Automobile manufacturer General Motors (GM) has expanded its recall for Chevrolet Bolts even further, with the process now affecting all model years of the electric car.
GM is recalling the cars due to the fire risk their batteries pose, noting that two manufacturing defects could start the electric fires. The recall affects about 73,000 Bolts from model years 2019 through 2022 – these include more than 10,000 Bolts in Canada.
The automaker had previously issued a recall in July which affected some 69,000 Bolts worldwide from the model years 2017, 2018, and 2019. This was itself an extension of an earlier recall, after GM received reports that two people suffered smoke inhalation and a house was set on fire due to the battery defects. The company had assured consumers in a previous statement that Bolts from the model years 2020 and 2021, as well as select 2019 models, were unaffected by the second recall since their batteries were made by LG in Holland, Michigan.
Read more: GM issues extended recall for electric cars
However, all Bolts are now being recalled out of an abundance of caution.
GM has warned Bolt owners to limit their charging to 90% of the vehicle’s battery capacity. Owners have also been advised to park their Bolts outside immediately after charging, and not to leave vehicles charging indoors overnight.
The manufacturer will be replacing the battery modules in all affected Bolts, at an expected cost of roughly US$1 billion (around CA$1.26 billion), CBC News reported.
