2017 Chevrolet Bolt ev problems
The Chevrolet Bolt EV (marketed in Europe as Opel Ampera-e) is a battery electric subcompact hatchback produced by General Motors under the Chevrolet marque. The Bolt was produced from late 2016 to mid-2021, subsequently restarting in early 2022, until late 2023. In mid-2023, GM officials said they would cancel the car, then three months later announced plans but no date for a next-generation model.
The first generation was developed and manufactured with LG Corporation. Sales of the 2017 Bolt began in California in December 2016, it was released nationwide and international markets release in 2017. A rebadged European variant was marketed as the Opel Ampera-e in mainland Europe.
In 2017, the Bolt was the second-best-selling plug-in car in the United States. It was named the 2017 Motor Trend Car of the Year, the 2017 North American Car of the Year, an Automobile magazine 2017 All Star, and was listed in Time magazine's Best 25 Inventions of 2016. The Ampera-e was discontinued after 2018. By the end of 2020, GM had sold 112,000 Bolt and Ampera-e cars worldwide.
The first-generation Bolt has been subject to at least three recalls. At least 16 Bolts have caught fire, leading to a recall to fix or replace battery components and GM's August 2021 advisory to park in open areas, at least 50 feet (15 m) away from other vehicles.
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Common 2017 Chevrolet Bolt ev problems
The Chevrolet Bolt EV 2017 has been reported to have several common problems based on complaints from its owners. One of the most frequently mentioned issues is the "click" sound coming from the front wheel, which could be due to a washer click, CV shaft clicking, or sway bar links. This problem has been reported to have affected several Bolt owners, but some have mentioned that it has resolved on its own over time.
Another issue that has been reported is the infotainment screen glitching out, which can cause the vehicle not to shut off entirely, leading to the 12V battery dying overnight. This problem has been reported to have occurred after the vehicle was driven for a while, and the owner had to charge the 12V battery with a power pack to get the car started again.
The rear suspension clunk has also been reported as a common problem in the 2017 Bolt EV. This issue is caused by a bad axle, and it occurs when the vehicle is in L driving mode, and the driver gets on and off the throttle. This problem has been reported to cause a clunking sound in the rear suspension, which can be quite noticeable.
The steering rack binding up and needing to be replaced has also been reported as a common problem in the 2017 Bolt EV. This issue can be identified by the steering wheel not returning to center when the driver lets go of it. This problem has been reported to affect several Bolt owners, including those who have had the problem for an extended period.
The coolant level being out of whack after the recall has also been reported as a common problem in the 2017 Bolt EV. This issue has been reported to occur due to the dealership not pulling the vacuum on the car as required during the recall procedure. This problem has been reported to affect several Bolt owners, and it can lead to a decrease in the vehicle's range and performance.
The 12V battery dying early and causing weird issues until it is diagnosed has also been reported as a common problem in the 2017 Bolt EV. This issue has been reported to occur due to the battery not being charged properly, leading to a decrease in the vehicle's performance and range. This problem has been reported to affect several Bolt owners, and it can be quite frustrating to deal with.
The gasket near the back hatch coming out has also been reported as a common problem in the 2017 Bolt EV. This issue has been reported to occur due to the gasket not being properly installed during the manufacturing process. This problem has been reported to affect several Bolt owners, and it can lead to a decrease in the vehicle's performance and range.
Overall, while the Chevrolet Bolt EV 2017 has been reported to have several common problems, many owners have reported that the car is reliable and meets their needs. However, it is essential to be aware of these common issues and address them promptly if they occur to ensure the vehicle's longevity and performance.
What went wrong with Chevy Bolt?
Chevy had to issue two recalls for the Bolts in recent years over concerns that battery issues could cause the cars to catch fire. Bolt owners were advised to park their vehicles outdoors once the battery was charged.
What is the life expectancy of a Chevy Bolt?
The battery in the Chevy Bolt EV or Bolt EUV is guaranteed to get at least 8 years or 100,000 miles out of a new battery.
Is Chevy Bolt dependable?
We expect the 2023 Bolt EUV will have about average reliability when compared to the average new car. This prediction is based on the 2022 and 2023 models.
How many miles can a 2017 Chevy Bolt go on one charge?
238 miles
Chevrolet's new Bolt EV can go 238 miles on a single charge, according to the EPA. Is that enough to get from Monterey to Santa Barbara? Chevrolet has announced an EPA-approved range of 238 miles for its all-new, all-electric Bolt EV.
What went wrong with Chevy Bolt?
Chevy had to issue two recalls for the Bolts in recent years over concerns that battery issues could cause the cars to catch fire. Bolt owners were advised to park their vehicles outdoors once the battery was charged.
