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2016 Chevrolet Volt Report

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

Updated May 30, 2026·Ethan Miller·1 Critical Recall
2016 Chevrolet Volt Report

Overall Score

6.9/ 10
Our Verdict
Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

  • Significant issues reported with the electrical system (25.6% of complaints) and fuel/propulsion system (20.3%).
  • The Battery Energy Control Module (BECM) is a known failure point, potentially causing sudden loss of propulsion power.
  • The 'Shift to Park' issue is a common and frustrating problem affecting vehicle shutdown.
  • A critical recall for the driver's frontal airbag module requires verification of completion.
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OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2016 Chevrolet Volt

The 2016 Chevrolet Volt aimed to blend electric efficiency with gasoline range, but used buyers should be aware of its documented reliability concerns. With 266 complaints and 1 recall, this model experienced widespread issues, particularly with its electrical system and powertrain. While it offers a unique driving experience, potential buyers must approach with caution and focus on thorough pre-purchase inspections to mitigate risks associated with its known weak points.

Critical Failure Risk

The vehicle fails to recognize when it is in Park, preventing shutdown and potentially leaving the vehicle vulnerable. This is a common complaint across powertrain and electrical systems.

Early detection can help you avoid a $1,500-$3,000 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls1
Service Bulletins0
Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

266
Electrical System68
Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

8.3/ 10

Practicality

5.5/ 10

The score is mainly limited by small boot.

Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Savvy DIY mechanics comfortable diagnosing and repairing complex electrical and hybrid systems.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Drivers seeking a trouble-free, low-maintenance used car.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2016 Chevrolet Volt Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2016 Chevrolet Volt.

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

Vehicle Specs

Seating Capacity
5
Body Style
Hatchback

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Most Common Issues

1. Electrical System

Most reported

Usage: 68 reports

2. Fuel System

Usage: 54 reports

See all common issues in the maintenance guide

First Service Interval

- Tire Rotation and Inspection (Parts: Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) Sensor Check) - Cabin Air Filter Replacement (Parts: Cabin Air Filter)

Est. shop cost: $70 - $120

7,500 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
1 recall campaign details & remedy notes
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FAQ

FAQ

Is the 2016 Chevrolet Volt reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2016 Chevrolet Volt is 8.3/10. Reliability score is 8.3/10. NHTSA recalls: 1. Owner complaints: 266.

How practical is the 2016 Chevrolet Volt for daily use?▾

Practicality score is 5.5/10. The score is mainly limited by small boot. Seating capacity is 5. 4 passenger doors are listed. Boot capacity is 300 litres.

What is the overall score for the 2016 Chevrolet Volt?▾

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2016 Chevrolet Volt is 6.9/10. Overall score is 6.9/10 (Good). Confidence 41%. Maintenance 8.3/10. Practicality 5.5/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2016 Chevrolet Volt?▾

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Tire Rotation and Inspection (Parts: Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) Sensor Check) - Cabin Air Filter Replacement (Parts: Cabin Air Filter) at 7,500 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $300 - $600. Repair prediction highlight: Battery Energy Control Module (BECM) (typical at 75,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $1,500 • Max: $3,000).

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2016 Chevrolet Volt?▾

1 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Tire Pressure Monitoring System.

How many people fit in a 2016 Chevrolet Volt?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2016 Chevrolet Volt, seating capacity is 5.

What body style is the 2016 Chevrolet Volt?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2016 Chevrolet Volt, body style is hatchback.

What are the most common electrical system problems on the 2016 Chevrolet Volt?▾

Top complaint category: electrical system (68 reports, 25.6% of complaints).

Are there open safety recalls on the 2016 Chevrolet Volt?▾

This model year has 1 official safety campaigns listed.

Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2016 Chevrolet Volt?▾

Alternative listed in this guide: 2017 Chevrolet Volt.

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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