2008 Chevrolet Impala vs 2007 Honda Civic
Reliability Side-by-Side
2008
Chevrolet Impala
Grade C-
A mechanically sound but electronically and structurally vulnerable sedan requiring diligent pre-purchase scrutiny.
2007
Honda Civic
Grade B-
A solid daily driver capable of high mileage, but only if its Achilles' heel—the engine block—has been definitively addressed.
Best For
Best for Reliability
2007 Honda Civic
Score 80/100 vs 72/100
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Cost of Ownership
| Line Item | 2008 Chevrolet Impala | 2007 Honda Civic★ |
|---|---|---|
| Annual Maintenance | $400-600 | $400-600 |
| Moderate Repairs | $500-1,500 occasionally | $500-1,500 occasionally (e.g., AC compressor, power steering pump, suspension components) |
| MPG (City/Hwy) | 18 / 29 | 25 / 36 |
| MSRP (New) | $21,995 | $14,810 |
Major-failure risk and insurance outlook for each vehicle are in their full reliability reports.
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Exhaust Header For 1998-2013 Chevrolet /// V8 Ls1 Ls2 Ls3 Ls6 5.7L 6.0L 6.2L
Biggest Risks on Each
2008 Chevrolet Impala
Electrical System
60,000-120,000 mi
Rust and Corrosion
70,000+ mi
Suspension & Steering
60,000-100,000 mi
2007 Honda Civic
Engine (1.8L R18A1)
60,000-120,000 mi
Air Conditioning System
50,000-100,000 mi
Power Steering System
70,000-110,000 mi
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Editorial Take
The 2008 Chevrolet Impala and the 2007 Honda Civic represent two distinct philosophies in the automotive world, yet they often find themselves compared by buyers seeking practical, affordable transportation on the used market. The Impala is a traditional large American sedan, emphasizing space, comfort, and V6 power, while the Civic is a compact, fuel-efficient, and famously reliable Japanese entry. Shoppers considering the Impala typically prioritize interior room, a smooth highway ride, and a more traditional sedan feel. Conversely, those drawn to the Civic are often looking for superior fuel economy, maneuverability, and a reputation for bulletproof long-term reliability. Key decision factors revolve around size requirements, desired driving dynamics, and the critical balance between initial purchase price and long-term ownership costs. HEAD-TO-
Reliability & Common Issues
2008 Chevrolet Impala: One common issue reported on the 2008 Impala and similar-era GM vehicles is premature wear or failure of the power steering pump or steering rack. Owners often reported groaning noises, fluid leaks, or increased steering effort, typically presenting around 80,000 to 120,000 miles. Another concern can be issues with the automatic transmission, particularly hard shifts or occasional slippage. While not universally problematic, some units, especially those with high mileage or subjected to heavy use, could experience problems leading to costly repairs, often past 100,000 miles. Failures of the HVAC blend door actuators are also not uncommon. These components control airflow and temperature, and when they fail, they can cause either no air from certain vents or an inability to control the temperature effectively, which can occur at various mileages. 2007 Honda Civic: A significant and widely acknowledged issue for the 2007 Civic, specifically with the 1.8L R18 engine, was the potential for a cracked engine block. This problem typically manifested as a coolant leak, overheating, or a loss of coolant, often appearing between 50,000 and 100,000 miles. Honda did extend the warranty for this specific issue, so checking service history is crucial. Another common complaint for this generation of Civic was paint degradation, particularly the clear coat peeling or fading, especially on darker colors like black and blue, after several years of sun exposure. This is more of a cosmetic issue but can significantly impact appearance. Some owners also reported premature failure of the air conditioning compressor, leading to a loss of cold air. This issue could arise around 70,000 to 100,000 miles and required replacement of the compressor unit.
Value & Cost of Ownership
When new, the 2008 Impala was generally more expensive than the 2007 Civic, reflecting its larger size and more powerful standard engines. On the used market today, prices can vary significantly based on condition, mileage, and trim level. A used 2008 Impala might typically sell for between $3,000 and $7,000, while a 2007 Honda Civic, due to its strong resale value, might fetch between $4,000 and $9,000, with Si models often on the higher end. Insurance costs for the Civic are generally lower due to its smaller engine options, lower average repair costs, and its reputation as a safe and reliable vehicle. The Impala, particularly the V8 SS model, could have higher insurance premiums. Maintenance costs over the long term tend to favor the Civic. Honda vehicles are renowned for their reliability and relatively inexpensive parts and labor for routine maintenance. While Impala parts are also widely available and often affordable, the Impala's larger components and the potential for some specific V6/V8 issues might lead to slightly higher maintenance bills over its lifespan. Resale value is a clear win for the Honda Civic. Hondas, and Civics specifically, are known for holding their value exceptionally well, especially in comparison to many domestic sedans. An Impala will typically depreciate at a faster rate, making the Civic a better investment for long-term value retention.
Parts & Accessories for These Vehicles
Products for 2008 Chevrolet Impala
Products for 2007 Honda Civic
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