Is Chevy Bolt EV a good car?
Highs Tempting starting price, spacious interior for a mini-car, reasonable driving range. Lows No all-wheel-drive option, feels like the low-cost solution it is. Verdict The all-electric Bolt EV's low, low starting price makes it an attractive electrified alternative to sexier and more costly EVs.
How long do Chevy Bolt EV batteries last?
How long do Electric car batteries last? The battery in the Chevy Bolt EV or Bolt EUV is guaranteed to get at least 8 years or 100,000 miles out of a new battery.
Why is Chevy killing the Bolt?
The sudden backpedaling came after the continued surge in Bolt sales and the production costs and expected selling price of the upcoming newer models continuing to increase. Meaning the Bolt would not be competing in the same price range. Sales picked up because they started to basically give them away in 2021.
2017 Chevrolet Bolt ev complaints
The NHTSA has received 0 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2017 Chevrolet Bolt ev.
You can leave your car complaint via the special form below.
2017 Chevrolet Bolt ev recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 4 recalls for different components of the 2017 Chevrolet Bolt ev.
- Manufacturer: General Motors, LLC
- Components: STRUCTURE:BODY:ROOF AND PILLARS
- Summary: General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2017-2023 Chevrolet Bolt EV vehicles. This recall includes certain vehicles previously repaired incorrectly under NHTSA recall number 22V-930. After a crash with seat belt pretensioner deployment, the pretensioner exhaust may ignite carpet fibers near the B-pillar, causing a fire.
- Consequence: A fire increases the risk of injury.
- Remedy: Dealers will inspect both front seat belt pretensioners and, if necessary, install metal foil at the carpet near the pretensioner exhaust. Certain vehicles will also need a pretensioner cover installed. Repairs will be performed free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed January 24, 2024. These vehicles were previously recalled for this same issue under recall number 22V-930 and will need to have the new remedy performed. Owners may contact GM EV Concierge at 1-833-EVCHEVY (1-833-382-4389) (TTY 711 / 1-800-833-2438) or Customer Service at 1-800-222-1020. GM's number for this recall is N232421970.
- Manufacturer: General Motors, LLC
- Components: STRUCTURE:BODY:ROOF AND PILLARS
- Summary: General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2017-2023 Chevrolet Bolt EV vehicles. After a crash with seat belt pretensioner deployment, the pretensioner exhaust may ignite carpet fibers near the B-pillar, causing a fire.
- Consequence: A vehicle fire can increase the risk of injury.
- Remedy: Dealers will install metal foil at the carpet near the pretensioner exhaust, and install a pretensioner cover as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed between January 23, 2023 and April 25, 2023. Owners may contact Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020. GM's number for this recall is N222383790.
- Manufacturer: General Motors, LLC
- Park Out Side: 1
- Park Out Side: 1
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:PROPULSION SYSTEM:TRACTION BATTERY
- Summary: General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2017-2019 Chevrolet Bolt EV vehicles previously recalled under NHTSA recall number 20V-701. The high voltage battery could catch fire when charged to full or nearly full capacity.
- Consequence: A battery fire increases the risk of injury.
- Remedy: Owners are advised to take the following interim steps: Activate either the Hill Top Reserve (2017 and 2018 models) or Target Charge Level (2019 models) feature in their vehicle to limit the charge level to 90%, charge their vehicle more frequently, avoid depleting the battery to 70 miles range remaining, park outside after charging, and do not charge the vehicle indoors overnight. Defective battery modules will be replaced by GM, free of charge. Interim notification letters notifying owners of the safety risk were mailed on August 13, 2021. Owner notification letters were mailed on August 13, 2021. Owners may contact the Bolt EV Concierge Team at 1-833-382-4389. GM's number for this recall is N212343880.
- Manufacturer: General Motors LLC
- Park Out Side: 1
- Park Out Side: 1
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:PROPULSION SYSTEM:TRACTION BATTERY
- Summary: General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling all 2017-2018 and certain 2019 Chevrolet Bolt EV vehicles. The high voltage battery could catch fire when charged to full or nearly full capacity.
- Consequence: A battery fire increases the risk of injury.
- Remedy: This recall has been superseded by recall number 21V-560. Vehicles previously repaired under 20V-701 will still need to have the new remedy under recall 21V-560. GM will notify owners, and as an interim repair, beginning on November 17, 2020, dealers will reprogram the hybrid propulsion control module 2 (HPCM2) to limit the full charge to 90%, free of charge. Owners are advised to activate either the Hill Top Reserve (2017 and 2018 models) or Target Charge Level (2019 models) feature in their vehicle to limit the charge level to 90%, or park outside, until the software update is completed. Owners were notified of the interim repair beginning November 17, 2020. The second notice was mailed on May 11, 2021. Owners may contact the Bolt EV Concierge Team at 1-833-382-4389. GM's number for this recall is N202311730.
