Last updated: 2026-04-20

2023 Chevrolet Bolt
RELIABILITY SCORE: 64/100 (GOOD)

2023 Chevrolet Bolt Reliability Report

The 2023 Chevrolet Bolt scores 64/100 ("Good"). With 3 recalls and 146 owner complaints, reliability is acceptable but not class-leading.

Recalls

3

Complaints

146

Complaint Rate

23.5per 10,000 sold

Est. Repair Cost

$649

EV Range

247–259 mi

Detailed Score Breakdown

Complaint Severity55/100

Component-weighted complaints normalized by sales volume

Repair Costs60/100

Independent repair cost ratings

Recall Impact75/100

Recall count weighted by severity

Issue Diversity79/100

Breadth of reported problem categories

The Verdict

Consider

Acceptable reliability — worth considering with a pre-purchase inspection.

Top Issues to Watch

  • ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (33)
  • STEERING (23)
  • EXTERIOR LIGHTING (15)

Generation & Refresh (US)

Final Year

2023 is the last model year of the First generation (2016).

  • Final-year models are typically the most refined version of a generation.
  • 1 year after the last refresh (2022).
  • 1st generation Bolt (US).

What this means for buyers

Final-year models are usually the most polished version of a generation, but resale value may dip as buyers anticipate the next redesign.

2017: First generation (2016) Launch

Generation start — new platform.

2022: Mid-Cycle Refresh

Updated features and styling tweaks.

2023: This Model Year

2023 is the last model year of the First generation (2016).

Should You Buy the 2023 Chevrolet Bolt?

At 64/100, the 2023 Chevrolet Bolt lands in "Good" territory — acceptable, but not class-leading. 2023 is the last model year of the First generation (2016).

Its complaint rate of 23.5 per 10,000 vehicles sold runs above the SUV segment average of 12.1. The most common reports involve electrical system (33).

Get a pre-purchase inspection on any used example, with extra attention to electrical system (33). An extended warranty is worth pricing out.

See also the 2022 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 (33 complaints)
  • 2 fire incidents reported in owner complaints

Compare 2023 Chevrolet Bolt With

Common Problem Categories

Safety

LOW RISK
  • 3 manufacturer recalls issued

Other

HIGH RISK
  • ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (33)
  • STEERING (23)

See detailed breakdown by component ↓

Recall Overview

3

recalls on record

A moderate 3 recalls are on file for the 2023 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

23.5

per 10,000 sold

Segment avg: 12.1

LowAvgHigh
Moderate

Safety Incidents

17

Crashes

2

Fires

8

Injuries

0

Deaths

NHTSA 5/5 Stars

Data sourced from NHTSA complaint filings and manufacturer recall notices. Complaint narratives are owner-reported.

2023 Chevrolet Bolt Recall Details

3 recalls have been issued for the 2023 Chevrolet Bolt. All recall repairs are performed free of charge at authorized dealerships.

23V8450002023-12-14

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.

23V5670002023-08-10

AIR BAGS, ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2022-2023 Chevrolet Bolt EV vehicles. The instrument panel may be missing the perforation on the underside of the panel cover that allows the passenger-side air bag to deploy properly.

Consequence

An air bag that does not deploy properly in a crash increases the risk of injury.

Remedy

Dealers will replace the instrument panel, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed December 21, 2023. Owners may contact Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020. GM's number for this recall is N232414710.

22V9300002022-12-15

STRUCTURE, SEAT BELTS

General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2017-2023 Chevrolet Bolt EV vehicles. After a crash with seat belt pretensioner deployment, the pretensioner exhaust may ignite carpet fibers near the B-pillar, causing a fire.

Consequence

A vehicle fire can increase the risk of injury.

Remedy

Dealers will install metal foil at the carpet near the pretensioner exhaust, and install a pretensioner cover as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed between January 23, 2023 and April 25, 2023. Owners may contact Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020. GM's number for this recall is N222383790.

VIN History Report

Buying a used 2023 Chevrolet Bolt? Check its history first

Every 2023 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.

Affiliate link — we may earn a commission at no cost to you. No VIN? Just hit “Check VIN” to look one up.

