2021 Chevrolet Bolt VIN Check, Recalls & Reliability
The 2021 Chevrolet Bolt has good reliability. There are 5 recalls and 66 owner complaints on file for the 2021 Chevrolet Bolt. Severity signals include 4 crash-related complaints. The most commonly reported problem areas are: Electrical System (29), Power Train (10), Steering (8).
Bolt reliability snapshot
61/100
Latest model-year reliability score
3.0/5
RepairPal rating (overall)
Data sourced from Auto Reliability Index, aggregating NHTSA recalls, owner complaints, and RepairPal repair-cost records.
Used-car research
Research the Chevrolet Bolt before checking the VIN
Compare model years, recurring problems, safety campaigns and market value first. Then use the VIN to verify the history of the individual car.
Owner-reported problem categories from NHTSA complaint filings. Counts reflect complaints per category for the most-recent model year on file.
Electrical System29
Power Train10
Steering8
Unknown Or Other7
Fuel Propulsion System7
Air Bags2
Pre-purchase inspection checklist for the 2021 Chevrolet Bolt
Hands-on checks distilled from real NHTSA complaint patterns and recall histories. Bring this list to a test drive or mechanic inspection.
☐Verify if battery recall repairs are completed
☐Check steering wheel for binding or failure to return to center
☐Test propulsion system for sudden power loss
☐Inspect for warning lights related to electrical or propulsion systems
☐Ensure airbag system is functional and error-free
☐Test drive to check for transmission shudder or unintended acceleration
What owners reported
2021 Chevrolet Bolt owner complaints in detail
Owners have reported 4 crashes and 1 injury to NHTSA for the 2021 Chevrolet Bolt. These are unverified owner reports, not confirmed defect rates.
Owner complaints29
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Owners of the 2021 Chevrolet Bolt frequently report issues related to the electrical system, particularly concerning the high-voltage battery and propulsion system. Common symptoms include sudden loss of propulsion, reduced battery range, and recurring warning lights for battery or power-propulsion. Many complaints highlight delays in recall repairs, with parts often unavailable, leading to prolonged periods where vehicles cannot be fully charged or are restricted to 80-90% state of charge. Some reports mention safety concerns, such as the potential for battery fires and incidents where the vehicle loses power unexpectedly while driving. These issues typically arise within the first few thousand miles, with some owners expressing dissatisfaction over the extended wait times for a complete resolution.
Owner complaints10
POWER TRAIN
Owners report several power train issues with the 2021 Chevrolet Bolt, primarily involving sudden loss of propulsion and uncommanded acceleration. Complaints frequently mention the vehicle stalling or losing power while driving, with some incidents linked to wiring harness or fuse failures. There are also instances of unintended acceleration when shifting gears, sometimes leading to crashes, although no injuries are reported. These problems often occur at low mileage, with one owner noting issues as early as 2,430 miles. Safety implications include the potential for crashes and being stranded in hazardous conditions, making these reports pertinent for potential buyers.
Owners report recurring issues with the steering system of the 2021 Chevrolet Bolt, particularly with the steering wheel failing to return to center and becoming progressively harder to turn. Complaints frequently mention binding in the steering rack and gear, with some owners experiencing clunking noises and steering that pulls to one side. These issues often arise at varied mileages, with some reports as early as 3,500 miles. Multiple owners describe safety concerns, as the unpredictable handling and loss of power steering can pose risks while driving. Additionally, one owner notes a manufacturer buyback due to unresolved steering alignment and axle issues, underscoring the potential severity of these problems.
Owner complaints7
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Owners of the 2021 Chevrolet Bolt frequently report issues related to the vehicle's high voltage battery, specifically concerning a recall for potential fire hazards. Complaints often describe a lack of available remedies for this recall, with some owners stating that they have been waiting over a year for a resolution, leading to restricted battery charging and reduced vehicle range. Additionally, there are reports of a shift selector failure, which can lock the car in park, and a potential safety issue where keys locked in the trunk can trap occupants inside. Safety implications mentioned include the risk of battery fires and potential entrapment of children, which could be hazardous if the vehicle is in motion. These issues are reported without specific mileage indications but are noted as ongoing concerns since the recall announcements in 2021.
