Chevrolet Bolt EV I (2017 – 2023)

Reliability score : 8.7/10

The first-generation Chevrolet Bolt EV (also briefly marketed in Europe as the Opel Ampera-e) was one of the first affordable electric cars to offer true long range. Launched in 2017 and facelifted in 2022 (with the introduction of the Bolt EUV variant), it stands out for its highly accommodating compact MPV format. Its history is inseparable from a massive and historic recall concerning its LG Chem batteries (fire risk), which forced General Motors to replace the battery packs of almost all 2017-2022 models. Paradoxically, this early defect makes it one of the most recommendable used electric cars today: many examples benefit from a new battery under warranty. Post-recall, it is ranked among the most reliable electric vehicles in its segment by Consumer Reports and J.D. Power.

✅ Strengths

Excellent real-world range (often exceeding 380 km in mixed conditions)
Exceptional reliability of the electric motor and power electronics
Negligible maintenance costs (no oil, no belts, minimal brake wear thanks to regeneration)
Unbeatable price/range ratio on the used market
Surprising roominess for a 4.16-meter vehicle
Possibility of acquiring an older model with a new battery (8-year/160,000 km warranty reset to zero following the recall)

⚠️ Weaknesses

Obsolete and very slow fast charging (DC) speed (limited to 55 kW maximum), making long highway trips tedious
Very thin and uncomfortable front seats on pre-facelift models (2017-2021)
Front axle traction easily overwhelmed by the immediate torque of the electric motor
Basic interior plastic quality, prone to scratching
Slightly harsh suspension at low speeds

🎯 Verdict

The Chevrolet Bolt EV is a textbook case in the automotive industry. Its major design flaw (the LG Chem battery) was addressed by General Motors via a recall of unprecedented scale, consisting of purely and simply replacing the batteries. Result: buying a used Bolt EV today often means acquiring a vehicle whose most expensive and sensitive component is new and under warranty. With the reliability of the electric motor and power electronics being otherwise flawless, the Bolt EV is a highly recommended purchase for daily or suburban use. Its only real crippling flaw is its fast charging (DC) speed capped at 55 kW, which disqualifies it for heavy highway drivers. Absolute condition of purchase: verify via the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) that the battery recall has indeed been performed.

Common issues

Problèmes de batterie haute tension (risque d'incendie) High

🔧 Affecte toutes les années modèles (2017-2022), problème de conception initial

💶 Plus de

0 000 (si non couvert par rappel/garantie)

Vérifier impérativement que le rappel de batterie a été effectué et la batterie remplacée.

Défaillance de l'unité de propulsion (moteur électrique) High

🔧 100 000 – 200 000 km

💶 000 – 8 000

Écouter les bruits anormaux (sifflements, grognements) lors de l'essai routier.

Dysfonctionnement du module de charge embarqué (Onboard Charger Module) Medium

🔧 80 000 – 150 000 km

💶

400 – 2 800

Tester la charge AC et DC, vérifier l'historique des codes d'erreur.

Problèmes de climatisation (compresseur/fuites) Medium

🔧 70 000 – 120 000 km

💶 $900 – 1 700

S'assurer que la climatisation fonctionne correctement et refroidit efficacement.

Estimated maintenance costs

Complete brakes	£180 – 400
Estimated annual budget	£220 – 480

Indicative estimates (independent garage, UK market). Prices vary by region and year.