Is the Chevy Bolt a safe car?
The Chevy Bolt has gained popularity as an affordable and efficient electric vehicle (EV), but safety is a top concern for any car buyer. In this article, we’ll explore the safety features, crash test ratings, and overall reliability of the Chevy Bolt to help you make an informed decision.
Crash Test Ratings
The Chevy Bolt has performed well in crash tests conducted by reputable organizations. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) awarded the Bolt a 5-star overall safety rating, which is the highest possible score. This rating reflects the vehicle's strong performance in frontal, side, and rollover crash tests. Additionally, the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) has given the Bolt high marks in several categories, including crashworthiness and crash avoidance.
Advanced Safety Features
One of the standout aspects of the Chevy Bolt is its suite of advanced safety features. These features are designed to prevent accidents and protect occupants in the event of a collision. Some of the key safety technologies include:
- Automatic Emergency Braking: Helps prevent or reduce the severity of collisions by automatically applying the brakes when a potential crash is detected.
- Lane Keep Assist with Lane Departure Warning: Alerts the driver if the vehicle unintentionally drifts out of its lane and provides gentle steering corrections to stay on course.
- Forward Collision Alert: Warns the driver of potential front-end collisions with vehicles or obstacles.
- Rear Cross Traffic Alert: Assists when reversing by detecting approaching vehicles from either side.
- Surround Vision Camera: Provides a bird’s-eye view of the vehicle to aid in parking and maneuvering in tight spaces.
Battery Safety and Fire Concerns
While the Chevy Bolt has received praise for its safety features, it has faced scrutiny over battery-related fire risks. General Motors (GM) issued a recall for certain Bolt models due to potential battery defects that could lead to fires. GM has since worked to address these issues by replacing defective battery modules and implementing software updates to enhance safety. If you’re considering a used Chevy Bolt, it’s essential to verify that all recall repairs have been completed.
Real-World Reliability
In addition to crash test ratings and safety features, real-world reliability is an important factor. Many Chevy Bolt owners report satisfaction with the vehicle’s performance and safety. However, as with any car, regular maintenance and adherence to manufacturer guidelines are crucial to ensuring long-term safety and reliability.
Conclusion
The Chevy Bolt is a safe car, offering excellent crash test ratings and a robust suite of advanced safety features. While past battery concerns have raised questions, GM’s proactive recall efforts have addressed these issues. If you’re in the market for an electric vehicle, the Chevy Bolt is a strong contender, provided you ensure that all necessary updates and repairs have been completed.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many Chevy Bolts were recalled?
A few years back, General Motors had to recall 142,000 Bolts in a major fiasco due to fire risk. This time around, however, just a small number of Bolts are being recalled, only 107. But the risk of fire is deemed high – according to the NHTSA – if these vehicles are charged to full or nearly full capacity.
What year is the bad Chevy Bolt?
It comes after GM suffered customer scrutiny and a lawsuit following three recalls of its Bolt and Bolt EUVs starting in late 2020 and culminating nearly a year later with a total of 142,000 Bolt vehicles recalled globally starting with model year 2017 going through model year 2022.
What is Chevy replacing the Bolt with?
2024 Chevy Equinox EV
Uncover the reasons the 2024 Chevy Equinox EV stands as an extraordinary successor to the discontinued Bolt, boasting a bigger size and superior enhancements, distinguishing it in the automotive world. Dive into Chevrolet's world of electric cars, where every journey is a unique exploration into the future of driving.
Is Bolt car service safe?
Peace of mind, every time you ride. These innovative features ensure our riders always feel safe and comfortable while riding with Bolt. Products, features, and insurance coverage vary by country. Some features listed here may not be available in your app.
Why is Chevy discontinuing the Bolt?
This was compounded by recalls in 2020 and 2021 due to fire concerns related to defective batteries from suppliers and manufacturers alike. Reports indicate that at least a dozen Bolts experienced spontaneous fires due to this issue.
Are Chevrolet cars safe?
In general, Chevy models are considered to be above average when it comes to safety, and have exceptionally low recall numbers. In 2021, every Chevy model that was rated by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration received either a 4-star or 5-star safety rating.
What went wrong with Chevy Bolt?
Due to significant battery issues, the 2022 Chevy Bolt EUV has faced a major recall. GM identified that the high-voltage lithium-ion cells, sourced from LG Energy Solution, could potentially catch fire when charged to total or near-full capacity. This led to the recall of all 2020-2022 Bolt EV and EUV models.
Is the Chevy Bolt still a fire hazard?
Now, GM has revealed that some of the 2020-2022 Bolt EV and Bolt EUV models repaired under the previous recall are still at risk of catching fire. As part of a prior recall, GM dealers were instructed to install advanced diagnostic software that alerts drivers to faults within the battery.
Why are Chevy bolts prohibited?
General Motors has issued a recall of all Chevrolet Bolt vehicles due to a risk of fire. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and General Motors are urging owners of Chevrolet Bolt vehicles to park their cars outside and away from homes and other structures due to the risk of fire.
Is the Chevrolet Bolt safe?
2023 Bolt EV Safety
While the 2023 Chevrolet Bolt EV is yet to undergo a full NHTSA or IIHS review, the 2021 model managed to score a perfect five out of five stars from the NHTSA. The 2022 and 2023 variants have only been tested for their rollover prevention capabilities, scoring four stars.
