Last updated: 2026-04-20
Chevrolet Bolt Reliability by Year
The Chevrolet Bolt averages 59/100 across 5 model years, rated mixed.
Chevrolet Bolt Reliability Overview
The Chevrolet Bolt, covering model years 2018 to 2023, has an average reliability score of 59/100, indicating mixed reliability. Data shows common issues with the electrical system, steering, and power train, with notable concerns about battery fires and propulsion system failures, particularly in the 2019 model year. Despite achieving a 5/5 NHTSA safety rating, the vehicle frequently experiences complaints, peaking at 102.3 per 10,000 sold in 2019, and repair costs are rated at 3/5.
Current generation: 2nd gen (2027–present).
Best & Worst Chevrolet Bolt Years
Comprehensive reliability analysis based on NHTSA data, owner complaints, and historical performance.
Best Chevrolet Bolt Years to Buy
Based on reliability index scoreThe best Chevrolet Bolt year is 2023 with a reliability score of 64/100, rated good. Other strong picks include 2022 (61/100) and 2021 (61/100).
Chevrolet Bolt Years to Avoid
The worst Chevrolet Bolt year is 2019 with a score of 52/100, primarily due to electrical system (75) issues.
Chevrolet Bolt Reliability Score Trend
Chevrolet Bolt reliability has improved in recent years, with newer models scoring an average of 62/100 compared to 56/100 for older years.
Scores 0–100. Higher is better.
| Year | Score | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| 2018 | 59/100 | Mixed |
| 2019 | 52/100 | Mixed |
| 2021 | 61/100 | Good |
| 2022 | 61/100 | Good |
| 2023 | 64/100 | Good |
Year-by-Year Reliability
2023 Chevrolet Bolt
3 recalls · 146 complaints
The 2023 Chevrolet Bolt has good reliability. There are 3 recalls and 146 owner complaints on file for the 2023 Chevrolet Bolt. Severity signals include 17 crash-related complaints and 2 fire-related complaints. The most commonly reported problem areas are: Electrical System (33), Steering (23), Exterior Lighting (15).
2022 Chevrolet Bolt
11 recalls · 78 complaints
The 2022 Chevrolet Bolt has good reliability. There are 11 recalls and 78 owner complaints on file for the 2022 Chevrolet Bolt. Severity signals include 2 crash-related complaints. The most commonly reported problem areas are: Electrical System (28), Unknown Or Other (10), Steering (10).
2021 Chevrolet Bolt
5 recalls · 66 complaints
The 2021 Chevrolet Bolt has good reliability. There are 5 recalls and 66 owner complaints on file for the 2021 Chevrolet Bolt. Severity signals include 4 crash-related complaints. The most commonly reported problem areas are: Electrical System (29), Power Train (10), Steering (8).
2019 Chevrolet Bolt
6 recalls · 168 complaints
The 2019 Chevrolet Bolt has mixed reliability. There are 6 recalls and 168 owner complaints on file for the 2019 Chevrolet Bolt. Severity signals include 2 crash-related complaints and 10 fire-related complaints. The most commonly reported problem areas are: Electrical System (75), Steering (39), Fuel Propulsion System (16).
2018 Chevrolet Bolt
5 recalls · 73 complaints
The 2018 Chevrolet Bolt has mixed reliability. There are 5 recalls and 73 owner complaints on file for the 2018 Chevrolet Bolt. Severity signals include 2 crash-related complaints and 1 fire-related complaint. The most commonly reported problem areas are: Steering (24), Electrical System (23), Power Train (11).
Found Your Chevrolet Bolt? Check Its History
Every Chevrolet Bolt has a different past. Before you buy, a VIN check reveals hidden accidents, title problems, and open recalls.
- Accidents
- Open Recalls
- Title History
- Odometer Rollback
Chevrolet Bolt Repair Costs
Reliability Rating
3/5
Chevrolet Bolt Years to Avoid
See which model years have the most problems
Most Reliable Chevrolet Models
Compare all Chevrolet models by reliability
Compare Chevrolet Bolt With Similar SUVs
The Chevrolet Bolt competes with other compact suvs such as KIA EV6, Volkswagen ID-4, and Tesla Model Y.
KIA EV6 reliability
5 years tracked · 351 complaints
Volkswagen ID-4 reliability
5 years tracked · 895 complaints
Tesla Model Y reliability
6 years tracked · 3358 complaints
Hyundai Ioniq 5 reliability
5 years tracked · 955 complaints
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is the Chevrolet Bolt reliable?
- The Chevrolet Bolt has mixed reliability with an average score of 59/100. Buyers should research specific model years carefully and consider an extended warranty.
- What is the best year for the Chevrolet Bolt?
- The best year for the Chevrolet Bolt is 2023 with a reliability score of 64/100, rated good. It has 3 recalls and 146 owner complaints on record. See full 2023 Chevrolet Boltanalysis →
- What are the Chevrolet Bolt years to avoid?
- The Chevrolet Bolt years to avoid include 2019 (52/100). These model years score significantly below the model average due to higher recall and complaint volumes. See the full years-to-avoid analysis for details. See full years-to-avoid analysis →
- How much does it cost to maintain a Chevrolet Bolt?
- Annual maintenance cost estimates are not available for the Chevrolet Bolt. Based on its reliability score and complaint patterns, check individual year pages for repair cost details when available.
How We Calculate Reliability Scores
Auto Reliability Index scores are calculated on a 0–100 scale using a weighted formula that combines multiple public data sources. Each factor is weighted based on its predictive value for real-world ownership experience.
Key Ranking Factors
Complaint Severity
NHTSA owner complaints weighted by component category (e.g., powertrain, safety systems, electronics, cosmetic) — safety-critical issues carry more weight than cosmetic ones. Adjusted for sales volume so high-volume models aren't unfairly penalized.
Repair Costs
Independent reliability ratings based on repair frequency, average repair costs, and severity of typical repairs for each model.
Recall Impact
Number of NHTSA recalls weighted by severity. “Stop driving” and fire-risk recalls are penalized more heavily than minor software or labeling recalls.
Issue Diversity
Measures how many major vehicle systems (engine, transmission, electrical, braking, etc.) have recorded complaints. A vehicle with issues spread across many systems may indicate systemic quality issues.
Scores are grouped into four tiers:
- 80–100: Excellent— Top-tier reliability, minimal issues
- 60–79: Good— Reliable with some minor concerns
- 40–59: Mixed— Notable issues, research before buying
- 0–39: Risky— Significant problems, proceed with caution
Data is sourced from NHTSA recall records, owner complaint filings, and independent repair databases. Scores are recalculated as new data becomes available. While the weighting model is proprietary, all underlying data sources are public and traceable.
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