This Warranty Administration service bulletin provides Lithium-Ion battery Exchange Process and Transaction Submission information.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗2023 Chevrolet Bolt EUV electrical problems
moderate Owners of the 2023 Chevrolet Bolt EUV have filed 22 NHTSA complaints about the electrical at roughly $850 to repair (U.S. federal records, as of July 2026). Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation. See electrical across all vehicles →
Complaints
22
Recalls
0
Avg fix
$850
| Model year | electrical complaints |
|---|---|
| 2022 Bolt EUV | 3 |
| 2023 Bolt EUV (this page) | 22 |
1fire
What stands out
Electrical accounts for 21% of all owner complaints filed against this vehicle, across 6 categories tracked.
Is there a fix? Manufacturer service bulletins
The manufacturer has issued service bulletins covering electrical on this vehicle — documented repair instructions, service campaigns, or warranty extensions sent to dealers. A TSB isn't a recall (it's not a free safety remedy), but it's the manufacturer acknowledging the issue and how to fix it.
This service bulletin provides Requirements for Replacement of the Dual Mode Cord Set Under Warranty.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗This engineering information (EI) will assist GM to recover a small number of electric vehicle battery packs from customer-owned vehicles in the field for further engineering study and analysis.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗This Warranty Administration service bulletin provides Lithium-Ion battery Exchange Process and Transaction Submission information.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗This service bulletin provides dealers with Warranty Administration information on North American Charging Standard (NACS) DC Adapter Warranty Claim Information.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗Source: NHTSA manufacturer communications. Bring the bulletin number to your dealer or shop.
The failure pattern owners describe
Owners of the 2023 Bolt EUV describe cascading electrical failures that disable multiple critical systems simultaneously. The most dangerous involve infotainment crashes: FM radio won't change stations, the touchscreen becomes unresponsive, then all audio cuts out—including OnStar emergency communication—and the dashboard displays go dark. This has happened at highway speeds in remote areas with no cell service, leaving drivers without instrumentation or emergency contact. Software updates have been applied but failures recur.
Water intrusion appears in multiple systems. Rear taillights accumulate internal condensation and fail, while trunk leaks damage the rear audio amplifier, disabling all warning chimes and alerts. A service bulletin exists for older model years but wasn't extended to 2022–2023 models despite identical complaints.
Backup cameras and rear cross-traffic alerts fail intermittently during reverse, showing warning symbols but no alerts—one vehicle required multiple component replacements (wiring harness, camera, head unit) with persistent failure. Separate owners report false battery overheat protection during desert heat, automatic emergency braking with no threat present, door locks unlocking when the vehicle shuts off, and complete loss of motive power with all wheels locked simultaneously.
Battery and charging failures include unexplained drain during parking, capacity degradation from 230 to 180 miles range in months, failure to reach 80% charge, and charging errors persisting over one year. One vehicle caught fire in the underhood wiring at night; GM investigated for three months but closed the case without providing a detailed report.
Failure modes owners describe
Infotainment system cascade failure affecting critical driving systems
Radio, touchscreen, and audio system failures that cascade to disable OnStar communication and cause dashboard instrumentation to go dark. Owners report infotainment glitches (FM channel control failure, partial screen response loss) leading to complete loss of audible and visual feedback, including OnStar emergency voice communication and all dashboard displays. Occurs unpredictably and sometimes only resets after extended parking and vehicle shutdown.
When: Occurring during active driving and in remote areas with no cell service; at 18k miles and 65 mph in mountainous terrain in one instance
Symptoms owners cite: Unable to change FM radio station despite screen responses; Audio system fails; touchscreen becomes partially unresponsive; All speakers turn off; OnStar audio unavailable; Dashboard lights and all displays go dark; System requires extended downtime to reset
Repairs/costs cited: Software download previously applied; issue reoccurred in one owner's vehicle
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Software update issued; no confirmation of permanent resolution
Spontaneous underhood electrical fire
One vehicle's electrical wiring caught fire spontaneously in the middle of the night with no indication of external cause or arson. Owner alleges GM investigation lasted nearly three months without producing detailed findings, investigation report, or explanation to the consumer. GM cited NFPA921-2021 standard but provided no documented evidence or reasoning.
