2018 Chevrolet Volt Problems
The 2018 Chevrolet Volt shows a high volume of complaints concentrated in the transmission and electrical systems, warranting careful pre-purchase inspection. Based on 212 real NHTSA owner complaints, with Transmission / Drivetrain the most reported area.
Before you buy
This 2018 Chevrolet Volt has 212 NHTSA complaints — top issue: Transmission / Drivetrain.
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.
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2018 Chevrolet Volt Fuel Economy
✓ EPA Official DataEPA-rated energy efficiency for the 2018 Chevrolet Volt. 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.
2018 Chevrolet Volt 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
9.3% rollover risk
Frontal Crash
Side Crash
Rollover
9.3% probability
Source: NHTSA 5-Star Safety Ratings. Ratings are based on government crash tests and may not reflect all trim levels.
CHEVROLET VOLT 2018 has 212 NHTSA complaints, with transmission/drivetrain (82) and electrical faults (81) as top issues. Two recalls exist. Buyers should inspect these systems and verify recall repairs. Source: NHTSA owner complaints and recall records.
- Make
- Chevrolet
- Model
- Volt
- Model year
- 2018
- NHTSA owner complaints
- 212
- Crash-related complaints
- 4
- Safety recall campaigns
- 2
- Top reported component
- Transmission / Drivetrain
- Reliability signal
- Notable Issues
- EPA MPGe combined
- 42
- EPA MPGe city / highway
- 43 / 42
- Fuel type
- Regular Gasoline
- Electric range (miles)
- 420
- NHTSA overall safety rating
- 5/5 stars
- NHTSA frontal crash rating
- 5/5 stars
- NHTSA side crash rating
- 5/5 stars
- NHTSA rollover rating
- 5/5 stars
- Electronic stability control
- Standard
Common problems
Most common 2018 Chevrolet Volt problems
Top owner-reported complaint areas and where they often appear.
Transmission / Drivetrain
Electrical Faults
Fuel/Propulsion System
Complaint patterns center on Transmission / Drivetrain, Electrical Faults, Fuel/Propulsion System. 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 2018 Chevrolet Volt?
The 2018 Volt has a high complaint count for a single model year, especially in the transmission and electrical systems. While it may offer good fuel economy, buyers should proceed with caution and ensure a thorough inspection. Consider a certified pre-owned warranty for added protection.
Transmission and electrical problems can lead to costly repairs and reduced reliability. Understanding these patterns helps buyers avoid unexpected expenses and safety concerns.
May Suit
This year may suit buyers who are comfortable with higher maintenance risk and prioritize plug-in hybrid efficiency over trouble-free ownership.
May Want to Avoid
Buyers seeking maximum reliability and low repair costs should avoid the 2018 Volt due to its high complaint volume.
Pre-purchase
What to check before buying a used 2018 Chevrolet Volt
Inspection Focus
- Test drive for transmission shifting smoothness and unusual noises.
- Check all electrical functions, including infotainment, lights, and charging system.
- Inspect fuel system components for leaks or warning lights.
Before You Close the Deal
- Obtain a professional inspection focusing on transmission and electrical systems.
- Verify all open recalls are completed at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
- Request service records for transmission and electrical repairs.
- Consider an extended warranty covering major components.
Check the exact car
Shortlist with model-year data. Decide with the exact VIN.
Before buying a used 2018 Chevrolet Volt, 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 2018 Chevrolet Volt has 212 total complaints and 2 recalls. The most common issues involve the transmission/drivetrain (82 complaints) and electrical faults (81 complaints). Buyers should prioritize inspecting these systems and verifying recall completion. Source: NHTSA owner complaints and recall records.
Year context: Compared to other model years, the 2018 Volt has a notably high number of complaints, particularly in the transmission and electrical categories.
Recall context: With 2 recalls, buyers must verify that all recall repairs have been performed before purchase.
- Transmission/drivetrain complaints total 82, the highest among all components.
- Electrical faults account for 81 complaints, nearly as frequent as transmission issues.
- Fuel/propulsion system complaints number 64, indicating potential driveability concerns.
- Transmission / Drivetrain failures or malfunctions.
- Electrical system faults, including battery and charging issues.
- Fuel/Propulsion system problems affecting performance.
