2012 Chevrolet Volt recalls and problems
The 2012 Chevrolet Volt has 2 safety recalls and 245 owner complaints filed with NHTSA. Recall repairs are free at any Chevrolet dealer.
Recalls may cover only some 2012 Chevrolet Volt vehicles. Check your VIN at NHTSA ↗ to see open recalls for your exact car.
2012 Chevrolet Volt recalls
Recall 15V-145: Electrical System, Engine and Engine Cooling
Problem: General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain model year 2011-2013 Volt vehicles manufactured August 25, 2010, to June 26, 2013. If the driver exits the vehicle without turning off the electrical system, the battery may drain low enough that the gasoline engine will automatically start itself to recharge the electric battery.
Risk: If the engine runs for an extended period of time in an enclosed space, there may be a build up of carbon monoxide, increasing the risk of personal injury.
Fix: GM will notify owners, and dealers will update the engine management software to limit the time that the stationary vehicle can be left in the ON position, free of charge. The recall began April 15, 2015. Owners may contact Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020. GM's number for this recall is 14617.
Recall 13V-271: Service Brakes, Electronic Stability Control (ESC)
Problem: General Motors (GM) is recalling certain model year 2012 Chevrolet Volt vehicles manufactured March 1, 2012, through April 17, 2012. Due to a brake pressure modulator valve problem, the vehicles do not relieve brake pressure from the front brakes during an anti-lock brake system (ABS), electronic stability control (ESC), or traction control event. One or both front brakes may lock up and not release. Thus, these vehicles fail to conform to Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS) No. 126, "Electronic Stability Control Systems"' and No. 135, "Light Vehicle Brake Systems."
Risk: If the brakes lock up it could cause a loss of steering control and/or a lengthened distance needed to stop the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
Fix: General Motors will notify owners, and dealers will install a new brake pressure modulator valve free of charge. The recall is expected to begin July 12, 2013. Owners may contact Chevrolet at 1-866-694-6546. GM's recall number is 13184.
2012 Chevrolet Volt problems reported by owners
| Problem area | Reports | |
|---|---|---|
| Electrical System | 87 | |
| Air Bags | 87 | |
| Fuel/Propulsion System | 37 | |
| Engine | 26 | |
| Service Brakes | 23 | |
| Power Train | 22 | |
| Unknown or Other | 17 | |
| Seats | 14 | |
| Vehicle Speed Control | 11 | |
| Structure | 6 | |
| Steering | 6 | |
| Exterior Lighting | 5 |
Most reported parts
- Electrical System › Instrument Cluster/Panel — 6
- Structure › Body — 5
- Equipment › Electrical — 2
- Air Bags › Sensor › Occupant Classification › Front Passenger — 2
- Electrical System › Ignition › Switch — 1
- Electrical System › Propulsion System — 1
- Air Bags › Srs Malfunction Warning Lamp/Light — 1
- Electrical System › 12v/24v/48v Battery — 1
Typical mileage at the time of the problem: 80,000 miles (median of owner reports).
Problems that are not covered by a recall are paid repairs; labor rates follow local mechanic pay — see what auto mechanics earn in each state.
Recent 2012 Chevrolet Volt complaints
Owner reports filed with NHTSA, as written (personal details removed). Complaints are not verified by NHTSA.
Other Chevrolet Volt years
Frequently asked questions
Does the 2012 Chevrolet Volt have any recalls?
Yes — NHTSA lists 2 recalls for the 2012 Chevrolet Volt: 15V-145 (electrical system, engine and engine cooling), 13V-271 (service brakes, electronic stability control (esc)). Not every vehicle is affected, so check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
What is the most common problem with the 2012 Chevrolet Volt?
Owners report electrical system problems most often (87 reports), followed by air bags (87). The typical mileage when problems were reported is about 80,000 miles.
Are Chevrolet recall repairs free?
Yes. Safety recall repairs are free at authorized Chevrolet dealers, whether you are the first owner or bought the car used.