What year is the bad Chevy Bolt?
The main “bad” Chevy Bolt years are 2017 through 2019 Bolt EVs, which were recalled due to a battery module defect that could lead to a fire. Later safety actions broadened to include additional Bolts as the investigation continued.
What years were initially identified as problematic?
The recall centers on the early Bolt EVs built for model years 2017, 2018 and 2019. In response to reports of battery-cell anomalies that could short and overheat, General Motors ordered battery-module replacements to reduce fire risk.
Model years affected in the initial safety action:
- 2017 Chevrolet Bolt EV
- 2018 Chevrolet Bolt EV
- 2019 Chevrolet Bolt EV
The initial action focused on these years, with GM urging owners to contact their dealers for a safety recall repair—usually involving replacement of defective battery modules.
Were other Bolt models affected later?
Yes. As the battery issue was studied further, safety notices expanded to include additional Bolt models beyond the 2017–2019 range. The broader actions encompassed some 2020–2022 Bolt EV units and the Bolt EUV, though eligibility depended on specific VINs and timing.
Additional model years and variants affected in later expansions:
- Some 2020–2022 Bolt EV units
- Bolt EUV (2021–2023 models in certain VIN ranges)
Owners of newer Bolts should verify their vehicle’s eligibility against the official recall notices. The expansions were part of GM’s ongoing response to the LG battery-module defect reported in the earlier recalls.
What should Bolt owners do now?
If you own a Bolt, the most important step is to check whether your specific vehicle is on a recall list and follow GM’s guidance for service. Actions typically include a battery-module replacement or other battery-system fixes at an authorized GM dealer, at no cost to the owner. In addition, owners are advised to stay informed through GM’s recall portal and their local dealer for VIN-specific eligibility and scheduling.
- Check the VIN against GM’s official recall notices to confirm eligibility.
- Schedule a service appointment with an authorized GM dealer if eligible.
- Do not attempt DIY battery repairs. Follow the dealer’s instructions and GM’s guidance for safe handling.
- Prepare for a potentially lengthy service window, as battery-module replacements can take time.
GM has emphasized that the safety work is aimed at preventing battery fires and protecting occupants, and owners should not wait if their Bolt is listed as eligible for recall repair.
What went wrong and why it mattered
The issue traced back to manufacturing defects in certain high-voltage battery modules supplied by LG Chem. A faulty module could suffer an internal short, potentially leading to thermal runaway and fire under certain conditions. The recall process involved replacing affected battery modules or packs and, in some cases, updating related software and protective systems to mitigate risk while the hardware was serviced.
Historical context and ongoing coverage
News outlets and safety regulators first flagged the risk in late 2019 and into 2020, triggering the initial recall for 2017–2019 Bolt EVs. As investigations continued and new information emerged about the supplier’s battery modules, GM expanded the recall to cover additional Bolts—demonstrating a broader effort to address safety across the Bolt family, including the EUV variant. Owners should rely on official GM recall notices and VIN checks for the most accurate, up-to-date eligibility.
Summary
In short, the Chevrolet Bolt fire-safety concerns began with the 2017–2019 Bolt EVs, which were the initial focus of the recalls. Later expansions broadened the scope to include certain 2020–2022 Bolt EVs and the Bolt EUV, depending on VIN and build date. If you own a Bolt, your first step should be to verify recall status via GM’s official channels and contact a dealership for the approved corrective action.
Summary of key takeaways
The core year range most associated with the “bad” Bolt is 2017–2019. Recalls expanded to other Bolts as the issue persisted, so VIN-based verification is essential for current owners. GM’s remedy has primarily involved battery-module replacement and associated safety measures, all provided at no cost to the vehicle owner.
