New Model Features and Service Guide

The purpose of this bulletin is to introduce the new 2006 Chevrolet Impala. Included is a description of the vehicle's features as well as actions your Service Department will need to take to ensure that your dealership is able to fully service this exciting new model.

The 2006 Chevrolet Impala is a four door mid-size sedan and is available in four different models, the LS, LT, LTZ and the SS.

Engine

The Impala LS and LT come standard with a 3.5L 3500 V6 (E85 Fuel Capable RPO LZE -- VIN Code K) or (Non E85 Fuel RPO LZ4 -- VIN Code N for Canada). This overhead valve engine features variable valve timing to deliver 211 hp, 214 lb-ft of torque while optimizing fuel efficiency. Electronic throttle control allows the engine to respond more precisely to driver commands at both low and high speeds.

The Impala LT with option level 3LT and the LTZ come standard with a 3.9L V6 (RPO LZ9 -- VIN Code 1). This engine shares the variable valve timing technology with the 3.5L and adds an active intake manifold with a valve that creates shorter and longer intake paths to optimize power at all engine speeds. This engine delivers an impressive 240 hp and 245 lb-ft of torque.

The Impala SS comes standard with the 5.3L V8 (RPO LS4 -- VIN Code C). This engine produces 303 hp and 323 lb-ft torque and has Displacement On Demand (DOD) to produce an 8% improvement in fuel economy over an engine without DOD. The aluminum block and high-flow cylinder heads contribute to exceptional performance of this engine.

Transmission

All engines are mated to the 4T65-E transaxle (RPO M15). The 3.5L V6 engines will have a final drive of 2.86 (RPO M15), the 3.9L V6 will have a final drive of 3.29 (RPO M15) and the 5.3L V8 will have a final drive of 2.93 (RPO MN7). This electronically controlled 4-speed automatic transmission employs advanced calibration logic to help ensure smooth, precise shifting. In addition to its proven durability, the transmission also utilizes adaptive learning logic, tailoring it to the drivers style for optimum shifting performance.

Electrical Architecture

The electrical architecture of the vehicle is 29 bit GMLAN. GMLAN requires the use of a CANdi module to communicate with the Tech 2®. SI Document ID # 1577668 identifies which serial data link that a particular module uses for in-vehicle data transmission. There are potentially 17 different modules that can be found on the Impala. SI Document ID # 1645910 provides a list of modules as well as links to schematics, repair instructions and programming and set-up information. Some key location of modules:

Throttle Actuator Control (TAC) System

The throttle actuator control (TAC) system delivers improved throttle response and greater reliability and eliminates the need for a mechanical cable between the pedal and throttle body.

Steering Wheel Controls

The following features can be accessed using the steering wheel controls:

Headlamp Control Positions

1. On/Off
2. Automatic
3. Parking Lamps
4. Headlamps Manually On

Fog lamp switch located in the center of headlamp switch, push on/off.

High Beam Headlamps

Interior Lamp Control

Driver's Information Center

The driver's information center (DIC) display is located on the instrument cluster below the speedometer. The base level DIC displays the odometer and trip odometer. Uplevel DICs also display a compass, trip computer, fuel economy information, Displacement On Demand Indicator on SS models only, OnStar® phone numbers called (if equipped) and other messages or warnings. The DIC controls are located to the right of the instrument cluster.

All messages will appear in the DIC display located below the speedometer in the instrument panel cluster. The DIC buttons are located on the instrument panel, to the right of the instrument panel cluster. The buttons are the trip/fuel, vehicle information, customization, and set/reset.

The following trip/fuel items are available:

The following vehicle information items are available:

Customization Features

The following customization features are available through the DIC.

Remote Vehicle Start

This feature allows the customer to start the vehicle from the outside the vehicle by using the Remote Keyless Entry transmitter. Normal range of the transmitter is 60 m (200 ft) from the vehicle. The engine will run for 10 minutes before turning itself off. It can be extended a maximum of 10 additional minutes from the time of a second remote start button activation.