Full breakdown
All 2018 Chevrolet Volt complaints by category
Every owner-reported complaint category filed with NHTSA for the 2018 Chevrolet Volt. Use this as a pre-purchase inspection checklist.
| Component | Complaints | Crashes | Fires | Avg Mileage | Volume |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Transmission / Drivetrain | 82 | — | — | — | |
| Electrical Faults | 81 | — | — | — | |
| Fuel/Propulsion System | 64 | — | — | — | |
| Engine Problems | 50 | — | — | — | |
| Uncategorized Issues | 37 | — | — | — | |
| Brake System | 9 | 3 | — | — | |
| Unintended Acceleration | 8 | 1 | — | — | |
| Steering Defects | 4 | — | — | — | |
| Visibility/Wiper | 4 | 1 | — | — | |
| Airbag Malfunctions | 2 | 1 | — | — | |
| Structural Problems | 2 | 1 | — | — | |
| Tire Issues | 1 | — | — | — | |
| Fuel System | 1 | — | — | — | |
| Gasoline | 1 | — | — | — | |
| Electronic Stability Control (Esc) | 1 | — | — | — |
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 2018 Chevrolet Volt. Type a keyword (e.g. “transmission”, “stalling”, “brakes”) to filter.
I was driving my 2018 Chevy Volt at about 30 mph on EV mode. The battery was at 50%, the car was performing normally. Then the battery jumped to 100%, the check engine light came on, and the vehicle lost power. I was in rush hour traffic and unable to get the vehicle to go fas…
The vehicle (2018 Chevrolet Volt) is experiencing an intermittent failure of the Battery Energy Control Module (BECM). Diagnostic trouble code P1E5B was stored in the system. This is a well-documented defect in this vehicle population that frequently results in a sudden, unexpect…
Dealer non-Compliance with Recall N192273600 I am reporting Anderson Chevrolet for failure to identify and perform a mandatory federal emission recall while the vehicle was in their possession for service. Because the dealer neglected their statutory duty to perform the free reca…
The vehicle losses power on high speed, check engine comes on, low propulsion massage displays. Vehicle does not charge. Issues similar to the investigation DCS6812.
It was the XXX recall for the DTC P0442/check engine light code. The dealership said that the recall had been satisfied in 6/2020 by putting a buffer in to separate the 2 lines but not replacing the part. Now the exact same code DTC P0442/check engine light in the exact spot that…
My 2018 Chevrolet Volt frequently fails to recognize when the vehicle is shifted into Park. The dashboard displays “Shift to Park” even though the gear selector is already in Park. When this occurs, the vehicle will not power off, requiring multiple attempts to move the shifter …
The contact owns a 2018 Chevrolet Volt. The contact stated that the battery module became inoperable. While attempting to start the vehicle, the message "Engine Unavailable - Service Soon” was displayed. The contact was unable to use the vehicle. The contact stated that the TPMS …
On June 27, 2025, while driving, the vehicle displayed a "Propulsion Power Reduced" warning message and a Check Engine Light illuminated. I immediately experienced a loss of power. I brought the vehicle to an authorized Chevrolet dealer the same day. On July 1, 2025, the dealer …
The contact owns a 2018 Chevrolet Volt. The contact stated that while attempting to start the vehicle, the engine failed to turn over as intended. Additionally, the vehicle would not charge when connected to a charger. The check engine warning light illuminated. The vehicle was t…
Why in operation the car goes into Shift to Park and Also getting a Propulsion Power Reduce
Component: Battery Energy Control Module, available from dealership ATM Daughter's safety compromised when vehicle power decreased quickly to 5mph in the middle of fast heavy city traffic. The problem has been confirmed by Chevrolet dealership service department The vehicle has n…
My wife and I were on a 200 mile trip and the engine failed about 150 miles into the trip. Was driving and the instrument panel indicated that the engine was in reduced power mode. I switched over to battery power but had only approximately 10 miles of range left so after a coupl…
The EGR valve clogged, causing a a servo to blow the F3 fuse, disabling the engine while driving. This occured suddenly while driving on a busy road with no shoulders. I managed to coast into a parking lot not too far away but I had no charge left in my battery. I could only get…
Chevy had done an update for the Propulsion Power being reduced. In 2024, I had to do another update when the check engine light came on. After that the electric battery power decreased, I am only getting 17 miles per charge. August 2025, the check engine light came on again. I h…
The car can't decide if it wants to use the battery or the engine. It shows zero charge even though it is full. It lurches at stop lights as it tries to decide whether to use battery or engine. It says "propulsion power reduced". "Not able to charge". "Shift to park". Check engin…
Dashboard displays “Shift to Park” message even when the shifter is in the park position for the past month. I am unable to turn off the vehicle completely until I Shift to drive then back to park multiple times.
