Summary
- Chevrolet built the Bolt EV and Volt, both electric vehicles, with the Volt being considered either an extended-range electric vehicle or a plug-in hybrid
- The Volt was discontinued after the 2019 model year but is still a good option as a used vehicle with competitive technology
- There are two generations of Chevrolet Volts, with the second generation offering more EV range, better features, and less expensive fuel requirements
- Used Chevrolet Volts typically range from $4,000 to $19,000 and may have battery or electrical issues to watch out for
- Battery degradation is not a significant issue for Chevrolet Volts, and they come with an eight-year or 100,000-mile battery warranty after the Volt left production
Article
Introduction
Chevrolet produced the Bolt EV and the Volt which caused confusion due to the categorization of the Volt as an extended-range electric vehicle (EREV) or a plug-in hybrid. Although discontinued after the 2019 model year, the Volt remains a popular option in the used market due to its advanced technology and competitive pricing compared to newer models.
Chevrolet Volt Generations
There are two generations of the Chevrolet Volt, with the first generation produced from 2011-2015 and the second generation from 2016-2019. The second generation Volt improved on the first with a larger battery pack, increased EV range, and the addition of features like smartphone projection for Apple Carplay and Android Auto. Prices for used Volts vary depending on the generation, typically ranging from $4,000 to $19,000.
Known Issues with Used Chevrolet Volt
Common complaints about the Chevrolet Volt include battery and electrical issues, with the NHTSA investigating faulty battery electric control modules in the second generation models. On the road, some Volts experienced sudden power loss or issues with restarting, along with problems shifting to park. Finding technicians familiar with working on Volts may be challenging due to the specialized nature of the hybrid technology.
Battery Degradation and Charging
Battery degradation is not a significant issue for used Chevrolet Volts due to GM’s engineering design that helps mitigate degradation over time. Volts do not charge as quickly as modern EVs, with the option of a 7.2 kW AC charger introduced in the 2019 model year. The Volt’s battery management system prevents excessive charge states and sustains battery health over time.
Warranty Coverage for Used Chevrolet Volts
Since production of the Volt ended after the 2019 model year, most of the warranties have expired on used models. The only remaining warranty may be the eight-year or 100,000-mile battery warranty that covers any necessary repairs to maintain battery capacity. GM expects normal wear and tear to result in a 10-40% decrease in battery capacity over 100,000 miles, requiring repairs as needed to maintain performance.
Conclusion
Despite being discontinued, the Chevrolet Volt remains a viable option in the used market for buyers seeking a reliable and technologically advanced plug-in hybrid. With competitive pricing, advanced battery management, and a decent range of EV miles, the Volt offers an attractive alternative for those interested in eco-friendly driving options. Considerations regarding potential issues and warranty coverage should be taken into account when purchasing a used Chevrolet Volt.
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