2018 Chevrolet Volt Safety Report
2018 Chevrolet Volt: Excellent crash ratings, but frequent propulsion and electrical system complaints raise reliability concerns.
AI Safety Analysis for the 2018 Chevrolet Volt
Reliability Score
The 2018 Chevrolet Volt receives a reliability score of 55 out of 100 based on analysis of NHTSA complaint data, recall history, crash reports, and safety ratings. This indicates average reliability — some notable concerns exist that prospective buyers should be aware of.
Known Issues for the 2018 Chevrolet Volt
The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2018 Chevrolet Volt:
| Issue | Severity | Frequency | Typical Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Propulsion Power Reduced / Engine Not Available Vehicle suddenly loses power, displays 'Reduced Propulsion Power' or 'Engine Not Available' messages, often linked to EGR valve failure, BECM issues, or blown fuses. This can occur at highway speeds, creating a dangerous situation. |
High | Common | variable miles |
| Shift To Park Malfunction Dashboard displays 'Shift to Park' even when the gear selector is in Park, preventing the vehicle from being turned off. Requires multiple attempts to shift in and out of Park. |
Medium | Common | variable miles |
| Battery Energy Control Module (Becm) Failure BECM failure leads to 'Reduced Propulsion' messages, limp mode, loss of power, and inability to shift properly, potentially compromising braking. |
High | Occasional | variable miles |
| Brake Caliper Sticking / Reduced Braking Performance Front brake calipers stick, causing pads to engage rotors, leading to excessive heat and reduced braking performance. Subject of a recall. |
High | Occasional | variable miles |
| Egr Valve Clogging/Failure EGR valve clogs or fails, drawing too much current and blowing the F03 'No Walk Home' fuse, leading to 'Reduced Propulsion' and potential engine overheating. |
High | Common | variable miles |
Common Problems Reported by Owners
Based on NHTSA complaint data, the following components account for the majority of reported issues with the 2018 Chevrolet Volt:
Frequent complaints about 'Reduced Propulsion Power', engine not available, and issues with the vehicle's ability to switch between electric and gas modes.
Common issues include the 'Shift to Park' malfunction, battery module failures, and various warning lights related to electrical faults.
Problems with the propulsion system, including sudden power loss, inability to charge, and engine failures related to the hybrid system.
Engine failures, reduced power mode, and issues with the engine not turning over or being unavailable, often linked to EGR valve or BECM problems.
Recall for brake caliper issues that can lead to reduced braking performance.
Recall for rear seatbelt retractor assemblies that may not properly secure child seats.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2018 Chevrolet Volt
Is the 2018 Chevrolet Volt safe?
The 2018 Chevrolet Volt received excellent 5-star safety ratings from NHTSA across all categories (Overall, Frontal, Side, Rollover). However, NHTSA complaint data shows 209 total complaints, including 4 crashes and 1 injury, with recurring issues like 'Reduced Propulsion Power' and 'Shift to Park' malfunctions that could pose real-world safety risks despite strong crash test performance.
What are common problems with the 2018 Chevrolet Volt?
The most reported issues for the 2018 Chevrolet Volt are related to the POWER TRAIN (35 complaints), ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (22 complaints), and FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM (21 complaints). Specific common problems include 'Reduced Propulsion Power' messages, EGR valve failures, Battery Energy Control Module (BECM) failures, and the 'Shift to Park' malfunction.
Has the 2018 Chevrolet Volt been recalled?
Yes, the 2018 Chevrolet Volt has had 2 recalls. One recall (NHTSA ID: 19V888000) addresses rear seatbelt retractor assemblies that may not properly secure child seats. The second recall (NHTSA ID: 18V576000) concerns brake caliper issues that could lead to reduced braking performance.
What does 'Reduced Propulsion Power' mean for the 2018 Volt?
For the 2018 Chevrolet Volt, 'Reduced Propulsion Power' is a critical warning indicating a significant loss of power, often due to issues like EGR valve failure, Battery Energy Control Module (BECM) malfunction, or blown fuses. This can happen suddenly while driving, making the vehicle unsafe to operate.
Are there issues with the 2018 Volt's ability to turn off?
Yes, a common complaint for the 2018 Chevrolet Volt is the 'Shift to Park' malfunction. This issue causes the dashboard to display 'Shift to Park' even when the vehicle is in Park, preventing the car from being turned off until the shifter is repeatedly moved.
Buyer Advice
Our recommendation: While the 2018 Chevrolet Volt has excellent crash test ratings, potential buyers should be aware of frequent and serious propulsion and electrical system complaints; a pre-purchase inspection focusing on these areas is highly recommended.
NHTSA Data Summary for 2018 Chevrolet Volt
This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2018 Chevrolet Volt. The data includes 209 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 2 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, 4 reported crashes, 1 reported injuries, and safety rating assessments associated with this vehicle.
The NHTSA has assigned the 2018 Chevrolet Volt an overall safety rating of 5 out of 5 stars, with a frontal crash rating of 5 stars, a side crash rating of 5 stars, and a rollover rating of 5 stars. These ratings are determined through controlled crash testing conducted by the NHTSA.
All data presented in this report is sourced from public NHTSA databases. Our AI analysis identifies patterns across complaint narratives, correlates them with recall history, and produces the safety assessment above. This analysis is updated as new complaints and recalls are filed with the NHTSA.
Consumers are encouraged to report vehicle safety problems to the NHTSA at nhtsa.gov. If your vehicle is subject to a recall, contact your dealer to schedule the free repair.