Is Your 2020-2022 Bolt EV at Risk? Find Out the Latest Battery Update Now!

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. The Problem: Chevrolet Bolt EV Fires
   1. Manufacturing Defect
   2. Recall and Battery Replacement Program
3. Remedial Work: Software Updates
4. Battery Replacement Process
5. How to Check if a Bolt EV Had the Battery Replaced
6. Status of Battery Replacements
   1. Vehicles Still in Need of Replacement
   2. Restricted Capacity for Unreplaced Vehicles
7. GM's Recent Announcement
   1. Introduction of Special Software
   2. Monitoring Battery Packs
   3. Restricted Range and Reprogramming
8. Speculations and GM-LG Partnership
9. Contacting GM and Exploring Options
10. Personal Experience and Conclusion

🔥 The Problem: Chevrolet Bolt EV Fires

In the past few years, the headlines were dominated by news of Chevrolet Bolt EVs bursting into flames. Though only a handful of incidents occurred, it prompted General Motors (GM) to issue recalls and ultimately led to a massive battery replacement program. The root cause of these fires was traced back to a manufacturing defect within the battery pack, causing a mechanical short and thermal runaway. Initially, GM proposed software updates to identify problematic batteries, but after unsuccessful attempts, a recall campaign was initiated. All affected Bolt EVs made between 2017 and 2020 were eventually equipped with an upgraded battery pack. However, this left a number of vehicles between 2020 and 2022 at risk.

🛠 Remedial Work: Software Updates

GM and its battery partner, LG Energy Solutions, initially attempted to address the battery issue through software updates. The software was intended to detect anomalies within the battery pack and signal for a replacement. However, these updates did not effectively resolve the problem, and measures were taken to restrict the affected Bolt EVs to 80% of their total capacity. Eventually, GM and LG Energy Solutions collaborated on a battery replacement program, upgrading the affected vehicles' battery packs from 60 kWh to 66 kWh.

⚡️ Battery Replacement Process

If you are considering purchasing a used Bolt EV and want to verify if the battery pack has been replaced under warranty, a Chevrolet dealer can provide you with the information. Often, a sticker placed on the windshield indicates whether the battery has been certified and replaced. While the majority of Bolt EVs made between 2017 and 2020 have had their battery packs replaced free of charge, there are still some unreplaced vehicles on the road. These vehicles experience restricted capacity and reduced range until the battery replacement is performed.

📲 GM's Recent Announcement

Last week, GM announced a change in its approach to addressing the battery issue for Bolt EVs produced between 2020 and 2022. Instead of automatically replacing the battery packs, GM has developed special software for monitoring the battery pack's performance. This software will temporarily restrict the capacity of the affected vehicles for approximately 6,200 miles of driving. During this monitoring period, any potential anomalies in cell voltage or current draw will be closely observed. If no issues arise, the software will automatically unlock the full 100% state of charge for the battery pack.

💡 Speculations and GM-LG Partnership

Speculations have arisen regarding the state of the partnership between GM and LG Energy Solutions. Rumors suggest that both companies are experiencing strained relations, possibly affecting their desire to continue collaborating. The recent software update could be a strategic move to expedite the resolution process for remaining unreplaced vehicles. While the exact number of affected vehicles between 2020 and 2022 is unknown, reaching out to GM's EV concierge service is essential for Bolt EV customers seeking further clarification and exploring their options.

📞 Contacting GM and Exploring Options

If you are a Bolt EV owner affected by these developments, reaching out to GM or Chevrolet's EV concierge service is crucial. Regulations may vary by jurisdiction but protecting your rights as a consumer is important. While these changes may cause frustration and fear among Bolt EV owners, it is worth noting that vehicles with replaced battery packs have seen improved performance and range.

🏁 Personal Experience and Conclusion

As a Bolt EV owner myself, I empathize with those impacted by these ongoing battery issues. Personally, I would be disappointed if my 2020-2022 Bolt EV were affected, as it would mean a return to restricted range and charging limitations. GM's recent software update appears to be an attempt to expedite the resolution process for the remaining vehicles. If you own a Bolt EV, please share your experiences and thoughts in the comments section below. Keep evolving and check back for future updates on this matter.