If the vehicle is equipped with dual zone HVAC and the remote start system is activated, the HVAC system will sense the outside temperature and automatically control the HVAC system regardless of the heat/air conditioning setting on the instrument panel. If the outside temperature is below 8°C (48°F), the system will activate the blower on high setting, defrost mode and temperature door will allow hot air delivery. If the outside temperature is between 8°C and 27°C (48°F and 82°F), the system will activate the blower on medium setting, vent mode and temperature door will be in a middle position or warm setting. In temperatures above 27°C (82°F), the blower will be on the high setting, vent mode and full cold with recirculation door in the recirculation position. On vehicles not equipped with the dual zone system, the HVAC setting will operate in the mode set on the control head.

To start the vehicle using the remote start feature, do the following steps:

1. Aim the transmitter at the vehicle.
2. Press and release the transmitter's lock button, then immediately press and hold the transmitter's remote start button until the turn signal lamps flash, or if the vehicle's lights are not visible, press and hold the transmitter's remote start button for four seconds. The vehicle's doors will lock.
3. When the vehicle's engine starts, the parking lamps will turn on and remain on while the engine is running.

The engine will shut off automatically after 10 minutes, unless a time extension has been done or the vehicle's key is inserted into the ignition switch and turned to RUN.

Unlock the door(s) with the transmitter or key. If you enter the vehicle after a remote start, and the engine is still running, insert the key into the ignition switch and turn it to the RUN position to drive the vehicle.

4. To manually shut off a remote start, do any of the following:

•	Aim the remote keyless entry transmitter at the vehicle and press the remote start button until the parking lamps turn off.

•	Turn on the hazard warning flashers.

•	Turn the ignition switch to RUN and then to OFF.

Your vehicle's engine may be started two times using the transmitter's remote start feature. If only one remote start procedure has been done, since last driving the vehicle, or resetting the remote start system, the engine may be started again remotely following the remote start procedure a second time.

If the remote start procedure is used again before the first ten minute time frame has ended, 10 minutes will be added to the remaining minutes. The added 10 minutes are considered a second remote start.

The remote vehicle start feature will not operate if:

If a remote start is attempted and is unsuccessful, the Driver Information Center (DIC) will display REMOTE START DISABLED.

Vehicles equipped with the remote vehicle start feature are shipped from the factory with the remote vehicle start system enabled. The system may be disabled through the DIC.

Radio

The 2006 Impala is equipped with the new GM Black Tie Radio. The three radios offered are:

The US8 and US9 radios are equipped with a 3.5 mm (0.137 in) stereo jack. This is an input jack in which a MP3 or I-Pod can be connected and played through the vehicles speakers. The US8 and US9 radios are also equipped with a cooling fan to dissipate the heat generated by the radio amplifier. The fan will turn on when the radio internal temperature is above 21°C (70°F), and will turn off at 18°C (65°F). The fan will continue to run with the key off until the radio temperature is at or below 18°C (65°F).

Tip
Some models require the radio to be turned on in order to set the clock.

Although the antenna leads resemble those used on the other radios, there is an important difference. The antenna connectors have internal latches that grip the center portion of the socket. The main radio circuit board can be damaged if the antenna lead is pulled to disconnect it from the radio chassis.

When unmating connectors, the latches must be released by slightly pulling the collar of the plug away from the jack.

Due to the configuration of the connector, it is recommended that the new test adapter (tool # EL-47749) be used with a multimeter to test the antenna lead.

HomeLink® Wireless Control System

The HomeLink® system is a transmitter operating between 288-399 MHz. The power and range of the transmitter is limited to comply with laws governing the generation of radio frequency interference (RFI). The transmitter is located in the overhead console and can be programmed to store 3 different frequencies for a garage door opener, entry door lock, security system, etc.

Passenger Air Bag Status Indicator

The vehicle's passenger sensing air bag system has a status indictor located in the instrument panel center stack. With the key in Run or Start, the indictor blinks on/off for several seconds as a system check. Following, the light will stay on or off to indicate passenger side air bag status. If it shows that the air bag is on, it means that the air bag is enabled (could inflate). If it shows that the air bag is off, the passenger air bag is disabled.

