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What is Chevy Volt hold mode?

In the Chevy Volt, Hold Mode is a dedicated drive setting that preserves the current battery charge by letting the gasoline engine power the car. This lets drivers save electric range for a later portion of their trip, such as city driving after a highway stretch, rather than depleting the battery immediately.

What Hold Mode is and how it works

Hold Mode shifts the vehicle’s energy strategy: the gasoline engine (and its generator) becomes the primary energy source, while the battery’s state of charge is kept at its current level. The electric motor may still assist under certain circumstances, but the battery is not allowed to discharge further while Hold is active.

The battery charge is maintained at its current state of charge (SOC) while you drive in Hold mode.

The gasoline engine powers the drivetrain, which can help maximize range when you don’t want to use the battery right away.

Hold Mode is typically used to preserve electric range for later portions of a trip or for planned electric driving in urban areas.

Fuel consumption may increase if you rely on the gasoline power rather than the battery, since the engine is supplying propulsion during Hold.

In practice, Hold Mode is a strategic energy-management feature rather than a performance setting. It gives drivers flexibility to control when they use electric propulsion versus gasoline power.

When to use Hold Mode

Drivers turn to Hold Mode when they want to conserve the battery for a specific part of a trip or to avoid depleting electric range too early. It’s often considered by those who anticipate driving in conditions where charging isn’t readily available, or when entering areas where electric ranges are preferred or required.

Before entering a city or neighborhood where you want to maximize electric range for short trips after leaving a highway segment.

When you expect limited charging opportunities and want to keep a reserve of electric miles for later in the journey.

When cold weather or other conditions would reduce battery efficiency and you prefer to rely on gasoline power for a portion of the trip.

Hold Mode is a tool for deliberate energy planning. It trades immediate electric usage for the option to use electric power later in the trip, which some drivers find valuable for managing charging opportunities and fuel use.

How to activate Hold Mode

Activation methods can vary slightly by model year, but Hold Mode is typically accessed via the Drive Mode control on the center console and confirmed on the instrument cluster.

Start the vehicle in Ready or ignition-on state. Use the Drive Mode selector to choose Hold (sometimes labeled “Hold” or “Battery Hold”). An indicator on the instrument cluster should confirm Hold is active.

Drive as you normally would; the car will rely on the gasoline engine for propulsion while the battery charge remains unchanged.

To exit Hold Mode, switch to EV (electric) or Gas (gasoline) as desired, or continue driving and The system will operate in the mode that matches your selection.

Note: The exact control layout can vary by model year and trim, so consult your owner’s manual or the vehicle’s display for the precise Hold Mode activation process on your Volt.

Limitations and practical tips

Hold Mode is a convenience feature, not a guarantee of improved efficiency. In Hold, the car relies on the gasoline engine for propulsion, which can increase fuel consumption compared with steady electric driving. Temperature, battery health, and driving conditions can also influence how Hold Mode behaves, including how long it preserves battery charge and how the drivetrain switches between power sources.

When planning trips, consider the sequence of driving segments and charging opportunities. If you expect to run a lot of electric-only driving after a highway portion, Hold Mode can help you arrive with a known battery reserve.

Summary

Chevy Volt Hold Mode is a drive setting designed to preserve the current battery charge by letting the gasoline engine power the vehicle, enabling drivers to shield electric range for later use. It’s useful for planned electric driving segments after highway travel or when charging opportunities are limited. Activation typically involves selecting Hold on the Drive Mode control and confirming on the dashboard, with the option to return to EV or Gas mode as needed. As with any hybrid system, its benefits depend on your route, conditions, and how you balance electric versus gasoline power on a given trip.

Can I switch drive modes while driving?

Yes, you can generally switch drive modes while driving, but it is best to do so smoothly by taking your foot off the accelerator and not when the vehicle is in reverse or shifting gears. While modern cars are designed for this, switching while stopped or at a steady speed is often recommended for the smoothest transition.
This video explains when it is safe to switch drive modes: 1mTankensteinYouTube · Dec 17, 2019
When it's safe to switch

While driving at a steady speed: This is the most common and safest time to switch modes, such as changing from Eco to Sport mode on a highway.
While stationary: You can switch modes at a red light before you start moving, but some sources recommend against shifting into and out of neutral while moving, as this can cause damage.

This video explains how to use selectable drive modes: 57sFord Motor CompanyYouTube · Feb 6, 2018
When to avoid switching

While in reverse: You cannot switch modes while the car is in reverse, so you'll need to switch back to a forward gear first.
While flooring the accelerator: Avoid switching modes while accelerating quickly or flooring the gas pedal, as it can cause a jolt or other issues.
While changing gears: Do not shift into a different gear at the same time you are switching drive modes. It's best to let the gear shift complete before changing the mode.

What happens when you switch

Engine and transmission adjustments: The car's computer adjusts engine and transmission settings to match the new mode, which can take a few seconds to complete.
Changes in performance: Sport mode, for example, may result in a tighter steering feel, quicker throttle response, and higher engine RPMs for better performance.
Slippery mode: On slick roads, you can switch to a "slippery" mode that adjusts the engine and traction control settings to improve grip.

This video explains the difference between drive and sport modes: 57sFord Motor CompanyYouTube · Jan 28, 2017

Is it okay to leave a Chevy Volt plugged in all the time?

Should I leave the Volt plugged in for an extended period? The Volt is equipped with a battery management system (BMS) that maintains temperature and charge levels for the battery. The owner's manual states to keep the car plugged in whenever possible.

What is hold mode on a Chevy Volt?

So you use Hold to commute to the city, then switch back to electric so you can drive in these city areas. Also useful for heat in the winter. If you know you'll use up the whole battery on a trip, it makes sense to use Hold right away to get "free" heat rather than tax the battery with cabin heat, which kills range.

What year to avoid Chevy Volt?

The Chevy Volt years to avoid are generally the 2012, 2013, and 2017 models, primarily due to issues with the heater coolant heater, the auxiliary coolant pump, and the battery energy control module (BECM). The 2016 model also had more frequent issues, and some 2018 models need to be checked for the BECM failure if manufactured before March 2018.
Years to avoid

2012 and 2013: These model years are prone to failures with the heater coolant heater and the auxiliary coolant pump, which can be expensive to repair or replace.
2017: This year is notorious for BECM failures. While a recall and extended warranty are in place, the parts can be difficult to get, causing significant downtime.
2016: Although the first year of the second generation, the 2016 model had a higher frequency of issues than other second-gen years.
2018: Be cautious with 2018 models manufactured before March 2018, as they may have the same BECM issue that plagued the 2017 model year.

What to look for in other years

2014 and 2015: These are generally reliable years, but the 2015 model was the last year of the first generation and had a smaller battery than the second-gen models that started production later in the year.
2018: The 2018 model year is considered by some to be a good balance of value and reliability, especially if you can find one made after March 2018 to avoid the BECM issue.
2019: The 2019 model year offers some upgrades but can be expensive due to dealer pricing.

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.