Chevrolet Bolt Battery Recall Issued
Chevy has finally announced a fix for 2017-2019 Bolt electric vehicles to prevent the batteries from catching fire.
GM engineers have tried to figure out what was happening with the batteries which seemed to be catching fire when the batteries were fully charged. As a quick fix, GM dealerships were told to update software to limit the battery charging capacity to 90%.
Chevy says the recall repair for 2019 models is available now, then repairs for 2017-2018 Bolt cars will be performed by the end of May 2021.
"As part of the service procedure, dealers will utilize GM-developed diagnostic tools to identify potential battery anomalies and replace battery module assemblies as necessary. The remedy will also include the installation of advanced onboard diagnostic software into these vehicles that, among other things, has the ability to detect potential issues related to changes in battery module performance before problems can develop." — Dan Flores, GM spokesman
From the recall notice, GM says:
Why is your vehicle being recalled? A certain number of these vehicles were built with high voltage cells produced at LG Chem’s Ochang, Korea facility that may pose a risk of fire when charged to full, or very close to full, capacity.
What will we do? Your GM dealer will perform diagnostic procedures on your vehicle and, if necessary, replace battery module assemblies that fail the diagnostics. Your dealer will also install advanced onboard diagnostic software that, among other things, has the ability to detect potential issues related to changes in battery module performance before problems can develop. This service will be performed for you at no charge. In most cases, the inspection and service will take approximately one hour. If the replacement of a battery module assembly is required, your dealer will provide you with a courtesy loaner vehicle while your vehicle is being repaired, which could take several days, depending on parts availability.
What should you do? You should contact your GM dealer to arrange a service appointment as soon as possible. When scheduling your appointment, confirm with the dealer that they are an EV certified dealer.
Do you have questions? If you have questions or concerns that your dealer is unable to resolve, please contact the Bolt EV Concierge team at 833-EVCHEVY (833-382-4389). Hours of operation are Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM ET
The GM Bolt EV recall number is N202311731 and is accessible here.
See also Chevrolet lemon law.
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