How many years will a Chevy Bolt battery last?
The battery in a Chevy Bolt is typically expected to last about 8 to 10 years, or roughly 100,000 miles, with many drivers seeing longer lifespans depending on climate, charging habits, and maintenance. GM’s warranty covers eight years or 100,000 miles for the battery, with capacity protections designed to ensure performance stays above a defined threshold during that period.
What influences Bolt battery longevity
Understanding the main factors helps owners estimate and plan for potential replacement or maintenance. The Bolt uses a lithium-ion pack, and its life is shaped by usage patterns, environmental conditions, and charging behavior.
Below are the key benchmarks and expectations reported by manufacturers and by Bolt owners in real-world use.
- Typical lifespan: about 8 to 10 years or around 100,000 miles under normal daily-use conditions.
- Potential for longer life: with careful charging habits and in milder climates, some owners report 10–12+ years of service.
- Warranty and capacity retention: GM’s warranty generally covers eight years or 100,000 miles and aims to preserve at least 70% of original battery capacity within that window.
In practice, many Bolt drivers find their batteries hold a useful charge for a decade or longer, though results vary based on climate, charging routines, and total mileage.
How to extend a Bolt battery’s life
Experts and automakers emphasize charging discipline, climate considerations, and software updates as the main levers for preserving battery health over time.
- Keep daily charging to roughly 20–80% for routine use to minimize stress from high or very low state of charge.
- Avoid using DC fast charging as the default charging method; use Level 2 charging for everyday needs and reserve rapid charging for longer trips.
- Precondition the battery in cold weather to reduce thermal strain and improve charging efficiency.
- Avoid parking in extreme heat or cold for long periods; use a garage or shade when possible to moderate temperatures.
- Maintain comfortable battery temperatures through proper vehicle climate control and regular software updates that optimize battery management.
- Ensure the vehicle receives manufacturer software updates, which can improve battery management and efficiency over time.
Following these practices can help maximize the Bolt’s battery life, though some degradation over time is inevitable with use.
Warranty coverage and recalls
GM typically provides an eight-year/100,000-mile limited warranty on the Bolt’s battery and drive unit in many markets, with coverage that protects against defects and aims to maintain at least 70% of original capacity during the warranty period. Terms can vary by region.
In the past, a recall addressed Bolt batteries built with certain LG Chem cells due to fire risk concerns. GM conducted battery-pack replacements or remediation where required. Owners should verify recall status for their vehicle by VIN with GM or their dealer, and address any recommended service promptly.
What to monitor and plan for if you own a Bolt
Owners should monitor range performance, look for signs of rapid capacity loss, and stay current with software updates. If a noticeable drop in range occurs, or if the battery shows unusual behavior, consult a dealer to assess health and eligibility for warranty service or replacement.
Summary
Overall, a Chevy Bolt battery is expected to last around 8 to 10 years or about 100,000 miles, with many owners achieving longer lifespans depending on climate and charging habits. The official warranty provides coverage for eight years or 100,000 miles with a capacity-retention guarantee, and prudent charging practices can help maximize longevity. Consumers should stay informed about recalls and software updates that can affect performance and safety.
What is the lifespan of a Chevy Bolt battery?
The battery in the Chevy Bolt EV or Bolt EUV is guaranteed to get at least 8 years or 100,000 miles out of a new battery. Keep reading to learn more about the longevity of EV batteries with Sunset Chevrolet.
What happens to EV batteries after 8 years?
Yes, when EV batteries reach the end of their working life, they will be recycled. In the US, when the typical 8- to 10-year battery warranty has expired, most EV providers can reuse the batteries for a second or third time.
How much does it cost to replace a Chevy Bolt battery?
Replacing a Chevy Bolt battery can cost anywhere between $16,775 and $19,000, depending on the battery's size, power, and quality. This price includes labor and related parts.
What is the life expectancy of the battery in the GM EV?
10 to 20 years
But don't worry! The average electric car battery life expectancy is currently 10 to 20 years! Every EV is required to have an 8-year, 100,000-mile warranty.
