Chevrolet is recalling more than 50,000 model-year 2017-19 Bolt EV hatchbacks equipped with battery packs manufactured by LG Chem in South Korea due to a fire risk. The high-voltage packs, located underneath the rear passenger seats, could catch fire when at or near full charge even if the car is parked, turned off and disconnected from a charging unit.
Chevrolet is still working on a permanent fix. In the interim, GM will issue a software update on Nov. 17 that will limit the battery’s maximum charge to 90%. Owners are asked to contact dealers and set up appointments on or after Nov. 17 to get the software update. Until the cars have been repaired, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration advises parking them outside and away from homes to avoid the potential spread of a fire.
To limit the charge manually before the software update is completed, owners of 2017 and 2018 Bolt EV vehicles should change their charge setting to the Hilltop Reserve option. Owners of 2019 Bolt EVs should change the vehicle charge setting to enable “target charge level at 90 percent.” Owners can call Chevrolet at 833-382-4389 or the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s vehicle-safety hotline at 888-327-4236 to learn more.
Vehicle manufacturers are legally required to repair any recalled issues or replace the defective part for free under the Highway Safety Act of 1970. If the dealership refuses to fix the problem or attempts to charge you for the repair, contact the manufacturer immediately.
Lemon Law Group Partners can assist car owners if they encounter any problems during the recall process with the manufacturer. Our attorneys deal directly with the manufacturer on the client’s behalf to quickly resolve the problem. In many cases, the attorneys get paid directly from the manufacturer so the client does not have to pay any attorneys’ fees to obtain legal counsel. For more information and a free consultation call 888-668-8581.
