2019 Chevrolet Bolt EV: common problems and reliability

The 2019 Chevrolet Bolt EV has 174 owner-filed NHTSA complaints and 6 recalls on record. The most-reported areas are electrical system and steering. Owners most often flag slow dc fast charging (dcfc) speed — maximum rate of approximately 55 kw, with some mentions of 70 kw; significantly slower than newer evs, making long trips less convenient. frequency: very frequent.

Safety record for the 2019 model year

174
Owner complaints
6
Recalls
2
Crash reports
10
Fire reports

Source: NHTSA complaints and recalls filed for 2019 Chevrolet Bolt EV vehicles (US, public record).

Where owners report problems

electrical system
85
steering
44
fuel/propulsion system
44
power train
13
forward collision avoidance
5

Recalls affecting the 2019 Bolt EV

latches/locks/linkages:doors:latch

Campaign 20V184000

General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2019-2020 Chevrolet Bolt EV vehicles. The door-handle cable inside the rear doors may be too long, allowing contact with the window when it is opened, possibly damaging the ca…

electrical system:propulsion system:traction battery

Campaign 21V560000

General 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 capac…

electrical system:propulsion system:traction battery

Campaign 20V701000

General 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 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 …

What owners say across generations

Overwhelmingly positive sentiment among owners, centered on exceptional value, low operating costs, and reliable daily practicality. The vehicle is consistently praised as an affordable, long-range EV that dramatically reduces fuel and maintenance expenses com

  • Slow DC Fast Charging (DCFC) Speed — Maximum rate of approximately 55 kW, with some mentions of 70 kW; significantly slower than newer EVs, making long trips less convenient. Frequency: very frequent.
  • Historical Battery Fire Recall — Affected primarily 2017-2019 model years; required full battery replacement under manufacturer program. Frequency: very frequent (as a historical context point).
  • Dealership Service Quality — Inconsistent service experience; many dealers have only one EV-trained technician, leading to long wait times and potential lack of courtesy vehicles. Frequency: recurrent.
  • Stiff Ride Quality / Bumpy Suspension — Noted as having a firm ride, with bumps being noticeable due to suspension tuning. Frequency: recurrent.
  • Wind Noise — More wind noise present compared to some luxury vehicles, attributed to single-pane glass and cost-saving measures. Frequency: isolated.

Owner insights cover all generations of the Bolt EV.

Typical used price

Used Bolt EV listings typically run $15,289–$18,906 across 2017 to 2023 model years.

Other Bolt EV model years

2021 Bolt EV
Full Chevrolet Bolt EV owner reportCompare against another car