NHTSA // CRASH-TESTED
2021 Chevrolet Bolt Ev
Federal crash-test performance, recalls, and complaints, scored into one NHTSA Safety Index.
The Chevrolet Bolt EV is a compact all-electric hatchback, though NHTSA classifies it as a sedan, aimed squarely at urban commuters and eco-conscious buyers who want practical range without the premium price of a Tesla. Spanning model years 2019 through 2023, the Bolt EV has been one of GM's most visible bets on mainstream electric mobility, and its safety record tells a complicated but ultimately instructive story.
Despite a strong crash-test showing, the 2021 Chevrolet Bolt Ev carries a park-outside or stop-driving recall, so read the recall section first. Its 5-star rollover rating stands out for families and child-seat buyers. It has 5 recalls on record, reflected in the score.
- families prioritizing rollover safety
- urban drivers exposed to side-impact risk
Reviewers generally praise the Bolt EV for its accessible electric range, responsive driving character, and competitive value within the affordable EV segment. Most acknowledge the battery recall history as a significant chapter in the model's story but note that post-remedy examples have addressed the core concern. Practicality and ease of daily use are consistently highlighted as strengths.
NCAP // CRASH TESTCrash-test breakdown
Source: NHTSA NCAP, VehicleId 15291
Index breakdown
NCAP // CRASH IMAGESCrash-test images
Crash-test images are US federal government works (NHTSA / NCAP), public domain.
NHTSA // RECALLSRecall record
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:PROPULSION SYSTEM:TRACTION BATTERY24V812000
Risk: A battery fire increases the risk of injury.
Remedy: Owners are advised to take the following interim steps: Set the Target Charge Level feature in their vehicle to limit the charge level to 90%, charge their vehicle more frequently, avoid depleting the battery to 70 miles range remaining, park outside after charging, and do not charge the vehicle indoors overnight. Dealers will reinstall advanced diagnostic software, free of charge. Owner notificat
Reported 2024-10-31
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:PROPULSION SYSTEM:TRACTION BATTERY24V481000
Risk: A battery fire increases the risk of injury.
Remedy: Owners are advised to take the following interim steps: Set the Target Charge Level feature in their vehicle to limit the charge level to 90%, charge their vehicle more frequently, avoid depleting the battery to 70 miles range remaining, park outside after charging, and do not charge the vehicle indoors overnight. Dealers will reinstall the advanced diagnostic software, free of charge. Owner notif
Reported 2024-06-27
STRUCTURE:BODY:ROOF AND PILLARS23V845000
Risk: A fire increases the risk of injury.
Remedy: Dealers will inspect both front seat belt pretensioners and, if necessary, install metal foil at the carpet near the pretensioner exhaust. Certain vehicles will also need a pretensioner cover installed. Repairs will be performed free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed January 24, 2024. These vehicles were previously recalled for this same issue under recall number 22V-930 and will n
Reported 2023-12-14
STRUCTURE:BODY:ROOF AND PILLARS22V930000
Risk: A vehicle fire can increase the risk of injury.
Remedy: Dealers will install metal foil at the carpet near the pretensioner exhaust, and install a pretensioner cover as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed between January 23, 2023 and April 25, 2023. Owners may contact Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020. GM's number for this recall is N222383790.
Reported 2022-12-15
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:PROPULSION SYSTEM:TRACTION BATTERY21V650000
Risk: A battery fire increases the risk of injury.
Remedy: Owners are advised to take the following interim steps: Set the Target Charge Level feature in their vehicle to limit the charge level to 90%, charge their vehicle more frequently, avoid depleting the battery to 70 miles range remaining, park outside after charging, and do not charge the vehicle indoors overnight. Defective battery modules will be replaced by GM, free of charge. Owner notification
Reported 2021-08-20
NHTSA // COMPLAINTSOwner complaints
66 owner complaints on file. These are unverified allegations reported to NHTSA.