  • Accidents
  • Open Recalls
  • Title History
  • Odometer Rollback

2023 Chevrolet Bolt NHTSA Safety Ratings

Overall Safety Rating

Overall safety rating: 5 out of 5
Crash Test Results by Configuration (expand)

Gas Powertrain

Driver: 5/5Passenger: 4/5

Rollover risk: 9.7%

Safety Technologies

Dynamic Head Restraints (Not Available)Head Restraint (Driver, Front Passenger, 2nd row)Advanced Belt Feature (Not Available)Seat Belt Pretensioners (Driver, Front Passenger)Seat Belt Load Limiters (Driver, Front Passenger)Adjustable Upper Belt Anchorage (Not Available)Seat Belt Reminder System (Driver, Front Passenger)Frontal Air Bag (Driver, Front Passenger)Head Protection (Driver, Front Passenger, 2nd row)Torso and/or Pelvis Protection (Driver, Front Passenger, 2nd row)Knee (Driver, Front Passenger)Additional Air Bags (N/A)Meets Side Air Bag Out-of-Position Requirements (Yes)LATCH Locations (2nd row)Safety Power Windows (Anti-Pinch) (Standard)Safety Power Windows (Anti-Pinch) locations (Driver)
View full safety data on NHTSA.gov →

Chevrolet BoltRepair Costs & Maintenance

Maintenance Rating

3Maintenance rating: 3 out of 5

Based 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.

2023 Chevrolet Bolt Example Repair Prices

National average price ranges for common repairs. These are not model-year-specific failure predictions.

Common repair costs and price estimates
RepairEstimated 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

247–259 mi range

Fuel cost: $650/yr

Fuel only

28.108–29.403 kWh/100mi · 7.5 hrs @ 240V

Based on EPA fuel-cost estimates. Excludes routine maintenance, depreciation, and insurance. Data as of 2023 EPA label cycle.

Electric trims
TrimDriveTrans.RangekWh/100miFuel Cost
Bolt EUVFront-Wheel DriveAutomatic (A1)247 mi29.4$650
Bolt EVFront-Wheel DriveAutomatic (A1)259 mi28.1$650

Used Buying Checklist

Key things to inspect or verify before purchasing a 2023 Chevrolet Bolt.

  • Test steering for return-to-center function after turns

  • Check for airbag warning lights on the dashboard

  • Inspect brake and turn signal light visibility in daylight

  • Test forward collision avoidance system for phantom braking

  • Verify electrical system functionality, including infotainment and door locks

  • Ensure propulsion system operates without sudden deceleration or acceleration

2023 Chevrolet Bolt Common Problems by Component

146 owner complaints grouped by vehicle system.

33
23
15
15
19
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (33)STEERING (23)EXTERIOR LIGHTING (15)FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE (15)UNKNOWN OR OTHER (11)VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL (11)POWER TRAIN (10)SERVICE BRAKES (9)Other (19)

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

33 complaintsSafety-related

Owners report several electrical system issues with the 2023 Chevrolet Bolt, with common failures including loss of motive power, regenerative braking malfunctions, and issues with door locks and infotainment systems. Symptoms frequently described involve sudden vehicle shutdowns, warning lights, and unresponsive electronic features. Complaints often occur at low mileages, such as around 3,350 and 5,144 miles, and include safety implications like crashes, fires, and loss of vehicle control. Potential buyers should be aware of these recurring electrical issues and their possible impact on vehicle safety and reliability.

33 complaints total2 crashes2 fires1 injury

STEERING

23 complaints

Owners report that the 2023 Chevrolet Bolt frequently experiences steering issues, primarily involving the steering wheel's failure to return to the center position after making turns. Complaints typically describe symptoms such as increased stiffness in the steering, clunking or clicking noises, and the need for manual input to re-center the wheel. These issues are often noted around or after 40,000 to 55,000 miles, with some reports indicating problems as early as 25,000 miles. The failure of the steering rack and pinion is commonly identified, with several owners mentioning potential safety risks, including unintended lane departure and increased difficulty in controlling the vehicle during turns. Buyers considering a used 2023 Chevrolet Bolt should be aware of these reported steering concerns and the potential costs associated with repairs, particularly if the vehicle is out of warranty coverage.

