I Replaced the Battery in My 2022 Bolt EUV Premier After Propulsion Issues and Charging Problems, and Here's How It Affects the Value

In the realm of electric vehicles (EVs), few models have captured the public’s attention like the Chevrolet Bolt EV and EUV. Known for their affordability and impressive range, these vehicles have made waves in the electric car market. However, despite their many merits, one persistent issue has been battery performance. Recently, a post on the “Chevy Bolt EV and EUV Owners Group” on Facebook sparked an important discussion about battery failures, value depreciation, and the questions that arise when an EV owner encounters significant issues with their car.

Dan Mathews, a 2022 Chevrolet Bolt EUV Premier owner, shared his frustrating experience with the group: “I have a 2022 Bolt EUV Premier, and a few weeks ago, during a cold snap, I received the 'propulsion reduced' message and could no longer charge the vehicle. After taking it to the dealer, they informed me that I needed a new battery. I’ve owned the car since brand new, and I thought I was past all the battery issues, but this might be the tipping point for me. My question is, if I decide to sell now, would having a brand-new battery increase its value? If so, how can I determine what it's worth? The car has 36,000 miles, is in its original condition, and comes with the Sun and Sound package. Thanks for your input.”

Dan’s post resonated with many owners who have dealt with similar issues. Battery failure in EVs, especially in models like the Bolt, has been a topic of concern since the early years of the car’s release. While Chevrolet has addressed some of these concerns with software updates and technical improvements, the question of battery life and its effect on resale value remains an important issue for potential sellers.

The Value of a New Battery in an EV: Is It a Game-Changer?

Dan’s primary concern is whether installing a new battery would increase the value of his 2022 Bolt EUV Premier. While this is a valid question, the answer is not always straightforward. In general, the value of a car with a new battery should increase, as it would typically improve the longevity and reliability of the vehicle. However, a few factors must be taken into account before determining just how much of a boost the new battery will provide.

1. EV Market Conditions: The market for used electric vehicles can be tricky. As more affordable EV options enter the market and prices for new vehicles drop, the resale value of older EVs can dip, especially if the vehicle has experienced significant issues like battery failures. On the other hand, with the right buyer looking for a Bolt EUV specifically, a new battery could make the car more appealing, even if only to ensure they won’t encounter similar issues for a while. However, potential buyers may still be wary of past problems, which could limit the amount of value the new battery adds.
2. Mileage: While 36,000 miles on a 2022 model isn't necessarily high, it’s not negligible either. A battery replacement might offer peace of mind, but it doesn't undo the fact that the car has already been used for over three years. Mileage is still a critical factor when determining the value of a used vehicle, even with a new battery.
3. Vehicle Condition: Since Dan’s Bolt EUV Premier is in its original condition, it might be seen as a positive or a negative depending on the buyer. Some buyers prefer cars that have been kept in their original condition, believing that this signifies well-maintained ownership. Others, however, may prefer cars that have been "upgraded" with additional features or modifications. The condition of the car, including the exterior, interior, and even the software (which can sometimes be updated remotely), will play a large role in how much extra value the new battery brings.
4. The Warranty Factor: One of the key factors in Dan’s case is that the new battery will come with a warranty. Chevy’s battery warranty for the Bolt is usually 8 years or 100,000 miles (whichever comes first), which should provide assurance to any potential buyers. However, the existence of a warranty may not always be enough to sway the buyer, especially if they are concerned about the history of the vehicle and its past battery issues.

Insights from Other Owners

In the comments under Dan’s post, other Bolt EUV owners shared their experiences with similar issues, adding layers of context to the discussion.

Gene Ring, another Bolt owner, responded thoughtfully: “Well, the original poster has received some answers to consider. In my opinion (I have a 2019 Premier, parked outdoors in Northern Illinois), cold batteries need conditioning, which typically happens on its own without any driver assistance. Extremely cold batteries can trigger the 'Propulsion Reduced' message (this happened to me once), so it’s important to let the battery warm up and condition before driving. Not being able to charge at that time doesn’t mean the battery isn’t conditioning; you can also just let it idle for a while while unplugged. Finally, performing a reboot should be the next step. Do you take your phone or computer to the dealer every time it glitches?”

Gene’s advice underscores the importance of understanding EV battery behavior, particularly during extreme temperatures. Cold weather can cause temporary issues that may not necessarily require a full battery replacement. It’s possible that, as Gene suggests, a simple reboot or allowing the car to idle could have resolved the issue. This highlights how technical knowledge of EV systems can help in troubleshooting before committing to major repairs.

