Chevrolet Bolt EV Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada-
14637856) - 2021 - CRC - 10/2/20
Driving and Operating 147
Driving Information
Driving for Better Energy
Efficiency
Use the following tips to help maximize
energy efficiency and range.
In colder temperatures, while these
efficiency tips will help, the electric vehicle
driving range will be lower due to higher
energy usage including energy spent
heating the cabin.
The Range Impacts screen estimates the
influence of the main factors impacting
vehicle range. After charging is complete,
this information is reset. See“Range
Impacts” under. See Energy Information
0 97.
Acceleration/Braking/Coasting
Avoid rapid accelerations and decelerations.
Electric range is maximized at 89 km/h
(55 mph) and less.
Use cruise control when appropriate.
Plan ahead for decelerations and coast
whenever possible. Do not rush to traffic
signals, and do not shift to N (Neutral) to
coast. The vehicle recovers more energy while
coasting and braking in L (Low) than in D
(Drive) mode.
Using the steering wheel paddle during
deceleration recovers more energy. See
Regenerative Braking
0165.
Terrain and Vehicle Speed
Higher speeds and grade changes use more
energy and can significantly reduce electric
range.
Climate Setting
Using the heat and air conditioning systems
decreases the energy available for electric
driving.
Optimal energy efficiency is achieved when
the heat, air conditioning, and fan are
turned off.
Use the heated seat feature instead of
climate control system. Heating the seat
uses less energy than heating the vehicle
interior.
Use remote start to heat or cool the interior
when the vehicle is plugged in to maximize
the electric range by utilizing electricity
from the electrical outlet. In hot weather, avoid parking in direct
sunlight or use sunshades inside the vehicle.
Keep the inside of the windows clean to
reduce fogging, and turn off the front
defroster and rear defogger when they are
not needed.
Avoid driving with the windows open at
highway speeds.
Use the Enhanced Battery Gauge on the
Instrument Cluster to view the effect of
climate control settings on your estimated
range. See
Battery Gauge (High Voltage)
0 82.
Outside Temperature
On colder days, it is best to plug in the
vehicle overnight, and then remote start the
vehicle.
Allow the vehicle to warm up for
20 minutes before driving.
If possible, use a level 2 (240 volt) high
power charge station for best results. This
allows the interior of the vehicle and high
voltage battery to warm to optimal
temperature.
Chevrolet Bolt EV Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada-
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Vehicle Care 201
1. Windshield Washer Fluid Reservoir. SeeWasher Fluid 0202.
2. Cabin Heating Coolant Reservoir. See Cooling System 0201.
3. High Voltage Battery Coolant Reservoir. See Cooling System 0201.
4. HPDM (High Power Distribution Module).
5. APM (Accessory Power Module), OBCM (On-Board Charging Module).
6. Brake Fluid Reservoir. See Brake Fluid
0 203.
7. SPIM, APM, and Charger Module Coolant Reservoir. See Cooling System 0201.
8. Battery. See Battery - North America
0 204.
9. Underhood Compartment Fuse Block. Underhood Compartment Fuse Block
0211.
Cooling System
It is not necessary to regularly check coolant
unless a leak is suspected or an unusual
noise is heard. A coolant loss could indicate
a problem. Have it inspected and repaired
by your dealer.
The following explains the cooling systems
and how to check coolant levels.
.High Voltage Battery
.Single Power Inverter Module (SPIM),
Accessory Power Module (APM), and
Charger Module
.Cabin Heating
High Voltage Battery
During vehicle operation and also during
charging, the high voltage battery cells in
the vehicle are kept within a normal
operating temperature range. If the
temperature rises above this temperature,
the battery cooling system turns on the air
conditioning compressor and cools the
coolant until the correct temperature is
reached. If the temperature falls below this
temperature, a high voltage heater, located
outside the battery on a cradle, heats the
coolant until the correct temperature is
reached.
Single Power Inverter Module (SPIM),
Accessory Power Module (APM), and
Charger Module
The SPIM, APM, and charger module are
cooled using a separate coolant loop. These
modules are kept below a maximum
temperature. If the temperature rises above
this temperature, the electric cooling fan will
turn on to cool the coolant.
