How many miles will a 2016 Chevy Volt last?
In practical terms, a 2016 Chevy Volt can be expected to reach well over 150,000 miles, and many owners report 200,000 miles or more with proper care. Longevity depends on how the car is used, how well the battery is cared for, and how consistently it’s maintained as a hybrid-electric vehicle.
The 2016 Volt is a plug-in hybrid that combines an electric drivetrain with a gasoline engine. Its electric range and overall efficiency influence how far you’ll be able to drive on a single charge and how many miles you’ll accumulate over time. Battery health, driving patterns, climate, and maintenance all play significant roles in real-world longevity.
What determines how long the Volt will last
longevity for a Volt comes from two main parts: the high-voltage battery that powers electric drive, and the gasoline engine/generator that provides range when the battery is depleted. Regular maintenance of the hybrid system, keeping the cooling system in good condition, and prudent charging habits all contribute to longer life. The vehicle and its battery pack carry warranties that reflect typical expectations for longevity in the U.S.
Electric range and total range for the 2016 Volt
Electric-only range
The 2016 Volt is commonly cited with an electric range around 53 miles on a full charge, depending on weather, terrain, and driving style. In day-to-day use, factors such as trip length, climate control usage, and tire pressure can affect this figure.
Total range when the battery is depleted
When the battery capacity is exhausted, the gasoline engine powers the system to provide a total range of roughly 420 miles (depending on fuel tank status and driving conditions). This combination of electric propulsion and gasoline range gives the Volt a practical long-distance capability beyond its battery-only range.
Real-world mileage and battery health
Owners who maintain the car and charge regularly often report reaching 150,000 miles or more, with many surpassing 200,000 miles. Battery capacity does degrade over time; a common expectation is around 10–20% loss of usable capacity after about 100,000 miles, though actual results vary widely based on charging patterns, climate exposure, and how often the vehicle is driven on battery alone.
For peace of mind, note that the Volt’s high-voltage battery and propulsion components have an 8-year/100,000-mile warranty in the United States, with terms that can vary by state and purchase date. The Volt line was discontinued after the 2019 model year, but GM and third-party shops continue to support maintenance and parts for existing vehicles.
To help maximize longevity, consider these practical maintenance steps:
- Charge regularly and avoid letting the battery sit at very low or very high states of charge for extended periods.
- Use Level 2 charging when possible to minimize heat buildup and shorten charging times.
- Follow the recommended maintenance schedule for the hybrid system and cooling circuits.
- Keep tires properly inflated and wheels aligned to reduce drivetrain stress and improve efficiency.
- Monitor the battery and software updates; ensure the vehicle receives appropriate electronic updates from a dealer or qualified technician.
- Avoid exposing the vehicle to extreme temperatures for long periods when possible, as excessive heat or cold can affect battery health.
Concluding, with attentive care, a 2016 Chevy Volt is capable of lasting well into the hundreds of thousands of miles. Real-world results will vary, but the blend of electric drive with gasoline range provides practical longevity for many years of use.
Summary
The 2016 Chevy Volt can realistically reach 150,000 miles or more under good maintenance, with many owners reporting 200,000 miles or higher. The car offers an EPA-rated electric range of roughly 53 miles per charge and a total range around 420 miles when the gas generator is in use. Battery health will gradually decline over time, but proper charging habits, regular maintenance, and adherence to warranty guidelines help maximize longevity. Keep in mind the Volt line ended after 2019, though existing vehicles remain serviceable with appropriate support.
How long will a 2016 Chevy Volt last?
A typical lifespan for the Chevy Volt is 200,000-300,000 miles. Thus, you will hit high mileage for the Chevy Volt around the 200,000-mile point.
How many miles can you get on a Chevy Volt?
Chevy Volts can last 150,000 to 250,000 miles, with some owners reporting even higher mileage, thanks to their hybrid powertrain and a battery designed for longevity. Proper maintenance is key, as the battery and other components can last for many years and miles, with some batteries showing minimal degradation even after extensive use.
Factors influencing the lifespan
- Battery longevity: The high-voltage battery pack is designed to last a long time, often outperforming the rest of the car.
- GM engineered the battery to use only a portion of its total capacity to reduce degradation, and it comes with an 8-year/100,000-mile warranty.
- Some owners have reported their batteries holding up well after 100,000 miles, with minimal capacity loss.
- Maintenance: Regular maintenance is crucial for achieving a long lifespan.
- Keeping up with recalls and scheduled maintenance is important.
- Engine and drivetrain: The hybrid powertrain is generally very durable.
- The electric motors have fewer moving parts than internal combustion engines and can last for a very long time.
- Other components: Like any car, other components will eventually wear out.
- The rest of the car's electronics and mechanical parts may need repairs over time, just as in a gas-powered car.
What to expect as the car ages
- Battery degradation: While the battery is designed to last, some degradation is normal over time and use.
- This may result in a decrease in electric-only range.
- A battery that degrades past its warranty may still function well using its gasoline backup system.
- Potential issues: Some owners have reported specific issues, such as the "shift to park" problem or issues with the OnStar module.
- However, many owners report few major issues over many years of ownership.
- Long-term running: Even if the battery's performance declines, the car can still be driven using its gasoline engine, giving it a very long operational life.
What is the life expectancy of the Chevy Volt battery?
The Chevy Volt battery is designed to last for many years, with owners reporting exceptional longevity, sometimes over 300,000 miles with minimal degradation thanks to the vehicle's liquid-cooling system and software. General Motors provides an 8-year/100,000-mile limited warranty for the battery, which covers 75% of its original capacity, and many factors like proper charging and avoiding extreme temperatures can extend its life.
You can watch this video to learn how to check your EV's battery health: 0:54ThatJamesGuyYouTube · Jul 13, 2024
Battery longevity and performance
- Long lifespan: Chevy Volt batteries are known for their durability, with some owners reporting minimal battery capacity loss even after hundreds of thousands of miles.
- Built-in protection: The Volt has a liquid-cooling system that helps maintain an optimal battery temperature, which preserves battery life.
- Software management: The vehicle's software also helps protect the battery by limiting the charge to a certain percentage (e.g., below 100%) to extend its lifespan.
- Extended driving capability: Because the Volt is a plug-in hybrid, it can continue to run on its gasoline engine even if the battery is depleted, ensuring the vehicle can still be driven.
Warranty and maintenance
- Warranty: A limited warranty is provided for the high-voltage battery, covering it for 8 years or 100,000 miles, whichever comes first.
- Maintenance: Regular charging and avoiding extreme temperature exposure will help maximize the battery's lifespan. Staying up to date with manufacturer software updates is also recommended.
How reliable is a 2016 Chevy Volt?
Reliability. The 2016 Chevrolet Volt has a 3 years / 36,000 miles basic warranty and 1 recall. RepairPal gives it a reliability rating of 4 out of 5, ranks it #6 out of 6 among Alternative Fuel Vehicles.
