General Motors (GM) has announced another recall for the Chevrolet Bolt EV and Bolt EUV, aiming to address a potential battery fire risk linked to diagnostic software issues. This latest recall affects 88 Bolt EVs and 19 Bolt EUV models from the 2020-2022 production years. While the recall is relatively small, it continues a pattern of software-related recalls for GM’s electric vehicles.
Software Malfunction Leads to Recall
The current recall was due to a customer complaint about a 2022 Bolt EUV. The customer mentioned the charging limit to an 80% charge capacity even after the evaluation period, which typically would lift such restrictions. GM traced this issue to a “malfunction in the software programming tool” but has not reported any incidents resulting from the defect. The software, if installed incorrectly, could fail to detect defective battery modules that might pose a fire risk.
Precautionary Instructions for Affected Owners
GM has provided specific guidance for owners of the affected vehicles. Owners should:
- Set the target charge level to 90%
- Avoid depleting the battery below 70 miles of remaining range
- Park outside after charging
- Refrain from charging indoors overnight
These measures are intended to mitigate risk while waiting for software reinstallation at dealerships, which GM is offering free of charge. Notification letters are scheduled to be mailed by December 16, and a dedicated Bolt EV Concierge Team is available to assist owners.
Chevrolet Bolt Recalls
This is the second software-related recall for the Bolt EV models and follows a much larger battery recall in 2021 that impacted around 140,000 vehicles. That recall led many owners of earlier Bolt models (2017-2019) to receive new battery packs, with some gaining increased driving range as a result.
Despite recent recalls, the Bolt EV has been Chevy’s top-selling EV, even after production ceased in December 2023. GM is planning a 2026 relaunch, with CEO Mary Barra announcing it will return as the most affordable EV in the U.S., reinforcing GM’s commitment to accessible electric mobility.
