Can I put a hitch on a Chevy Bolt?

The Chevy Bolt can accommodate a hitch for non-towing use, such as bike racks or cargo carriers, but towing with the Bolt is not recommended by the manufacturer. If you plan to add a hitch, choose the right receiver and wiring and be mindful of weight limits and warranty considerations.

The Bolt’s official guidance emphasizes that towing trailers is not advised. You can install a hitch to support accessories, but there is no official towing capacity published by GM for the Bolt. This article outlines what you need to know about compatibility, options, installation, and practical use for both the Bolt EV and Bolt EUV models.

Policy and practical use: what GM allows and warns

Before deciding on a hitch, it helps to understand the official stance and practical limits. The Bolt family is not rated for towing, and GM does not publish a towing capacity for these vehicles. A hitch can be used for bike racks or cargo carriers, provided you stay within the vehicle’s payload and hitch weight limits, and you use a proper wiring setup for any lights. Always confirm with a dealer or GM’s official guidance if you have questions about warranty implications or model-year specifics.

Key points to keep in mind when considering a hitch on a Chevy Bolt:

• The Bolt is not recommended for towing trailers by GM.


• A hitch can be installed for accessories like bike racks or cargo carriers, not for towing.


• Use a compatible wiring harness to avoid electrical issues and ensure lights function properly.


• Weight limits (payload and hitch receiver rating) must not be exceeded.


• Warranty coverage may be affected if non-GM parts are used or if installation isn’t properly documented—verify with your dealer.

In short, you can add a hitch for certain uses, but towing is not supported by GM for the Bolt lineup.

Hitch options for the Chevy Bolt

There are several ways to equip your Bolt with a hitch, from factory-backed options to aftermarket solutions. When selecting a hitch, verify compatibility with your model year, receiver size, and intended use. The Bolt family commonly uses a receiver in the 1.25-inch to 2-inch range depending on the product, with the 2-inch size being the more typical option for many third-party hitches. Always confirm the exact spec before purchasing.

Common choices include:

• OEM/GM-accessory hitch designed for Bolt models, typically offered as a 2-inch receiver—verify year compatibility with your vehicle.


• Aftermarket hitch receivers from brands such as Curt, Hidden Hitch, and similar makers, often available in 1.25" and 2" configurations; check compatibility with the bumper and frame.


• Bike racks or cargo carriers that mount to the chosen receiver size (1.25" or 2" depending on the hitch).


• Wiring harness options (usually a 4-pin connector for basic lighting; some setups may require a converter or additional adapters for 7-pin functionality).

When selecting a hitch, prioritize good fit with your Bolt’s bumper geometry, payload rating, and any warranty considerations.

Electrical wiring and installation considerations

Installing a hitch isn’t just about the receiver; it also requires a reliable electrical connection for trailer lights. The Bolt generally uses a standard 4-pin wiring setup for basic lighting, with some aftermarket harnesses offering additional pins or adapters for enhanced functionality. A proper harness helps ensure brake lights, turn signals, and tail lights function correctly and safely.

Important considerations include:

• Choose a wiring solution compatible with your Bolt’s electrical system and the type of trailer or accessory you plan to use.


• Consider whether a professional installation is advisable to ensure proper grounding and to avoid interference with sensors, camera systems, or underbody components.


• Discuss warranty implications with your dealer, especially if you plan to use GM-approved parts or have installation performed by an authorized service provider.


• Inspect clearances around the battery pack area and exhaust components to prevent any overheating or contact with hitch components.

With the right wiring and install, you can safely operate hitch-mounted accessories without compromising the vehicle’s electrical integrity.

Bolt EV vs. Bolt EUV: hitch fitment and limitations

What to know about compatibility

Both the Bolt EV and the Bolt EUV share the same underlying propulsion and electrical platforms, so hitch installation is generally similar across models. However, always verify the exact receiver size and mounting points for your specific model year and body type, as GM or aftermarket options may differ by trim or production run. Regardless of the variant, the towing stance remains not recommended, and the focus remains on hitch use for bikes and cargo rather than trailers.

Warranty, safety, and best practices

Installing a hitch can have warranty and safety implications if not done properly. GM typically requires using approved parts and installation methods; using non-approved parts or performing modifications without proper guidance can affect warranty coverage and, potentially, safety. If you’re unsure, consult your dealer for approved accessories and installation services. Always comply with payload ratings and never exceed the recommended tongue weight or cargo limits.

Best practices include:

• Use GM-approved or dealer-confirmed hitch options when available for your model year.


• Have installation performed by a trained technician or a dealer to ensure correct mounting and electrical wiring.


• Respect payload, tongue weight, and hitch rating limits; do not attempt to tow with the Bolt.


• Maintain regular service checks to confirm hitch hardware remains secure and wiring remains corrosion-free.

Clear guidance from GM or your dealer will help protect warranty coverage and ensure safe operation of any hitch-mounted accessory.

Bottom line and next steps

Yes, you can add a hitch to a Chevy Bolt to support bikes or cargo carriers, but towing trailers is not recommended or supported by GM. When pursuing a hitch, prioritize compatibility with your model year, ensure proper wiring, and consider professional installation to protect safety and warranty coverage. Always verify with your dealer about specific parts, installation, and any implications for your particular Bolt configuration.

Summary

- A hitch can be installed on the Chevy Bolt for non-towing use like bike racks or cargo carriers.

