How Long Do Chevrolet Volts Last? (Miles, Years, Numbers)

The Chevrolet Volt is a plug-in hybrid car,

Its notable features include a gas engine backup, long electric range, and great safety scores.

Although its production stopped in 2019, it is still a pretty magnificent car to own.

Before diving in, make sure to check our list of most common problems with the Chevy Volt models.

Given that it’s a hybrid, you’d want to know how well it performs compared to regular cars. This article discusses the longevity of the Chevy Volt.

Here’s the short answer to how long Chevrolet Volts last:

With proper use and maintenance, a Chevrolet Volt can last 200,000 to 300,000 miles before you experience any major issues with the hybrid powertrain and other expensive components. If you drive an average of 15,000 miles per year, the car may serve you for about 13 to 20 years.

How Many Miles Can You Expect From a Chevrolet Volt?

Erick Belmer, a General motors employee, reportedly had up to 460,000 miles on his Chevrolet Volt. It was a 2012 model, and it didn’t require any major repair until it hit the 400,000 mile mark. There was no significant battery degradation.

That being said, with the proper care and maintenance, we expect your Volt to reach 200,000 miles. General Motors guarantees that the battery would last 100,000 miles before losing 10 to 30 percent of its original capacity.

Since the Volt has the added advantage of the gas engine, it should last longer when compared to regular cars.

How Soon Should You Expect Rust on a Chevrolet Volt?

There is no definite timeframe for rust to appear on a Chevy Volt. Factors like the level of moisture and humidity in your area, salted roads, and the frequency of cleaning the car can all affect the rate of corrosion and rust.

Learn more in our list of the best and worst years for Chevy Volt.

But like most modern cars, GM dips the shell of the Volt in anti-rust coating before painting. So, this keeps the car rust-free for a long period.

If you live in the Salt Belt, your Volt may be more susceptible to rust because of the heavily salted roads and higher level of precipitation. Consider washing your car regularly, using an aftermarket rust-proofing solution, and garaging the vehicle to prevent rust.

How Long Do Chevrolet Volts Last Compared to Similar Cars?

The Chevy Volt does very well when compared to similar hybrid or electric vehicles.

Chevy Volt vs. Toyota Prius

The Prius can last 250,000 miles or more with regular maintenance and conscientious use. It also has an estimated $364 average annual maintenance and repair cost, compared to the Volt’s $550.

Considering the exceptional reliability of Toyota and the matured technology underlying the Prius, we can conclude that it lasts longer than the Chevy Volt.

Chevy Volt vs. Ford C-Max

The Ford C-Max can deliver up to 200,000 miles of headache-free performance. With an average annual maintenance cost of $557, we can say that both vehicles have similar ownership expenses and lifespans.

Chevy Volt vs. Kia Niro

The Kia Niro has an estimated lifespan of 200,000 miles, which is the same as the Chevy Volt. However, the Niro is cheaper to maintain, with RepairPal providing an estimate of $426 in annual maintenance and repair costs.

Chevrolet Volt vs. Honda CR-Z

The CR-Z also has an estimated lifespan of 150,000 miles. With adequate maintenance, this car can last 200,000 miles or more.

It, however, has a lower maintenance and repair cost of $430, which makes it the cheaper vehicle to own. Both vehicles are also highly reliable.

Chevrolet Volt vs. Hyundai Sonata Hybrid

Hyundai claims they tested the Sonata Hybrid battery, and it lasted a clear 300,000 miles with no significant degradation. This doesn’t mean we have to take their word for it.

Thus, with other factors being considered, including location and different driving habits, the Sonata may last 200,000 miles or more with proper maintenance and use. Also, both vehicles have similar ownership costs and should provide trouble-free service for at least 10 years.

How Reliable Is a Chevrolet Volt?

The 2019 Volt has a 77% rating in quality and reliability according to J.D. Power. This rating is average according to J.D. Power’s classification.

The 2018 Volt performs even less in terms of reliability. With a 69% rating, the 2018 Volt has a less than average score.

The 2017 Volt has an average reliability rating of 72%.

While the 2011, 2012 and 2013 Volts score 89%, 84% and 82% respectively.

We have considered the first and last three model years of the Chevrolet Volt. Judging from the results, one can say the earlier models are more reliable than the later ones.

However, reliability doesn’t always coincide with overall performance, as seen in the next segments.

