Dealer visit checklist
2021 Chevrolet Bolt EV checklist
Print it or keep it on your phone. Tick each item as you go so nothing gets missed.
Inspect the car
- Check every panel gap and look for mismatched paint (signs of past accident repair)
- Look at the tires: even wear, matching brands, at least 4/32" tread
- Check under the car and engine bay for oil, coolant or other leaks
- Start the engine cold; listen for knocks, ticks or squeals and watch for smoke
- Test every window, lock, seat, light, the A/C, heat and infotainment
- Test drive on city streets and highway: straight braking, smooth shifts, no pulling
- Ask for the service records and a vehicle history report
- Have an independent mechanic do a pre-purchase inspection (about $100–$200)
Known 2021 Chevrolet Bolt EV problems to check
- Battery fire recall (NHTSA recall 21V-693): All 2021 Bolts were subject to a battery module replacement recall due to fire risk — verify the recall has been completed before purchase
- Reduced battery capacity over time: Some owners report 5-8% range degradation by 60,000–80,000 miles, though GM's 8-year/100,000-mile battery warranty provides coverage
- Infotainment and software glitches: The Chevy Infotainment 3 system is known for occasional freezes, Bluetooth connectivity drops, and lag that may require dealer software updates
- DC fast charging speed is modest at 55 kW max, meaning road trips require longer stops compared to vehicles with 150+ kW charging capability
- Rear seat headroom is tight for passengers over 6 feet tall, limiting long-trip comfort for larger occupants
Ask: have these recalls been fixed?
- ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:PROPULSION SYSTEM:TRACTION BATTERY: General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2020-2022 Chevrolet Bolt EV and 2022 Chevrolet Bolt EUV vehicles.
- STRUCTURE:BODY:ROOF AND PILLARS: General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2017-2023 Chevrolet Bolt EV vehicles.
- STRUCTURE:BODY:ROOF AND PILLARS: General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2017-2023 Chevrolet Bolt EV vehicles.
- ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:PROPULSION SYSTEM:TRACTION BATTERY: General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2020-2022 Chevrolet Bolt EV and 2022 Chevrolet Bolt EUV vehicles that were previously remedied under recall number 21V-650.
- ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:PROPULSION SYSTEM:TRACTION BATTERY: General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2020-2022 Chevrolet Bolt EV and 2022 Bolt EUV vehicles previously repaired under Recall 21V-650.
Negotiate the price
- Know the typical price: about $20,500 for this model year
- Negotiate the out-the-door price, not the monthly payment
- Get the full price with every fee listed in writing before you sign
- Bring your own loan pre-approval so the dealer has a rate to beat
- Say no to add-ons you didn't ask for (paint protection, VIN etching, nitrogen tires)
- Negotiate your trade-in separately, after the car's price is agreed
- Be ready to walk away; another listing is usually a click away