Negative 2017 Chevrolet Bolt ev car reviews
Positive 2017 Chevrolet Bolt ev car reviews
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Hi there! Edmunds has asked me for another update on my Chevy Bolt, and I'm happy to report that after 5 and a half years, I still absolutely love it! It's been such a reliable car, with no problems at all. In fact, Chevy recently replaced the battery for free due to a recall, so now I have a brand new battery with a 100,000 mile warranty on a 5 year old car! Maybe this car will outlast me! I've been driving since 1964 and have had quite a few cars in my lifetime, but without question, the Bolt is the best car I've ever had. And the best part? It was so affordable! After rebates, I only paid $21,000 for a car that's given me so much joy. Some reviews criticize the interior comfort, but I find it to be the most comfortable vehicle I've ever had. The seats are plenty big for a normal-sized person, and the visibility is fantastic. I have no blind spots and the big windshield is like a picture window. It's easy to get in and out of, and the interior is so roomy! The dashboard must have been pushed forward into the small hood space, giving the car much more interior room without increasing overall length. My husband, who is 6'2I really love the dashboard layout and the computer screen set-up. It's integrated into the dash and doesn't stick out like on the Tesla Model 3, which I think looks hokey, like it was stuck there as an after-thought. The car is peppy, powerful, and really fun to drive. It handles curves like a sports car, probably due to the low center of gravity with the battery underneath the body. It has a regenerative braking lever on the steering wheel that you can use to slow down or stop. I hardly ever use the brakes. It charges up mountains as if we were on flat ground, with no loss of power going uphill or in the altitude (at Lake Tahoe, 6000 ft elevation). And coming home, going downhill, you watch the range increase as energy is restored to the battery. It maneuvers really well in tight spots. It gets great range. In good weather, I get over 250 miles/charge driving around town, including some short-distance (up to 1/2 hour) freeway driving. On road trips, it gets over 200 miles, driving at 80 mph with the A/C on full blast. I charge it at home in my garage (using the energy from my solar panels) and only need to charge it once or twice a month, unless I take a road trip. It requires zero maintenance and costs me nothing. It has great cargo space and is stylish and cute. It's really solidly made and the overall quality looks good to me. It has no rattles or squeaks. I can find absolutely nothing critical to say of this car (for the first time in my life). Buying it was the best thing I ever did!
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EVs are always smoother, quieter, more responsive, and more reliable. The Bolt EV is also open and upright - spacious and friendly inside, practical for family drives and fetching cargo. It is the most affordable model with the kind of range that makes long distance drives possible, even where charging infrastructure isn't built up yet. With a little planning, you can go up to 690 miles with an overnight stay. It's a great option for those who want to travel long distances without worrying about fuel costs or emissions.
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I hope you're enjoying your car! However, I understand that you may be experiencing some issues with the AC. It seems that there is no sensor inside the car, which can make it difficult to regulate the temperature. If the outside temperature is 65 degrees, the inside of the car can quickly become quite warm. I recommend adjusting the AC to a lower temperature to cool the car down. If you're having trouble with the AC, don't hesitate to reach out to a professional for assistance.
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I didn't plan on getting a new car, but I had the chance to drive the Bolt at an environmental organization's EV fair and I was really impressed. Overall, I haven't been disappointed. The safety features such as lane warning, blind spot warning, front collision warning, backup camera and guide are all excellent. Although I wish the front seats were more comfortable, I do like the leather on mine. It would be great if Apple CarPlay enabled maps other than the standard Apple Maps for use on the large touchscreen. Additionally, I wish the left side of the dashboard, which is white in my car, didn't reflect in the outside mirror so significantly. However, I must say that the Arctic Blue Metallic exterior is fantastic, especially since it didn't cost extra like the deeper blue, red, and orange options do. Overall, I think it's a terrific car, especially considering it's an American brand.
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I am very interested in purchasing one of these cars based on its mechanical prowess. As a mechanical engineer who works on airplanes, I have some concerns about the hard plastic used in the dash and seats of this car. If I'm going to spend over $35K, I would prefer something better than plastic. During our test drive, we visited KIA to test drive a 'hamster car HPEV', but unfortunately, none were available. However, we did notice that even a low-rated KIA has a better interior than this car. It's surprising that GM would use such cheap plastic that easily shows greasy fingerprint stains from normal use. The dash pieces look like they came off a 3D printer! I think I'll wait and see if this issue is addressed in the next models. I've even considered having these plastic pieces reworked by an aftermarket shop to make them more acceptable.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2017 Chevrolet Bolt ev problems:
Common problems with a Chevy Bolt? : r/BoltEV
Nov 23, 2022 ... I have a Chevy Volt (Gen 1) and don't like how some people say it's the most reliable car in the world, when common problems I've found include ...
