Used Chevrolet Bolt: Inspection checklist
Pick the model year you are going to see. Each sheet lists the checks for the problems owners reported on that year, in the order you would do them at the car. Owners filed 531 complaints across these 5 years; the 2019 drew the most.

Choose a model year
2023
Most reported: electrical
146 complaints3 recallsOpen checklist
2022
Most reported: electrical
78 complaints7 recallsOpen checklist
2021
Fewest complaintsMost reported: electrical
66 complaints5 recallsOpen checklist
2019
Most complaintsMost reported: electrical
168 complaints6 recallsOpen checklist
2018
Most reported: steering
73 complaints5 recallsOpen checklist
Problems that follow the Bolt from year to year
Each of these is a top-three complaint area in at least two model years. Darker cells mean more complaints that year. Whatever year you are looking at, give these extra time.
| Area | 2018 | 2019 | 2021 | 2022 | 2023 | Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Electrical | 23 | 75 | 29 | 28 | 33 | 188 |
| Steering | 24 | 39 | 8 | 10 | 23 | 104 |
| Transmission | 11 | 13 | 10 | 9 | 10 | 53 |
Bolt generations and updates
First years of a new generation and mid-cycle updates are marked. Each year links to its checklist.
First generation
2017–2023
2022 update: Front and rear styling revisions; Revised interior with upgraded seats; New electronic systems
Mileages where Bolt problems start
From owner reports for each model year, lowest mileage first. Compare these with the odometer of the car you are seeing.
| Typical mileage | Problem | Year |
|---|---|---|
| 200–400 miles | Auxiliary transmission pump faults | 2023 |
| 1,800–2,700 miles | Early sudden loss of propulsion | 2021 |
| 2,400–10,000 miles | Phantom automatic emergency braking | 2023 |
| 3,350–5,144 miles | Loss of drive power, towing | 2023 |
| 25,000–40,000 miles | Steering binds, won't self-center | 2018 |
| 26,861–50,000 miles | Steering won't return to center | 2019 |
| 38,000–41,000 miles | Steering not returning to center | 2022 |
| 42,000–55,000 miles | Steering wheel not returning center | 2023 |
Every Bolt recall to confirm
11 recalls cover the Boltyears on this site. Open a campaign number for NHTSA's full notice. 9 campaigns span more than one model year. 5 told owners not to drive or to park outside until repaired.
- 24V812000ElectricalPark outside2021, 2022
- 24V481000ElectricalPark outside2021, 2022
- 21V650000ElectricalPark outside2021, 2022
- 21V560000ElectricalPark outside2018, 2019
- 20V701000ElectricalPark outside2018, 2019
- 23V845000Body and structure2018–2023
- 22V930000Body and structure2018–2023
- 23V567000Airbags2022, 2023
- 18V576000Brakes2018, 2019
- 21V517000Airbags2022
Show 1 more recall
- 20V184000Door latches and locks2019




