The Chevrolet Volt is a hybrid hatchback sedan that has become increasingly popular as the market for electric vehicles has expanded. Although it lasted eight years and had some fantastic years, every model year was not worth the investment.
Due to severe technical challenges, there are specific years you should avoid. From faults with the electrical system to defective airbags, we’ll look closer at the Chevrolet Volt’s years to avoid and years to buy.
The worst years to avoid Chevy Volt are 2012, 2013, 2017 and 2018. The best years to buy Chevy Volt are 2011, 2014, 2015, 2016 and 2019. This result was concluded from trustworthy sources such as NHTSA, Edmund, J.D. Power, Car Complaints, and Kelley Blue Book.
Worst Chevy Volt Years To Avoid
The Chevrolet Volt had both great and awful years. We’re here to help you because it can be challenging to identify the worst ones on your own.
Here are Chevrolet Volt’s worst model years:
- 2012 Chevy Volt
- 2013 Chevy Volt
- 2017 Chevy Volt
- 2018 Chevy Volt
4. Worst Year: 2018 Chevy Volt (3.93 Rating)
Unlike in a standard car, the electrical system and batteries in a hybrid vehicle like the Chevy Volt are crucial to the vehicle’s operation. This was the common issue of the 2018 Chevy Volt because its regular faults include battery or electrical system troubles.
This year, some drivers have reported problems with the brakes on downhills. An issue with shifting into the park has also been detected. It’s also worth noting that the seatbelt dinger in the automobile could be really loud.
There have been two recalls so far this year due to potential safety issues: the rear seatbelt retractor may not lock, increasing the risk of injury in the case of a collision. The other affects 210,628 automobiles, consisting of pistons in the rear brake calipers that aren’t coated well enough.
Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:
- NHTSA: 2 recalls and 110 complaints.
- Edmunds: 4.5/5.0 consumer and 8/10 expert reviews.
- J.D. Power: 76/100 consumer ratings.
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.5/5.0 consumer and 4.4/5 expert ratings.
3. Worst Year: 2017 Chevy Volt (3.83 Rating)
The 2017 Volt is one of the most troublesome model years, with the most complaints, as shown by data from the NHTSA. The most common issue was a malfunctioning battery control module, rendering the vehicle inoperable.
Prime among the issues were the electric systems, including a burnt battery smell and headlights that didn’t work. The dashboard’s persistent “Shift to Park” reminder was another frequent source of dissatisfaction.
While writing this article, no safety recalls have been announced for 2017. However, The recent failure of the battery energy control module, which was supposed to prevent the lithium battery from overheating or freezing in colder climates, has led to a class action lawsuit.
Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:
- NHTSA: 0 recalls and 396 complaints.
- Edmunds: 4.3/5.0 consumer reviews.
- J.D. Power: 74/100 consumer ratings.
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.5/5.0 consumer and 4.5/5 expert ratings.
2. Worst Year: 2012 Chevy Volt (3.65 Rating)
Less than a year after its release, the Volt lost most of its initial appeal and could not maintain even basic functionality. The 2012 Volt had numerous electrical problems, the most common of which was a blank display in the instrument cluster and a faulty BCM or battery control module.
The 2012 Volt also suffered from serious overheating and coolant leakage. The water pumps were prone to breakdown. Other minor difficulties included electrical issues, such as broken backup cameras and displays, and the need to replace TPMS (Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems).
Even though these problems didn’t offer the same danger as a fire, they still left owners feeling let down by what was meant to be the best car on the market.
Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:
- NHTSA: 2 recalls and 227 complaints.
- Edmunds: 4.6/5.0 consumer reviews.
- J.D. Power: 85/100 consumer ratings.
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.6/5.0 consumer and 3.3/5 expert ratings.
1. Worst Year: 2013 Chevy Volt (3.28 Rating)
The 2013 Volt has the same problems as the 2012 model but with additional electrical glitches. This model year received many complaints due to its airbags and was considered the worst.
An airbag warning light and chime would go off whenever a passenger sat in the front seat because of a malfunctioning presence sensor. As a result, many car owners became concerned that their vehicle’s airbags wouldn’t activate in an accident.
Customers claimed that after letting their cars sit for a few minutes and restarting them, their vehicles were fully functional once more before the bug caused them to stall. Some customers didn’t experience any stalling issues at all, while others did constantly because the fault affected roughly 4,000 Volts.
Customers complained about the car’s short gas tank and inability to function in electric vehicle mode. They were also frustrated due to frequent brake flushes and empty reservoirs.
Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:
- NHTSA: 3 recalls and 279 complaints.
- Edmunds: 4.5/5.0 consumer reviews.
- J.D. Power: 83/100 consumer ratings.
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.6/5.0 consumer and 3.2/5 expert ratings.
Which Used Chevy Volt Years Are Most Reliable?
We’ve covered the Chevy Volt’s worst years; let’s discuss its best. How can you maximize your investment by selecting the best options? To help narrow down your options even further, we have compiled a supplemental list.
The best Chevrolet Volt years are as follows:
- 2011 Chevy Volt
- 2014 Chevy Volt
- 2015 Chevy Volt
- 2016 Chevy Volt
- 2019 Chevy Volt
5. Best Year: 2019 Chevy Volt (4.10 Rating)
If you’re looking for a hybrid that’s easy to use and has a long list of safety features, the 2019 model is a solid pick. In 2019, the regenerative braking system was improved, resulting in reduced pedal effort, and a built-in charger was added, reducing charging time by as much as 50%.
Not only does the 2019 Volt have a better battery, but it also has better efficiency. Impressive fuel economy of 106 MPG is achieved by combining its battery pack with its petrol engine.
