How much does it cost to replace a Chevy Bolt battery?
Budget for a Chevy Bolt battery replacement is typically in the range of about $10,000 to $18,000, depending on the pack size, model year, and whether you’re covered by warranty or a recall program. In many cases, if the car is still within GM’s warranty or a nationwide recall is active, the replacement can be at little or no personal cost.
In practice, the total price hinges on several factors: the exact battery pack (60 kWh for the Bolt EV vs. larger 65 kWh/66 kWh variants in newer models), the vehicle’s age and condition, regional labor rates, and whether you opt for a brand-new OEM pack, a refurbished unit, or a salvage pack. The following sections break down typical costs and the protections that may affect what you pay.
What drives the price
Below is a breakdown of the main cost contributors you’ll encounter when replacing a Chevy Bolt battery.
- Battery pack price (new OEM): The cost for a brand-new Bolt battery pack varies by year and pack size, but a common installed price range is about $9,000 to $16,000. Newer, larger packs (65–66 kWh) generally trend toward the higher end of that range.
- Labor and installation: Mechanics’ labor to remove the old pack and install the new one typically adds around $800 to $2,000, depending on local rates and the complexity of the job.
- Ancillary parts and services: Coolant, seals, electrical connections, charging system checks, and disposal fees can add a few hundred dollars.
- Warranty and recall coverage: If the vehicle is still within GM’s warranty or a recall program applies, the replacement may be covered at no cost to the owner.
- Refurbished or salvage-pack options: Refurbished or salvage-pack replacements can be substantially cheaper, often in the $4,000 to $8,000 range for the pack itself, plus installation; availability varies and warranty coverage may be limited.
- Geographic and dealer variability: Regional pricing, dealer policies, and the availability of parts can cause noticeable differences in final out-of-pocket costs.
Costs can vary widely by year and configuration. For example, a Bolt EV with a 60 kWh pack may price differently from a Bolt EUV with a larger 65 kWh/66 kWh pack. Always obtain multiple quotes and verify what is included in the quoted price (pack, labor, coolant, disposal, and any diagnostic fees).
Warranty, recalls and consumer options
Understanding protections and recall remedies is essential because they can dramatically affect your costs if you need a battery replacement.
- Battery warranty: Chevrolet typically offers a long-term warranty on the high-voltage battery and drive unit—commonly 8 years or 100,000 miles, whichever comes first—against defects and certain failures. This can cover replacement costs if your Bolt qualifies.
- Recall coverage: In the early 2020s, GM initiated recalls for Bolt battery modules due to safety concerns. Affected owners could have the battery pack or modules replaced under recall coverage, often at little or no personal cost, depending on eligibility and warranty status.
- How to verify coverage: Use your vehicle’s VIN on GM’s recall and warranty portals or contact a Chevrolet dealer to confirm current coverage, recall status, and any required service appointments.
- What to do if you’re out of warranty: If your Bolt battery is no longer under warranty or recall coverage, you can still replace the pack, typically at the ranges noted above, but without warranty protection. Consider quotes from multiple dealers and independent EV shops, and inquire about refurbished options with warranty.
Owners should check official sources for the latest terms, as warranty extensions or recall fixes can evolve with new safety findings and program updates. Always confirm eligibility before proceeding with repairs to avoid surprise costs.
What buyers and owners should consider
Replacing a Bolt battery is a major investment. Here are practical steps to help you navigate the process and optimize costs.
- Check current recall and warranty status: Run a VIN check with GM and NHTSA databases to see if a recall applies or if an extended warranty covers your case.
- Get multiple quotes: Contact several Chevrolet dealers and independent EV specialists to compare pack prices and labor charges for your specific model and year.
- Ask about pack options: Inquire whether a new OEM pack, refurbished unit, or salvage-pack is available, and what warranty accompanies each choice.
- Consider total ownership costs: Factor in potential towing, diagnostic fees, and disposal charges, as well as any potential tax credits or incentives for EV repairs in your region.
- Plan for future reliability: If the vehicle is out of warranty, weigh the cost of replacement against possible resale value and reliability considerations when deciding whether to repair or replace the car altogether.
If you’re facing a battery replacement decision, a proactive approach—checking recall status, obtaining several price quotes, and understanding warranty protections—can help you avoid overpaying and ensure you’re choosing the best option for your Bolt.
Summary
Replacing a Chevy Bolt battery typically costs between roughly $10,000 and $18,000 before labor, depending on the pack size (60 kWh vs. larger variants), year, and where you shop. Battery replacement may be fully covered under GM’s warranty or recall programs, dramatically lowering or eliminating your expense, if you qualify. Outside warranty, options include new OEM packs, refurbished units, or salvage packs, each with different price points and warranty terms. To minimize surprises, verify recall and warranty coverage, compare quotes from multiple sources, and consider the total cost of ownership when deciding how to proceed.
How much is a battery for a 2017 Chevy Bolt?
Affordable Prices and Wide Selection
But with Advance Auto Parts, you can find high-quality Batteries and Chargers for your 2017 Chevrolet Bolt EV at great prices. Our Batteries and Chargers inventory for this model ranges from just $26.99 to $259.99, with an average price of $143.49.
What is the average lifespan of a bolt battery?
How long do Electric car batteries last? 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.
Is it worth replacing an EV battery?
Research shows that modern EV batteries rarely fail. Only 0.3% of batteries in EVs sold after 2022 have had to be replaced, outside of major recalls, Recurrent says.
When to replace a Chevy Bolt battery?
Most Chevy Bolt batteries last 8 to 10 years or between 100,000 and 150,000 miles. Factors like charging habits, climate, and driving style can affect battery lifespan.