When: Occurred at night while vehicle was parked; no prior warning signs
Symptoms owners cite: Spontaneous fire in underhood electrical/wiring area; No prior warning lights or system indicators; Fire occurred without collision, damage, or external source
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: GM conducted investigation per NFPA921-2021 but closed case without providing detailed report, findings, or consumer explanation
Battery thermal management software triggering false overheat protection in high heat
Battery management software detected false high-voltage comparison error between battery banks during 110-degree desert heat, disabling climate control, reducing propulsion, and capping charging to 40% of stated charger capacity (50 kWh). No warning given to driver before or during the issue. Software error resolved with subsequent software download from dealership.
When: During extreme heat exposure (110–118°F) in southern California desert; unknown mileage
Symptoms owners cite: Charging capped at 40% on 50 kWh charger without user notification; Climate control disabled; propulsion reduced; Dashboard warnings only visible after leaving charger; Slow charging speed (4 kWh) at full 50 kWh station after event; No prior indication of system failure during drive to charger
Codes mentioned: False high-voltage battery bank comparison error
Repairs/costs cited: Resolved by software download at dealership
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Chevrolet Roadside Service provided guidance; issue recognized as known problem; fixed by software update
Rear taillight water intrusion and seal failure
Water and condensation accumulate inside sealed rear taillight assembly, causing loss of brake light and turn signal illumination. Failure occurs during normal vehicle use with rain exposure and no prior impact or external damage. Dealership states entire taillight assembly (not just bulb/socket) must be replaced. Owner reports multiple Bolt vehicles showing similar pattern, suggesting design or sealing defect rather than isolated damage.
When: During normal use with rain exposure; discovered after condensation visible in housing
Symptoms owners cite: Visible moisture and condensation inside sealed taillight housing; Brake light and turn signal failure; No prior warning messages or dashboard alerts; No collision, impact, or external damage prior to failure
Repairs/costs cited: Entire taillight assembly requires replacement; light source not serviceable. Out-of-pocket cost exceeding $800 after GM offered 20% goodwill assistance outside warranty
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Manufacturer acknowledged issue but vehicle outside warranty; offered partial goodwill assistance (~20%)
Door unlock on automatic shutdown with key fob inside cabin
When vehicle automatically shuts off during charging or idle with key fob left in cabin, all door locks automatically unlock. Occurs with two separate Bolt models (2019 Bolt EV and 2023 Bolt EUV). Owner notes vehicle allows occupant to fall asleep unaware that doors will unlock when shutdown occurs, creating security and safety risk. No manufacturer response despite email to GM general counsel in 2019.
When: After vehicle sits powered on for ~1 hour then automatically shuts off; reproducible
Symptoms owners cite: Doors automatically unlock when vehicle powers off with key fob inside; No warning indicator or alarm before unlock occurs; Occurs during idle/charging scenarios
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: No response; email sent to GM general counsel in 2019 went unacknowledged; problem persists in current model
Battery pre-conditioning heating without user warning or display
Vehicle automatically heats battery pack during cold weather (15°F) to maintain performance, significantly reducing available range. No warning light, gauge, or notification informs driver of active conditioning or kWh drain. Owner only discovered issue when noticing hot exterior air despite no heating demand, nearly resulting in stranded vehicle on highway in poor conditions.
