Before you buy
This 2020 Chevrolet Bolt Ev has 169 NHTSA complaints β top issue: Electrical Faults.
A model-year pattern isn't the car in front of you. Check this exact VIN for accidents, open recalls, odometer rollback, and salvage titles.
Free preview Β· Full report from $12.95.
2020 Chevrolet Bolt Ev Fuel Economy
β EPA Official DataEPA-rated energy efficiency for the 2020 Chevrolet Bolt Ev. Values shown in MPGe (miles per gallon equivalent).
Source: EPA FuelEconomy.gov. Figures reflect EPA lab testing; real-world results vary by driving style, load, and conditions.
2020 Chevrolet Bolt Ev Safety Ratings
NHTSA 5-Star ProgramOfficial crash test results from the NHTSA 5-Star Safety Ratings program. Stars reflect government-conducted tests; higher is safer.
Overall
9.7% rollover risk
Frontal Crash
Side Crash
Rollover
9.7% probability
Source: NHTSA 5-Star Safety Ratings. Ratings are based on government crash tests and may not reflect all trim levels.
CHEVROLET BOLT EV 2020 model year has 169 NHTSA complaints and 8 recalls. Electrical faults dominate with 92 complaints, and propulsion issues total 28. Buyers should verify all recall repairs before purchase. Source: NHTSA owner complaints and recall records.
- Make
- Chevrolet
- Model
- Bolt Ev
- Model year
- 2020
- NHTSA owner complaints
- 169
- Crash-related complaints
- 7
- Safety recall campaigns
- 8
- Top reported component
- Electrical Faults
- Reliability signal
- Severe Issues
- EPA MPGe combined
- 118
- EPA MPGe city / highway
- 127 / 108
- Fuel type
- Electricity
- Electric range (miles)
- 259
- NHTSA overall safety rating
- 5/5 stars
- NHTSA frontal crash rating
- 4/5 stars
- NHTSA side crash rating
- 5/5 stars
- NHTSA rollover rating
- 5/5 stars
- Electronic stability control
- Standard
Common problems
Most common 2020 Chevrolet Bolt Ev problems
Top owner-reported complaint areas and where they often appear.
Electrical Faults
Fuel/Propulsion System
Steering Defects
Complaint patterns center on Electrical Faults, Fuel/Propulsion System, Steering Defects. Use these as a pre-purchase inspection guide, then verify recall and damage history on the specific VIN.
Buyer verdict
Should you buy a used 2020 Chevrolet Bolt Ev?
The 2020 Bolt EV has significant electrical and propulsion complaints, making it a risky choice. Only consider if you can verify all recall repairs and have a mechanic inspect the high-voltage system.
Electrical faults can lead to sudden power loss or fire risk, while propulsion issues affect drivability. These patterns directly impact safety and reliability.
May Suit
This year may suit a buyer who is willing to perform thorough pre-purchase inspections and has access to a qualified EV mechanic.
May Want to Avoid
Buyers seeking a trouble-free, low-maintenance EV should avoid the 2020 Bolt EV due to its high complaint volume.
Pre-purchase
What to check before buying a used 2020 Chevrolet Bolt Ev
Inspection Focus
- Inspect the high-voltage battery and charging system for any signs of failure.
- Check the propulsion system for error codes or performance issues.
- Verify all recall repairs, especially those related to electrical and propulsion systems.
Before You Close the Deal
- Check for open recalls related to electrical faults at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
- Request service records for any reported electrical or propulsion repairs.
- Have a certified EV mechanic inspect the battery and charging system.
- Test drive to check for steering or unintended acceleration issues.
Check the exact car
Shortlist with model-year data. Decide with the exact VIN.
Before buying a used 2020 Chevrolet Bolt Ev, run a VIN history report to verify accidents, title brands, odometer records, theft checks, and open recalls for the exact vehicle.
AI verdict
What the complaint data suggests
Editorial interpretation of NHTSA public complaint data. Source: nhtsa.gov. Complaints are owner-submitted and do not confirm a defect. Methodology
Based on NHTSA complaint data, the 2020 Chevrolet Bolt EV shows a high number of electrical faults (92 complaints) and propulsion system problems (28 complaints). With 8 recalls and low confidence due to limited data, buyers should proceed with caution. Source: NHTSA owner complaints and recall records.
Year context: Compared to other model years, the 2020 Bolt EV has a notably high number of electrical complaints, but data for other years is not provided.
Recall context: With 8 recalls, it is critical to verify that all recall repairs have been completed before purchase.
- Electrical faults account for 92 of 169 total complaints.
- Fuel/propulsion system issues total 28 complaints.
- There are 7 crash-related complaints.
- Electrical faults (92 complaints) including battery and charging system issues.
- Fuel/propulsion system problems (28 complaints) affecting power delivery.
- Steering defects (21 complaints) that may impact control.
