already been
and can suffer permanent
the key before the remote start provided for that ignition cycle.
procedure can be used again. See (Continued)
33. Chevrolet Impala Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (7,1)
Keys, Doors, and Windows 2-7
WARNING (Continued)
Power Door Locks to unlock the doors when the
system is armed. See Anti-theft
Alarm System on page 2‑11.
injuries or even death from
heat stroke. Always lock the
vehicle whenever leaving it. Delayed Locking
. Outsiders can easily enter This feature allows the driver to
through an unlocked door delay the actual locking of the
when you slow down or stop doors. When the driver power door
the vehicle. Locking the doors lock switch is pressed with the key
can help prevent this from removed from the ignition, and the
happening. driver door open, a chime will sound
three times to signal that the
delayed locking system is active.
From the outside, use the key in the When all doors have been closed,
driver door or use the Remote the doors will lock automatically
A power door lock switch is located
Keyless Entry (RKE) transmitter to on both front doors next to the door after several seconds. If any door is
lock and unlock the vehicle. From handle. opened before this, the timer will
the inside, use the manual or power reset itself once all the doors have
door locks. Press the top of the switch to unlock been closed again.
all doors or press the bottom of the
To lock or unlock the driver side switch to lock all doors. Pressing the driver or passenger
door from the outside with the key, power door lock switch again or the
insert the key and turn it clockwise If the vehicle has the optional RKE transmitter button will override
or counterclockwise. content theft-deterrent system and this feature.
it is armed, the power door lock
To lock or unlock the door from the switches will be disabled. You must
inside, push or pull the manual use the RKE transmitter or the key
lock knob.
34. Chevrolet Impala Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (8,1)
2-8 Keys, Doors, and Windows
Personal Choice Programming settings. For programming To assist in finding the lock, the
information, see Vehicle vehicle has the following:
The delayed locking feature can
Personalization on page 5‑35.
be turned on or off, using the
Driver Information Center (DIC) to
program this feature. See “DELAY Lockout Protection
DOOR LOCK” under Vehicle This feature helps prevent you from
Personalization on page 5‑35. locking the doors while the key is in
the ignition. Always remember to
Automatic Door Locks take your key with you when exiting
the vehicle.
The doors will automatically lock
when the shift lever is moved out of If the lock switch is pressed on the
P (Park). The automatic door locking door that is open and the key is in
feature cannot be disabled. the ignition, all of the doors will lock
and then the open door will unlock.
Programmable Automatic Door A chime sounds continuously until
Unlock the driver door is closed. To use the lock:
The vehicle is programmed so that 1. Insert the key into the security
when the shift lever is moved into Safety Locks lock slot and turn it so the slot is
P (Park) all doors will unlock. in the horizontal position.
Rear door security locks prevent
With the vehicle stopped and the passengers from opening the rear 2. Close the door.
engine running, door unlocking can doors from the inside. 3. Do the same for the other
be programmed through prompts The rear door security locks are rear door.
displayed on the Driver Information located on the inside edge of each
Center (DIC). These prompts allow rear door. The rear doors must be
the driver to choose various unlock opened to access them.
35. Chevrolet Impala Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (9,1)
Keys, Doors, and Windows 2-9
To open a rear door when the Doors
security lock is on, do the following: WARNING (Continued)
1. Unlock the door by using the Trunk . Adjust the Climate Control
Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) system to a setting that
transmitter, if the vehicle has
one, by pressing the power door { WARNING brings in only outside air
and set the fan speed to the
lock switch, or by lifting the rear Exhaust gases can enter the highest setting. See Climate
door manual lock. vehicle if it is driven with the Control System in the Index.
2. Open the door from the outside. liftgate, trunk/hatch open, or with . If the vehicle is equipped with
To cancel the rear door any objects that pass through the a power liftgate, disable the
security lock: seal between the body and the power liftgate function.
trunk/hatch or liftgate. Engine For more information about
1. Unlock the door and open it from exhaust contains Carbon
the outside. carbon monoxide, see Engine
Monoxide (CO) which cannot be Exhaust on page 9‑21.
2. Insert the key into the security seen or smelled. It can cause
lock slot and turn it so the slot is unconsciousness and even death.
in the vertical position. Trunk Release
If the vehicle must be driven with
3. Do the same for the other the liftgate, or trunk/hatch open: To open the trunk from the outside,
rear door. press V on the RKE transmitter.
. Close all of the windows.
See Remote Keyless Entry (RKE)
. Fully open the air outlets on System Operation on page 2‑3.
or under the instrument
panel. Or, use the key in the lock cylinder,
if equipped.
(Continued)
36. Chevrolet Impala Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (10,1)
2-10 Keys, Doors, and Windows
Remote Trunk Release Emergency Trunk Release
Handle
Notice: Do not use the
emergency trunk release handle
as a tie-down or anchor point
when securing items in the trunk
as it could damage the handle.
The emergency trunk release
handle is only intended to aid a
person trapped in a latched trunk,
enabling them to open the trunk
from the inside.
There is a glow-in-the-dark trunk
release handle located on the latch
To open the trunk from the inside, inside the trunk . This handle will
press V. See Trunk on page 2‑9. glow following exposure to light. Pull
the release handle to open the trunk
The trunk can also be opened by from the inside.
lowering the rear seat and pulling
the emergency trunk release handle
located inside the trunk. See Rear
Seats (Split Folding) on page 3‑8
and “Emergency Trunk Release
Handle” following.
