Does a Chevy Bolt need an oil change?

No. The Chevy Bolt EV does not require engine oil changes because it has no gasoline engine. Maintenance focuses on the electric drivetrain, battery cooling, brakes, tires, cabin air filters, and software updates. Always refer to the owner’s manual for model-year‑specific guidance.

Why oil changes aren’t part of Bolt maintenance

Electric motors operate differently from internal combustion engines. They don’t burn oil or rely on engine lubrication in the same way, so there is no routine oil-change schedule to follow. The Bolt’s maintenance emphasis is on items associated with the electric drive system, cooling for the battery and drivetrain, and regular wear-and-tear checks. Exact service intervals vary by year, market, and driving conditions, so consult the official GM maintenance schedule for your vehicle.

Key maintenance areas for Bolt owners

Below is an overview of the main items you’ll typically service, since there is no engine oil change. This helps keep the Bolt running reliably and efficiently.

• High-voltage system and drivetrain inspections during regular service visits


• Battery and drive-unit cooling system checks, with coolant service as recommended by GM


• Brake system inspection and brake fluid condition checks (replacement as needed)


• Tire rotation, balance, and alignment to maximize range and safety


• Cabin air filter replacement and general HVAC system maintenance


• Wiper blade replacement and exterior lighting checks


• Software updates and vehicle health checks performed at dealer visits

Specific intervals for these items depend on model year, driving conditions, and regional maintenance plans. Always refer to the owner's manual or a Chevrolet dealer for the exact GM maintenance schedule for your Bolt.

Summary

The Chevy Bolt does not require oil changes. While you’ll skip engine oil maintenance, regular care for cooling, brakes, tires, cabin air, and software updates remains essential to keep the vehicle performing well in the long term.

What maintenance does a Chevy Bolt need?

Chevy Bolt maintenance includes routine items like tire rotations every 7,500 miles and passenger compartment air filter replacement every 22,500 miles, along with less frequent tasks such as replacing the brake fluid every five years and the air conditioning desiccant every seven years. Important long-term maintenance includes draining and refilling the coolant circuits at 150,000 miles and replacing the hood and body lift support gas struts around 75,000 miles or every ten years.
 
Routine maintenance

• Every 7,500 miles: Rotate and inspect tires, check fluid levels, inspect the brake system, and inspect steering, suspension, and chassis components. 
• Every 15,000 miles: Includes the same inspections as the 7,500-mile service, plus replacement of front and rear wiper blades. 
• Every 22,500 miles: Replace the passenger compartment air filter. You may need to replace it more frequently if you drive in high-pollution areas. 
• Every 150,000 miles: Drain and refill the vehicle's coolant circuits. 

Less frequent maintenance 

• Every five years: Replace the brake fluid. 
• Every seven years: Replace the air conditioning desiccant. 
• Every 75,000 miles or 10 years: Replace the hood and body lift support gas struts. 
• Around 100,000 miles: A comprehensive inspection of all systems is recommended. 
• At 100,000 miles or beyond: Consider replacing the high-voltage battery, depending on its performance. 

Maintenance to avoid

• Chevy Bolts do not require oil changes or engine air filter replacements. 
• Transmission fluid flushes are not needed unless the vehicle has a specific transmission fluid requirement, which is unlikely for the Bolt EV and EUV. 

What are the pros and cons of a bolt?

Pros and Cons of Stud Bolts
They also provide strong connections that can withstand heavy loads, which makes them ideal for structural applications. The downside to stud bolts is they require a nut, which can be more time-consuming and difficult to install than a threaded rod.

Do fully electric cars need oil changes?

No, fully electric cars do not need oil changes because they do not have an internal combustion engine. However, they do require different fluids that need maintenance, such as coolant and brake fluid, and a "transmission" fluid replacement for their gearbox, according to Recurrent and Straub Nissan.
 
EV fluids that need maintenance 

• Gearbox fluid: While EVs have a simpler gearbox, it still has moving parts that need lubrication. Check your owner's manual for the recommended interval, but it may need replacement around every 80,000 miles. 
• Coolant: EVs use coolant to regulate the temperature of their batteries. It should be checked regularly and replaced according to the manufacturer's schedule, sometimes as often as every 2-3 years. 
• Brake fluid: The brake system, including the fluid, requires periodic checks and replacement. Some manufacturers suggest a replacement every 40,000 miles, even with regenerative braking. 

Other regular maintenance
Tire rotations, Brake pad and rotor replacement, Cabin air filter replacement, and Windshield washer fluid top-offs. 
Always consult your vehicle's owner's manual for specific maintenance recommendations.

Does a Chevy Bolt EUV need an oil change?

A benefit of having an electric vehicle, like a Chevrolet Bolt EV or EUV, is never needing oil changes. Electric vehicles do not have oil because they do not have engines with pistons and other parts that need lubrication, so you'll never have to visit the dealership for an oil change.