Cabin Heating
Cabin heating is maintained by coolant
heated by the Coolant Heater Control
Module (CHCM), separate from the power
electronics and battery coolant loops. This
module heats the coolant based on
temperature inputs from the cabin climate
control systems.
Hybrid Cooling System Pressure Caps
The hybrid cooling system reservoirs have
tamper resistant pressure caps. The coolant
should only be serviced by a qualified
technician.
Checking Coolant
The coolant needs to be replaced at the
appropriate interval. See Maintenance
Schedule 0253.
The coolant reservoirs are in the underhood
compartment. See Underhood Compartment
Overview 0200.
Chevrolet Bolt EV Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada-
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202 Vehicle Care
1. Cabin Heating Coolant Reservoir
2. High Voltage Battery Coolant Reservoir
3. SPIM, APM, and Charger ModuleCoolant Reservoir
1. Park on a level surface and turn thevehicle off.
2. After the system has completely cooled, check that the coolant level is at the cold
fill mark on the reservoirs.
3. If the coolant level is not visible or needs to be adjusted within the reservoirs,
contact your dealer.
Washer Fluid
What to Use
When windshield washer fluid is needed, be
sure to read the manufacturer's instructions
before use. If operating the vehicle in an
area where the temperature may fall below
freezing, use a fluid that has sufficient
protection against freezing.
Adding Washer Fluid
Open the cap with the washer symbol on it.
Add washer fluid until the tank is full. See
Underhood Compartment Overview 0200
for reservoir location.
Caution
.Do not use washer fluid that contains
any type of water repellent coating.
This can cause the wiper blades to
chatter or skip.
(Continued)
Caution (Continued)
.Do not use engine coolant (antifreeze)
in the windshield washer. It can
damage the windshield washer system
and paint.
.Do not mix water with ready-to-use
washer fluid. Water can cause the
solution to freeze and damage the
washer fluid tank and other parts of
the washer system.
.When using concentrated washer fluid,
follow the manufacturer instructions
for adding water.
.Fill the washer fluid tank only
three-quarters full when it is very cold.
This allows for fluid expansion if
freezing occurs, which could damage
the tank if it is completely full.
Brakes
Disc brake linings have built-in wear
indicators that make a high-pitched warning
sound when the brake linings are worn and
new linings are needed. The sound can come
and go or can be heard all the time when
the vehicle is moving, except when applying
the brake pedal firmly.
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204 Vehicle Care
Brake fluid absorbs water over time which
degrades the effectiveness of the brake fluid.
Replace brake fluid at the specified intervals
to prevent increased stopping distance. See
Maintenance Schedule0253.
What to Add
Use only GM approved DOT 4 brake fluid
from a clean, sealed container. See
Recommended Fluids and Lubricants 0258.
{Warning
The wrong or contaminated brake fluid
could result in damage to the brake
system. This could result in the loss of
braking leading to a possible injury.
Always use the proper GM approved
brake fluid.
Caution
If brake fluid is spilled on the vehicle's
painted surfaces, the paint finish can be
damaged. Immediately wash off any
painted surface.
Battery - North America
The original equipment battery is
maintenance free. Do not remove the cap
and do not add fluid.
This vehicle has a high voltage battery and
a standard 12-volt battery.
{Warning
Damage to the high voltage battery or
high voltage system can create a risk of
electric shock, overheating, or fire.
If the vehicle is damaged from a
moderate to severe crash, flood, fire,
or other event, the vehicle should be
inspected as soon as possible. Until the
vehicle has been inspected, store it
outside at least 15 m (50 ft) from any
structure or anything that can burn.
Ventilate the vehicle by opening a
window or a door.
Contact Customer Assistance as soon as
possible to determine whether an
inspection is needed. See Customer
Assistance Offices 0264. If the vehicle is in a crash, the sensing
system may shut down the high voltage
system. When this occurs, the high voltage
battery is disconnected and the vehicle will
not start. The SERVICE VEHICLE SOON
message in the Driver Information Center
(DIC) will be displayed. Before the vehicle
can be operated again, it must be serviced
at your dealer.