When: In 15°F weather with windy conditions
Symptoms owners cite: Battery conditioning heat active without driver knowledge; Range depleted without visible warning or consumption indicator; Air vents blow hot despite heating not requested; No battery maintenance or active conditioning display available to driver
Trunk water leak damaging rear audio amplifier and disabling all warning signals
Trunk leaks during rain, with water pooling in rear cargo area. Water shorts rear audio amplifier mounted in wheel well under spare tire, disabling all warning sounds (turn signal chimes, safety alerts) and radio/phone audio. Service bulletin (18-NA-182) issued only for 2017–2020 models; 2022–2023 owners report identical leaks despite lack of updated service bulletin. Problem appears design-related (voids in seam sealer or compromised tailgate gaskets) rather than maintenance failure.
When: During rain and normal vehicle use; affects 2022–2023 models not covered by existing service bulletin
Symptoms owners cite: Water pooling in rear cargo area during rain; Amplifier shorts due to water ingress; All audio warning signals disabled (blinker chimes, hazard alerts, etc.); Radio and hands-free phone operation lost; No warning indicator of amplifier/audio failure
Repairs/costs cited: Service bulletin 18-NA-182 applies to 2017–2020 models only; 2022–2023 models with identical issue lack updated bulletin
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Service bulletin issued for earlier model years but not extended to 2022–2023 Bolt models despite reported pattern
Backup camera and Rear Cross Traffic Alert system intermittent failure
Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA) system fails to emit audible warnings when vehicle is in reverse despite approaching cross traffic. Backup camera display shows red warning triangle and becomes inoperable. System failures intermittent and unpredictable regardless of weather or terrain. One owner's vehicle required replacement of wiring harness, backup camera, head unit, infotainment screen, and other related components multiple times, yet failures persisted. Dealership and manufacturer offered no solution.
When: Intermittently during reverse operation; one failure at 1,506 miles
Symptoms owners cite: Backup camera inoperable with red warning triangle displayed; Rear Cross Traffic Alert fails to warn of approaching cross traffic; No audible chimes or visual indicators during alert condition; System intermittently fails to return to normal after shifting out of reverse; Failures unrelated to weather or terrain
Repairs/costs cited: Wiring harness, backup camera, head unit, infotainment screen, and related parts replaced multiple times without resolving failure
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Manufacturer notified on numerous occasions; no solutions offered; vehicle not repaired
Speedometer accuracy and energy display errors during acceleration
Speedometer fails to display accurate vehicle speed. Energy gauge drops to zero percent while accelerating despite vehicle continuing to operate. No warning lights illuminated. At same failure event, rear-view camera failed to alert to presence of people in reverse. Vehicle also failed to recharge beyond 80% battery capacity. Owner reports system displaying codes inappropriate for this vehicle type.
When: At approximately 3,200 miles
Symptoms owners cite: Speedometer reading inaccurate; Energy display drops to zero percent during acceleration; Rear-view camera loses collision alerts; Vehicle fails to charge beyond 80% battery; Inappropriate diagnostic codes displayed for EV powertrain
Codes mentioned: Codes inappropriate for EV powertrain type
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Manufacturer advised contacting dealer; no diagnosis or repair performed
Lane Departure Warning intermittent malfunction and heating system failure
Lane Departure Warning system activates and deactivates randomly without driver input. Separate heating system failure. Infotainment screen glitches. Red warning light (car with exclamation mark) illuminated. Dealer code read as 'hybrid/ev powertrain control module requested MIL illumination.' Dealer technician (non-EV specialist) dismissed concern despite owner's online research indicating potential major safety issue. Manufacturer refused further discussion and directed owner to dealer without escalation.
When: Unknown mileage; recent failure
Symptoms owners cite: Lane Departure Warning triggers and deactivates randomly; Heating system stopped working; Screen interface glitches; Red warning light (car and exclamation mark) illuminated; Powertrain control module MIL request active
Codes mentioned: Hybrid/EV powertrain control module requested MIL illumination
Repairs/costs cited: Dealer checked code but advised not to worry after light went off; no EV technician available
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Manufacturer directed owner to dealer without further information or escalation
Loss of motive power with simultaneous door lock and wheel lock failures
Vehicle lost motive power while driving at slow speeds without warning. All door locks except driver-side door locked; all wheels locked simultaneously. Multiple warning lights illuminated (specific lights not identified). Failure occurred several times. Dealer unable to duplicate failure despite vehicle being towed in. Dealership reset and updated modules; failure reoccurred. Vehicle returned to dealer four times without resolution.
