Maybe you bought a Chevy Bolt electric vehicle to save money on gas. Or you want to help save the environment. Or maybe you’re getting a head start on the new California legislation that will require all light-duty autonomous vehicles to emit zero emissions starting in 2030. But you certainly didn’t invest in a new Chevy Bolt expecting to experience very serious issues with the battery catching fire.

If you’re reading this article, that is exactly what you are facing. In 2020, General Motors identified nearly 120,000 Chevy Bolt EVs from 2017-2019 with possible defective battery cells that could catch fire suddenly even when the vehicle is not plugged in. Those same cars were recalled again last year after they found two potential defects that could be present in the same cell.

Unfortunately, that wasn’t the end of it. In August 2021, GM added nearly 64,000 Bolt EV and EUV models from 2020 to present day to the recall, plus 2019 9340 Bolts not previously recalled. Essentially, GM has recalled every EV Bolt it has built since hitting the market in 2016—a total of 141,000 electric vehicles!

Chevy’s response

Aside from the recall, GM is recommending that Chevy Bolt owners not fully charge their battery and recharge it after each use rather than waiting until the battery is almost run down. The manufacturer also advises that that Bolt owners park outside after charging (presumably to avoid burning down the house if the vehicle catches fire).

Your legal options as a Chevy Bolt owner

Your Chevy Bolt could meet the requirements for a lemon law claim under the California Lemon Laws. In that is the case, you could be eligible for a buyback settlement in which GM refunds you for the purchase of your car and takes possession of the vehicle. You can then use the money to purchase any automobile of your choosing.

However, the key to a successful settlement for your Chevy Bolt lemon claim is filing the paperwork on time with the help of an experienced California Lemon Law attorney. There is no cost to you and they can help put out the fire, so to speak, before it has a chance to start.

Think you have a claim? Get a free, no-obligation case evaluation from Sotera L. Anderson, California Lemon Law Attorney, here or call  1-855-96-LEMON, or (858) 247-0050.