Sam and Dean temporarily stopped driving their iconic 1967 Chevrolet Impala because the vehicle had become a dangerous liability, making them easily identifiable targets after a series of crimes were committed by shapeshifting entities mimicking them and using the car.
The Impala's Temporary Retirement
During the seventh season of Supernatural, the Winchester brothers faced a unique challenge that forced them to part ways with their beloved Impala for a significant period. This decision was a strategic move to evade detection and capture.
The Leviathan Impersonation
The primary reason for parking the Impala stemmed from the threat posed by the Leviathans. These ancient, powerful monsters, capable of perfectly replicating human forms, began impersonating Sam and Dean. Crucially, they committed a violent killing spree while driving the distinctive 1967 Impala. This act directly linked the car, and by extension the real Sam and Dean, to a string of heinous crimes.
Becoming America's Most Wanted
As a direct consequence of the Leviathans' actions, the real Sam and Dean became America's second most wanted criminals. The Impala, with its unique look, served as an unmistakable identifier for law enforcement and anyone else actively searching for the brothers. Continuing to drive the car would have been tantamount to broadcasting their location.
Frank Deveraux's Strategic Advice
To navigate this precarious situation and avoid being apprehended, the seasoned hunter Frank Deveraux advised Sam and Dean to put the Impala away. His counsel was clear: locking up the car was essential to avoid detection and ensure their continued freedom. This strategic decision was vital for their survival and ability to continue their hunt without constant pursuit from the authorities.
The Consequence: A Rotating Fleet
Following Frank Deveraux's pragmatic advice, Sam and Dean had no choice but to temporarily abandon their cherished Impala. As a direct result, the show began featuring a new, inconspicuous car for them to drive almost every week. This constant change of vehicles allowed them to blend in, maintain a low profile, and avoid immediate recognition by those looking for the "fugitive" brothers.
Key Reasons for Parking the Impala
The decision to stop driving the Impala was a critical plot point driven by several factors:
- Impersonation: Leviathans used the Impala during a killing spree while impersonating Sam and Dean.
- Identification Risk: The car became a highly recognizable symbol associated with major crimes.
- Fugitive Status: Sam and Dean became high-profile fugitives, wanted by the FBI, making the Impala a liability.
- Strategic Counsel: Frank Deveraux advised them to ditch the car to avoid detection and capture.
- Low Profile: Using a different car regularly allowed them to maintain a lower profile and evade authorities.
| Reason for Stopping Driving the Impala | Impact on Sam & Dean | Solution Adopted |
|---|---|---|
| Leviathans used the Impala in crimes | Became America's 2nd most wanted | Locked up the Impala |
| Car became an identifiable target | Increased risk of detection & capture | Started using a new car every week |
| Frank Deveraux's strategic advice | Necessary for survival and evasion | Maintained a low profile |