Owner complaints7
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
Owners of the 2021 Chevrolet Bolt frequently report issues related to the propulsion system, primarily involving battery and power reduction problems. Complaints commonly describe sudden deceleration and reduced propulsion power, even with sufficient battery charge remaining, often occurring at highway speeds and posing significant safety risks. Several owners mention delays in receiving battery replacements or software updates intended to mitigate these issues, with some experiencing these problems within the first few miles of ownership. The reports highlight safety concerns, with abrupt power loss potentially leading to dangerous situations such as near-accidents on highways. These patterns suggest prospective buyers should be aware of potential propulsion system issues and ongoing recall-related delays.
Owner complaints2
AIR BAGS
Owners of the 2021 Chevrolet Bolt report issues with the airbag system, specifically noting non-deployment during collisions. In two separate incidents, airbags fail to deploy during crashes, with one resulting in facial injuries due to impact with the steering wheel. One owner mentions receiving an error notification through the Chevy app indicating that the airbag system requires attention. These reports suggest potential safety implications, as the non-deployment of airbags occurs during significant impacts, potentially compromising occupant safety.
Every NHTSA safety recall logged against the 2021 Bolt. A VIN check confirms whether any recall remains unrepaired on a specific vehicle.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEMNHTSA 24V812000Oct 31, 2024
Park outside until repaired
General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2020-2022 Chevrolet Bolt EV and 2022 Bolt EUV vehicles previously repaired under Recall 21V-650. The installation of advanced diagnostic software may have failed. As such, the high voltage battery could catch fire when charged to full or nearly full capacity.
Consequence: A battery fire increases the risk of injury.
Remedy
Owners are advised to take the following interim steps: Set the Target Charge Level feature in their vehicle to limit the charge level to 90%, charge their vehicle more frequently, avoid depleting the battery to 70 miles range remaining, park outside after charging, and do not charge the vehicle indoors overnight. Dealers will reinstall advanced diagnostic software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed December 3, 2024. Owners may contact the Bolt EV Concierge Team at 1-833-382-4389. GM's number for this recall is N242470160.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEMNHTSA 24V481000Jun 27, 2024
Park outside until repaired
General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2020-2022 Chevrolet Bolt EV and 2022 Chevrolet Bolt EUV vehicles that were previously remedied under recall number 21V-650. The advanced diagnostic software may have been incorrectly installed and fail to detect defective battery modules, possibly resulting in a battery fire.
Consequence: A battery fire increases the risk of injury.
Remedy
Owners are advised to take the following interim steps: Set the Target Charge Level feature in their vehicle to limit the charge level to 90%, charge their vehicle more frequently, avoid depleting the battery to 70 miles range remaining, park outside after charging, and do not charge the vehicle indoors overnight. Dealers will reinstall the advanced diagnostic software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on August 1, 2024. Owners may contact the Bolt EV Concierge Team at 1-833-382-4389. GM's numbers for this recall are N242443000 and N242443002.
STRUCTURE, SEAT BELTSNHTSA 23V845000Dec 14, 2023
General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2017-2023 Chevrolet Bolt EV vehicles. This recall includes certain vehicles previously repaired incorrectly under NHTSA recall number 22V-930. After a crash with seat belt pretensioner deployment, the pretensioner exhaust may ignite carpet fibers near the B-pillar, causing a fire.
Consequence: A fire increases the risk of injury.
Remedy
Dealers will inspect both front seat belt pretensioners and, if necessary, install metal foil at the carpet near the pretensioner exhaust. Certain vehicles will also need a pretensioner cover installed. Repairs will be performed free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed January 24, 2024. These vehicles were previously recalled for this same issue under recall number 22V-930 and will need to have the new remedy performed. Owners may contact GM EV Concierge at 1-833-EVCHEVY (1-833-382-4389) (TTY 711 / 1-800-833-2438) or Customer Service at 1-800-222-1020. GM's number for this recall is N232421970.
