Common Failures Of The Chevrolet Volt: Problems, Disadvantages And Criticisms

Common failures of the Chevrolet Volt

The Chevy Volt operates as a stand-alone battery electric vehicle and this occurs until the battery capacity drops to an unknown amount of full charge capacity.

When it reaches this point, its internally built combustion engine charges the electric generator to extend the vehicle’s range as needed. It may contain some very impressive technology, but the Chevrolet Volt can also present some problems.

1. Electrical system problems

The Chevy fully relies on the electrical system of this car. In some cases, people complain that the battery produces an unpleasant burning smell right after every drive. Electrical flow to the headlights can be a problem that causes them to not work properly.

Electrical system problems make them very dangerous for people’s safety. Therefore, engineers should devise better ways to prevent these problems. After dealing with these issues, it is confirmed that the chances of them reoccurring are low, so it should not be a concern.

Users are advised to have their vehicles serviced as a maintenance requirement. This eliminates these types of problems and the possibility of encountering a problem in the future.

2. Drive unit problems

The powertrain of an electric car is almost similar to that of standard cars. Just like in conventional cars, it is not uncommon to find instances of transmission malfunction in some Chevy Volt models.

The transmission unit is important in sending power from the engine to the tires , to allow for comfortable driving. Even the smallest transmission problems in the Chevrolet Volt need to be addressed immediately, to allow for precise driving.

Some of the transmission problems can include delayed shifting, jumping during acceleration, and some noise. Although you can sometimes hear the car rattling while driving, this noise may be a normal sound, depending on the manufacturer. The manufacturer recommends replacing the transmission fluids in the Chevy Volt model at certain periods according to the instructions.

3. Engine related problems

There are a few reported cases of the 2014 Chevy Volt experiencing engine related issues.

When driving in extended range mode, a user reported seeing an error message that issues “Power steering service-driving with caution”

The message changes to “service parking assist”. And then “estabilitrak service”. This does not affect driving. The vehicle continues to drive well despite these warnings.

On the other hand, the 2012 Chevy Volt, when driven for about 50 kilometers, upon finishing the driving charger that charges the battery, the car is supposed to switch to internal combustion engine for propulsion to continue. However, this may not occur on some 2012 models.

Various messages begin to appear on the driver’s screen, notifying the driver of the propulsion error that is occurring.

4. Failure in the brake system

It is said that only a few models have found the defect of the brakes. This shouldn’t be too alarming, because it partially affects the brake pistons. The brake system is a vital part of any vehicle and should be the last functional unit when all the units in the vehicle start to fail.

Vehicle users suffered fatal accidents when their brakes failed, either going up or down a hill, after constant efforts to hold the brakes.

Upon further investigation, this issue was found to partially affect some 2018 and 2019 models. Extensive investigation found that hydrogen gas was released from the brake piston during action, causing it to become trapped.

This causes a spongy effect during braking, which only affects the braking of the rear tyres. Braking is still working on the front tires, just not to its full capacity.

Advantages and Disadvantages of the Chevy Volt

Now that you know the most common failures of the Chevy Volt, it is time that you also know about the advantages and disadvantages of the vehicle.

Advantages of the Volt

The Chevrolet Volt features both positive aspects and some common problems that have been highlighted in this car. Here are the most prominent pros:

1- Smooth driving dynamics

Being in such a car is extremely pleasant and comfortable. As a luxury car, the Chevy Volt provides a highly engaging and memorable experience. It contains a well-insulated cab that protects the driver from road and wind noise.

2- WI-FI 4G and Hotspot enabled

This is such an exciting feature that it keeps you connected, whether you are traveling through the mountains, a brief visit to the markets, or just a trip for lunch. Who wouldn’t want to listen to live music or be entertained throughout the trip?

3- An exceptional ownership experience

Owning a Chevy Volt is nothing compared to any other car. While other drivers stop often to refill their tanks, you just get on with your journey. The electric model is advantageous since one does not suffer from annoying engine noises .

4- Unique style

The Chevrolet Volt stands out and stands out from the crowd. There is a wide range of unique colors for one to choose from and a designed exterior that makes it eye-catching. It has a unique sporty look provided by the road-tuned rear end and the standard LED headlights. The main trim comes with an attractive set of wheels.

5- Easily adjustable brakes

It’s a great experience while using the Chevy Volt vehicle as switching between regenerative gears and regular brakes is made easy. The change is not noticeable and the Volt can make a quick stop in a short distance.

