The Chevrolet Bolt EV, a popular electric vehicle, comes equipped with various warning lights to alert drivers of potential issues. Understanding these indicators is crucial for maintaining your vehicle's performance and safety. This guide will help you decode the most common warning lights in your Chevy Bolt.

Battery Warning Light

The battery warning light in your Chevy Bolt is a critical indicator of your vehicle's electrical system health. This light resembles a battery symbol and may illuminate in red or amber. When lit, it signals potential issues with the high-voltage battery system or charging components.

If you see this light:

  • Pull over safely and turn off the vehicle
  • Restart the car to see if the light clears
  • If the light persists, contact your Chevrolet dealer immediately
  • Avoid driving long distances until the issue is resolved

Brake System Warning Light

The brake system warning light is typically red and shaped like an exclamation point inside a circle. This light indicates a problem with your Bolt's braking system, which could compromise your safety on the road.

When this light appears:

  • Check if the parking brake is engaged
  • Inspect the brake fluid level
  • If the light remains on, avoid driving and contact a Chevrolet service center
  • Have your brake system inspected by a professional as soon as possible

Check Engine Light

The check engine light, often shaped like an engine outline, can indicate various issues in your Chevy Bolt. While not exclusive to electric vehicles, this light can still appear in EVs to signal problems with the vehicle's systems.

If you encounter this light:

  • Check if the gas cap is loose (if applicable in hybrid models)
  • Scan for error codes using an OBD-II scanner
  • Schedule a service appointment if the light persists
  • Continue driving only if the light is steady, not flashing

Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) Light

The TPMS light looks like a tire cross-section with an exclamation point. It alerts you when one or more of your tires have low pressure, which can affect your Bolt's efficiency and safety.

When you see this light:

  • Check all tire pressures, including the spare
  • Inflate tires to the recommended PSI (found in the driver's door jamb)
  • If the light stays on after proper inflation, have your TPMS checked

Regenerative Braking Light

Unique to electric vehicles like the Bolt, the regenerative braking light typically appears as a circular arrow. If this light flashes or stays on, it may indicate an issue with the regenerative braking system.

If this light activates:

  • Be prepared for reduced energy recovery when braking
  • Expect potentially decreased range
  • Schedule a service appointment to have the system checked

Power Reduced Warning

This warning, often accompanied by a turtle icon, indicates that your Bolt's power output has been limited. This can occur due to various factors, including battery temperature or charge level.

When you see this warning:

  • Reduce speed and avoid high-power demands
  • Find a safe place to pull over if necessary
  • Allow the battery to cool or charge if the issue is temperature or charge-related
  • Contact Chevrolet support if the issue persists

Understanding these warning lights can help you maintain your Chevy Bolt effectively and ensure a safe driving experience. Always consult your owner's manual for specific details about your vehicle's warning systems, and don't hesitate to seek professional help when needed.

FAQs About Chevy Bolt Warning Lights

    • Can I drive my Chevy Bolt if a warning light is on?
      It depends on the light. Some warnings require immediate attention, while others may allow limited driving. Always prioritize safety and consult your manual or a professional if unsure.
    • How often should I expect to see warning lights in my Chevy Bolt?
      Warning lights should not appear frequently in a well-maintained vehicle. Regular occurrences may indicate underlying issues that need addressing.
    • What should I do if multiple warning lights come on simultaneously?
      If multiple lights illuminate at once, it's best to safely pull over and turn off the vehicle. Restart it to see if the issue resolves. If lights persist, contact roadside assistance or your Chevrolet dealer.