When: At approximately 18,000 miles; occurred multiple times
Symptoms owners cite: Loss of motive power during slow-speed driving; No prior warning before power loss; All doors except driver-side door locked; All wheels locked simultaneously; Multiple unknown warning lights illuminated
Repairs/costs cited: Modules reset and updated by dealership; failure reoccurred
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Manufacturer made aware; case filed; vehicle not repaired despite four dealer visits
Brake light and turn signal visibility obstruction by license plate area placement
Brake lights and turn signals positioned below license plate are obscured by snow and road spray during winter driving, making vehicle difficult for following drivers to see. Owner reports nearly being hit by pickup truck immediately after driving off dealership lot because following driver couldn't see brake lights. Owner notes license plate also gets obscured in winter, but lights are positioned even lower. Multiple forum users report same concern, suggesting design issue rather than isolated complaint.
When: Winter driving conditions; evident immediately after vehicle delivery
Symptoms owners cite: Brake lights and turn signals obscured by snow and road spray; Positioned lower than license plate area; Following drivers cannot see brake activation or turn signals; Creates collision hazard in traffic
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: No response mentioned; issue reported to manufacturer
Battery drainage during parked storage without warning
Vehicle battery drains completely within 2 to 3 days of being parked with no warning light or indication. Dealership diagnosed vehicle and reported no fault found. Manufacturer notified but no resolution offered.
When: At approximately 8,000 miles; occurs during parked storage
Symptoms owners cite: Complete battery drain within 2–3 days of parking; No warning light illuminated; Occasional service engine warning light remained illuminated
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Manufacturer notified; no resolution provided
Loss of propulsion and failure to restart
While driving at 45 mph, vehicle lost motive power and shut off without any warning. Vehicle would not restart. Dealer determined 12-volt battery was not being used sufficiently and performed a system reboot, after which vehicle was repaired. Indicates possible 12-volt isolation or charge maintenance issue in dual-voltage EV system.
When: At 3,350 miles
Symptoms owners cite: Loss of propulsion while driving at 45 mph; Sudden shutdown without warning; Vehicle unable to restart
Repairs/costs cited: 12-volt battery was not being used enough; system rebooted to restore function
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Manufacturer contacted; case filed
Electric drive unit failure requiring transmission replacement
Vehicle equipped with defective electric drive unit within 400 miles of purchase. Dealership diagnosed as auxiliary transmission issue requiring replacement. Vehicle new at time of failure (purchased this Sunday, failure by Wednesday). Owner expresses concern about safety and reliability given issue appeared so early in vehicle life.
When: At 400 miles, within days of purchase (new vehicle)
Symptoms owners cite: Warning: electric drive unit failure illuminated; Auxiliary transmission malfunction diagnosed
Codes mentioned: Electric drive unit warning
Repairs/costs cited: Auxiliary transmission replacement required
Charging system malfunction and battery capacity degradation
Multiple charging errors occurring since purchase. Vehicle with 3,500 miles on brand-new 2023 model has been at dealership over 30 days with unresolved charging issue. Separate owner reports battery full charge capacity dropped from 230 miles to 180 miles range in less than six months of ownership, and vehicle cannot reach 80% charge at DC charging station after extended charging attempt.