23 complaints total

EXTERIOR LIGHTING

15 complaintsSafety-related

Owners of the 2023 Chevrolet Bolt frequently report issues with the visibility of the rear brake and turn signal lights, which are mounted low on the bumper. Complaints often describe these lights as difficult to see, particularly for drivers of larger vehicles such as trucks and SUVs, and note that the more traditionally located mid-section lights do not function as brake or turn signals. Several reports indicate that this design has led to near misses and crashes, with at least three incidents involving rear-end collisions. These issues are noted by owners shortly after purchase, with some reporting problems within the first few hundred miles. Potential buyers should be aware of these visibility concerns, as they may impact safety in heavy traffic or adverse weather conditions.

15 complaints total3 crashes
FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE (15 complaints)

FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE

15 complaintsSafety-related

Owners report frequent issues with the 2023 Chevrolet Bolt's forward collision avoidance system, primarily involving unexpected and unnecessary activation of the automatic emergency braking feature. Symptoms typically include sudden braking with no apparent obstacles, often described as "phantom braking," occurring at various speeds from as low as 3 mph to highway speeds of 70 mph. These incidents are reported across a range of mileages, with some occurring as early as 2,400 miles. Safety implications are significant, with three crashes and one injury reported, highlighting risks of rear-end collisions when the system activates unexpectedly. Buyers should be aware of these issues, especially if considering a vehicle with higher mileage or one that has not been serviced for this problem.

15 complaints total3 crashes1 injury
UNKNOWN OR OTHER (11 complaints)

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

11 complaints

Owners report several recurring issues with the 2023 Chevrolet Bolt, primarily involving electronic and technological malfunctions. Multiple complaints describe the rear backup camera intermittently failing to display on the infotainment screen, with some noting that software updates temporarily resolve but do not permanently fix the issue. Additionally, there are reports of the vehicle becoming immobilized with the message "Conditions Not Correct for Shift" appearing on the screen, leaving drivers stranded for varying periods. Some owners also mention unresponsive steering wheel media control buttons and excessive glare from chrome-colored vents causing distractions. These issues occur at various times and conditions, with no specific mileage range consistently noted. While no crashes or fires are reported, the malfunctioning backup camera and immobilization incidents have potential safety implications.

11 complaints total
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL (11 complaints)

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

11 complaintsSafety-related

Owners report issues with the 2023 Chevrolet Bolt's vehicle speed control, specifically related to sudden unintended acceleration and problems with the adaptive cruise control and Super Cruise systems. Complaints frequently mention unexpected acceleration when reversing or parking, sometimes resulting in crashes, though typically at lower speeds. Issues with adaptive cruise control include abrupt braking or failure to maintain speed under certain conditions, such as hilly terrain or when disengaging the system. Additionally, some owners experience propulsion system errors that limit speed, often around the first few thousand miles. These symptoms suggest potential safety implications, including loss of control and minor collisions.

11 complaints total3 crashes
POWER TRAIN (10 complaints)

POWER TRAIN

10 complaintsSafety-related

Owners report two primary issues with the 2023 Chevrolet Bolt's power train: sudden power loss and transmission shifting failures. Complaints frequently mention the vehicle losing power unexpectedly, sometimes limiting speed to 30 mph and displaying a "Propulsion Power is Reduced" warning, often linked to error code P2797 and potential issues with the transmission fluid pump. Additionally, multiple owners describe being unable to shift gears, with error messages like "Conditions not correct for shift" preventing gear changes. These issues occur at varied mileages, with some reports at under 10,000 miles and others around 28,000 miles. Safety implications include one reported crash resulting in two injuries due to unintended acceleration, highlighting potential risks for buyers considering this model.

10 complaints total1 crash2 injuries
SERVICE BRAKES (9 complaints)

SERVICE BRAKES

9 complaintsSafety-related

Owners report several issues with the braking system of the 2023 Chevrolet Bolt. A common problem involves the automatic braking system engaging without apparent cause, leading to unexpected stops and minor injuries from seatbelt restraint. Additionally, some owners describe a delay or softness in the brake pedal response, particularly when switching from regenerative to traditional braking, which has been linked to at least one crash with injuries. Complaints also frequently mention poor visibility of brake lights, which may increase the risk of rear-end collisions. These issues are typically reported without prior warning indicators, and some owners have experienced them multiple times, suggesting a pattern of recurring problems.

