Last updated: 2026-04-20
2021 Chevrolet Bolt Reliability Report
The 2021 Chevrolet Bolt scores 61/100 ("Good"). With 5 recalls and 66 owner complaints, reliability is acceptable but not class-leading.
Recalls
5
Complaints
66
Complaint Rate
26.6per 10,000 sold
Est. Repair Cost
$649
EV Range
259 mi
Detailed Score Breakdown
Component-weighted complaints normalized by sales volume
Independent repair cost ratings
Recall count weighted by severity
Breadth of reported problem categories
The Verdict
Acceptable reliability — worth considering with a pre-purchase inspection.
Top Issues to Watch
- ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (29)
- POWER TRAIN (10)
- STEERING (8)
Generation & Refresh (US)
2021 is year 5 of the First generation (2016).
- Redesigned for the 2017 model year.
- Well-established in its generation — most early issues should be resolved.
- A refresh arrives in 2022.
- 1st generation Bolt (US).
What this means for buyers
Well into the generation cycle — most design and manufacturing issues should be resolved by now.
2017: First generation (2016) Launch
Generation start — new platform.
2021: This Model Year
2021 is year 5 of the First generation (2016).
2022: Mid-Cycle Refresh
Updated features and styling tweaks.
Should You Buy the 2021 Chevrolet Bolt?
At 61/100, the 2021 Chevrolet Bolt lands in "Good" territory — acceptable, but not class-leading. 2021 is year 5 of the First generation (2016).
Its complaint rate of 26.6 per 10,000 vehicles sold runs above the SUV segment average of 17.5. The most common reports involve electrical system (29).
Get a pre-purchase inspection on any used example, with extra attention to electrical system (29). An extended warranty is worth pricing out.
Compared to the 2022 Chevrolet Bolt, which scored the same. See also the 2019 Chevrolet Bolt for an earlier comparison.
Pros
- +Acceptable reliability score
- +5-star NHTSA crash rating
- +Well-established generation
Cons
- −Moderate recall count
- −Above-average complaint rate for SUV
- −ELECTRICAL SYSTEM issues reported (29 complaints)
- −Safety recall: park-outside advisory issued
Compare 2021 Chevrolet Bolt With
Common Problem Categories
Safety
LOW RISK- 5 manufacturer recalls issued
Other
HIGH RISK- ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (29)
- POWER TRAIN (10)
Recall Overview
5
recalls on record
A moderate 5 recalls are on file for the 2021 Chevrolet Bolt. Each one points to a specific safety or compliance issue identified by the manufacturer or NHTSA — check the list below before buying.
NHTSA.gov →Complaint Breakdown
26.6
per 10,000 soldSegment avg: 17.5
Safety Incidents
4
Crashes
0
Fires
1
Injuries
0
Deaths
NHTSA 5/5 Stars
Data sourced from NHTSA complaint filings and manufacturer recall notices. Complaint narratives are owner-reported.
2021 Chevrolet Bolt Recall Details
5 recalls have been issued for the 2021 Chevrolet Bolt. All recall repairs are performed free of charge at authorized dealerships.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2020-2022 Chevrolet Bolt EV and 2022 Bolt EUV vehicles previously repaired under Recall 21V-650. The installation of advanced diagnostic software may have failed. As such, the high voltage battery could catch fire when charged to full or nearly full capacity.
Consequence
A battery fire increases the risk of injury.
Remedy
Owners are advised to take the following interim steps: Set the Target Charge Level feature in their vehicle to limit the charge level to 90%, charge their vehicle more frequently, avoid depleting the battery to 70 miles range remaining, park outside after charging, and do not charge the vehicle indoors overnight. Dealers will reinstall advanced diagnostic software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed December 3, 2024. Owners may contact the Bolt EV Concierge Team at 1-833-382-4389. GM's number for this recall is N242470160.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2020-2022 Chevrolet Bolt EV and 2022 Chevrolet Bolt EUV vehicles that were previously remedied under recall number 21V-650. The advanced diagnostic software may have been incorrectly installed and fail to detect defective battery modules, possibly resulting in a battery fire.
Consequence
A battery fire increases the risk of injury.
Remedy
Owners are advised to take the following interim steps: Set the Target Charge Level feature in their vehicle to limit the charge level to 90%, charge their vehicle more frequently, avoid depleting the battery to 70 miles range remaining, park outside after charging, and do not charge the vehicle indoors overnight. Dealers will reinstall the advanced diagnostic software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on August 1, 2024. Owners may contact the Bolt EV Concierge Team at 1-833-382-4389. GM's numbers for this recall are N242443000 and N242443002.
