2007 Chevy Impala Transmission Fluid: Which Type to Use
The short answer
A 2007 Chevrolet Impala with its factory automatic transmission takes DEXRON-VI automatic transmission fluid (ATF). That applies to all three engines offered that year, because each one was paired with a version of GM's 4T65-E four-speed automatic transaxle. A transaxle combines the transmission and differential in one unit, as is typical of front-wheel-drive cars.
The main condition that changes the answer is whether the transmission is still the original unit. If it has been replaced or rebuilt, check the paperwork or ask the rebuilder which fluid they used or recommend. The specification printed in your owner's manual, or on the transmission fill cap or dipstick if it is marked, takes priority over general guidance.
How the answer applies by engine
Engine | Typical trims | Transmission | Fluid; 3.5L V6 | LS, LT | 4T65-E four-speed automatic | DEXRON-VI; 3.9L V6 | LTZ (and some LT configurations) | 4T65-E four-speed automatic | DEXRON-VI; 5.3L V8 | SS | 4T65-E HD (heavy-duty) four-speed automatic | DEXRON-VI
Trim-to-engine pairings varied, and police and fleet versions had their own configurations. If you are unsure which engine your car has, the eighth character of the VIN identifies the engine. The fluid type does not change across these engines, but the fill quantity may.
DEXRON-III vs. DEXRON-VI
Older references, parts-store lookups and some aftermarket manuals may list DEXRON-III for this transaxle. GM replaced DEXRON-III with DEXRON-VI and describes DEXRON-VI as backward compatible with transmissions that originally specified DEXRON-III. In practice, DEXRON-VI is the correct fluid to buy for a 2007 Impala, and genuine DEXRON-III is no longer licensed by GM.
When shopping, look for a bottle that states it is licensed or approved for DEXRON-VI. A label claiming the fluid is "suitable for" or "compatible with" many specifications is not the same as a licensed approval. Multi-vehicle fluids are a judgment call for the buyer; a licensed fluid removes the uncertainty.
What to confirm before buying
Fill quantity: this article does not give a capacity figure, because the amount depends on whether you are topping up, doing a pan drain with filter change, or a full fluid exchange. Use the capacity listed in the owner's manual or a service manual for your engine. Service interval: GM's maintenance schedule separates normal driving from severe use, such as heavy city traffic, hot climates, hilly terrain or towing. Check the schedule for your car rather than relying on a single mileage figure. Condition of the existing fluid: dark, burnt-smelling fluid or debris on the dipstick or in the pan can point to wear that a fluid change will not fix. A transmission specialist can advise before you proceed. Replacement or rebuilt units: confirm the fluid with whoever supplied or rebuilt the transmission, since their warranty terms may name a specific product.
Next step
For an original-equipment 2007 Impala, buy a licensed DEXRON-VI fluid and take the quantity from your owner's manual for your engine and the service you are doing. If the manual is missing, a GM dealer parts counter can confirm both the fluid and the capacity from your VIN.