GM Recalls More Than 18,000 Chevy Bolt EVs in Canada

Recall updates:

• August 24, 2021 (2017-2019 models)
• September 20, 2021 (2020-2022 models)

Vehicles affected?

This recall applies to 9,713 Chevrolet Bolt EV from model years 2017 to 2019 in Canada, as well as 9,023 Chevrolet Bolt EV and Bolt EUV from model years 2020 to 2022 in Canada. 

In the United States, 114,615 vehicles (model years: 2017-2022) have been recalled.

What’s the problem?

The Chevrolet Bolt EV has a high-capacity lithium-ion battery pack located ahead of the rear axle that can overheat and ignite if the battery is charged beyond 90% of capacity. The vehicle does not need to be connected to a charger to be at risk of fire. The concern is present whether the car is being driven and while it’s parked. 

Previously, GM's recall did not specify the root cause, but stated that GM and LG Chem were working around the clock to find the source of the problem and a permanent correction. The recall update for the 2020-2022 model years indicates that two manufacturing defects have now been identified—a torn anode and a folded separator. When they occur simultaneously in the same battery cell, the risk of fire is exacerbated.

To date, around a dozen Bolt EV fires have been reported in relation to the recalls. Two injuries have also been reported as well as a house fire because of a battery igniting.

What’s the fix?

According to General Motors, the corrective action includes replacing battery modules in modules with the defect. The repair will be completed free of charge to Bolt owners, and owners will be notified when parts are available for their car. 

In addition to replacing the defective battery module, Chevrolet is adding a special warranty to Bolt EV and Bolt EUV replacement batteries for customer assurance. The new battery will carry an 8-year/160,000 km limited warranty. 

Dealer-installed diagnostic software will be available within 60 days of the recall’s issuance that is designed to identify anomalies in battery performance. This software update will allow battery replacement to be accurately prioritized, and Bolt owners should be able to resume 100% charging once diagnostics are completed. 

What do you do?

Until recall parts are available, GM strongly encourages drivers to set their vehicle’s charge limitation to 90%. For model years 2017-18, the Hilltop Reserve setting can be initiated while 2019-22 owners can set Target Charge Level in the infotainment display. 

Recommendations also include more frequent charging and maintaining a range of 113km if possible. 

While drivers were previously advised to avoid parking indoors, that advice has been updated also. Drivers should park their vehicle outside immediately after charging but parking indoors is okay otherwise. Vehicles should not be charged indoors overnight. 

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