37. Chevrolet Impala Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (11,1)
Keys, Doors, and Windows 2-11
Vehicle Security Once armed, the alarm will go off if Arming with the RKE
someone tries to enter the vehicle Transmitter
This vehicle has theft-deterrent without using the RKE transmitter or
features; however, they do not make a key or turns the ignition on with an The alarm system will arm when
it impossible to steal. incorrect key. The horn will sound you use your RKE transmitter to
and the turn signal lamps will flash lock the doors, if the key is not in
Anti-theft Alarm System for about 30 seconds. the ignition.
Your vehicle may have the optional When the alarm is armed, the trunk Disarming with the RKE
content theft-deterrent alarm may be opened with the RKE Transmitter
system. transmitter. The power door lock The alarm system will disarm when
switches are disabled and the doors you use your RKE transmitter to
To activate the theft-deterrent remain locked. You must use your
system: unlock the doors.
RKE transmitter or your key to
1. Open the door. unlock the doors when the system is The first time a remote unlock
armed. command is received, three flashes
2. Lock the door with the power will be seen and three horn chirps
door lock switch or the Remote Arming with the Power Lock heard to indicate an alarm condition
Keyless Entry (RKE) transmitter. Switch has occurred since last arming.
If you are using the RKE
transmitter, the door does The alarm system will arm when Disarming with Your Key
not need to be open. you use either power lock switch to
lock the doors while any door is The alarm system will disarm when
3. Close all doors. open and the key is removed from you use your key to unlock the
the ignition. The alarm system will doors or insert your key in the
not arm if the trunk is open when ignition and turn it from the LOCK/
you use either power lock switch to OFF position.
lock the doors.
38. Chevrolet Impala Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (12,1)
2-12 Keys, Doors, and Windows
Immobilizer The security light will come on if If the vehicle does start, the first key
there is a problem with arming or may be faulty. See your dealer who
See Radio Frequency Statement on disarming the theft-deterrent can service the PASS-Key III+ to
page 13‑15 for information system. have a new key made.
regarding Part 15 of the Federal
Communications Commission (FCC) When the PASS-Key III+ system It is possible for the PASS-Key III+
rules and Industry Canada senses that someone is using the decoder to learn the transponder
Standards RSS-GEN/210/220/310. wrong key, it prevents the vehicle value of a new or replacement key.
from starting. Anyone using a Up to 10 keys may be programmed
Immobilizer Operation trial-and-error method to start the for the vehicle. The following
vehicle will be discouraged because procedure is for programming
This vehicle has PASS-Key® III+ of the high number of electrical key additional keys only. If all the
(Personalized Automotive Security codes. currently programmed keys are lost
System) theft-deterrent system. or do not operate, you must see
If the engine does not start and the
PASS-Key III+ is a passive your dealer or a locksmith who can
security light on the instrument
theft-deterrent system. service PASS-Key III+ to have keys
panel cluster comes on when trying
The system is automatically armed to start the vehicle, there may be a made and programmed to the
when the key is removed from the problem with the theft-deterrent system.
ignition. system. Turn the ignition off and try See your dealer or a locksmith who
The system is automatically again. can service PASS-Key III+ to get a
disarmed when the key is turned to If the engine still does not start, and new key blank cut exactly as the
ON/RUN, ACC/ACCESSORY, the key appears to be undamaged, ignition key that operates the
or START from the LOCK/OFF try another ignition key. At this time, system.
position. you may also want to check the
You do not have to manually arm or fuse. See Fuses and Circuit
disarm the system. Breakers on page 10‑29. If the
engine still does not start with the
other key, the vehicle needs service.
39. Chevrolet Impala Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (13,1)
Keys, Doors, and Windows 2-13
To program the new additional key: 4. Insert the new key to be Exterior Mirrors
1. Verify that the new key has programmed and turn it to the
ON/RUN position within
a 1 stamped on it. five seconds of turning the Convex Mirrors
2. Insert the original, already ignition to the LOCK/OFF
programmed key in the ignition position in Step 3. { WARNING
and start the engine. If the The security light will turn off
engine will not start, see your A convex mirror can make things,
once the key has been like other vehicles, look farther
dealer for service. programmed.
away than they really are. If you
3. After the engine has started, turn 5. Repeat Steps 1 through 4 if cut too sharply into the right lane,
the key to LOCK/OFF, and additional keys are to be you could hit a vehicle on the
remove the key. programmed. right. Check the inside mirror or
If you lose or damage your glance over your shoulder before
PASS-Key III+ key, see your dealer changing lanes.
or a locksmith who can service
PASS-Key III+ to have a new The passenger side mirror is convex
key made. shaped. A convex mirror's surface is
Do not leave the key or device curved so more can be seen from
that disarms or deactivates the the driver seat.
theft-deterrent system in the vehicle.
40. Chevrolet Impala Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (14,1)
2-14 Keys, Doors, and Windows
Power Mirrors 2. Press one of the four buttons Interior Mirrors
located on the control pad to
move the mirror to the desired
direction. Manual Rearview Mirror
3. Adjust each outside mirror so Adjust the inside rearview mirror
that a little of the vehicle and the for a clear view of the area behind
area behind it can be seen. your vehicle. To avoid glare of the
headlamps from behind, push the
Keep the selector switch in the tab forward for daytime and pull it
center position when not adjusting for nighttime use.
either outside mirror.
Vehicles with OnStar® have three
Heated Mirrors control buttons at the bottom of the
mirror. See your dealer for more
For vehicles with heated mirrors: information about OnStar and how
Controls for the outside power = (Rear Window Defogger): to subscribe to it. See OnStar
mirrors are located on the driver Press to heat the outside rearview Overview on page 14‑1.
door armrest. mirrors. See “Rear Window
1. Press the left or right side of the Defogger” under Climate Control
selector switch located above Systems on page 8‑1 for more
the control pad, to select the information.
driver or passenger mirror.