U.S. auto safety regulator examines reports of abrupt power loss and failures to restart in Chevrolet Volt plug-in hybrid cars
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has announced the opening of an investigation into 73,000 Chevrolet Volt plug-in hybrid cars due to concerns over a sudden loss of power, failures to restart, and other related issues. The investigation follows 61 complaints tied to the battery energy control module (BECM) in the 2016 to 2019 model year Chevrolet Volts. Some owners have reported experiencing little to no warning before the loss of operating power or reduced power mode occurred. General Motors (GM) has not issued a recall for the vehicles but has acknowledged the issue and stated that it has taken appropriate action to address customer concerns.
Reports of Power Loss Prompt Preliminary Evaluation
The NHTSA’s preliminary evaluation into the Chevrolet Volt was prompted by numerous reports of power loss and failures to restart. Owners have raised concerns about the lack of warning signs before the loss of operating power or the vehicle entering reduced power mode. This unexpected loss of power can pose a safety risk, especially if it hampers a vehicle’s ability to move with the flow of surrounding traffic or restart after stalling.
GM’s Response and Actions
General Motors, the manufacturer of the Chevrolet Volt, has stated that it is cooperating with the NHTSA investigation. The company believes it has taken appropriate action to address customer concerns related to the battery energy control module. GM has not issued a recall for the affected vehicles but has issued a technical service bulletin advising that the BECM may need to be replaced and reprogrammed if the vehicle fails to restart. GM ceased production of the Chevrolet Volt in early 2019.
Owner Frustrations and Supply Pipeline
Some Chevrolet Volt owners have reported difficulties in obtaining replacement battery modules after experiencing power loss issues. They claim to have waited months or have been unable to secure the necessary replacement parts. However, GM has reassured owners that it has a sufficient supply of replacement parts in its pipeline.
One owner in Los Angeles described their experience, stating that their Volt “suddenly and unexpectedly lost propulsion while driving” and that the vehicle could no longer turn on or drive. Another owner reported that their Volt would randomly stop driving on electricity and would not exceed 35 miles per hour on the highway.
Conclusion:
The NHTSA’s investigation into the Chevrolet Volt comes in response to numerous complaints regarding power loss and failures to restart. The sudden loss of power poses safety risks, particularly if it prevents the vehicle from moving with the flow of surrounding traffic or restarting after stalling. General Motors, the manufacturer of the Chevrolet Volt, has stated that it is cooperating with the investigation and believes it has taken appropriate action to address customer concerns. However, some owners have expressed frustrations with delays in obtaining replacement parts. The outcome of the investigation will shed light on the extent of the issue and may lead to further actions to ensure the safety and reliability of Chevrolet Volt plug-in hybrid cars.
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