How much coolant does a Chevy Bolt hold?
The Bolt’s cooling system holds roughly 5.5–7.0 liters (about 1.5–1.9 gallons) of glycol‑based coolant in total, with exact figures varying by model year and variant.
This article explains why the number isn’t a single fixed figure, how the coolant is distributed across the Bolt’s cooling loops, and what to check if you’re performing a refill or maintenance. It covers both the Bolt EV and the Bolt EUV and notes where to verify the precise specification for your VIN.
What affects the total coolant capacity?
The Chevy Bolt uses a closed cooling system that manages temperature for the battery pack and electric drive components, and it may share or interact with heating/cooling circuits used for cabin comfort. Because of this layout, the published capacity isn’t a single universal number and can vary slightly by year, variant, and manufacturing changes. For the most accurate figure, consult the owner’s manual or the GM service information for your specific vehicle.
Estimated capacity by variant
Below are typical ranges reported across recent Bolt EV and Bolt EUV models. Use these as rough guides and verify with official documentation for your exact vehicle.
- Bolt EV (model years roughly 2017–2023): approximately 5.5–7.0 liters (1.5–1.9 gallons) of total cooling system coolant.
- Bolt EUV (model years roughly 2022–2024): approximately 5.5–7.0 liters (1.5–1.9 gallons) of total cooling system coolant.
In practice, most owners will encounter similar capacities for both variants, but exact numbers can vary by production run and optional equipment. Always confirm with the official documentation for your specific vehicle if you need a precise figure.
What to check and how to refill
When checking or topping off coolant in a Bolt, follow these general safeguards: never open the cooling system reservoir when the system is hot, use the recommended coolant type (glycol-based brake‑coolant/auto coolant compatible with GM specifications), and never mix types. If you’re refilling after a drain, ensure the system is bled of air and filled to the proper level on the reservoir markings. For accuracy, refer to the service manual or have a qualified technician perform the procedure.
Maintenance tips and safety
Tips to keep in mind include keeping the reservoir within the marked range, using only the coolant type specified by Chevrolet, and disposing of old coolant responsibly. If you notice frequent temperature warnings, leaks, or a consistently low reservoir level, have the system inspected promptly to avoid battery or motor overheating issues.
Summary
The Chevy Bolt’s total coolant capacity sits in a practical range of about 5.5–7.0 liters (1.5–1.9 gallons), with slight year-to-year variation. For precise figures, always check your owner’s manual or the GM service documentation for your specific model year and VIN. Proper coolant type and correct filling procedures are essential for protecting the battery and drivetrain in all driving conditions.
How much coolant does a coolant system hold?
Your car's coolant system will typically hold around 5 litres of coolant, though this can differ depending on the make and model. You can find out the exact amount from the handbook or your car dealer.
How much to fill up a Chevy Bolt?
A full charge of the Bolt EV's 65 kWh battery costs roughly $9.75 and provides about 259 miles of range. In contrast, filling a 12-gallon gas tank costs approximately $37.80 for similar distance capability. This means Bolt EV owners pay less than one-fourth the “fuel” cost per fill-up compared to gas vehicle owners.
How much is a coolant change for a Chevy Bolt?
The average cost for a Chevrolet Bolt EV Coolant Change is between $240 and $297. Labor costs are estimated between $122 and $179 while parts are typically priced around $118.
How many gallons of coolant do I need?
You will likely need between 1 and 2 gallons of coolant concentrate to mix with an equal amount of distilled water for a 50/50 solution, but the exact amount depends on your vehicle's cooling system capacity, which can range from 3 to 7 liters (or about 0.75 to 1.75 gallons). It is best to consult your owner's manual or purchase a slightly larger quantity, such as two gallons of concentrate, to ensure you have enough, as some systems can hold more and you may need extra to top off.
How to determine the right amount
- Check the owner's manual: This is the most reliable method, as it will state the exact capacity of your vehicle's cooling system. Look for information under "fluid capacities".
- Estimate based on engine size: If you don't have the manual, you can estimate that 4-cylinder engines generally require between 1 and 2 gallons of a 50/50 mix. Larger engines will need more.
- For a complete flush: If you are doing a full coolant flush, you will likely need more concentrated antifreeze. You can start by adding about 4 gallons of concentrate to a system that holds 8 gallons total, as you can't drain all the old coolant, and then fill the rest with distilled water.
- For topping off: If you are just topping off the system, add enough to reach the "COLD" line on the overflow tank. The amount will be much smaller, likely less than a quart, says this Quora post.
Important tips
- Always use distilled water: Never use tap water, as the minerals can cause corrosion in your cooling system.
- Mix it correctly: Make sure to mix the antifreeze with distilled water in a 50/50 ratio for optimal protection.
- Check the level after service: After refilling, run the engine and keep an eye on the coolant level, as air bubbles may need to be "burped" out of the system.
