17 Best & Worst Chevy Volt Years (Complaints, Recalls, Stats)

When deciding on a Chevy Volt, it’s essential to consider the best and worst model years. The most reputable Chevy Volt years include 2019, 2018, 2016, 2015, 2014, and 2011, while the least desirable are 2017, 2013, and 2012.

These rankings are based on factors such as industry reviews, NHTSA statistics, reported issues, and consumer feedback.

In the following article, readers will gain a better understanding of the specific elements that define the performance of each Chevy Volt year.

The Best Chevy Volt Year

The 2019 Chevy Volt model year is widely regarded as the best year for this electric vehicle. This late-generation model offers a significant improvement in performance, range, and overall reliability compared to earlier models.

One notable feature of the 2019 Volt is the increased capacity of its battery pack.

It provides a range of up to 53 miles on electric power alone and 420 miles when utilizing the gasoline engine as well.

Check also: how long does a CHEVY volt last?

This extended range is a crucial factor for many consumers looking to switch from traditional gasoline vehicles to electric cars.

In addition to the improved battery, the 2019 Volt also offers greater efficiency. The combination of its battery pack and gasoline engine leads to a notable fuel economy of 106 MPGe.

This impressive efficiency makes the 2019 Chevy Volt an attractive option for environmentally conscious drivers aiming to minimize their carbon footprint.

Among other notable features, this model year includes the availability of safety features such as:

• adaptive cruise control,
• forward collision alert,
• and lane-keep assist.

The addition of these safety systems enhances the driving experience and provides drivers with a higher level of confidence and security behind the wheel.

The 2nd Best Chevrolet Volt Year

The 2016 Chevrolet Volt holds the distinction of being the second-best year for this innovative electric vehicle.

This model year marked the beginning of the second generation for the Volt, bringing significant improvements compared to previous iteration. Thanks to its enhanced battery capacity, the 2016 Volt delivered a notable boost in electric range, allowing drivers to travel up to 53 miles on a single electric charge before switching to its gasoline engine.

Aside from the increased range, the 2016 Volt also featured a revamped exterior design with a more stylish and streamlined look.

This design change contributed to improved aerodynamics, further enhancing both driving experience and efficiency. Additionally, the powertrain saw improvements in terms of smoothness and responsiveness, while retaining the signature silent electric drive.

In terms of reliability, the 2016 Chevrolet Volt ranked well among its contemporaries.

This model year performed better than average in several indices, such as in Consumer Reports’ annual auto surveys. This places the 2016 Volt among the top choices for those seeking a reliable and efficient electric vehicle.

Other Good Years for the Chevy Volt

Aside from the best Chevrolet Volt model years, there are other noteworthy years that have also received positive feedback from auto industry professionals, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), and consumers.

Some additional good years for the Chevy Volt are:

• 2014 – This year’s model received high praise for its reliability, performance, and battery efficiency. It also had minimal complaints related to major components or systems.
• 2016 – This year’s model featured substantial upgrades, including enhanced battery capacity, extended electric range, and updated technology features. It was known for its improved performance and increased user satisfaction.
• 2015 – Although not without minor issues, the 2015 model’s strengths outweighed its weaknesses. This year featured improvements in battery life and reliability, and reduced maintenance costs.
• 2011 – The debut year of the Chevy Volt came with high expectations, and it didn’t disappoint. The 2011 model performed well in various areas and earned accolades from both experts and consumers. It set the foundation for the Volt’s success in the years to come.

While these particular years may not be the absolute best, they have demonstrated the continued excellence of the Chevy Volt as a plug-in hybrid vehicle in various aspects, ensuring a satisfying ownership experience for buyers.

The Worst Chevy Volt Year

Before we start – check our list of known problems with the Chevy Volt.

The 2017 Chevy Volt model year has been considered one of the worst, according to consumer feedback and reported problems.

Some issues associated with this model year include:

• failure of the Body Control Module (BCM),
• airbag issues, braking problems,
• and shift to park warnings on the dashboard.

Though the 2017 model experienced these issues, it is vital to mention that every car manufacturer can face problems with specific model years, and it does not necessarily represent the overall quality of the brand.

In the case of the Chevy Volt, the majority of its production years have received positive reviews, with only a few model years encountering more significant issues.

Other Bad Years for the Sonic Volt

Although the Chevy Volt has had its share of successful model years, there were a few years that stand out as having more issues than others.

In this section, we will discuss these years and the particular challenges they faced.

Here’s a list of additional bad years:

• 2012
• 2013
• 2017

The 2012 Chevy Volt model experienced several issues. Notably, it had problems with the battery pack and electric drivetrain.

However, it is essential to recognize that this was early in the development of electric vehicles, and addressing these types of issues helped pave the way for future improvements.

In 2013, the Chevy Volt faced more concerns. This model year faced issues with:

• battery control module (BCM) failures,
• airbag problems,
• and braking issues.

These problems were not widespread, but it is still essential for car buyers to be aware of potential issues in certain vehicles from this year.

Lastly, the 2017 Chevy Volt also had its share of difficulties.

This model year experienced a “shift to park” warning on the dash, leading to inconvenience and potential issues with the vehicle’s operation. Although not a deal-breaker for most buyers, it is worth mentioning that this problem existed in the 2017 model year.

Years with the Most Recalls

The Chevrolet Volt, a popular plug-in hybrid, has had a largely positive reputation over the years.

However, some model years have experienced more recalls than others due to various issues that needed addressing.

Based on the search results, Chevrolet has issued a total of seven recalls for the Chevy Volt, covering model years from 2010 to 2019.

Some common problems resulting in recalls include:

• Issues with rear seat belts and safe child safety seat installation
• Rear brake caliper piston problems
• Loss of power in the hybrid propulsion system
• Automatic vehicle restarting while the driver is absent

As for which specific years had the most recalls, the information points out the worst model years as 2012, 2013, and 2017.

Model Year	Number of Recalls
2012	2
2013	2
2017	3

Although these model years faced the highest number of recalls, it is important to note that many of the issues were addressed, ensuring the overall safety and reliability of the Chevy Volt.

Common Chevy Volt Problems to Look For

The Chevrolet Volt has a solid track record as a reliable hybrid vehicle, but there are still some common issues that prospective buyers should be aware of before making a decision.

This section highlights these problems for you, so you can determine which model years to avoid or be prepared to address.

The 2012 and 2013 Chevy Volt models have reported issues with the battery cooling system, leading to battery degradation and a decreased electric driving range.

In addition, some Volt drivers have encountered problems with their vehicle stalling while driving. These issues can be resolved through recalls or updates, but they may cause inconvenience to the owner.

Another common issue experienced by Chevy Volt owners is the failure of the power steering system.

This problem, primarily associated with the 2017 model, can be potentially dangerous and may require a costly repair or replacement.

It is important for drivers to be aware of this issue when considering a Volt from this year.

The 2013 Chevy Volt also had issues with the electric propulsion system. Some drivers reported that their vehicle would suddenly lose power or fail to start, leaving them stranded.

Again, this problem can be addressed through recalls or software updates, but it’s something potential buyers should be aware of.

In conclusion, the Chevrolet Volt has generally proven to be a reliable and efficient hybrid vehicle, but potential buyers should be mindful of common issues and the specific model years they affect.

By being informed, you can make a more confident decision when purchasing a Chevy Volt.