Brent Hutchens, who owns the same model as Dan, added his own experience: “My 2022, the same car as yours, experienced the same issue yesterday. The battery temperature at the time was 50°F, while the outside temperature was 0°F. I drove for an hour, then stopped for lunch, and that’s when I received the error message. The car is currently at the dealer with 10,800 miles.” Brent’s experience further reinforces the point that temperature can be a significant factor in triggering these battery issues. For those in colder climates, understanding how to properly manage battery health in freezing temperatures is crucial.

David Crane also shared his frustrating experience: “I have the same year and model. Six weeks ago, while it was in the garage, it stopped charging, and the message 'Li-Ion battery needs servicing' appeared. It wouldn’t even start. I had to have it towed to the dealership, where they confirmed it needed a new battery. I, too, thought all the battery issues were behind us, which is why I waited until mid-2022 to buy it. It's been six weeks, and the battery hasn’t even been shipped yet. I’m in Wilmington, DE, and the concierge has been no help whatsoever.”

David’s story highlights the extended waiting times some owners face when it comes to receiving a replacement battery. This is an important consideration when determining resale value—potential buyers may be hesitant to invest in a car if they feel it could take months to receive a replacement battery in the future. The long wait times for new parts may raise concerns about Chevrolet’s ability to meet demand for repairs.

Resale Value and How to Determine It

If you are in a situation similar to Dan’s and considering selling your EV, you’ll want to determine the car's value before making a decision. The following steps can help you assess the worth of your vehicle:

1. Check the Current Market Price for Similar Cars: Websites like Kelley Blue Book (KBB), Edmunds, and Autotrader are useful resources for checking the market price of your car. Compare your car’s model, mileage, and features with similar cars listed for sale in your area. The price can fluctuate depending on factors like the car's age, mileage, and condition. However, if your vehicle has a new battery, you might be able to factor that into the value by consulting these tools for a more accurate estimate.
2. Consider the Impact of the Battery Replacement: A new battery can add value, but you’ll need to consider how much. A well-maintained EV with low mileage and a new battery might fetch a higher price, but it’s important to remain realistic about the market demand. Buyers may be cautious of battery issues in used EVs, even with a new battery. Buyers will often be more interested in the overall condition and warranty coverage of the new battery.
3. Consult a Professional Appraiser: For a more accurate valuation, consider consulting a professional appraiser. They can evaluate your car’s condition and the impact of the new battery on its resale value. This might be especially helpful if you plan to sell to a dealership or want to ensure you’re getting the most for your vehicle.

Moral of the Story

When it comes to electric vehicles like the Chevrolet Bolt EUV Premier, a new battery can offer a significant advantage in terms of longevity and reliability. However, its impact on resale value is not guaranteed. Buyers may still be hesitant about the history of the vehicle or how the car was maintained prior to the battery replacement. If you're in Dan’s shoes and considering selling, make sure to assess the overall condition of your car, take market conditions into account, and weigh the pros and cons of installing a new battery.

Remember, when it comes to EVs, understanding the factors that affect battery life and maintenance is key to maximizing your car’s resale value. Additionally, always consider how climate and technical issues can affect your battery health before jumping to conclusions about necessary repairs.

For more on how the Chevy Bolt EV fares against other EVs, check out this insightful article about how the Chevy Bolt EV still outshines its rivals. If you're wondering about the longevity of Bolt’s battery, this piece on Chevy Bolt EV battery health after 100,000 miles might provide some useful context for making your decision.

Additionally, if you're interested in the 2022 Chevrolet Bolt EUV Review, you’ll find more insights on how this model stacks up.

If you’re looking for affordable used EV options, consider reading about why the Chevy Bolt might be the smartest buy for a short commute. And for a comparison between the Chevy Volt vs. Chevy Volt, this article takes a deeper dive into how they differ and which might be right for you.

Lastly, check out a more personal reflection on owning a Chevy Bolt in how the Chevy Bolt has been the best commuter vehicle I've had. You’ll gain additional perspective on the Bolt’s true potential for everyday use.

Questions for the Reader:

1. Have you experienced any similar battery issues with your Chevy Bolt or other EVs? How did you handle it?
2. What’s your opinion on buying a used EV with a new battery? Would you feel more confident in the purchase? Please share your thoughts down below.

Narek Hareyan is a young automotive journalist with experience in a golf cart dealership and an interest in the automotive industry. Follow Narek on X for daily news coverage about cars.