Which year is the most reliable Chevy Volt?
There is no official single "most reliable" Chevy Volt year, but several model years consistently earn high reliability marks: 2012 and 2013 in the first generation, and 2016 through 2019 in the second generation.
Reliability for the Volt depends on drivetrain integrity, battery health, software updates, and recall history. This article consolidates ratings from major outlets and owner feedback to identify which years tend to be the most dependable and what to look for when shopping for a used Volt.
Generational overview
The Volt evolved from a pioneering plug-in hybrid in the 2010–2015 first generation to a more polished second generation starting with 2016 models. Reliability tends to track these refinements: older Volts can show aging-related wear, while later Gen 2 cars benefit from updated electronics and improved battery management.
First generation (2010–2015)
Reliability across this early group is generally solid, with many owners reporting dependable electric drive and low maintenance needs. Some reports cite electrical-system quirks and the need for occasional software updates as mileage increases, but major failures remain relatively uncommon.
Second generation (2016–2019)
Second-generation Volts benefited from a refined platform, better battery management, and improved insulation and electronics, contributing to strong reliability in surveys and fewer recurring issues. As with any Chevy model, battery health and proper maintenance remain critical to long-term dependability.
Reliability by year (survey snapshots)
To offer a concise snapshot, here are representative years that consistently rank highly in major reliability surveys. Remember that exact scores vary by dataset and method.
- 2012 Volt — Often cited as a standout for reliability among first-generation models, with favorable ratings for electrical/electronic systems and battery performance.
- 2013 Volt — Continues the strong reliability profile seen in 2012, with high marks from multiple outlets and generally favorable owner feedback.
- 2016 Volt — The launch year of the second generation; reliability improves due to updated components and software, earning strong survey results.
- 2017–2019 Volt — Consistently solid reliability in later Gen 2 years, with fewer recurring issues reported and strong long-term durability signals.
In summary, these years frequently appear at the top of reliability rankings, but individual vehicle history—battery health, maintenance, and recalls—plays a decisive role in real-world dependability.
What to look for when shopping
Shopping for a used Volt with reliability in mind involves checking battery health, warranty status, and recall history. Consider the following steps.
- Verify the specific battery-related warranty terms for the model year and region, and confirm the remaining coverage with the dealer or on the manufacturer’s site.
- Check for open recalls and ensure all issued fixes have been completed on the vehicle you’re considering.
- Inspect the charging system and battery cooling components; listen for unusual noises from the battery pack cooling system and check for charging irregularities during a test cycle.
- Review maintenance records for the battery, inverter, and electric drive components; ask about any past battery replacements or calibrations.
- Consider climate and mileage, as aggressive charging and high heat can affect long-term battery performance.
Bottom line
While there isn’t a single official “most reliable” Chevy Volt year, the 2012 and 2013 first-generation models and the 2016–2019 second-generation models are the commonly cited leaders in reliability. For any used Volt, thorough battery health checks, up-to-date recalls, and complete maintenance history are essential to gauge real-world dependability.
Summary
The Chevy Volt generally earns strong reliability across its lifespan. Based on major reliability surveys, the most reliable years cluster around 2012–2013 (first generation) and 2016–2019 (second generation). Buyers should prioritize battery health, confirm recall fixes, and review service records to ensure long-term dependability.