STRUCTURE, SEAT BELTS
General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2017-2023 Chevrolet Bolt EV vehicles. This recall includes certain vehicles previously repaired incorrectly under NHTSA recall number 22V-930. After a crash with seat belt pretensioner deployment, the pretensioner exhaust may ignite carpet fibers near the B-pillar, causing a fire.
Consequence
A fire increases the risk of injury.
Remedy
Dealers will inspect both front seat belt pretensioners and, if necessary, install metal foil at the carpet near the pretensioner exhaust. Certain vehicles will also need a pretensioner cover installed. Repairs will be performed free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed January 24, 2024. These vehicles were previously recalled for this same issue under recall number 22V-930 and will need to have the new remedy performed. Owners may contact GM EV Concierge at 1-833-EVCHEVY (1-833-382-4389) (TTY 711 / 1-800-833-2438) or Customer Service at 1-800-222-1020. GM's number for this recall is N232421970.
Buying a used 2021 Chevrolet Bolt? Check its history first
Every 2021 Chevrolet Bolt has a different past. A VIN check reveals hidden accidents, title problems, odometer rollbacks, and open recalls that reliability scores can't show you.
- Accidents
- Open Recalls
- Title History
- Odometer Rollback
2021 Chevrolet Bolt NHTSA Safety Ratings
Overall Safety Rating
Crash Test Results by Configuration (expand)
Gas Powertrain
Rollover risk: 9.7%
Safety Technologies
Chevrolet BoltRepair Costs & Maintenance
Maintenance Rating
3Maintenance rating: 3 out of 5Based on NHTSA complaint patterns, recall severity, and publicly available cost benchmarks.
Est. Annual Maintenance
$649
Category-level averages derived from publicly available industry reports (AAA, CarMD). Model-level estimates produced by Auto Reliability Index.
2021 Chevrolet Bolt Example Repair Prices
National average price ranges for common repairs. These are not model-year-specific failure predictions.
| Repair | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Fog Lamp Relay Replacement | $107 – $147 |
| Transmission Leak Inspection | $61 – $90 |
| Stabilizer Bar Link Kit Replacement | $107 – $144 |
| Oil Pan Gasket Replacement | $740 – $1,038 |
| Power Steering System Leak Inspection | $61 – $90 |
| Intake Manifold Gasket Replacement | $858 – $995 |
| Fuel Pump Replacement | $875 – $1,760 |
| Wheel Lug Stud Replacement | $103 – $149 |
| Wheel Hub Assembly Replacement | $471 – $534 |
| Windshield Wiper Blade Replacement | $80 – $97 |
Estimates based on national average repair costs. Actual costs may vary by location and shop.
MPG & Annual Running Costs
Electric
259 mi range
Fuel cost: $650/yr
Fuel only
28.663 kWh/100mi · 10 hrs @ 240V
Based on EPA fuel-cost estimates. Excludes routine maintenance, depreciation, and insurance. Data as of 2021 EPA label cycle.
Electric trims
| Trim | Drive | Trans. | Range | kWh/100mi | Fuel Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bolt EV | Front-Wheel Drive | Automatic (variable gear ratios) | 259 mi | 28.7 | $650 |
Used Buying Checklist
Key things to inspect or verify before purchasing a 2021 Chevrolet Bolt.
Verify if battery recall repairs are completed
Check steering wheel for binding or failure to return to center
Test propulsion system for sudden power loss
Inspect for warning lights related to electrical or propulsion systems
Ensure airbag system is functional and error-free
Test drive to check for transmission shudder or unintended acceleration
2021 Chevrolet Bolt Common Problems by Component
66 owner complaints grouped by vehicle system.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
29 complaintsOwners of the 2021 Chevrolet Bolt frequently report issues related to the electrical system, particularly concerning the high-voltage battery and propulsion system. Common symptoms include sudden loss of propulsion, reduced battery range, and recurring warning lights for battery or power-propulsion. Many complaints highlight delays in recall repairs, with parts often unavailable, leading to prolonged periods where vehicles cannot be fully charged or are restricted to 80-90% state of charge. Some reports mention safety concerns, such as the potential for battery fires and incidents where the vehicle loses power unexpectedly while driving. These issues typically arise within the first few thousand miles, with some owners expressing dissatisfaction over the extended wait times for a complete resolution.
POWER TRAIN
10 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners report several power train issues with the 2021 Chevrolet Bolt, primarily involving sudden loss of propulsion and uncommanded acceleration. Complaints frequently mention the vehicle stalling or losing power while driving, with some incidents linked to wiring harness or fuse failures. There are also instances of unintended acceleration when shifting gears, sometimes leading to crashes, although no injuries are reported. These problems often occur at low mileage, with one owner noting issues as early as 2,430 miles. Safety implications include the potential for crashes and being stranded in hazardous conditions, making these reports pertinent for potential buyers.
