2021 Chevrolet Bolt EV
2021 Chevrolet Bolt EV
Overview
The 2021 Chevrolet Bolt EV is a fully electric compact hatchback known for its impressive range and affordability. As an electric vehicle, its mechanical complexity is significantly lower than that of internal combustion engine cars, leading to generally high reliability. The primary focus for potential issues shifts from traditional powertrain components to battery health, charging systems, and the integrated electronics. Owners generally report a positive experience with the Bolt EV’s day-to-day operation, with most concerns revolving around specific software updates or battery performance in extreme temperatures. Regular maintenance is minimal, primarily involving tire rotations and cabin air filter replacements.
Engine
Electric Drive Unit
No widespread issues reported.
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: N/A
Transmission
Single-Speed Automatic
No widespread issues reported.
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: N/A
Suspension
Standard Independent Suspension
No widespread issues reported.
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: N/A
Electrical
Battery Pack
Battery Fire Risk (Recall)
- Symptoms: Sudden battery fires, smoke emanating from the vehicle.
- Solution: Software update to limit charging to 90% and specific diagnostic checks. In some cases, battery module replacement or full pack replacement.
- Cost: $0 (Recall)
Charging System
Intermittent Charging Issues
- Symptoms: Vehicle fails to charge, charging port not recognized, error messages during charging.
- Solution: Diagnosis of charging port, onboard charger, or software glitches. May require software updates or component replacement.
- Cost: $100 - $500
Infotainment System
Software Glitches
- Symptoms: Screen freezing, unresponsiveness, connectivity issues (Apple CarPlay/Android Auto).
- Solution: Software updates, system resets, or potential replacement of the infotainment unit.
- Cost: $100 - $600
Exterior
Body Panels and Paint
No widespread issues reported.
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: N/A
Lighting
No widespread issues reported.
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: N/A
Interior
Upholstery and Trim
No widespread issues reported.
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: N/A
Climate Control System
No widespread issues reported.
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: N/A
Summary Verdict
The 2021 Chevrolet Bolt EV generally exhibits good reliability, particularly due to its simpler electric powertrain. The most significant issue reported was the battery fire risk, which led to a major recall and has been addressed through software updates and potential battery replacements. Beyond this critical recall, other electrical components like the charging system and infotainment can experience occasional glitches, but these are typically resolved with software updates or minor repairs. The mechanical aspects of the vehicle are robust, and owners can expect minimal issues outside of the battery recall and standard EV maintenance.