Full breakdown
All 2020 Chevrolet Bolt Ev complaints by category
Every owner-reported complaint category filed with NHTSA for the 2020 Chevrolet Bolt Ev. Use this as a pre-purchase inspection checklist.
| Component | Complaints | Crashes | Fires | Avg Mileage | Volume |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Electrical Faults | 92 | 1 | 4 | β | |
| Fuel/Propulsion System | 28 | β | β | β | |
| Steering Defects | 21 | β | β | β | |
| Uncategorized Issues | 21 | 1 | β | β | |
| Transmission / Drivetrain | 11 | 1 | β | β | |
| Unintended Acceleration | 8 | 3 | β | β | |
| Engine Problems | 8 | β | 1 | β | |
| Airbag Malfunctions | 6 | 3 | β | β | |
| Seat Belt Issues | 6 | β | β | β | |
| Structural Problems | 5 | β | β | β | |
| Headlight/Taillight Failures | 5 | β | β | β | |
| Lane Departure | 5 | β | β | β | |
| Brake System | 3 | 1 | β | β | |
| Forward Collision Avoidance: AEB | 3 | 1 | β | β | |
| Suspension Failures | 2 | β | β | β | |
| Equipment | 2 | β | β | β | |
| Visibility/Wiper | 2 | β | β | β | |
| Back Over Prevention | 2 | β | β | β | |
| Tire Issues | 1 | β | 1 | β | |
| Hybrid Propulsion System | 1 | β | β | β | |
| Wheel Issues | 1 | β | β | β |
Source: NHTSA Complaints Database. Complaint counts may exceed total complaints because one report can span multiple categories.
In their words
Real owner complaints
Read what owners actually reported to NHTSA for the 2020 Chevrolet Bolt Ev. Type a keyword (e.g. βtransmissionβ, βstallingβ, βbrakesβ) to filter.
Steering stiffened over several weeks. Then steering wheel would not automatically return to center while turning while driving. Diagnosed by service as a fault with steering column. This is apparently very common in Chevy Bolts.
After putting washer fluid in, my son closed the hood. The hood did not latch. He tried again but it still didnβt latch. He lifted the hood to find the hood striker had come off the hood. There was nothing to hold the hood closed. Iβve included photos of the striker welds. Thereβ¦
When driving the car through a busy intersection there was a sudden, brief surge of acceleration, followed by deceleration and the vehicle cutting all motor power and becoming inoperable. The MIL lamp illuminated and the "Ready" light went out. I was unable to move the vehicle β¦
Accelerating to merge onto the highway the accelerator pedal got stuck under the all weather mat (provided and installed by the manufacturer). When I took my foot off the pedal the vehicle continued to accelerate. I had to break against the force of the motor trying to accelerateβ¦
Rear shock absorbers failed with only 8009 miles on vehicle
I purchased a 2020 Chevrolet Bolt EV in late 2023, already equipped with GM's recall diagnostic software (part of NHTSA Recall 21V650), which monitored battery health and limited charging to 80%. After the monitoring period, the software detected critical voltage variation failurβ¦
The contact owns a 2020 Chevrolet Bolt EV. The contact stated that the vehicle's charge was designed to last for 259 miles, but failed to exceed 100 miles. The vehicle was taken to the dealer and was repaired under NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V812000 (ELECTRICAL SYSTEM); however, thβ¦
VEHICLE FAILS TO CHARGE. Receiving error message that the vehicle fails to accept a charge. I've attempted charging using 3 separate chargers and all fail. This issue has been in service at numerous dealerships with no resolve. I was able to charge previously at a reduced rate buβ¦
This is the second time since owning car this has happened the recall battery is not working again this time me and my sister were at the gas station were I work and this is all on camara at Chevron gas station were I work I went inside sister stayed in car it started making a buβ¦
Steering rack started failing: did not return to center out of slow corners. Basically I could do hands-free circles in a parking lot. Dealer confirmed the steering rack was bad and replaced it under warranty. Out of sweeping corners this can be a safety issue as it only got worsβ¦
While waiting to turn left at a light and driving in "L" (one pedal) mode, I started to release the break in anticipation of oncoming lanes clearing, as I lifted the pedal the car lurched into the intersection. The Bolt normally accelerates very gently in L mode when no break is β¦
See attached document for complaint.
What component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is it available for inspection upon request? The vehicleβs steering system (specifically the electric power steering assist and/or steering rack assembly) began exhibiting stiffness, resistance, and intermittent loss of assisβ¦
Steering very stiff will not return to center on its own. Seems to be the steering rack. Not returning to center seems dangerous in certain situations. This is a 2020 vehicle but seems to be a common problem on all years Bolt EV/EUV.