STEERING
8 complaintsOwners report recurring issues with the steering system of the 2021 Chevrolet Bolt, particularly with the steering wheel failing to return to center and becoming progressively harder to turn. Complaints frequently mention binding in the steering rack and gear, with some owners experiencing clunking noises and steering that pulls to one side. These issues often arise at varied mileages, with some reports as early as 3,500 miles. Multiple owners describe safety concerns, as the unpredictable handling and loss of power steering can pose risks while driving. Additionally, one owner notes a manufacturer buyback due to unresolved steering alignment and axle issues, underscoring the potential severity of these problems.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER (7 complaints)
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
7 complaintsOwners of the 2021 Chevrolet Bolt frequently report issues related to the vehicle's high voltage battery, specifically concerning a recall for potential fire hazards. Complaints often describe a lack of available remedies for this recall, with some owners stating that they have been waiting over a year for a resolution, leading to restricted battery charging and reduced vehicle range. Additionally, there are reports of a shift selector failure, which can lock the car in park, and a potential safety issue where keys locked in the trunk can trap occupants inside. Safety implications mentioned include the risk of battery fires and potential entrapment of children, which could be hazardous if the vehicle is in motion. These issues are reported without specific mileage indications but are noted as ongoing concerns since the recall announcements in 2021.
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM (7 complaints)
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
7 complaintsOwners of the 2021 Chevrolet Bolt frequently report issues related to the propulsion system, primarily involving battery and power reduction problems. Complaints commonly describe sudden deceleration and reduced propulsion power, even with sufficient battery charge remaining, often occurring at highway speeds and posing significant safety risks. Several owners mention delays in receiving battery replacements or software updates intended to mitigate these issues, with some experiencing these problems within the first few miles of ownership. The reports highlight safety concerns, with abrupt power loss potentially leading to dangerous situations such as near-accidents on highways. These patterns suggest prospective buyers should be aware of potential propulsion system issues and ongoing recall-related delays.
AIR BAGS (2 complaints)
AIR BAGS
2 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners of the 2021 Chevrolet Bolt report issues with the airbag system, specifically noting non-deployment during collisions. In two separate incidents, airbags fail to deploy during crashes, with one resulting in facial injuries due to impact with the steering wheel. One owner mentions receiving an error notification through the Chevy app indicating that the airbag system requires attention. These reports suggest potential safety implications, as the non-deployment of airbags occurs during significant impacts, potentially compromising occupant safety.
TIRES (1 complaints)
TIRES
1 complainton 7/2/21 I hit a curb at two miles per hour which caused a gash in the passenger front tire sidewall. I purchased the 21 Chevrolet Bolt and these Michelins are Bolt specfic, Michelin A/S selfseal because I work in construction and had a lot of flat repairs so selfseal was a primary driver for the lease. The tires have the sealant already inside which makes the tires heavy and cumbersome in handling. The sidewalls feel like they are buckling because the weight is in the tread and around it. These low rolling resistance tires have bad traction especially in wet conditions. I had to leave my car in an unsafe location and it took GM Roadside Assistance four days to get the car to the dealer. The bolt has no spare or sealant kit. I complained to GM and they offered me goodwill GM points which they later reneged on.
LANE DEPARTURE (1 complaints)
LANE DEPARTURE
1 complaintThe blind spot warning system fails to work adequately. It triggers both false negative and false positives on both sides of the vehicle. It is available for inspection upon request. Even when there are no cars within a quarter mile of me, the lights may come on, alerting me to a non-existent car in my blind spot. If the light turns on properly, it doesn't always turn off when the car leaves my blind spot, just staying on indefinitely. It fails to detect approximately 50% of cars accurately when they enter or leave my blind spot. This defect puts others at risk, increasing the possibility of a side collision when the blind spot warning system fails to adequately inform the driver of an accurate blind spot status. The vehicle was taken to a dealership with an appointment, they refused to inspect or diagnose the problem, stating that myself, the driver, should read the manual and tinker with the vehicle settings. I informed them that I had already read the manual, it stated it may take some time to calibrate and it didn't mention any user accessible settings menu, but I had over 100 miles on the new vehicle at this point and was unable to locate any user settings. The dealership still refused to inspect the vehicle. The vehicle has only been inspected by myself. Besides the false negatives and false positives of the blind spot warning system, no other error messages have occurred. This issue propped up the day I was driving the new vehicle home from the dealership after purchasing. I have attempted to personally improve the performance of the blind spot warning system using documentation found online regarding previous models of my vehicle having similar issues, I have had moderate success with using metal tape akin to duct tape on the rear of the radar sensor that powers the blind spot warning system.
