Does the Chevy Volt have a transmission?
The Chevy Volt does have a transmission, but not a traditional manual gearbox. It uses GM’s two‑mode hybrid drive system, an automatic‑style transaxle that blends electric propulsion with a gasoline range extender as needed.
In practice, the system handles gear changes automatically, and there is no driver-initiated manual shifting. The drivetrain combines a front-mounted electric drive motor with a gasoline engine that acts as a generator, all managed through a specialized planetary‑gear based transmission. Note that production of the Volt ended after the 2019 model year, but the described system remained a defining feature of the model during its run.
What kind of transmission does the Volt use?
The Volt relies on a specialized GM two‑mode hybrid transmission rather than a conventional automatic or manual gearbox. The key elements include a front‑wheel‑drive transaxle, planetary gear sets, and two electric machines that work with the gasoline engine to deliver power to the wheels.
- Two‑mode hybrid drive unit with planetary gear sets
- Front‑wheel drive transaxle configuration
- Two electric machines: a drive motor and a generator motor
- Automatic-style operation with no manual gear selector
These components together allow the Volt to run on pure electricity, blend electric power with the engine when needed, and regenerate energy during braking.
How the system operates in practice
The Volt’s propulsion system shifts between electric driving and generator-assisted operation automatically, depending on battery state and driving demand. Below is a look at the core operating modes.
Electric-drive mode
In electric‑drive mode, the battery powers the drive motor to move the car, while the gasoline engine remains disengaged. This is the primary mode for short trips and low‑demand driving.
- Battery supplies energy to the drive motor
- Gasoline engine is not running or is idle
- Regenerative braking recharges the battery
Electric driving provides emissions-free operation and helps maximize efficiency on short trips.
Gas engine range extender / hybrid mode
When the battery is depleted or more power is required, the gasoline engine runs to generate electricity and/or supply power through the hybrid drive unit to the wheels. The system seamlessly blends power from both sources as needed.
- Gasoline engine operates to generate electricity
- Power is directed through the same drive unit to the wheels
- The battery can continue to be recharged during operation
In this mode, the Volt leverages the generator function of the engine to extend range beyond the battery alone, while still delivering automatic, uninterrupted propulsion.
Gen 1 vs. Gen 2: what changed in the transmission
Both generations used GM’s two‑mode hybrid drive unit, designed to provide automatic transitions between electric and generator-assisted operation. The 2016 redesign of the Volt's system refined components for improved efficiency and packaging, but the fundamental two‑mode hybrid transaxle remained the core mechanism for delivering power without a traditional manual gearbox.
Today’s readers should understand that the Volt’s transmission design is representative of GM’s hybrid approach rather than a conventional automatic. It’s built to optimize electric driving while offering a seamless range extension when needed, all without driver-initiated gear shifts.
Summary
In essence, the Chevy Volt does have a transmission, but it’s a specialized two‑mode hybrid transaxle rather than a conventional manual or traditional multi‑speed automatic. It automatically manages electric propulsion and a gasoline engine that acts as a generator, delivering a smooth, shift‑free driving experience throughout the car’s lifecycle. The Volt was discontinued after the 2019 model year, but its hybrid drivetrain remains a notable example of GM’s approach to merging electric drive with a range extender.
Does the Chevy Bolt EV have a transmission?
2022 Chevy Bolt EV transmission fluid changes are exceptionally essential to keep your vehicle's transmission cool and lubricated. If you don't routinely and consistently change your fluids at least every 30,000 miles or so, you may find that your 2022 Chevy Bolt EV transmission will immediately slip.
What kind of transmission does a 2018 Chevy Volt have?
Drivetrain
| Transmission | 1-speed direct drive |
|---|---|
| Drive type | Front wheel drive |
What year to avoid Chevy Volt?
The Chevy Volt years to avoid are generally the 2012, 2013, and 2017 models, primarily due to issues with the heater coolant heater, the auxiliary coolant pump, and the battery energy control module (BECM). The 2016 model also had more frequent issues, and some 2018 models need to be checked for the BECM failure if manufactured before March 2018.
Years to avoid
- 2012 and 2013: These model years are prone to failures with the heater coolant heater and the auxiliary coolant pump, which can be expensive to repair or replace.
- 2017: This year is notorious for BECM failures. While a recall and extended warranty are in place, the parts can be difficult to get, causing significant downtime.
- 2016: Although the first year of the second generation, the 2016 model had a higher frequency of issues than other second-gen years.
- 2018: Be cautious with 2018 models manufactured before March 2018, as they may have the same BECM issue that plagued the 2017 model year.
What to look for in other years
- 2014 and 2015: These are generally reliable years, but the 2015 model was the last year of the first generation and had a smaller battery than the second-gen models that started production later in the year.
- 2018: The 2018 model year is considered by some to be a good balance of value and reliability, especially if you can find one made after March 2018 to avoid the BECM issue.
- 2019: The 2019 model year offers some upgrades but can be expensive due to dealer pricing.
What are the most common problems with Chevy Volt?
Common Chevy Volt problems include battery degradation, issues with the gasoline engine due to carbon buildup from short run cycles, charging system malfunctions, and electrical system faults like failed control modules. Other reported issues involve brake problems like premature wear and noise, and various software glitches.
This video discusses potential issues to watch out for when buying a used Chevy Volt: 1mThe Disgruntled MechanicYouTube · Jul 18, 2020
Battery and charging
- Battery degradation: Over time, the high-voltage battery can lose capacity, which results in a shorter electric-only range.
- Charging problems: Owners have reported the car won't charge at home, won't fully charge, or doesn't work with certain public chargers. A failed condenser in the charging system can also be a problem.
- High-voltage cooling system issues: A problem with the cooling system can prevent the battery from charging.
Gasoline engine
- Carbon buildup: The direct-injection engine can develop carbon buildup on the valves due to frequent, short run cycles, leading to rough idle, misfires, and reduced performance.
- Stuck valves: Owners have reported a stuck valve in the engine, sometimes related to the oil pressure control solenoid.
Brakes
- Premature wear: Owners have noted that brake pads and rotors wear out sooner than expected.
- Noise and vibration: Common issues include brake noise or vibrations and pulsations in the brake pedal.
- System failure: In some cases, problems with the master cylinder, calipers, or anti-lock system have been reported.
- Regenerative braking issues: Some owners have experienced problems related to the regenerative braking system.
This video shows an example of a common problem with the Chevy Volt's shifter: 56sWatchJRGoYouTube · May 30, 2025
Electrical and software
- Control module failure: The Battery Energy Control Module (BECM) or Battery Control Module (BCM) can fail, causing significant reliability issues, including the car stopping unexpectedly.
- Software glitches: Various software glitches can occur, leading to problems like display screen flickering or intermittent satellite radio reception.
- Electric drive motor malfunction: At least one owner has reported a malfunction of the electric drive motor.
