Chevy Bolt owners must choose between rebates and battery defect claims

Chevy has offered discounts to Bolt EV owners who bought their cars just before the price drop on the 2023 models, but that discount comes with a big catch. Jalopnik and Autoblog note that the rebate application requires drivers to “forever waive and release” their right to sue GM or LG over the Bolt’s reported battery defect. In other words, you will have to settle for the savings, even if the car has caused serious damage. GM confirmed the language of the agreement with Engadget.

GM first recalled the Bolt in November 2020 after reports of battery fires between 2017 and 2019. The automaker tried to address the problem with a software update in April 2021, but two subsequent fires and a second recall prompted the NHTSA to warn against indoor parking. This led to a recall in July 2021 when GM replaced the batteries. The brand eventually recalled all production Bolts, pledged an additional $1 billion in battery replacements, and offered an eight-year, 100,000-mile warranty on replacement batteries.

Since then, the company has used financial incentives to regain trust. It cut the price of the Bolt EV and Bolt EUV between $5,900 and $6,300 and offered comparable discounts for people who bought 2020, 2021 and 2022 models this year. Exact rebate amounts depend on model year and trim level.

Like Jalopnik explained, this is not the first time GM has used legal settlements to protect its reputation. Cadillac Lyriq buyers received a $5,500 rebate if they agreed not to talk about problems with the electric SUV, and buyers of high-end vehicles like the Hummer EV voided their warranties if they turned in their cars within a year. That last move, however, could easily be the most troubling — the concession represents more of a legal agreement than a gracious offer.