Chevrolet has recalled more than 140,000 Chevy Bolt EV and EUV vehicles from the model years 2017-2022 because of defective batteries that could cause a fire.
Because of the risk of a fire, Bolt owners have been instructed by Chevrolet to charge their cars outdoors and avoid charging overnight, charging to more than 90% or driving until the range is below 70 miles.
If you purchased or leased a 2017-2022 Chevy Bolt EV or EUV, you may qualify to file a lawsuit and receive compensation.
To start the process of filing your claim, contact the lawyers at Heygood, Orr & Pearson by calling toll-free at 1-877-446-9001, or by filling out our free claims form on the right side of this page.
Chevy Bolt Recalled Due to Defective Batteries
Between November 2020 and August 2021, General Motors and Chevrolet recalled more than 140,000 Chevy Bolt EV and EUV electric vehicles because of two defects in the LG lithium ion batteries used in these models.
The first defect was a torn anode tab, also known as a battery tab. The anode tab is part of the negative electrode that allows each battery cell to be connected to groups of cells known as modules, which are then connected to the full battery. The second defect was a torn separator, which is a thin sheet that keeps the batteries’ anodes and cathodes (the negative and positive electrodes in the battery) from coming into contact.
When both of these defects occur within the same battery cell, it can cause a fire to start in Chevy Bolt EV or EUV models, which could lead to serious damage to the vehicle. So far, at least 12 cases of fire have been linked to defective batteries in the recalled 2017-2022 Chevy Bolt models.
Chevrolet’s “fix” for the defect limits the battery charge, significantly reducing the driving range that consumers expected when they purchased their vehicles.
What Should Chevy Bolt Owners Do?
General Motors has advised Chevy Bolt EV and EUV owners that until a replacement battery module can be installed, they should take the following steps with their vehicles:
- Use the Target Charge Level mode to set their vehicle to a 90% charge limit;
- Charge their vehicle more often;
- Avoid depleting the battery below a remaining range of 70 miles;
- Park their vehicle outside after charging;
- Do not leave their vehicle charging overnight.
Chevrolet has offered a $6,000 rebate to some Chevy Bolt owners. However, in order to receive the rebate, Chevy Bolt owners must permanently waive their right to sue and receive compensation over defects with their vehicles, even if their car catches fire or if there is another recall.
The rebate has only been offered to some Bolt owners, but even if you are among those that have received this offer, our firm is confident that with our representation, your recovery will likely be well in excess of this amount.
Start Your Claim Today
If you purchased or leased a 2017-2022 Chevy Bolt EV or EUV – even if you have already sold or returned your vehicle – you may be eligible to file a lawsuit and receive compensation.
To start the process of filing your claim, contact the lawyers at Heygood, Orr & Pearson by filling out our free claims form located at the top of this page.