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2019 Chevrolet Bolt EV Report

Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.

Updated May 30, 2026·Ryan Davis·1 Critical Recall
2019 Chevrolet Bolt EV Report

Overall Score

8.2/ 10
Our Verdict
Recommended

Key Takeaways

  • The 2019 Bolt EV's below-average reliability is significantly impacted by electrical system issues, including battery fire risks.
  • Steering system failures are a notable concern, with owners reporting stiffness and loss of steering return.
  • While safety ratings are high, the prevalence of electrical and propulsion system complaints suggests potential for unexpected failures.
  • With 12 recalls and 225 complaints logged, a comprehensive pre-purchase inspection is essential.
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OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2019 Chevrolet Bolt EV

The 2019 Chevrolet Bolt EV offers an electric driving experience with an EPA-estimated combined 119 MPGe. However, used car shoppers should be aware of its below-average reliability verdict. The primary concerns revolve around its electrical system, particularly the high-voltage battery, and widespread steering issues. While it boasts a 5-star overall NHTSA safety rating, the documented problems warrant careful consideration and pre-purchase inspection.

Critical Failure Risk

The 2019 Bolt EV has a critical defect related to its high-voltage battery, leading to a significant risk of fire. This issue has resulted in multiple recalls and advisories to park the vehicle outside and limit charging.

Early detection can help you avoid a $10,000-$15,000 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls12
Service Bulletins0
Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

225
Electrical System79
Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Horsepower
200HP
Torque
266 lb–ftLB-FT
Fuel Efficiency
Combined
119
MPG
City
128
MPG
Highway
110
MPG
Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

7.4/ 10

Practicality

8.4/ 10

The score is supported by solid day-to-day usability signals.

Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Environmentally conscious buyers seeking an affordable entry into electric vehicles.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Drivers prioritizing absolute reliability and minimal unexpected repair costs.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2019 Chevrolet Bolt EV Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2019 Chevrolet Bolt EV.

  • Recall TimelineOfficial safety notices
  • Owner ComplaintsReal driver reports
  • Failure AnalysisKnown part defects
Specs

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type
Electricity
Seating Capacity
5
Horsepower
200 hp
Torque
266 lb-ft
Transmission
Automatic (A1)
Drivetrain
Front-Wheel Drive
Body Style
Hatchback
MSRP Range
$37,495 - $41,895
EPA Combined MPG
119

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Most Common Issues

1. Electrical System

Most reported

Usage: 79 reports

2. Fuel System

Usage: 44 reports

See all common issues in the maintenance guide

First Service Interval

- Tire Rotation (Parts: Tire Lubricant) - Cabin Air Filter Replacement (Parts: Cabin Air Filter)

Est. shop cost: $100 - $200

15,000 mi

Unlock the full maintenance guide for every scheduled service interval and cost forecast.

Full pre-purchase inspection checklist
Complete maintenance schedule (5 service intervals)
Repair forecasts with mileage and cost context
Full buyer-fit guidance and who should avoid it
Full specs and trim-level context
12 recall campaign details & remedy notes
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FAQ

FAQ

Is the 2019 Chevrolet Bolt EV reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2019 Chevrolet Bolt EV is 7.4/10. Reliability score is 7.4/10. NHTSA recalls: 12. Owner complaints: 225.

How practical is the 2019 Chevrolet Bolt EV for daily use?▾

Practicality score is 8.4/10. The score is supported by solid day-to-day usability signals. EPA combined economy is 119 MPG. Seating capacity is 5. 4 passenger doors are listed. Boot capacity is 479 litres.

What is the overall score for the 2019 Chevrolet Bolt EV?▾

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2019 Chevrolet Bolt EV is 8.2/10. Overall score is 8.2/10 (Strong). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 8.4/10. Practicality 8.4/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2019 Chevrolet Bolt EV?▾

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Tire Rotation (Parts: Tire Lubricant) - Cabin Air Filter Replacement (Parts: Cabin Air Filter) at 15,000 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $300 - $600. Repair prediction highlight: High-Voltage Battery (typical at 30,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $10,000 • Max: $15,000+).

What is the MSRP range for the 2019 Chevrolet Bolt EV?▾

MSRP range is $37,495 - $41,895.

What engine is in the 2019 Chevrolet Bolt EV?▾

Output is 200 hp • 266 lb-ft.

What transmission does the 2019 Chevrolet Bolt EV use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2019 Chevrolet Bolt EV, transmission is Automatic (A1). The paired drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive.

Does the 2019 Bolt EV require Electricity gas?▾

Manufacturer fuel recommendation: Electricity.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2019 Chevrolet Bolt EV?▾

EPA combined estimate is 119 MPG.

What kind of powertrain does the 2019 Chevrolet Bolt EV use?▾

Powertrain classification is Battery Electric (BEV).

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2019 Chevrolet Bolt EV?▾

6 standard and 6 optional driver assistance features. Key features include Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control.

What is the fuel economy range for the 2019 Chevrolet Bolt EV?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2019 Chevrolet Bolt EV, fuel economy range is 119 combined mpge.

How many people fit in a 2019 Chevrolet Bolt EV?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2019 Chevrolet Bolt EV, seating capacity is 5.

What body style is the 2019 Chevrolet Bolt EV?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2019 Chevrolet Bolt EV, body style is hatchback.

What drivetrain does the 2019 Chevrolet Bolt EV use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2019 Chevrolet Bolt EV, drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic (A1).

What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2019 Chevrolet Bolt EV?▾

NHTSA ratings: Overall 5/5 • Frontal 4/5 • Side 5/5 • Rollover 5/5.

What are the most common electrical system problems on the 2019 Chevrolet Bolt EV?▾

Top complaint category: electrical system (79 reports, 35.1% of complaints).

Are there open safety recalls on the 2019 Chevrolet Bolt EV?▾

This model year has 12 official safety campaigns listed.

Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2019 Chevrolet Bolt EV?▾

Alternative listed in this guide: 2019 Nissan Leaf.

Start Here

Maintenance guide

Costs + intervals

Recall report

Campaigns + remedy notes

Owner complaints

Issue volume + categories

In this guide

  1. 01Overview
  2. 02Who This Car Is For
  3. 03Reliability & Problems
  4. 04Vehicle Specs
  5. 05Unlock Full Report
  6. 06FAQ

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