High-voltage battery failure left Bolt EV immobilized after recall fix: Our 2020 Chevrolet Bolt EV (VIN: [XXX] ) became completely immobilized on [XXX], due to high-voltage battery failure. The vehicle previously underwent all recall remedies, including a full propulsion battery β¦
The contact owns a 2020 Chevrolet Bolt EV. The contact stated that while the vehicle was parked unattended, the vehicle exploded. The contact believed the failure was due to the battery. The front left tire message was displayed. The battery was previously replaced. The local deaβ¦
The steering wheel fails to return to center after turns. This requires constant manual correction to re-center the vehicle, which increases the risk of overcorrection or unintended lane departure. There are no warning lights or noise, and the issue does not appear to be related β¦
The steering wheel intermittently sticks and fails to return to center after turns or minor corrections, especially at low to moderate speeds. This requires constant manual correction to re-center the vehicle, which increases the risk of overcorrection or unintended lane departurβ¦
The backup/360 camera intermittently but frequently fails to turn on, showing a black screen instead with a crossed out camera icon. This makes it very difficult to back up safely and puts bystanders at risk. This problem has not yet been evaluated by a dealer, but there are numeβ¦
The car has 80,000 miles. The backup camera has always had an intermittent issue after rain but now has stopped working. I cannot see properly to back up. I understand that this is an issue with quite a few Chevy Bolts and can/has caused problems with backing accidents. I alsβ¦
Source: NHTSA Complaints Database. Real owner reports for the 2020 Chevrolet Bolt Ev.
Safety recalls
2020 Chevrolet Bolt Ev recalls
8 campaignsNHTSA recall campaigns for the 2020 Chevrolet Bolt Ev. With 8 recalls, it is critical to verify that all recall repairs have been completed before purchase. Recalls are free to fix at authorized dealers, but completion status must be verified on the exact VIN.
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES:DOORS:LATCH
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:DISC:CALIPER
SEAT BELTS
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:PROPULSION SYSTEM:TRACTION BATTERY
STRUCTURE:BODY:ROOF AND PILLARS
STRUCTURE:BODY:ROOF AND PILLARS
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:PROPULSION SYSTEM:TRACTION BATTERY
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:PROPULSION SYSTEM:TRACTION BATTERY
Research more
Keep researching before you buy
Compare brands and categories, then check the exact car's history by VIN.
Questions
2020 Chevrolet Bolt Ev buying FAQ
Buyer-focused answers based on real NHTSA complaint and recall data for this model year.
Is the 2020 Chevrolet Bolt Ev reliable?βΎ
Severe Issues. NHTSA currently shows 169 owner complaints, 7 crash-related complaints, and 8 recall campaigns for this model year. The 2020 Bolt EV has significant electrical and propulsion complaints, making it a risky choice. Only consider if you can verify all recall repairs and have a mechanic inspect the high-voltage system. Treat this as a model-year signal, then verify the exact vehicle's condition and history before purchase.
What are the most common problems with the 2020 Chevrolet Bolt Ev?βΎ
#1: Electrical Faults (92 complaints). #2: Fuel/Propulsion System (28 complaints). #3: Steering Defects (21 complaints)
At what mileage do problems start on the 2020 Chevrolet Bolt Ev?βΎ
Mileage data is not available or insufficient for this model year.
How safe is the 2020 Chevrolet Bolt Ev?βΎ
Complaint data is not the same as crash-test scoring, but it does highlight possible risk patterns. For the 2020 Chevrolet Bolt Ev, NHTSA complaints include 7 crash-related reports and 4 fire reports out of 169 total complaints. For controlled crash-test ratings, check nhtsa.gov/ratings.
Does the 2020 Chevrolet Bolt Ev have any recalls?βΎ
Yes. 8 NHTSA recall campaigns affect the 2020 Chevrolet Bolt Ev. A major recall area is LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES:DOORS:LATCH. With 8 recalls, it is critical to verify that all recall repairs have been completed before purchase. Always verify open recalls by VIN because completion status varies by vehicle.
Should I buy a 2020 Chevrolet Bolt Ev?βΎ
The 2020 Bolt EV has significant electrical and propulsion complaints, making it a risky choice. Only consider if you can verify all recall repairs and have a mechanic inspect the high-voltage system. Electrical faults can lead to sudden power loss or fire risk, while propulsion issues affect drivability. These patterns directly impact safety and reliability. Pay extra attention to Electrical Faults during inspection. Before committing, run a VIN history report to verify accidents, title brands, odometer records, and recall completion for the exact car.
Source: NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) complaint and recall databases, aggregated by VinSpector AI.
Wider context: See the full Chevrolet Bolt Ev reliability report with year-by-year comparison.
Owner Reliability Rating
Rate the 2020 Chevrolet Bolt Ev based on your ownership experience.
Add your rating:
Ratings are based on owner experience and are separate from NHTSA data shown above.
Before you buy
Check the exact vehicle history before you buy
Model-year complaints and recalls reveal patterns. A VIN report confirms whether the exact car has accident history, title brands, mileage issues, or open recalls.