Engine performance and low-temperature all-electric range were both increased by upgrading the heating system. Improved driver assistance technologies and a high-definition 8-inch touchscreen were included in the lineup.
Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:
- NHTSA: 2 recalls and 25 complaints.
- Edmunds: 4.4/5.0 consumer and 8/10 expert reviews.
- J.D. Power: 80/100 consumer ratings.
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.5/5.0 consumer and 4.4/5 expert ratings.
4. Best Year: 2016 Chevy Volt (4.19 Rating)
The 2016 Volt is another solid option; it has a reasonably priced price tag, an attractive exterior, and an economical and smooth powertrain. You can easily buy this car used because Edmunds ranks the 2016 Volt among the best-used vehicles.
The 2016 Volt offers unrivaled fuel economy ratings, making it an ideal choice if cost reduction is a major concern. With its larger battery, the 2016 Volt significantly increased the electric range, letting drivers go 53 miles (85.3 km) on electric power alone before switching to the petrol engine.
Many improvements were made to the 2016 Volt, including an enhanced hybrid drive system, new interior and exterior appearance, updated driver information and entertainment controls, and good connectivity with Apple CarPlay and iPhone.
Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:
- NHTSA: 1 recall and 83 complaints.
- Edmunds: 4.3/5.0 consumer reviews.
- J.D. Power: 77/100 consumer ratings.
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.5/5.0 consumer and 4.5/5 expert ratings.
3. Best Year: 2015 Chevy Volt (4.22 Rating)
Of the first generation, the 2015 Volt is the greatest pick for those on a lower budget; however, the 2014 model can still be a decent choice.
There were a few small problems with the 2015 model, but overall, it was a good vehicle. Longer battery life, more reliable operation, and lower maintenance expenses were all highlights of this year.
Although the advertised range remains the same, the 2015 Volt has a larger battery capacity than its predecessors. All other aspects remained the same from 2014 to 2015, with the exception of a combined navigation and premium audio package.
Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:
- NHTSA: 1 recall and 34 complaints.
- Edmunds: 4.7/5.0 consumer reviews.
- J.D. Power: 78/100 consumer ratings.
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.6/5.0 consumer and 3.6/5 expert ratings.
2. Best Year: 2011 Chevy Volt (4.24 Rating)
There were high hopes for the Chevrolet Volt’s first year on the market, and those hopes were not disappointed. The 2011 model’s performance in numerous categories impressed both professionals and consumers. It laid the groundwork for the future success of the Volt.
In 2011, Chevrolet debuted the all-new Volt, a plug-in hybrid with four doors and four seats that received rave reviews for its fuel economy and low emissions.
It has a range of 38 miles (61.15 km) when operated only on electric power, a luxurious interior with cutting-edge amenities, and many desirable standard features. Despite being the pioneering model, it outperformed its successors, which had many more complaints in terms of reliability.
Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:
- NHTSA: 1 recall and 44 complaints.
- Edmunds: 4.7/5.0 consumer reviews.
- J.D. Power: 88/100 consumer ratings.
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.6/5.0 consumer and 3.3/5 expert ratings.
1. Best Year: 2014 Chevy Volt (4.30 Rating)
Regarding plug-in hybrids, the 2014 Volt is the most improved model and has an outstanding all-electric range. The reliability, performance, and battery efficiency of this year’s model were highly praised. It also had minimal complaints as compared to the entire lineup.
The 2014 Chevrolet Volt is an excellent pick for eco-conscious consumers due to its long electric range and long battery life. It had a long list of desirable standard features, performed admirably in crash tests, and could travel 30–40 miles (48.28 – 64.37 km) on electric power alone.
When the Volt’s petrol engine is turned on, the anticipated range is 380 miles (611.5 km), and the fuel economy is roughly 40 mpg (17 km/l). Although the 2014 Volt did not undergo any major revisions, the attention of both buyers and critics was piqued by the steep price cut.
Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:
- NHTSA: 0 recalls and 80 complaints.
- Edmunds: 4.6/5.0 consumer reviews.
- J.D. Power: 81/100 consumer ratings.
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.6/5.0 consumer and 3.2/5 expert ratings.
Common Chevy Volt Problems
There are some consistent issues across Chevy Volt model years, but that’s to be expected with any car. Some of the most typical issues with the Chevy Volt are listed below.
- Steering power failure
- Error in transmission
- While driving, the power steering failed.
- Brake failure occurs intermittently.
- Electrical problems
- Inoperative primary control unit
- Paint defects
- Wobbling
- Errors in the display screens
FAQs
Is the Chevy Volt a reliable Car?
It’s not the most trustworthy car, but the Chevrolet Volt does the job. The repairpal.com ratings place the Volt at #2 out of the top 4 alternative vehicles with a 4 out of 5 reliability rating. It performs better than average for its type. You can save money by purchasing a Volt from the right model year.
Is Chevy Volt worth an investment?
The Chevrolet Volt is well worth the money because it has extensive mileage, numerous reliable year choices, and excellent road experience. Moreover, it’s a nice option for a plug-in hybrid. The Chevrolet Volt isn’t perfect, but it’s a good option if you’re trying to save money on a hybrid.
Is the Chevrolet Volt expensive to maintain?
Chevrolet Volt only needs $550 in maintenance yearly, which is quite good. The price of maintenance and repairs shifts with factors such as vehicle age, mileage, location, and repair facility.
Wrap Up
If you want to maximize your money and minimize maintenance costs, avoid the 2012, 2013, 2017, and 2018 models. The Chevy Volt has many problems, including battery leaks and fire hazards. However, if you choose a good model year, you will not have many problems on the road.