See
“If a Crash Occurs” underCollision
Damage Repair 0268 for additional
information. If an airbag has inflated, see
What Will You See after an Airbag Inflates?
0 42.
Only a trained service technician with
the proper knowledge and tools should
inspect, test, or replace the high voltage
battery. See your dealer if either the 12-volt
or high voltage battery needs service. The
dealer has information on how to recycle
the high voltage battery. There is also
information available at
http://www.recyclemybattery.com.
Keep the vehicle plugged in, even when fully
charged, to keep the high voltage battery
temperature ready for the next drive. This is
important when outside temperatures are
extremely hot or cold.
Chevrolet Bolt EV Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada-
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Vehicle Care 215
The instrument panel fuse block is on the
left side of the instrument panel. To access
the fuses, open the fuse panel door by
pulling out.
To reinstall the door, insert the top tab first,
then push the door back into its original
location.Fuses Usage
F01 Video processing module
F02 Indicator light solar sensor
F03 Side blind zone alert
F04 Passive entry, passive start F05 CGM
F06 Body control module 4 F07 Body control module 3
F08 Body control module 2
F09 Body control module 1 F10 Trailer interface module 1 F11 Amplifier
F12 Body control module 8
F13 Data link connector 1
F14 Automatic parking assist F15 - Fuses
Usage
F16 Single power inverter
module 1
F17 Body control module 6
F18 Body control module 5
F19 –
F20 –
F21 –
F22 –
F23 USB
F24 Wireless charging module F25 Reflected LED alert display
F26 Heated steering wheel F27 CGM 2
F28 Instrument cluster 2
F29 Trailer interface module 2
F30 - F31 OnStar
F32 Virtual keypass sensor
F33 Heating, ventilation, and
air conditioning module Fuses
Usage
F34 Virtual keypass module F35 Instrument cluster 1
F36 Radio F37 –
F38 –
F39 –
F40 –
F41 –
F42 –
F43 Body control module 7
F44 Sensing and diagnostic
module
F45 Front camera module
F46 Vehicle integration control
module
F47 Single power inverter
module 2
F48 -
F49 Auxiliary jack F50 Steering wheel controls
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216 Vehicle Care
FusesUsage
F51 Steering wheel controls
backlighting
F52 -
F53 Auxiliary power outlet
F54 –
F55 Logistic
F56 –
F57 –
F59 –
Relays Usage
F58 Logistics relay
F60 Accessory/Retained
accessory power relay
Wheels and Tires
Tires
Every new GM vehicle has high-quality
tires made by a leading tire
manufacturer. See the warranty manual
for information regarding the tire warranty and where to get service. For
additional information refer to the tire
manufacturer.
{Warning
.Poorly maintained and improperly
used tires are dangerous.
.Overloading the tires can cause
overheating as a result of too
much flexing. There could be a
blowout and a serious crash. See
Vehicle Load Limits
0153.
.Underinflated tires pose the same
danger as overloaded tires. The
resulting crash could cause serious
injury. Check all tires frequently to
maintain the recommended
pressure. Tire pressure should be
checked when the tires are cold.
.Overinflated tires are more likely
to be cut, punctured, or broken by
a sudden impact —such as when
hitting a pothole. Keep tires at the
recommended pressure.
(Continued)
Warning (Continued)
.Worn or old tires can cause a
crash. If the tread is badly worn,
replace them.
.Replace any tires that have been
damaged by impacts with
potholes, curbs, etc.
.Improperly repaired tires can cause
a crash. Only the dealer or an
authorized tire service center
should repair, replace, dismount,
and mount the tires.
.Do not spin the tires in excess of
56 km/h (35 mph) on slippery
surfaces such as snow, mud, ice,
etc. Excessive spinning may cause
the tires to explode.
All-Season Tires
This vehicle may come with all-season tires.
These tires are designed to provide good
overall performance on most road surfaces
and weather conditions. Original equipment
tires designed to GM's specific tire
performance criteria have a TPC specification
code molded onto the sidewall. Original
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Vehicle Care 221
Traction:The friction between the tire
and the road surface. The amount of
grip provided.
Tread
:The portion of a tire that comes
into contact with the road.
