2021 Chevrolet Bolt Ev

Bolt EV battery packs manufactured by LG Energy Solution contain cells with simultaneous torn anode tab and folded separator defects that can lead to thermal runaway and battery fires. Multiple Bolt EVs caught fire while parked and fully charged, including inside garages. GM advised owners not to charge above 90%, not to deplete below 70 miles of range, and not to park indoors until the recall was completed.

NHTSA Recall 21V560000 and 20V-701. GM replaced all battery modules in affected Bolt EVs with new modules manufactured under improved quality controls. The replacement battery includes an 8-year, 100,000-mile warranty. All work performed free of charge at Chevrolet dealers.

The Bolt EV's electric HVAC compressor can fail prematurely, resulting in no air conditioning. Additionally, the heat pump system struggles to adequately heat the cabin in cold weather, with owners reporting insufficient heat output even at maximum settings. The resistive heater consumes significant battery range, reducing winter driving range by 30-50%.

Replace the electric A/C compressor if failed. For heating deficiency, ensure the cabin air filter is clean and the coolant heater is functioning. Some owners install aftermarket heated seat covers and steering wheel wraps to reduce reliance on the HVAC system in winter. GM released software updates to improve heat pump efficiency.

The infotainment touchscreen freezes, goes black, or displays error messages. Bluetooth connectivity drops frequently, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto disconnect unexpectedly, and the system can take 30+ seconds to boot on startup. The energy usage display and range estimator can also provide wildly inaccurate readings after software updates.

Dealer performs infotainment module software updates. A hard reset (holding the home and fast-forward buttons for 10 seconds) can temporarily resolve freezes. Persistent issues may require replacement of the infotainment control module. Reference GM TSB 19-NA-205 for display and connectivity issues.

Owners report sudden loss of propulsion with a 'Propulsion Power Is Reduced' warning, causing the vehicle to enter a limited-power 'turtle mode' at highway speeds. This can occur without warning and limits the vehicle to approximately 25 mph, creating a serious safety hazard. The issue is often related to the battery management system or high-voltage wiring harness connectors.

Dealer diagnoses the high-voltage battery management system, HV wiring harness connectors, and battery cell balance. Connector reseating and software updates may resolve intermittent occurrences. If battery modules are degraded, replacement under the battery recall or EV component warranty is required.

The front wheel bearings on the Bolt EV wear out prematurely, sometimes as early as 30,000 miles. The regenerative braking system puts additional stress on the front wheel bearings and hub assemblies. Symptoms include a humming or droning noise that increases with speed, vibration through the steering wheel, and occasional ABS warning lights.

Replace the affected wheel bearing and hub assembly. Both sides should be inspected as they tend to fail within a similar mileage range. Use a quality OEM or equivalent replacement bearing rated for the Bolt's weight. Wheel alignment should be checked after replacement.