- GM does not endorse towing with the Bolt; there is no official towing capacity published.

- Choose a compatible hitch (often 2" receiver) and a suitable wiring harness, and consider professional installation.

- Check warranty implications and stay within payload and receiver ratings. For model-year specifics, consult your dealer or GM’s official guidance.

Is there a class action lawsuit against Chevy Bolt?

A class action lawsuit for the Chevy Bolt EV battery defects resulted in a $150 million settlement that provides compensation to owners of 2017-2022 model years. Eligible owners could receive up to $1,400 if they had the specific software update installed before a deadline (which has passed) or a minimum of $700 if they sold or leased their vehicle before the software remedy was available.
 
Lawsuit overview

• What it was about: The lawsuit, In re Chevrolet Bolt EV Battery Litigation, alleged that 2017-2022 Chevy Bolt vehicles had defective batteries that could overheat and catch fire, leading to reduced range and a decrease in the vehicle's value. 
• Affected vehicles: All 2017-2022 Chevrolet Bolt EVs (and 2022 Chevy Bolt EUVs) that were shipped to a dealer on or before August 19, 2021, are eligible if they have not received a buyback. 
• Settlement details: A preliminary settlement was granted in September 2024, with a final approval hearing held in May 2025. The settlement includes cash payments, service awards for class representatives, and administrative costs. 

Compensation for eligible owners

• Up to $1,400: For owners who had the required diagnostic software update installed by the deadline (December 31, 2023) but did not receive a battery replacement or a buyback from GM. 
• Up to $700: For owners who sold their vehicle or terminated their lease before the software remedy was released and did not receive a battery replacement or buyback. 
• Other options: Some owners may have already received a battery replacement from GM and may be eligible for a different payment from the settlement if they met the criteria. 

Important notes

• The deadline to file a claim was July 31, 2025. 
• This settlement is part of a larger recall effort that cost GM nearly $2 billion. 
• The final approval hearing for the lawsuit was in May 2025. 
• For any changes to dates, check the official settlement website: www.boltevbatterysettlement.com. 

Can you put a hitch on a Chevy Bolt?

Adding a trailer hitch to a Chevy Bolt requires only a few tools, a ECOX7359 trailer hitch, and a short amount of time to complete the installation. This trailer hitch and installation process will work for the Chevy Bolt model years 2017-2023.

How much can a Chevy Bolt EV tow?

The Chevy Bolt does not have a manufacturer-specified towing capacity, as GM states it is not designed to tow anything. However, owners often install aftermarket hitches, and those hitches are typically rated for a maximum of 2,000 pounds towing weight and 300 pounds tongue weight. Some hitch manufacturers also offer hitches for the Bolt EUV with a rating of up to 3,000 pounds towing and 450 pounds tongue weight. 

• Manufacturer's Recommendation: The official owner's manual states the vehicle is not designed for towing. 
• Aftermarket Hitch Ratings: Common aftermarket hitches, such as the EcoHitch, are rated for up to 2,000 pounds towing and 300 pounds tongue weight. 
• Bolt EUV Hitch Ratings: Some specific hitches for the Bolt EUV are rated higher, sometimes reaching 3,000 pounds towing and 450 pounds tongue weight. 
• Towing Reality: Owners who tow typically do so with small utility trailers, motorcycles, or small campers, with many successfully towing loads under 1,000 pounds. 
• Important Considerations: Towing can significantly impact range and put extra strain on the vehicle's components like the suspension, power, and brakes. Always check the specific hitch's rating and the weight of your trailer to avoid damage or overheating. 

How much does it cost to have a tow hitch installed?

The cost to have a tow hitch installed ranges from $100 to $300 for labor on simpler hitches, but can reach $800 or more for more complex installations, with the total price depending on the vehicle, hitch type, and labor costs. Prices also vary significantly by provider, with dealerships typically being the most expensive and DIY or professional installers at shops like U-Haul or local repair shops offering a wide range of price points. 
Cost breakdown

Factor	Cost
Labor	$100 to $300 is typical, but can be higher for more complex jobs.
Hitch Parts	Depends on the hitch class; a basic Class I or II hitch might cost $80–$200, while a heavy-duty Class V or gooseneck can be $300–$800 or more.
Total (Parts + Labor)	Varies widely, but expect a total range of $300 to $650 on average for a standard installation, potentially going up to $1,000 to $2,000 or more for heavy-duty or fifth-wheel hitches.

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Factors that influence the price

• Hitch type: Simple hitches (Class I-III) are cheaper, while heavy-duty Class IV or V hitches and gooseneck hitches cost more. 
• Vehicle complexity: Installations that require drilling through the frame or modifying the vehicle's exhaust system will take longer and cost more. 
• Wiring: Installing a basic 4-pin connector is cheaper than wiring a 7-pin connector and brake controller, which adds to the labor cost. 
• Location and provider: Dealerships often charge more than independent shops or national chains. 
• Labor rate: Hourly rates can range from $75 to $200, and a longer installation time will increase the total cost. 

How to save money

• DIY: If you are mechanically inclined, you can save a significant amount of money by installing the hitch yourself, but ensure you have the right tools and follow the instructions carefully. 
• Shop around: Get quotes from multiple providers, including local repair shops, U-Haul, and other national chains. 
• Purchase the hitch separately: You may be able to get a better deal on the hitch itself by buying it online and having a separate shop install it for you.