How much does it cost to replace a Chevy Volt battery?
Typically, you should plan for a replacement running roughly between $5,000 and $15,000 installed, depending on whether you choose a new OEM GM pack, a refurbished unit, or a used salvage pack, plus labor and any ancillary costs. If the vehicle is still within GM’s battery warranty, the replacement may be covered. (Prices reflect market ranges as of 2024–2025 and can vary by region and shop.)
What drives the price
Battery replacement costs hinge on several variables, from the source of the pack to your location and labor rates. Here are the main factors shaping what you’ll pay.
- Source and condition of the battery: new OEM packs, refurbished units, or used salvage packs]
- Battery generation and capacity: Gen 1 Volt packs (16 kWh) vs. Gen 2 packs (18.4 kWh) can influence price
- Labor rates and shop location: dealer networks generally charge more than independent EV specialists
- Warranty status: whether the replacement is covered under GM’s battery warranty
- Ancillary costs: disposal fees, coolant service, or 12-volt (12V) battery replacement may accompany the service
In practice, the final bill depends most on your choice of pack source and whether the unit is under warranty. Always verify warranty terms with the dealer and get multiple quotes when possible.
Pricing options and typical installed ranges
Below are the installed-cost ranges you’re likely to encounter for a Chevy Volt battery replacement in the current market. These figures include parts and labor but can vary by region and exact model year.
- New OEM battery pack (Gen 1 or Gen 2, as applicable): $12,000–$16,000
- Remanufactured/refurbished battery pack: $5,000–$9,000
- Used salvage battery pack (from a wrecked Volt): $2,500–$6,000
- 12-volt auxiliary battery replacement (often needed during service): $200–$350
These installed costs assume labor and standard shop practices; actual quotes may include additional fees for shipping, disposal, or coolant reconditioning. Getting several estimates helps ensure you’re seeing a fair price.
Warranty and coverage
GM’s warranty framework for the Volt typically covers the high-voltage battery and electric drive unit for up to 8 years or 100,000 miles, though exact terms can vary by model year, region, and specific vehicle history. If the fault falls under warranty, replacement costs can be covered or reduced substantially. After the warranty expires, owners face the full replacement bill unless a dealer or independent shop offers a warranty on a refurbished unit.
- 8-year/100,000-mile warranty on the high-voltage battery and electric drive unit is common, but verify for your VIN and region
- Warranty terms can differ by model year and market; check with a GM dealer for your specific vehicle
- Out-of-warranty replacements may be handled by independent shops offering warranties on refurbished packs
Always confirm current warranty status and keep paperwork; it can significantly affect the out-of-pocket cost if a failure occurs.
Gen 1 vs Gen 2: battery replacements
Gen 1 (2011–2015)
The original Volt used a 16 kWh high-voltage pack. Replacement costs tend to cluster around the ranges listed above, with new packs generally in the $12k–$16k range and refurbished units typically $5k–$9k. Salvage packs can be a more budget-conscious option, often in the $2.5k–$5k neighborhood.
Gen 2 (2016–2019)
The Gen 2 Volt uses a larger 18.4 kWh pack, which can push new-pack pricing slightly higher. Expect roughly $13k–$16k for a new pack installed, with refurbished units commonly $6k–$9k and salvage packs around $3k–$7k, depending on availability and condition. Labor remains a significant portion of the total.
Summary
Replacing a Chevy Volt battery is a significant purchase, but the cost can be managed by choosing the right option for your situation. New OEM packs offer the best reliability but come with the highest price, while refurbished or salvage packs provide substantial savings with varying risk. Warranty status is a critical factor that can substantially alter out-of-pocket costs. To make an informed decision, obtain multiple quotes, confirm warranty terms, and weigh the long-term costs of each option.
How long do the batteries last in a Chevy Volt?
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 much does a replacement battery for a Chevy Volt cost?
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How much is a new battery for a 2017 Chevy Volt?
Replacing the main hybrid battery for a 2017 Chevy Volt is a significant expense, ranging from approximately $8,000 to $15,000 including parts and professional installation. Refurbished battery packs can reduce costs to around $6,000 to $10,000, while individual modules may be replaceable for a much lower cost, around $400 to $700 if a full pack replacement isn't necessary.
Cost breakdown
- New Battery (Parts and Labor): Expect a range of $11,000 to $15,000, with the part alone costing around $9,000 plus installation.
- Refurbished Battery (Parts and Labor): The total cost can be closer to $8,000 to $10,000, using a refurbished unit priced around $6,000.
- Modular Replacement (Parts and Labor): A more affordable option, if only a specific module is bad, could be $400 to $700 for the repair. This requires diagnosis to confirm the battery pack isn't failing completely.
- Third-Party Options: Some companies offer refurbished batteries with warranties for $5,000 to $9,000.
What to do before replacing the battery
- Get an expert diagnosis: Have a qualified technician, ideally one certified for Volt hybrid systems, diagnose the issue to determine if a full pack replacement is needed or if it's just a single module that has failed.
- Shop around: Get quotes from both dealerships and reputable independent shops, including those that specialize in hybrid battery replacement.
- Consider a refurbished battery: A professionally refurbished unit can significantly lower your total cost while still offering reliability.
- Check for recalls or other issues: Before spending thousands, ensure there are no recalls or other covered issues with your vehicle.
Can a Chevy Volt battery be replaced?
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