STRUCTURE, SEAT BELTSNHTSA 22V930000Dec 15, 2022
General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2017-2023 Chevrolet Bolt EV vehicles. After a crash with seat belt pretensioner deployment, the pretensioner exhaust may ignite carpet fibers near the B-pillar, causing a fire.
Consequence: A vehicle fire can increase the risk of injury.
Remedy
Dealers will install metal foil at the carpet near the pretensioner exhaust, and install a pretensioner cover as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed between January 23, 2023 and April 25, 2023. Owners may contact Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020. GM's number for this recall is N222383790.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEMNHTSA 21V650000Aug 20, 2021
Park outside until repaired
General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2020-2022 Chevrolet Bolt EV and 2022 Chevrolet Bolt EUV vehicles. The high voltage battery could catch fire when charged to full or nearly full capacity.
Consequence: A battery fire increases the risk of injury.
Remedy
Owners are advised to take the following interim steps: Set the Target Charge Level feature in their vehicle to limit the charge level to 90%, charge their vehicle more frequently, avoid depleting the battery to 70 miles range remaining, park outside after charging, and do not charge the vehicle indoors overnight. Defective battery modules will be replaced by GM, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on October 1, 2021 and June 23, 2023. Owners may contact the Bolt EV Concierge Team at 1-833-382-4389. This recall is an expansion of NHTSA recall 21V-560. GM's number for this recall is N212345940.
2021 Chevrolet Bolt on the road
24,827 2021 Chevrolet Bolt units were sold new in the US — a key signal for the size of today's used-market inventory.
How the 2021 Chevrolet Bolt stacks up against rivals
The most-shopped alternatives in the same segment. Each link opens a side-by-side reliability and cost comparison.
The 2021 Chevrolet Bolt presents a moderate reliability profile, scoring below the segment average. Its reliability issues are notably concentrated in the electrical system, which accounts for nearly half of all complaints. This focus suggests a specific area of concern for potential buyers.
The vehicle's five recalls reflect an elevated level, further indicating potential reliability challenges. While other issues are distributed across the power train, steering, and fuel/propulsion systems, they are less prevalent but still noteworthy.
As the model is in the fifth year of its first generation, these patterns might be expected to stabilize. However, the data suggests an elevated reliability risk compared to competitors. Buyers should be aware of these potential risks when considering this model.
What you get in a 2021 Chevrolet Bolt report
✓Available title brand history
✓Odometer readings & rollback detection
✓Accident & damage records
✓Auction sales with photos
✓Open safety recalls
✓Theft & stolen vehicle check
Check a 2021 Chevrolet Bolt now
Confirm exact options, recall completion, accident history, and odometer accuracy in minutes.
2021 Chevrolet Bolt — Frequently asked questions
Is the 2021 Chevrolet Bolt reliable?
The 2021 Chevrolet Bolt presents a moderate reliability profile, scoring below the segment average. Its reliability issues are notably concentrated in the electrical system, which accounts for nearly half of all complaints. This focus suggests a specific area of concern for potential buyers.
How many recalls does the 2021 Chevrolet Bolt have?
5 NHTSA safety recalls have been issued for the 2021 Chevrolet Bolt. A VIN check confirms whether any remain unrepaired on a specific vehicle.
What are the most common 2021 Chevrolet Bolt problems?
The most-reported 2021 Chevrolet Bolt problem areas are: Electrical System (29), Power Train (10), Steering (8).
Should I run a VIN check on a 2021 Chevrolet Bolt?
Yes. A VIN report verifies title brands, odometer history, accident records, and recall completion on a specific 2021 Chevrolet Bolt, complementing the model-year reliability data on this page.
