How long is the battery life on the 2019 Chevy Bolt EV?

The 2019 Bolt EV uses a 60-kilowatt-hour (kWh) battery and is EPA-rated for about 238 miles on a full charge. In terms of longevity, GM backs the pack with an 8-year/100,000-mile warranty, while real-world life depends on how you drive and charge the car.

The following sections break down what those numbers mean in practical terms, including the Bolt’s battery specifications, how range and longevity are affected by daily use, and what the warranty covers.

Battery capacity and EPA range

Before listing the core specifications, it’s helpful to note that the Bolt’s 60 kWh battery drives an EPA-estimated range of roughly 238 miles per full charge. Real-world range varies with temperature, driving style, and terrain.

• Battery capacity: 60 kWh


• EPA-estimated range: about 238 miles on a full charge


• Onboard charging: Level 2 home charging up to around 7.2 kW


• DC fast charging: up to about 50 kW, enabling faster top-ups when available

These specifications determine how far you can drive between charges under typical conditions and how quickly you can recharge on the road.

Understanding battery life: longevity vs. range

“Battery life” for an EV can mean two things: how far the car can go on a charge (range) and how long the battery will last before notable capacity loss (longevity). The Bolt’s range is a product of the 60 kWh pack and the vehicle’s efficiency, while longevity depends on battery chemistry, charging habits, temperature, and usage patterns.

• Temperature effects: extreme heat or cold can accelerate capacity fade


• Depth of discharge and charging to 100% regularly can influence long-term health


• Frequent use of DC fast charging may contribute to faster degradation over many cycles, though modern battery management mitigates this


• Regular software updates and proper storage help preserve capacity

In practice, Bolt owners typically experience several years of usable range with gradual capacity loss that varies by climate, charging behavior, and daily driving needs.

Warranty and what it covers

The Bolt EV’s battery and propulsion system are covered by an 8-year/100,000-mile warranty (whichever comes first) in many markets, with additional protections for other components. The standard bumper-to-bumper warranty generally covers 3 years/36,000 miles, though terms can differ by country or state. This warranty helps safeguard against battery-related defects and significant performance loss due to manufacturing issues.

Check with a local Chevrolet dealer for the exact terms in your area, as coverage can vary by region.

Summary

The 2019 Chevy Bolt EV delivers an EPA-rated range of roughly 238 miles from a 60 kWh pack, with charging options that support Level 2 and DC fast charging. For longevity, the battery is backed by an 8-year/100,000-mile warranty, and actual life depends on climate, charging habits, and driving style. With sensible use, the Bolt’s battery should provide many years of service while maintaining a solid daily range.

Bottom line: solid range for daily driving and a long-running warranty make the 2019 Bolt EV a capable option for those seeking an electric daily driver.

Do new Chevy Bolts have battery problems?

General Motors has decided that a defect which relates to motor vehicle safety exists in certain 2020-2022 model year Chevrolet Bolt EV, and 2022 model year Chevrolet Bolt EUV vehicles. The high voltage batteries in these vehicles may pose a risk of fire when charged to full, or very close to full, capacity.

What year is the bad Chevy Bolt?

The Chevy Bolt years to avoid are generally considered to be the 2017-2019 models due to the risk of battery fires, with the 2020 and 2021 models also impacted by the same recall, although to a lesser extent. These models require careful checking of the battery's recall status, as they were subject to recalls for battery-related issues that could lead to fires. The 2022 and 2023 models are considered more reliable, but some early 2022s may have had issues until production changes were implemented in the spring of 2022. 
Years to be cautious about

• 2017-2022 (Bolt EV) and 2022 (Bolt EUV): These are the models covered by the main battery recall that aimed to address the risk of battery fires. 
• 2017-2019: These years had widespread battery issues that led to a full recall and replacement of the battery pack for many vehicles. 
• 2020-2021: Some models from these years were also part of the recall, though their original batteries were slightly different than the 2017-2019 models. 
• Early 2022: Some early production 2022 models may have had issues before the production changes were made around April 2022. 

