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Chevrolet Bolt EV: which year should you buy?

Across the 2017 to 2023 model years, the public record is strongest on the 2018 (85/100). Every year below is scored on its own NHTSA complaint and recall history. Pick the year, not just the nameplate.

Best years to target

2018 85 · 2017 71

Every model year, scored

Same math for every year (how we score). A neutral Unproven or Too New stamp means too few owner reports are on file to affirm the year, not that it’s clean.

202364/100
Caution

57 complaints · 3 recalls

202264/100
Caution

59 complaints · 7 recalls · ⚠ park-it recall

202164/100
Caution

66 complaints · 5 recalls · ⚠ park-it recall

202054/100
Caution

171 complaints · 8 recalls · ⚠ park-it recall

201960/100
Caution

174 complaints · 6 recalls · ⚠ park-it recall

201885/100
Buybest year

73 complaints · 0 recalls

201771/100
Buy

316 complaints · 0 recalls

Zeroing in on the 2018?

The full year-by-year verdict is free. When you’re ready to inspect and negotiate one specific car, the Full Report turns the 2018 Chevrolet Bolt EV’s complaint breakdown and recall list into an inspection-ready, shareable PDF.

Recalls, complaint breakdown & inspection checklist, all in a shareable PDF

Cross-shopping a different nameplate? Compare the 2023 Chevrolet Bolt EV head-to-head →

The fine print: each year’s verdict is computed from public NHTSA complaint and recall records for the Chevrolet Bolt EV as a model, not for any individual car. A well-kept example of a weaker year can outlast a neglected strong one. Informational only, so always get a professional pre-purchase inspection.