SERVICE BRAKES (1 complaints)
SERVICE BRAKES
1 complaintmy bolt 2021 had break locking issue within 20 days had to get it to dealer n after 12 days they return the car without fixing this particular issue but fixed some 25 other faults..and after two days again same issue happened and now after more than 2 weeks they asked me to take car back but not giving assurance that same issue reproduced n fixed.. fortunately both times issue happened in parking lot but i am afraid about it that while on freeway if that happens so dont want to take chance i requested dealer for replacement vehicle which is thoroughly inspected but they asked to deal that with GM directly and i opened case with GM but there is little to no communication from them
When Do 2021 Chevrolet Bolt Problems Start?
Based on owner complaint patterns, here's when common issues tend to appear.
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).
2023
2022
2021
(Current Model)
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. Current year highlighted.
| Year | Score | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| 2018 | 59/100 | Mixed |
| 2019 | 52/100 | Mixed |
| 2021 | 61/100 | Good |
| 2022 | 61/100 | Good |
| 2023 | 64/100 | Good |
Chevrolet Bolt Reliability Compared to Other Years
2021 Chevrolet Bolt Common Questions
10 questions from 2021 Chevrolet Bolt owners.
2004 impala stumble and hestitation
2004 impala slight hesitation on take off sometimes and sometimes engine stumbles on decell other than that runs great plenty of power and getting good gas milage tps iac igm fpr coils plugs wires and lower intake have been done when it does itt on highway with scan tool can watch rpms go from 800 to 400 back and forth cold More than a month
Camshaft sensore
I changed my camshaft position sensor in my 2013 Chevy Silverado ltz 1500 6.2 and notlw and now it will crank but no start None More than a week
DIC lights, and radio and wall of buttons
I have 2022 Corvette Stingray and the last time I cranked it up all light display but then the immediately go out. The only information that I can see on all screens is the temperature gauge gas gauge and miles per hour gauge. Everything else is out, but if I turn the signal light on, I could see that all the bright lights I can see that where everything else is out on the DIC on the wall of buttons and on the radio screen, what could be the problem? It just started I drove it around the block and screen did not come back up Started today
Shifting problem
Where is the input turbine speed sensor located on a 2007 Chevrolet avalanche
P06DE
What is causing engine power reduced/p06de code? I have a 2013 Chevy Malibu. Engine power reduced code comes on randomly, and then goes away by itself. I have replaced the oil pressure solenoid and switch. I also got a P0341 code with the P06DE a few weeks ago. I wiggled the wiring that feeds the oil pressure solenoid while the vehicle was running to see if the engine started idling any differently, and it did not. When I replaced the oil pressure switch, the plastic connector had a crack in it but it was still connected and locked in. We have not gotten a oil pressure warning but I did read the active information on my OBD2 scanner and I am getting: Engine Oil Pressure var.1 0psi Engine Oil Pressure var.2 54psi Engine Oil Pressure var.3 38psi. I feel like I have gone through everything and I can not find the issue. The last thing I am leaning toward is the camshaft position sensor because of the P0341 code I received. I read that any VVT parts can cause p06de and engine power reduced More than a month
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the 2021 Chevrolet Bolt reliable?
What are the most common problems with the 2021 Chevrolet Bolt?
How many recalls does the 2021 Chevrolet Bolt have?
Is the 2021 Chevrolet Bolt expensive to maintain?
Don’t buy a 2021 Chevrolet Bolt without checking its VIN first — hidden accidents, title issues, and open recalls could cost you thousands.
Affiliate link — we may earn a commission at no cost to you.
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.
Get notified when new recalls or reliability data is added for the Chevrolet Bolt.
No spam. Only data updates for this model.
Browse More Chevrolet Models
Chevrolet Blazer
Score: 77/100
Chevrolet Camaro
Score: 77/100
Chevrolet Colorado
Score: 83/100
Chevrolet Corvette
Score: 78/100
Chevrolet Equinox
Score: 72/100
Chevrolet Equinox-EV
Score: 64/100
Browse More 2021 Vehicles
2021 KIA Sedona
Score: 88/100
2021 Lexus ES
Score: 88/100
2021 Honda HR-V
Score: 86/100
2021 Lexus RX
Score: 86/100
2021 Nissan Frontier
Score: 84/100
2021 Mazda CX-5
Score: 83/100
See incorrect data? Report an issue