How to mitigate risk

• Check for recall completion: Verify that the battery recall has been fully addressed for any used Bolt you are considering. A vehicle with a newly replaced battery pack is a safer bet. 
• Review maintenance records: Look for any documentation that shows the battery replacement has been completed. A Carfax report can be helpful for this purpose. 
• Avoid models with unresolved issues: If a seller can't provide proof of a new battery pack or has a car with unresolved recall issues, it's best to avoid buying it. 
• Consider later models: The 2023 and later models are generally considered more reliable as they have benefited from the production changes and fixes made to the batteries. 

What is the lifespan of a Chevy Bolt battery?

A Chevy Bolt's battery can last 10–20 years or over 100,000 miles, with most owners not needing a replacement within the 8-year/100,000-mile warranty period. Factors like driving habits, climate, and charging habits significantly influence battery life. To maximize battery life, it's recommended to keep the charge between 20% and 80%, avoid frequent DC fast charging, and limit exposure to extreme temperatures. 
This video explains how to monitor your Chevy Bolt's battery health and potential degradation: 53sThatJamesGuyYouTube · Jul 13, 2024
Factors affecting battery life

• Driving habits: Aggressive driving can reduce battery life compared to steady, highway driving. 
• Climate: Extreme heat or cold can negatively impact battery performance and longevity. 
• Charging habits:
  • Avoid frequently charging to 100% or discharging below 20%. 
  • Limit the use of DC fast charging, as it can generate more heat than Level 1 or Level 2 charging. 
• Age and condition: The battery's age and overall condition play a role in its lifespan. 
• Maintenance: Regular maintenance can help ensure the battery's components are working efficiently. 

You can watch this video to see the results of an 8-year/100,000-mile warranty on a Chevy Bolt EV battery: 58sTransport EvolvedYouTube · Jan 16, 2025
Tips for extending battery life

• Charge within the 20%-80% range: If possible, avoid charging to 100% or letting the charge drop below 20% for daily use. 
• Minimize DC fast charging: Utilize slower Level 1 or Level 2 charging when you can. 
• Park in a garage: This helps protect the battery from extreme temperature fluctuations. 
• Drive smoothly: Maintain a consistent speed and avoid rapid acceleration and braking. 

This video explains the Chevy Bolt's battery warranty and how it works: 55sEveryday EVYouTube · Aug 30, 2022
Warranty information

• All Chevy Bolt batteries come with an 8-year/100,000-mile limited warranty, which covers a certain level of battery health retention.
• This warranty is designed to ensure the battery remains functional for a significant period, even with normal use. 

How much does it cost to replace the battery in a Chevy Bolt EV?

A Chevy Bolt battery replacement can cost between $16,000 and $18,000 or more out-of-pocket if not covered by warranty, according to estimates from 2023-2025. The majority of this cost is for the battery pack itself (around $16,000), with the remaining amount covering labor and other related parts. Most owners will have their battery replaced for free through GM's recall or warranty coverage.
 
Cost breakdown

• Battery pack cost: Approximately $16,000$ 16 comma 000$16,000 to $17,000$ 17 comma 000$17,000.
• Labor and parts: Additional costs for certified labor and related components can add several hundred to over a thousand dollars. 

Important considerations

• Warranty: The majority of Chevy Bolt owners will have their battery replaced for free, as GM has extended battery warranties to eight years or 100,000 miles, with some recalls covering replacements. 
• Out-of-pocket costs: If your battery replacement is not covered by warranty, expect a significant out-of-pocket cost, as outlined above. 
• Insurance: Your insurance policy may cover costs if the battery is damaged in an accident. 
• Aftermarket options: The aftermarket for EV batteries is still developing, but there may be more affordable solutions available in the future, or from third-party repair shops.