2017 Bolt Woes. | Chevy Bolt EV Forum
Sep 28, 2022 ... Anti-clicking washer needed replacing because it apparently rusted and makes clicking noises. (~$500) · Clunking noises from the power steering ...
Best Bolt model year? Issues with 2017? : r/BoltEV
Feb 13, 2022 ... 2017's have had a few transmission failures. We don't know how common that is yet. I'd probably try and grab a 2018 or higher though, if you can ...
Common issues? | Chevy Bolt EV Forum
Jun 12, 2020 ... The most common complaints seem to revolve around CarPlay or Android Auto integration, and people who think that a reduced range estimate means ...
When is a Chevy Volt problem "Common' or "Widespread"? | GM ...
Oct 14, 2021 ... 2017 Bolt EV Silver Ice Metallic, Premium, Infotainment pkg, Driver Confidence 2, DC Fast Charge. 2011 Cyber Gray, Std Wheels, Black Leather/ ...
Donnie Farrell 2024-06-19
I used to own a Gen1 Volt which I loved and now I love my i3. However, I am interested in the Bolt due to its better range and improved drive and infotainment. I am considering purchasing this car after my lease is up on my BMW i3. I appreciate what Chevy has accomplished with most of this car, including better acceleration and ride than the i3. However, the seats are a deal breaker for me. As someone who is 6'3Also, the low-speed braking needs to be stronger for one-foot driving, like the BMW, which has the perfect amount. And no, I don't want to use the little steering wheel buttons and my fingers every time I want to bring the car to a stop. One-foot driving in the city is a miracle, and once you get the hang of it, you can't go back to a standard drive car. So, please make it perfect. Additionally, I have no way of testing this, but I hope the brake lights come on when you use regen braking with the car in low. My old Volt did not do this, but the BMW does. Furthermore, this car needs adaptive cruise control that goes down to low speed or to a stop and then starts moving again, like the BMW and many other cars now have. Even other GM cars have this, so I don't know why Chevy didn't go all the way with this option since they are charging more. Hopefully, this will appear in next year's model. This car could have been a
Roscoe Smitham 2024-02-07
The car has a mix of premium and basic features. Unfortunately, it does not have an adaptive cruise option, but the manufacturer has explained that adding it would require changing the braking system. However, the car's resistive cabin heating is a plus, as it warms up quickly and provides heat sooner than most gas engine cars. It's important to note that in cold weather, the range may be reduced by almost half, so it's essential to factor this in when planning your commute. While the car does not have a navigation system option, it does have Android Auto and CarPlay, both of which work well for navigation. This is a city car, so it will mostly be driven in areas with cell coverage. Some interior design decisions could have been better, such as the center touch screen being partly obscured and difficult to reach for smaller drivers. Additionally, the center console has a lot of wasted space for the 'shift lever,' which is a rather pointless item in an electric car. The cup holders are too close together due to the shifter taking up space. The cargo storage is in three 'layers,' making it clumsy to get to the lower deck items. Unfortunately, the car does not come with or offer a spare tire, but the Lane Keep Assist with Lane Departure Warning, Following Distance Indicator, and Front Pedestrian Braking features are useful. Overall, the car has its pros and cons, but it's a great option for city driving.Lane keep assist does not have adaptive steering or bump you back toward the lane. Instead, it shows an icon on the screen if it thinks you are out of your lane, which is the case almost everywhere (our road markings in town are bad). The following distance indicator shows the number of seconds to the car in front of you, but only when you are already too close at highway speeds. The pedestrian braking feature just shows an icon of a person when it sees someone on the side of the road. Unfortunately, it did not detect a pedestrian that walked right out in front of the car, and it also fails to actually brake. The sad part is that mine died after only 2200 miles, and the dealer has been unable to diagnose the problem in close to a month. However, I believe that trouble logging and technical support will improve over time. Maybe this will be a viable car in the future, but for now, I would avoid it at all costs. There seem to be a number of online reports of similar issues.
Hans Braun 2024-02-03
The Bolt is a decent car, but unfortunately, there is no fast charging available in our area. Therefore, it is only suitable as a commuter car, as taking long trips may leave you stranded for hours trying to recharge. Tesla, on the other hand, has done an excellent job by providing their Super Chargers and not relying on third-party charging stations. While GM may sell you a car, filling the batteries is still a challenge. Additionally, GM is a traditional car company, and their outlook on transportation is still rooted in the 19th century.