When: At 3,500 miles; capacity degradation evident within six months of ownership
Symptoms owners cite: Recurring charging errors over one year of ownership; Vehicle unable to achieve full charge at DC station after 1.5 hours; Battery capacity degradation (230 miles to 180 miles range); Slow charging speed at high-capacity station
Repairs/costs cited: Dealership offered $2,000 with lemon law conditions; owner declined due to attorney fees
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Dealership offer of $2,000 with warranty retention and lemon law limitation
Erratic automatic emergency braking in non-threat conditions
Vehicle issued collision warning and automatically applied brake to left front wheel for approximately one second while owner was completing a left turn at intersection, despite no object or traffic in front of vehicle. Owner has driven intersection multiple times prior without incident. Indicates false sensor reading or software error in automatic emergency braking/collision avoidance system.
When: During left turn at previously routine intersection
Symptoms owners cite: Unexpected collision warning generated; Automatic brake applied to left front wheel; No actual threat present in path of travel
Battery charging hazard with risk of explosion or fire
Battery charging system malfunctioning and not charging battery correctly. Owner explicitly expresses concern for battery explosion hazard during charging and possible fire risk to vehicle, garage, and home.
When: Unknown specific timing
Symptoms owners cite: Battery charging system malfunction; Incorrect charging behavior; Risk of battery explosion during charging; Fire hazard to vehicle and structure
Door lock failure after rain exposure
Following rain, door locks on vehicle fail to lock or unlock via key fob, interior door buttons, or OnStar app. System restores functionality after approximately two hours. Indicates potential water intrusion or moisture sensitivity in door lock electrical or control system.
When: After rain exposure; self-resolved after ~2 hours
Symptoms owners cite: Door locks will not lock or unlock via key fob; Interior door lock buttons non-responsive; OnStar remote lock/unlock non-functional; System restores function after 2 hours without intervention
Synthesized from 22 NHTSA owner complaints — unverified consumer allegations, summarized for patterns. The verbatim filings appear below.
What owners are reporting 3 most recent
The lane departure warning goes on and off randomly. The heating stopped working. There are glitches on the screen interface. And yesterday a red light with a car and exclamation mark through it came on. I took it to the dealer and they only had time to check the code which came up as "hybrid/ev powertrain control module requested MIL illumination" The advisor who is not an ev technician told me…
I have owned the car for less than six months and the battery went from full charge at 230 to know a full charge only being 180. I’m also sitting here at a dc charging station and have been here for an hour and a half and still haven’t reached 80%. What do I do?
Near my work place, I drove by that intersection a numerous times. One day, when I almost finished making the left turn, it suddenly gave me collision warning and suddenly took brake on the left front wheel by itself for about 1 second. There was nothing in front of me.
Had electrical trouble with your 2023 Chevrolet Bolt EUV?
File a complaint with NHTSA → It's free, official, and how every report above got here — owner filings are the federal safety record this page is built on.
Common questions
How serious is the electrical problem on the 2023 Chevrolet Bolt EUV?
It's a documented issue but not catastrophic. 22 complaints have been filed. Repairs average $850 and most owners catch it before it causes a breakdown.
At what mileage does the electrical typically fail?
Based on the 22 complaints filed, electrical issues most often appear around 6,811 miles. Some report problems earlier; some make it well past 150,000 with no symptoms. Maintenance habits matter — vehicles that received timely fluid services and were not regularly overworked tend to last longer.
What does it cost to fix?
Independent shops typically charge around $850 for electrical repairs on this vehicle. Dealer pricing tends to run 20-40% higher. The exact figure depends on the specific failure mode, parts availability, and your local labor rates. If you're outside factory warranty, an extended service contract often covers this category.
Are there any recalls related to electrical?
No active recalls currently cover electrical issues on this vehicle. The complaints filed represent owner-reported failures that haven't risen to the level of a manufacturer-issued recall — but they're still worth knowing about before you buy or budget for repairs.
Related
Complaint and recall data sourced from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)
public records database. Verify the raw federal record at
nhtsa.gov/vehicle/2023/Chevrolet/Bolt EUV.
Severity ratings are derived from reported crashes, fires, injuries, and fatalities. Repair cost estimates are
independent-shop national averages and may differ in your area. Some links on this page are affiliate links.