6- A lot of help for the driver

The Chevrolet Volt is loaded with various driver-assistive equipment, including blind spot monitoring, forward collision warnings and an automatic parking system.

In addition, the updated technology system provides the driver with an automatic remote control that is used for unlocking and locking the door, as well as providing emergency services.

7- A voice control system that works

The Chevy Volt features a rapid response voice system that quickly acts on the driver’s commands and requests. Alternatively, the driver can use the voice of a smartphone by activating Google voice or by long pressing the voice button up or down.

With the coming technology and the simplicity that comes with it, I bet everyone would be dying to have such a car.

8- A silent cabin

In recent years, car manufacturers have struggled with the noise produced by the engine when running on gasoline. However, intensive measures have been taken to curb this problem.

The current cabin maintains a quiet environment regardless of whether the Volt is in gasoline or electric mode, and the only noise that can be heard is wind or road noise, which is almost non-existent.

Cons of the Chevy Volt

Well, if you think that the common faults of the Chevrolet Volt put this vehicle at a disadvantage, you should read these 4 cons.

1- Minimum space for luggage

If cargo space is to be considered, one would opt not to buy the Chevy Volt vehicle as it cannot accommodate a large amount of goods or rather a week’s worth of vegetables or clothes.

The rear seats are used to carry cargo instead of placing it in the awkward cargo space. The Volt may not be your preference if space is the issue.

2- Small front seats

One of the main drawbacks of owning the Volt is that the rear seat is excessively small. This is a feature that does not favor the Volt compared to its competitors.

It can accommodate two adults and makes it uncomfortable for tall people because they will feel cramped. Other hybrid wagons offer an entire house in the car, and customers who value space can give the Volt a pass.

Fortunately, the driver and front passenger can enjoy plenty of space in the front if they don’t push their seats too far back.

3- Standard interior material

The Chevy Volt’s cabin is not attractive, as some of the equipment may be dated. Also, the Volt’s interior is less luxurious as most of the materials are made of hard plastic, including the chrome trim.

Overall, the cabin appears to be sub-par when rated and not pretty to look at. Many other hybrid options have better features and much nicer cabins, making this a negative for the Volt.

4- Expensive to buy

Compared to other compact hybrids, the Volt seems to have a higher price range and falls in the same range as the big hybrid wagons. Although the Volt is worth every little coin, value-conscious customers can put it aside and go for other, better trims.

What do the reviews and opinions say?

The following reviews and opinions were made by users who have used the vehicle:

• “The Chevy Volt is not a hybrid but an ‘extended range electric vehicle’
• General Motors concluded that the Volt can go a long distance on a single charge.
• The most important point is that the Chevy Volt is just like any other hybrid. No noise is formed when pressing the start button.
• To increase the performance of the Volt, there is a button that speeds up the flow of current.
• The Volt’s cabin is a four-seater, since the battery interferes with the shape in the center, but the interior is not heavy and is quite ventilated.
• The Chevy Volt is the best plug-in hybrid. The Volt is constantly being updated and has recently received a built-in charger compared to other hybrid vehicles.
• The braking system has been refined so that the driver can use the brake pedal less frequently when in low mode, or rather use the paddle behind the steering wheel.
• Other advanced features include enhanced driver assistance, which is a working voice system, and more interior options.

To end

It goes without saying that the common Chevrolet Volt failures discussed here are only found in some models, not all Chevy Volts. Also, driving a Chevrolet model today, chances are you won’t run into any problems, as they have been fixed.

The Volt is worth it if your commuting coincides with a full battery charge . For shorter commutes one would use the Volt and if luxury is the choice then the Chevy Volt is the right direction to go.

It also houses an internal combustion engine. Therefore, it requires regular maintenance like any other car on the road. Maintenance would include tire rotations, oil changes, brake checks, etc.

After every 50,000, 100,000, and 150,000 mileage, the car needs its spark plugs, engine coolant, and air filters to be replaced. It is best to take the Chevy to the dealer, as only they are well trained to handle their technology.

The latest models starting from 2016 through 2019 have improved a lot: they are faster and quieter, easier to use the controls, and more comfortable to drive.

Among the greatest ideals that the vehicle pleases us is that it is an electric car with extended range. This means that in addition to power from its battery, a gas engine is added to propel the car beyond its electric range.

Once the battery power runs out, the gas engine starts and you keep driving.