2016 Chevrolet Volt
2016 Chevrolet Volt
Overview
The 2016 Chevrolet Volt, a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle, aimed to blend electric efficiency with gasoline range. It featured a unique powertrain combining an electric motor with a small gasoline engine acting as a generator. While generally praised for its innovative technology and fuel economy, like any vehicle, it has specific areas where owners have reported issues. This analysis focuses on documented technical reliability concerns beyond standard maintenance, providing insights into potential problem areas for owners and prospective buyers.
Engine
1.5L 4-Cylinder (Range Extender)
Coolant Leaks
- Symptoms: Low coolant level warnings, visible coolant puddles, engine overheating.
- Solution: Inspect and replace leaking hoses, water pump, or head gasket.
- Cost: $300 - $800
Engine Mount Failure
- Symptoms: Excessive vibration, clunking noises during acceleration or deceleration.
- Solution: Replace worn or broken engine mounts.
- Cost: $250 - $600
Transmission
Electric Drive Unit (eCVT)
No widespread issues reported.
- Symptoms: N/A
- Solution: N/A
- Cost: Varies
Suspension
Standard Suspension
No widespread issues reported.
- Symptoms: N/A
- Solution: N/A
- Cost: Varies
Electrical
High-Voltage Battery Pack
Reduced Range/Capacity
- Symptoms: Noticeable decrease in electric-only range, battery warning lights.
- Solution: Battery diagnostics and potential replacement (often covered under warranty for a period).
- Cost: $2,000 - $5,000+
12V Auxiliary Battery
Premature Failure
- Symptoms: Difficulty starting, electrical system malfunctions, warning lights.
- Solution: Replace the 12V auxiliary battery.
- Cost: $150 - $300
Charging System Issues
No major issues reported for this configuration.
Exterior
Body Panels & Seals
No widespread issues reported.
- Symptoms: N/A
- Solution: N/A
- Cost: Varies
Interior
Infotainment System
Software Glitches
- Symptoms: Screen freezing, unresponsive touch controls, Bluetooth connectivity issues.
- Solution: Software updates or infotainment system reset/replacement.
- Cost: $200 - $800
HVAC System
No widespread issues reported.
- Symptoms: N/A
- Solution: N/A
- Cost: Varies
Summary Verdict
The 2016 Chevrolet Volt demonstrates good overall reliability, particularly in its unique electric drive system. The primary concerns tend to revolve around the electrical system, specifically the high-voltage battery’s long-term capacity and the auxiliary 12V battery’s lifespan. Some owners have also reported issues with the gasoline range-extender engine, such as coolant leaks and engine mount wear. Interior electronics, like the infotainment system, can occasionally experience software glitches. Despite these points, the Volt is generally considered a dependable vehicle, especially if well-maintained and if battery-related issues are addressed under warranty.