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2017 Chevrolet Volt Report

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

Updated May 30, 2026·Ethan Miller
2017 Chevrolet Volt Report

Overall Score

7.3/ 10
Our Verdict
Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

  • Reliability is rated 'Below Average' due to numerous owner complaints.
  • The primary concern is the 'Shift to Park' issue, preventing vehicle shutdown.
  • Loss of propulsion is another significant and potentially dangerous complaint.
  • Electrical system and powertrain issues dominate owner feedback.
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OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2017 Chevrolet Volt

The 2017 Chevrolet Volt offers a unique plug-in hybrid experience, but used buyers should proceed with caution. While it boasts excellent NHTSA safety ratings across the board (5-star overall, frontal, side, and rollover), its reliability record is a significant drawback. A high volume of owner complaints, particularly concerning electrical and powertrain systems, points to potential long-term ownership challenges. The prominent 'Shift to Park' issue, which can leave the vehicle unable to shut down, and instances of sudden loss of propulsion are critical concerns that demand careful inspection.

Critical Failure Risk

This common issue prevents the vehicle from recognizing it's in Park, often disabling the ignition and preventing the car from shutting down properly. It is frequently cited in owner complaints.

Early detection can help you avoid a $500-$2,500 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls0
Service Bulletins0
Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

1149
Electrical System283
Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Horsepower
149HP
Torque
294 lb–ftLB-FT
Fuel Efficiency
42-43 mpg combined
Published range
Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

6.4/ 10

Practicality

5.5/ 10

The score is mainly limited by small boot.

Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Savvy shoppers who prioritize excellent safety scores and are willing to undertake rigorous pre-purchase inspections.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Buyers seeking a trouble-free ownership experience.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2017 Chevrolet Volt Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2017 Chevrolet Volt.

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

Vehicle Specs

Seating Capacity
5
Horsepower
149 hp
Torque
294 lb-ft
Transmission
1-speed automatic
Drivetrain
FWD
Body Style
Hatchback
MSRP Range
$33,220 - $37,570

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See the full 2017 Chevrolet Volt buyer report before you decide

Unlock the complete checklist, maintenance outlook, and buyer verdict in one place.

Most Common Issues

1. Electrical System

Most reported

Usage: 283 reports

2. Fuel System

Usage: 218 reports

See all common issues in the maintenance guide

First Service Interval

- Tire Rotation and Inspection (Parts: Tire sealant) - Cabin Air Filter Replacement (Parts: Cabin Air Filter)

Est. shop cost: $75 - $150

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
Full safety recall details
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FAQ

FAQ

Is the 2017 Chevrolet Volt reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2017 Chevrolet Volt is 6.4/10. Reliability score is 6.4/10. NHTSA recalls: 0. Owner complaints: 1,149.

How practical is the 2017 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 2017 Chevrolet Volt?▾

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2017 Chevrolet Volt is 7.3/10. Overall score is 7.3/10 (Good). Confidence 71%. Maintenance 8.0/10. Practicality 5.5/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2017 Chevrolet Volt?▾

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Tire Rotation and Inspection (Parts: Tire sealant) - Cabin Air Filter Replacement (Parts: Cabin Air Filter) at 7,500 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $400 - $700. Repair prediction highlight: Shift Lever Assembly / Transmission Range Sensor (typical at 50,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $300 • Max: $800).

What is the MSRP range for the 2017 Chevrolet Volt?▾

MSRP range is $33,220 - $37,570.

What engine is in the 2017 Chevrolet Volt?▾

Engine specs list Inline-4. Output is 149 hp • 294 lb-ft.

What transmission does the 2017 Chevrolet Volt use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2017 Chevrolet Volt, transmission is 1-speed automatic. The paired drivetrain is FWD.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2017 Chevrolet Volt?▾

7 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 2017 Chevrolet Volt?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2017 Chevrolet Volt, fuel economy range is 42-43 mpg combined.

How many people fit in a 2017 Chevrolet Volt?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2017 Chevrolet Volt, seating capacity is 5.

What body style is the 2017 Chevrolet Volt?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2017 Chevrolet Volt, body style is hatchback.

What drivetrain does the 2017 Chevrolet Volt use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2017 Chevrolet Volt, drivetrain is FWD. Transmission is 1-speed automatic.

What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2017 Chevrolet Volt?▾

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

What are the most common electrical system problems on the 2017 Chevrolet Volt?▾

Top complaint category: electrical system (283 reports, 24.6% of complaints).

Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2017 Chevrolet Volt?▾

Alternatives listed in this guide: 2017 Toyota Prius Prime (PHEV) and 2017 Honda Clarity.

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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