9 complaints total2 crashes3 injuries
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM (4 complaints)

FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

4 complaints

Owners report issues with the 2023 Chevrolet Bolt's fuel/propulsion system, primarily involving sudden unintended acceleration and unexpected deceleration. Multiple complaints describe the vehicle accelerating unexpectedly when coming to a stop, even with features like brake assist engaged. Another common issue involves the car abruptly slowing down to 30 mph accompanied by a propulsion system warning, posing a potential safety risk, particularly with surrounding traffic. Additionally, one report mentions an electronic drive unit fault requiring the replacement of the auxiliary transmission pump. These issues are noted in new vehicles, indicating they may occur early in the vehicle's life.

4 complaints total
AIR BAGS (4 complaints)

AIR BAGS

4 complaintsSafety-related

Owners report issues with the airbag system in the 2023 Chevrolet Bolt, with symptoms including the "service airbag system" warning and airbag light illumination. These issues appear at low mileages, with one owner experiencing a warning at just 291 miles. Complaints frequently mention the airbag light coming on intermittently, sometimes accompanied by a chime and message display, though the issue can be dismissed and does not always reappear during the drive. Notably, in two crash incidents, airbags did not deploy, including one case where a passenger sustained a neck injury. The pattern of airbag warning lights and non-deployment during crashes suggests potential safety implications for buyers considering this vehicle.

4 complaints total2 crashes1 injury

When Do 2023 Chevrolet Bolt Problems Start?

Based on owner complaint patterns, here's when common issues tend to appear.

25,000–55,000 milesSteering failures
3,000–5,000 milesElectrical system failures
2,400–10,000 milesForward collision avoidance issues

Best & Worst Chevrolet Bolt Years

Comprehensive reliability analysis based on NHTSA data, owner complaints, and historical performance.

Best Chevrolet Bolt Years to Buy

The 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).

Top Pick
64
Good

2023

(Current Model)

3Recalls
146Complaints
61
Good

2022

11Recalls
78Complaints
61
Good

2021

5Recalls
66Complaints

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.

Chevrolet Bolt reliability scores by year
YearScoreRating
201859/100Mixed
201952/100Mixed
202161/100Good
202261/100Good
202364/100Good

Chevrolet Bolt Reliability Compared to Other Years

Reliability scores compared across model years
YearScorevs Prior YearRatingRecallsComplaints
2023(selected)64/100+3Good3146
202261/1000Good1178
202161/100+9Good566
201952/100-7Mixed6168
201859/100Mixed573

2023 Chevrolet Bolt Common Questions

10 questions from 2023 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

VisitorApr 8, 2026

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

VisitorApr 5, 2026

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

VisitorApr 4, 2026

Shifting problem

Where is the input turbine speed sensor located on a 2007 Chevrolet avalanche

VisitorApr 3, 2026

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

VisitorApr 1, 2026

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the 2023 Chevrolet Bolt reliable?
The 2023 Chevrolet Bolt has a "Good" reliability rating with a score of 64/100. It is reasonably reliable with 3 recalls and 146 owner complaints, though some issues have been reported.
What are the most common problems with the 2023 Chevrolet Bolt?
The most commonly reported problems with the 2023 Chevrolet Bolt include: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (33 complaints), STEERING (23 complaints), EXTERIOR LIGHTING (15 complaints), FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE (15 complaints), UNKNOWN OR OTHER (11 complaints). These issues were identified from owner complaints analyzed by Auto Reliability Index.
How many recalls does the 2023 Chevrolet Bolt have?
The 2023 Chevrolet Bolt has 3 recalls on record. Recalls are safety or compliance fixes issued by the manufacturer and repaired at no cost at authorized dealerships.
Is the 2023 Chevrolet Bolt expensive to maintain?
The 2023 Chevrolet Bolt should have average maintenance costs for its class. With a reliability score of 64/100, some repairs may be needed, but overall ownership costs are manageable.

Don’t buy a 2023 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.

Look Up a VIN →

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

1

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.

2

Repair Costs

Independent reliability ratings based on repair frequency, average repair costs, and severity of typical repairs for each model.

3

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.

4

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.

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