2018 Chevrolet Bolt EV: common problems and reliability
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74 owner complaints, most about electrical system. 5 recalls.
Should I buy a 2018 Bolt EV?The 2018 Chevrolet Bolt EV has 74 owner-filed NHTSA complaints and 5 recalls on record. The most-reported areas are electrical system and steering. Owners most often flag historical battery fire recall: affected primarily 2017-2019 model years; required full battery replacement under manufacturer program.
Safety record for the 2018 model year
Source: NHTSA complaints and recalls filed for 2018 Chevrolet Bolt EV vehicles (US, public record).
The Year Score compares this year with other Bolt EV years only. How we score it
Is 2018 a good year for the Bolt EV?
Across the 7 Bolt EV model years we track, complaint volume runs from 59 (2022) to 320 (2017). With 74 complaints, the 2018 Bolt EV sits about the same as the model's median of 74.
These are raw NHTSA complaint totals, not adjusted for how many cars sold or how long each model year has been on the road. Older and higher-selling years accumulate more complaints.
Where owners report problems
Recalls affecting the 2018 Bolt EV
electrical system:propulsion system:traction battery
Campaign 21V560000General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2017-2019 Chevrolet Bolt EV vehicles previously recalled under NHTSA recall number 20V-701. The high voltage battery could catch fire when charged to full or nearly full capacity.
electrical system:propulsion system:traction battery
Campaign 20V701000General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling all 2017-2018 and certain 2019 Chevrolet Bolt EV vehicles. The high voltage battery could catch fire when charged to full or nearly full capacity.
service brakes, hydraulic:foundation components:disc:caliper
Campaign 18V576000General 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.
structure:body:roof and pillars
Campaign 22V930000General 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.
Show 1 more recall
structure:body:roof and pillars
Campaign 23V845000General 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.
What owners say across generations
Overwhelmingly positive sentiment among owners, centered on exceptional value, low operating costs, and reliable daily practicality.
- Very frequentHistorical Battery Fire Recall
Affected primarily 2017-2019 model years; required full battery replacement under manufacturer program.
Owner insights cover all generations of the Bolt EV. See the full Bolt EV owner picture and every model year.
Typical used price
Used Bolt EV listings typically run $15,100–$19,439 across 2017 to 2023 model years.
Other Bolt EV model years
Compare every Bolt EV year side by side to see how 2018 ranks against the rest.
Compare the Bolt EV against its rivals
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