The dealer reported having repaired an emissions recall for a fuel vapor leak, however the repair was ineffective and the vehicle still reports the leak as a fault code "slow" and "fast" emissions leak. The dealer refused to recheck their work without payment. Recently I came in…
In 2020, GM issued a recall (#N192273600) for emissions pipes on the Chevy Volt that could be compromised by rubbing against the A/C hose connector. I took my vehicle to my local dealership (Chesrown Chevrolet) to have this issue remedied, that same year. This year, my check en…
Electrically actuated EGR valve fails, it draws too much current and blows the F03 fuse (Labeled “No Walk Home”) which has 4 other components on it, this causes “Reduced propulsion” message, soon after the engine overheats due to one or more of the 3 other components that lost po…
When shift lever is moved to Park, the car often does not recognize it is in Park and can't be shut down. It takes a lot of time of moving the selector in and out of Park to finally get the car to recognize it is in Park. During an occasion when the car would not go into Park, th…
Source: NHTSA Complaints Database. Real owner reports for the 2018 Chevrolet Volt.
Safety recalls
2018 Chevrolet Volt recalls
2 campaignsNHTSA recall campaigns for the 2018 Chevrolet Volt. With 2 recalls, buyers must verify that all recall repairs have been performed before purchase. Recalls are free to fix at authorized dealers, but completion status must be verified on the exact VIN.
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:DISC:CALIPER
SEAT BELTS:REAR/OTHER
Research more
Keep researching before you buy
Compare brands and categories, then check the exact car's history by VIN.
Questions
2018 Chevrolet Volt buying FAQ
Buyer-focused answers based on real NHTSA complaint and recall data for this model year.
Is the 2018 Chevrolet Volt reliable?▾
Notable Issues. NHTSA currently shows 212 owner complaints, 4 crash-related complaints, and 2 recall campaigns for this model year. The 2018 Volt has a high complaint count for a single model year, especially in the transmission and electrical systems. While it may offer good fuel economy, buyers should proceed with caution and ensure a thorough inspection. Consider a certified pre-owned warranty for added protection. 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 2018 Chevrolet Volt?▾
#1: Transmission / Drivetrain (82 complaints). #2: Electrical Faults (81 complaints). #3: Fuel/Propulsion System (64 complaints)
At what mileage do problems start on the 2018 Chevrolet Volt?▾
Mileage data is not available or insufficient for this model year.
How safe is the 2018 Chevrolet Volt?▾
Complaint data is not the same as crash-test scoring, but it does highlight possible risk patterns. For the 2018 Chevrolet Volt, NHTSA complaints include 4 crash-related reports and 0 fire reports out of 212 total complaints. 1 injury reports are also on file. For controlled crash-test ratings, check nhtsa.gov/ratings.
Does the 2018 Chevrolet Volt have any recalls?▾
Yes. 2 NHTSA recall campaigns affect the 2018 Chevrolet Volt. A major recall area is SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:DISC:CALIPER. With 2 recalls, buyers must verify that all recall repairs have been performed before purchase. Always verify open recalls by VIN because completion status varies by vehicle.
Should I buy a 2018 Chevrolet Volt?▾
The 2018 Volt has a high complaint count for a single model year, especially in the transmission and electrical systems. While it may offer good fuel economy, buyers should proceed with caution and ensure a thorough inspection. Consider a certified pre-owned warranty for added protection. Transmission and electrical problems can lead to costly repairs and reduced reliability. Understanding these patterns helps buyers avoid unexpected expenses and safety concerns. Pay extra attention to Transmission / Drivetrain 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 VinSpectorAI.
Wider context: See the full Chevrolet Volt reliability report with year-by-year comparison.
Owner Reliability Rating
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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.