Chevrolet Impala (2000–2005): How to Remove the Bumpers

The Chevrolet Impala is one of the most iconic cars in American automotive history. The eighth generation of this model marked an important stage in its evolution, blending classic design with modern technology. In this article, we will take a detailed look at the production years, model code, features, and lesser-known facts.

Production Years and Model Code

The eighth-generation Chevrolet Impala was produced from 2000 to 2005 for the North American market. The internal model code was W-body, indicating its shared platform with other General Motors vehicles such as the Buick Regal, Pontiac Grand Prix, and Oldsmobile Intrigue.

In 2006, production of the ninth generation began, making the eighth-gen Impala a transitional model between the retro style of the 1990s and the more modern designs of the mid-2000s.

 

Model Overview

Design

The exterior of the eighth-gen Impala reflected early 2000s trends: smooth lines, rounded shapes, and restrained use of chrome. The front featured a signature grille with horizontal slats, while the taillights had a distinctive three-section layout, paying homage to the classic 1960s Impala.

Interior

The cabin offered spacious seating for five passengers, fitting its full-size sedan status. Base models came with cloth upholstery, while higher trims (such as LS and LT) featured leather. The dashboard was functional but conservative in design, avoiding excessive digital elements.

Technical Specifications

Engines:

  • 3.4 L LA1 V6 (180 hp) — base engine;
  • 3.8 L L36 V6 (200 hp) — more powerful and reliable;
  • 3.8 L L67 V6 (240 hp) — supercharged version (available in the SS trim from 2004).

Transmission: 4-speed automatic (4T65-E).

Drivetrain: Front-wheel drive only.

Suspension and Handling

The car used a classic setup: MacPherson struts in the front and a multi-link rear suspension. The tuning prioritized comfort over sportiness, though the SS version (2004–2005) featured stiffer dampers.

Trim Levels and Features

  • Base: Minimal equipment (A/C, power windows, ABS);
  • LS: Upgraded trim, cruise control, CD stereo;
  • LT: Leather interior, heated seats, premium audio;
  • SS (2004–2005): Supercharged engine, sporty exterior, 17-inch wheels.

How to Remove the Front Bumper

  1. Open the hood.
  2. Remove the five plastic clips securing the top part of the front bumper and grille to the frame.
  3. From underneath, unscrew the nine bolts (fastened from bottom to top) holding the upper part.
  4. Turn the wheels to the side.
  5. In the wheel arches, remove the screws securing the fender liners (front section).
  6. Move the fender liners aside and unscrew two nuts on each side (fastened from bottom to top) that attach the bumper to the fenders.
  7. With an assistant, pull the bumper forward (ensure no wiring is snagged).
  8. Disconnect any electrical connectors (if present).

Chevrolet Impala VIII (2000–2005) Front Bumper Mounting Locations

Chevrolet Impala VIII (2000–2005) Front Bumper Mounting Diagram

How to Remove the Rear Bumper

⇒Useful tips on how to remove the bumper and not break anything.⇐

  1. Open the trunk lid.
  2. Inside the trunk, remove the three plastic clips (inserted from top to bottom).
  3. Remove the side trunk liners to access the rear fender area.
  4. Inside the fenders, unscrew one bolt and one nut on each side securing the bumper to the fenders.
  5. From underneath, remove two screws and three plastic clips holding the lower part of the rear bumper.
  6. In the wheel arches, unscrew the bolts securing the rear fender liners.
  7. Move the liners aside and remove one screw on each side (fastened from bottom to top) that secures the bumper corners.
  8. With an assistant, pull the bumper backward (avoid damaging any wiring).
  9. Disconnect any electrical connectors (if present).

mounting locations of the rear bumper Chevrolet Impala VIII (2000–2005)

Chevrolet Impala VIII Rear Bumper Mounting Diagram (2000–2005)

Interesting Facts

  • The Last Sedan Before the Reboot
    After 1996, Chevrolet temporarily discontinued the sedan body style in favor of SUVs. The eighth generation marked the return of the classic format but on a modern platform.
  • Police Version
    The eighth-gen Impala was used by U.S. police (9C1 trim). It was valued for its spacious interior and durability, though it was less powerful than the Ford Crown Victoria.
  • Sales Record
    In 2003, the Impala became the best-selling full-size sedan in the U.S., outselling the Ford Taurus.
  • The SS Version Arrived Late
    Initially, the eighth-gen had no sporty variant. Only in 2004, due to fan demand, Chevrolet released the Impala SS with a supercharged engine.
  • NASCAR Connection
    In the 2000s, the Impala was used in NASCAR, reinforcing its image as a "people's car" with racing heritage.
  • Limited Export
    Unlike modern Chevrolets, the eighth-gen Impala was rarely exported outside North America. In Europe and Asia, it was replaced by the Opel Omega or Daewoo Magnus.

 

Conclusion

The eighth-generation Chevrolet Impala is a successful blend of tradition and modern technology. Despite its conservative design, it remained popular due to its reliability, comfort, and affordability. Today, these cars are rare but hold cult status among fans of American sedans.