Chevrolet Volt reliability: common problems by model year
Across 3 model years, the Chevrolet Volt has 311 owner-filed NHTSA complaints and 2 recalls on record. The most-reported areas are electrical system and fuel/propulsion system. 2016 drew the most complaints (169), 2011 the fewest (49).
3
Model years tracked
311
Owner complaints
2
Recalls
93
Median per year
Source: NHTSA complaints and recalls filed for Chevrolet Volt vehicles (US, public record). Typical used asking price $9,138–$13,665.
Which Volt years have the most problems?
Complaint volume by model year. Raw NHTSA totals, not adjusted for sales volume or time on the road, so older and higher-selling years accumulate more. Every year links to its full breakdown.
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
Shift-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. Frequency: very frequent.
Battery Energy Control Module (BECM) failure: Causes stalling, reduced propulsion, inability to start, or failure to restart. Parts are frequently on extended backorder. Frequency: very frequent.
12V 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. Frequency: very frequent.
Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) valve failure: Causes check engine lights and can lead to blown "no walk home" fuses. Frequency: recurrent.
Infotainment/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). Frequency: recurrent.
Owner insights cover all generations of the Volt. Individual model years are broken down above.