Outside Rear View Mirrors

The outside rear view mirrors do not fold away.

Tire Pressure Monitoring System

The Impala is equipped with tire pressure monitoring system on vehicles with 17" and 18" wheel options. This system uses radio and sensor technology to check tire pressure levels. These sensors are mounted onto each tire and wheel assembly and transmit tire pressure readings to the receiver while the vehicle is being driven. The tire pressure readings are displayed in the DIC on vehicles equipped with this option. With this system, it is necessary to relearn the tire positions following a tire rotation. This may be performed by using J 46079 Tire Pressure Monitor Diagnostic Tool or following the manual relearn procedure found in the owner's manual.

HVAC System

The HVAC system is available in 2 versions of climate control, a single zone and a dual zone manual system. Both systems will activate the A/C compressor by depressing the button in the center of the blower speed control knob and the rear defogger by depressing the center of the mode knob.

Steering Wheel Lock

The Impala is not equipped with a steering wheel lock when the key is removed from the ignition.

Window Lockout

The driver's window switches include a lockout switch. This switch allows the driver to prevent the rear passengers from using their window switches. The switch will not prevent the front passenger from using their window switches.

Vehicle Locator/Panic Alarm

Press and release the horn button on the key FOB to locate the vehicle. The turn signal lamps will flash and the horn will sound three times. Press and hold the button for more than two seconds to activate the panic alarm. The turn signal lamps will flash and the horn will sound repeatedly for 30 seconds.

Remote Start Ready

If the vehicle does not have the remote vehicle start feature, it may have the remote start ready feature (RPOs AP3 or AP8). This feature allows the manufacturer's remote vehicle start feature to be added. The remote keyless entry transmitter will have extended range that will allow the doors to be locked or unlocked from approximately 195 feet (60 m) away.

Trunk Access

To open the trunk from the outside of the vehicle, press and hold the button on the key FOB for approximately 1 second to release the trunk. This helps to avoid unwanted activation of the trunk release. To open the trunk from inside the vehicle, press the button with the open trunk symbol on it. This button is located on the IP to the left of the steering column. The vehicle must be in PARK (P) for the remote trunk release buttons to work.

Flip and Fold Rear Seat

To fold down one or both sides of the rear seatback, disconnect the rear center lap-shoulder belt latch by pressing the release button with an object such as a key. Pull up on the seat lower cushion release tab located in the center of the cushion and flip the seat cushion up against the back of the front seat. Pull forward on the seatback tab on the outboard of the rear seat cushion and fold the seatback down. Two additional features of this seat is the storage area located under the rear seat bottom cushions and the hooks on the back of the seat bottom cushion for hanging plastic grocery bags.

Front Seat Cushion Storage Pouch

A storage pouch located along the front edge of the driver's front seat cushion is ideal for storing small items that you prefer to be kept hidden from public view.

Front Seat Lumbar Adjustment

To manually adjust the lumbar, a lever is located on the outboard side of the seat near the front of the seat cushion. Lift up on the lever repeatedly to increase lumbar support. Push down on the lever repeatedly to decrease lumbar support.

Load Floor (Spare Tire Cover)

For convenient access to the spare tire, lift and attach the load floor (tire cover) handle to the front of the deck lid weatherstrip.

Electronic Service Information

All required service information is currently online on GM SI. A dealership can also find the most current owner's manual and Labor Time Guide online at website http://service.gm.com and under Service Information link.

Serviceable Components of Assembly

The following components are serviceable separately from their assemblies:

Cleaning of Interior Components

The interior of the Impala has been enhanced by a low gloss finish on the components. Maintaining the cleanliness of these components will help protect and preserve the finish over the life of the vehicle. Use mild cleaners, the procedures described in the Owner's Manual, and protect from abrasive damage caused by dirt and other articles. Adhesive removal on interior parts can be performed safely using GM Vehicle Care Tar and Road Oil Remover. Please do not use abrasive substances against these finishes and avoid cleaners containing waxes or silicones which will increase the finish gloss level.

Washing Under Hood Area

During PDI, it is a good idea to wash/clean the under hood and engine compartment area.