Photo: Wikimedia Commons (CC)
Every generation
Power
Combined, EPA 2019
What owners say
Our take, from owner reports
Mixed to highly positive sentiment, heavily dependent on model year and specific ownership experience.
8 problems reported (3 very frequent, 3 recurrent, 2 isolated) · high confidence
Problems owners report
- Very frequentShift-to-Park failure
Micro-switch in the shifter fails, preventing the car from recognizing it is in Park, causing inability to turn off the vehicle.
- Very frequentBattery Energy Control Module (BECM) failure
Causes stalling, reduced propulsion, inability to start, or failure to restart. Parts are frequently on extended backorder.
- Very frequent12V accessory battery problems
Parasitic drain or failure causes a multitude of error messages (Service High Voltage Charging System, Service Stabilitrak, Service Power Steering, Theft Deterrent) and complete no-start conditions.
+ 5 more issuesShow fewer
- RecurrentExhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) valve failure
Causes check engine lights and can lead to blown "no walk home" fuses.
- RecurrentInfotainment/Projection issues
Android Auto/Apple CarPlay connectivity problems, screen freezes, failure to boot. Requires specific software updates (e.g., bulletin 16-NA-042 for 2016 models).
- RecurrentVarious electrical gremlins
Intermittent failures of power door locks, adaptive cruise control, Bluetooth audio, and key fob detection.
- IsolatedBrake system issues
Sticking calipers causing excessive heat, premature wear, and reduced efficiency.
- IsolatedReduced Propulsion/Engine Unavailable warnings in cold weather
Often linked to charging interruptions or 12V system issues in low temperatures.
The version owners recommend
Gen 2 (2016-2019) Premier/LTZ trim. This generation is noted for its improved electric range (53 miles EPA), more refined infotainment system with available Android Auto/Apple CarPlay (after software update), and generally better interior materials. The Premier trim is specifically recommended for features like blind-spot monitoring, navigation, and more advanced driver assists, which are either not available or standard on lower trims. The Gen 1 (2011-2015) is acknowledged as reliable but with older technology and less range.
Competitors to consider
Owners compare it most often with the Honda Clarity Plug-in Hybrid, Toyota Prius Prime, Chevrolet Bolt EV, Nissan Leaf and Tesla Model 3.
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Overall sentiment
Mixed to highly positive sentiment, heavily dependent on model year and specific ownership experience. The vehicle is widely praised for its innovative plug-in hybrid design, offering substantial all-electric range (reported 40-60 miles for Gen 2, 35-43 miles for Gen 1) for daily commuting, with a gasoline range extender eliminating long-distance anxiety. Owners frequently describe it as a practical, low-cost commuter with minimal fuel consumption (reports of 1.5L/100km or ~8000 miles on a single 9-gallon tank are cited) and extremely low maintenance requirements when operating primarily on electricity. Many long-term owners report outstanding reliability over many years and high mileage with only basic upkeep. However, significant criticism centers on a set of known, recurrent electrical and component failures that can lead to lengthy, costly repairs and poor dealer service experiences. The consensus indicates deep satisfaction among owners who have avoided major issues, but severe frustration and financial strain for those who encounter the model's specific failure points, particularly out of warranty.
Positioning vs competitors
Positioned as a practical, long-range plug-in hybrid with superior electric-only range compared to many contemporaries like the Prius Prime. Frequently compared favorably to the Honda Clarity for its driving dynamics and electric range, though the Clarity is noted as larger and more comfortable for rear passengers. Seen as a more engaging and "nicer" driving experience than the Chevrolet Bolt EV, though the Bolt is acknowledged as more reliable and cheaper to maintain. Considered a compelling value proposition on the used market against mainstream hybrids, offering near-EV operation for most commutes without range anxiety. However, it is noted as having a high accident rate per vehicle and poorer rear visibility compared to some competitors.
Recommended configurations
Gen 2 Premier trim for maximum features. A dedicated 240V outlet is strongly recommended over 120V for faster home charging; the OEM charging cable can be used with a proper adapter. Use of premium top-tier gasoline is advised. Having the vehicle serviced at a Chevrolet dealership with a certified Voltec technician is frequently emphasized. Owners recommend checking for and ensuring all recall and technical service bulletin (TSB) updates are applied, particularly for the Battery Energy Control Module (BECM) and infotainment software.
General recommendations
Highly suitable for commuters with a daily round-trip under 40 miles and home charging capability, maximizing electric operation and minimizing fuel costs. Ideal for budget-conscious buyers seeking a used plug-in hybrid with strong electric range. NOT recommended for those who frequently need full rear seating or large cargo capacity, as the rear seat and trunk are noted as cramped. A thorough pre-purchase inspection by a Volt specialist is critical to check for known failure points (BECM, shift-to-park, EGR valve). Verify all software updates have been applied. Be prepared for potential lengthy repair times and parts backorders for specific components. Consider an extended warranty if purchasing a higher-mileage example out of the original Voltec warranty.