Treadwear Indicators
:Narrow bands,
sometimes called wear bars, that show
across the tread of a tire when only
1.6 mm (1/16 in) of tread remains. See
When It Is Time for New Tires 0227.
UTQGS (Uniform Tire Quality Grading
Standards)
:A tire information system
that provides consumers with ratings
for a tire's traction, temperature, and
treadwear. Ratings are determined by
tire manufacturers using government
testing procedures. The ratings are
molded into the sidewall of the tire.
See Uniform Tire Quality Grading 0229.
Vehicle Capacity Weight
:The number
of designated seating positions
multiplied by 68 kg (150 lb) plus the
rated cargo load. See Vehicle Load
Limits 0153. Vehicle Maximum Load on the Tire
:
Load on an individual tire due to curb
weight, accessory weight, occupant
weight, and cargo weight.
Vehicle Placard
:A label permanently
attached to a vehicle showing the
vehicle capacity weight and the original
equipment tire size and recommended
inflation pressure. See “Tire and Loading
Information Label” underVehicle Load
Limits 0153.
Tire Pressure
Tires need the correct amount of air
pressure to operate effectively.
{Warning
Neither tire underinflation nor
overinflation is good. Underinflated
tires, or tires that do not have
enough air, can result in:
.Tire overloading and overheating
which could lead to a blowout.
.Premature or irregular wear.
.Poor handling.
(Continued)
Warning (Continued)
.Reduced battery-electric range.
Overinflated tires, or tires that have
too much air, can result in:
.Unusual wear.
.Poor handling.
.Rough ride.
.Needless damage from road
hazards.
The Tire and Loading Information label
on the vehicle indicates the original
equipment tires and the correct cold
tire inflation pressures. The
recommended pressure is the minimum
air pressure needed to support the
vehicle's maximum load carrying
capacity. See Vehicle Load Limits 0153.
How the vehicle is loaded affects
vehicle handling and ride comfort.
Never load the vehicle with more
weight than it was designed to carry.
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286 Index
HeatedRear Seats . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
Steering Wheel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73
Heated Front Seats . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
Heated Mirrors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
Heating . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 140
High Voltage Battery Gauge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 82
High Voltage Devices and Wiring . . . . . . . . 210
High-Beam On Light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 89
Hill and Mountain Roads . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 151
Hill Start Assist (HSA) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 165
Hood . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 198
Horn . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .73
How to Wear Seat Belts Properly . . . . . . . . . .33
HVAC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 140
I
Immobilizer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19
Indicator Pedestrian Ahead . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 87
Vehicle Ahead . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 87
Infants and Young Children, Restraints . . . . 50
Information Energy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 97
Publication Ordering . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 270
Instrument Cluster . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 79
Instrument Panel
Storage Area . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69 Instrument Panel Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Interior Rearview Mirrors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1, 113
J
Jump Starting - North America . . . . . . . . . . . 238
K
Keyless Entry
Remote (RKE) System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Keys . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
L
Labeling, Tire Sidewall . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 217
Lamps Courtesy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 111
Daytime Running (DRL) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 109
Dome . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 111
Exterior Controls . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 107
Exterior Lamps Off Reminder . . . . . . . . . . 108
Exterior Lighting Battery Saver . . . . . . . . . 112
License Plate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 209
On Reminder . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 89
Reading . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 111
Lane Change Alert (LCA) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .178
Lane Keep Assist (LKA) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 179
Lane Keep Assist Light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 87
Lap-Shoulder Belt . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .35 LATCH System
Replacing Parts after a Crash . . . . . . . . . . . 63
LATCH, Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .55
LED Lighting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 209
Liftgate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18
Lighting Entry . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 111
Exit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 112
Illumination Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 110
LED . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 209
Lights Airbag Readiness . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 84
Antilock Brake System (ABS)Warning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 86
Brake System Warning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 85
Charging System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 85
Cruise Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 89
Door Ajar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 89
Electric Parking Brake . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 86
Flash-to-Pass . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 109
High-Beam On . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 89
High/Low Beam Changer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 108
Lane Keep Assist . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 87
Seat Belt Reminders . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 83
Security . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 89
Service Electric Parking Brake . . . . . . . . . . . 86
Service Vehicle Soon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 85