Can I leave my Chevy Bolt plugged in overnight?
Yes. Leaving your Chevy Bolt plugged in overnight is generally safe and common practice. The car’s charging system protects the battery and stops charging at your chosen limit, so you’ll typically wake up with a ready-to-drive battery.
In practice, overnight charging involves choosing the right charging method, setting a sensible daily charge limit, and following basic safety steps. This article outlines how overnight charging works, practical safety tips, and what to know about recalls and battery health for Bolts.
Overnight charging basics
Below is a quick guide to how overnight charging works and how you can optimize it for daily use.
- Choose the right charger: Level 2 (240V) charging on a dedicated circuit is faster and more convenient than Level 1 (120V). A typical Level 2 setup can bring a Bolt from near empty to full in roughly 7–9 hours, depending on the exact charger and battery variant.
- Set an appropriate charge limit: If you don’t need a full 100% every day, setting a limit to around 80–90% can reduce battery wear over time while still meeting most daily needs.
- Safety and installation: Use a properly rated, dedicated circuit with a quality Level 2 charger. Avoid extension cords or multi-outlet adapters, keep the charging area dry and well ventilated, and have electrical work inspected if you’re uncertain about your outlet or circuit capacity.
- Temperature considerations: In very hot or very cold weather, the Bolt’s battery thermal management may work more to maintain temperature, which can affect charging speed slightly but is normal and designed to protect the pack.
- Monitoring and scheduling: Use the car’s charging status display or the MyChevrolet app to monitor progress, and consider scheduling charging or preconditioning to finish before you need the car.
In short, overnight charging is a standard practice for Bolts. By selecting a reasonable daily charge limit and ensuring a safe charging setup, you can maximize battery longevity while staying ready to drive each day.
Battery health and recall status
Beyond overnight charging, it’s wise to stay informed about battery health and any recalls that may affect your Bolt. Here are key points to consider.
- Recall status: GM has issued recalls related to Bolt battery modules in certain model years. Check your vehicle’s VIN on GM’s recall site or NHTSA’s database to determine if your specific Bolt is affected and what remedy is required. If a recall applies, schedule the recommended service promptly.
- Battery warranty: Most Bolt battery packs are covered under a warranty of 8 years or 100,000 miles (whichever comes first) in the United States. Warranty coverage and terms can vary by region, so verify the specifics for your location.
- Normal care and inspections: If you notice unusual charging behavior, rapid battery drain, or warning messages, contact your dealer for a diagnostic. Regular software updates from GM can also improve charging efficiency and battery management.
- Long-term storage tips: If you’ll go without driving the Bolt for an extended period, a partial charge (not full) and disconnecting auxiliary loads can help preserve battery health. Follow GM’s guidance for extended storage when applicable.
For the most up-to-date information, refer to GM’s official recall pages and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) database, and contact your Chevrolet dealer for personalized guidance based on your VIN and local regulations.
Additional considerations
Practical tips for safe overnight charging
These practical tips can help you charge safely and efficiently every night.
- Use a dedicated 240V circuit with a certified Level 2 charger designed for EVs.
- Avoid using damaged cords or adapters; replace worn components promptly.
- Keep the charging area free from water, flammables, and trip hazards.
- Check the vehicle’s charge limit settings and adjust as needed for your daily schedule.
- Review recall status and battery warranty coverage periodically, especially after software updates or service campaigns.
These practices help ensure safety, reliability, and battery longevity while you rely on overnight charging as part of your daily routine.
Summary
Leaving a Chevy Bolt plugged in overnight is generally safe and standard practice. Use a proper Level 2 charger on a dedicated circuit, set a sensible daily charge limit, and stay informed about recalls and battery health. If you ever have concerns about charging or battery safety, contact your Chevrolet dealer for a formal inspection or guidance tailored to your vehicle's VIN and region.