Remarks
A clear generational divide exists in owner feedback, with many Gen 1 (2011-2015) owners reporting exceptionally trouble-free, low-maintenance ownership over a decade, while Gen 2 (2016-2019) owners report a higher incidence of specific, severe electronic module failures (BECM, shift-to-park). The Voltec warranty (8 years/100,000 miles on hybrid components) is a critical factor, as repairs under warranty are free but often involve long waits for backordered parts. Out-of-warranty repairs for these modules can be financially catastrophic. Dealer service competency is a major pain point, with many owners reporting misdiagnosis and poor communication. The vehicle's design is frequently praised as innovative and practical, but its dependence on complex, sometimes unreliable electronics and poor parts supply chain support undermines long-term ownership satisfaction for a significant subset of buyers. Analysis based on approximately 35 substantive owner discussions.
Generation by generation
Owner insights per generation and US complaint/recall records (NHTSA).
Complaints and recalls by model yearWorst year: 2017. Years to avoid: 2018, 2017Source: NHTSA (US)Show table
Each year graded against the model's other years: Year Score. See all Chevrolet Volt years to avoid
| Year | Complaints | Recalls | Most-reported area |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2019 | 34 | 2 | power train |
| 2018 | 222 | 2 | electrical system |
| 2017 | 698 | 0 | electrical system |
| 2016 | 169 | 1 | electrical system |
| 2015 | 44 | 1 | electrical system |
| 2014 | 93 | 0 | air bags |
| 2012 | 245 | 2 | electrical system |
| 2011 | 49 | 1 | electrical system |
Complaint counts come from owner reports filed with the US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Higher-selling years naturally accumulate more complaints.
Recall notices9 on record · Source: NHTSA (US)Show recalls
2019 · service brakes, hydraulic:foundation components:disc:calipercampaign 18V576000
General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2018-2019 Chevrolet Equinox, Impala, Cruze, Volt and Bolt EV vehicles, GMC Terrain vehicles, Buick Lacrosse and Regal vehicles, Cadillac XTS and XTS Professional vehicles and 2018 Chevrolet Malibu vehicles. The rear brake caliper pistons may have an insufficient coating causing gas pockets to form, potentially reducing rear brake performance.
2019 · seat belts:rear/othercampaign 18V673000
General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2018-2019 Cadillac CT6, Escalade ESV, Chevrolet Suburban, Volt, and GMC Yukon XL vehicles. Certain second-row or third-row rear seatbelts retractor assemblies may not automatically lock when the seatbelt is fully pulled out of the retractor, possibly preventing a child seat from being properly secured. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 208, "Occupant Crash Protection."
2018 · service brakes, hydraulic:foundation components:disc:calipercampaign 18V576000
General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2018-2019 Chevrolet Equinox, Impala, Cruze, Volt and Bolt EV vehicles, GMC Terrain vehicles, Buick Lacrosse and Regal vehicles, Cadillac XTS and XTS Professional vehicles and 2018 Chevrolet Malibu vehicles. The rear brake caliper pistons may have an insufficient coating causing gas pockets to form, potentially reducing rear brake performance.
2018 · seat belts:rear/othercampaign 18V673000
General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2018-2019 Cadillac CT6, Escalade ESV, Chevrolet Suburban, Volt, and GMC Yukon XL vehicles. Certain second-row or third-row rear seatbelts retractor assemblies may not automatically lock when the seatbelt is fully pulled out of the retractor, possibly preventing a child seat from being properly secured. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 208, "Occupant Crash Protection."
2016 · air bags:frontalcampaign 17V621000
General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2015-2016 GMC Canyon and Chevrolet Colorado, and 2016 Chevrolet Volt vehicles. The driver's frontal air bag may improperly inflate during second-stage deployment in the event of a high speed crash.
2015 · steeringcampaign 15V442000
General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain model year 2014-2015 Chevrolet Cruze vehicles manufactured November 8, 2013, to March 12, 2015, and 2015 Chevrolet Volt vehicles manufactured April 11, 2014. In the affected vehicles, the inner tie rod may not be tightened to specification allowing the tie rod to separate from the steering gear.
2012 · electrical system:ignitioncampaign 15V145000
General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain model year 2011-2013 Volt vehicles manufactured August 25, 2010, to June 26, 2013. If the driver exits the vehicle without turning off the electrical system, the battery may drain low enough that the gasoline engine will automatically start itself to recharge the electric battery.
2012 · electronic stability control (esc)campaign 13V271000
General Motors (GM) is recalling certain model year 2012 Chevrolet Volt vehicles manufactured March 1, 2012, through April 17, 2012. Due to a brake pressure modulator valve problem, the vehicles do not relieve brake pressure from the front brakes during an anti-lock brake system (ABS), electronic stability control (ESC), or traction control event. One or both front brakes may lock up and not release. Thus, these vehicles fail to conform to Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS) No. 126, "Electronic Stability Control Systems"' and No. 135, "Light Vehicle Brake Systems."
2011 · electrical system:ignitioncampaign 15V145000
General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain model year 2011-2013 Volt vehicles manufactured August 25, 2010, to June 26, 2013. If the driver exits the vehicle without turning off the electrical system, the battery may drain low enough that the gasoline engine will automatically start itself to recharge the electric battery.
Specifications
1.5 Plug-in Hybrid
Plug-in hybrid · 150 hp · FWD · automatic
Built 2016–2019