The Best and Worst Years for Chevrolet Volt

Motor Biscuit calls the 2013 model one of the best models to have. According to information from CarComplaints, the major problems associated with the 2013 model are related to the interior accessories.

The 2012 and 2017 models, however, had more problems with major components. The 2012 model, for example, had 10 complaints related to electrical problems.

The 2017 model had 5 complaints related to the steering wheel. It also had 4 complaints regarding the electrical components and 4 complaints related to the engine.

What about Recalls for These Models?

The Chevrolet Volt has fewer recalls when compared to other cars both in and outside of its make. This says a lot about the overall performance of the Volt.

Model Year	Number 0f Recall	Reason for Recall
2011	1	Engine and electrical system problems.
2012	2	Brakes and electrical system problems.
2013	2	Hybrid propulsion system and electrical system problems.
2014	–	–
2015	1	Steering gear problems.
2016	1	Improper airbag inflation.
2017	–	–
2018	2	Seat-belt retractor and brake caliper piston problems.
2019	2	Seat-belt retractor and brake caliper piston problems.

Chevrolet Volt Model Year List

The Volt was produced for only two generations. Also, its production didn’t last up to a decade.

First Generation: 2011-2015
Second Generation: 2016-2019

Are Chevrolet Volts Expensive to Maintain?

According to RepairPal, the Chevy Volt has an average annual maintenance and repair cost of $550, which is more than the $526 for compact cars. However, the cost of maintaining and repairing the vehicle depends on the age, mileage,

The batteries can also last anywhere from 100,000 miles to 150,000 miles, but they can be expensive to replace. However, you would have got your money’s worth from the vehicle before the batteries need to replacements.

How Long Do the Brakes Last?

The brakes also last longer in hybrid cars, thanks to regenerative braking. This converts your Volt’s kinetic energy into electrical energy.

Regenerative braking reduces the strain on brake pads and increases the longevity of your brakes. This means your brakes may go well over 100,000 miles before wearing out.

How Long Do the Tires Last?

Your tires can last up to 40,000 miles based on average usage. The lifespan of tires also depends on your braking habits.

You may regularly encounter heavy traffic where you have to brake frequently. This would not only affect your brakes but your tires, too. The terrain you drive on also contributes to tire degradation or longevity.

How Long Do the Transmissions Last?

The transmission can last up to 200,000 miles, depending on usage habits.

How Long Do the Spark Plugs Last?

GM recommends changing the spark plugs at 97,500 miles. So we can the spark plugs can last that long before replacement, although several factors can affect this figure.

What About Insurance Cost?

According to Insuraviz, it costs an average $127 per month or $1,528 per year to insure the Chevy Volt.

Note that the Chevy Volt comes with a 100,000 mile or 8 year battery warranty, whichever comes first. This is to prevent you from paying for coverage that’s already handled by your warranty.

It is difficult to put a specific price on insurance. There are many reasons insurance costs would not be the same everywhere.

The amount depends on location, the insurance provider, your age, the type of coverage you’re going for, and several other factors.

You should know that teen drivers usually have to pay much higher sums than older drivers. Drivers over 60 have the cheapest rates. Also, drivers in Los Angeles or New York would pay much more than drivers in Seattle or Phoenix.

The Chevy Volt is also slightly more expensive to insure than some hybrid cars. Given the best economic and geographical conditions, a Volt can cost as low as $900 to insure in a year. Companies like “eerie” and “allied” insurance offer that price for certain model years.

Insurance costs increase regarding the price of fixing the car were it to be involved in an accident. Hybrids have batteries that are quite expensive to replace. That’s why the cost of insuring a Chevy Volt is slightly higher than the cost of insuring other cars.

Tips to Prolong the Life of Your Chevrolet Volt

Here are tips to help you get more life out of your Chevrolet Volt:

Ensure you rotate your tires and perform needed services every 5,000 miles.
Replace your engine air cleaner filter every 3 years and inspect your spark plugs and plug wires at 50,000 mile intervals.
Check your electric drive unit fluid and your evaporative control system every 35,000 miles.
Don’t forget to change your wiper blades after any noticeable depreciation. This ensures you have an excellent view of the road at all times.
Repair any damage to your Volt as soon as it occurs. Waiting too long before fixing any problem can further complicate the situation. You can save a whole of money by simply acting fast.

Resources

2019 Chevrolet Volt | jdpower.com

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