Should you buy a used Chevy Volt? Behind the Wheel In Depth Electric Car Review 2011 Model

[@taiwanjohn]

I just picked up a 2013 Volt Premium last Saturday with 22,000 miles for just under $14k. Funny thing though, it didn't have a charge cable... that's right, they sold me a plug-in hybrid without a plug! LOL, they've ordered one for me (at their cost) and will deliver it next week But in the meantime, I'm enjoying the drive, even on gas power. (Yes, I know I can "auto-charge" it in mountain mode, but that only goes to 40% anyway, and it has to be less efficient that way, not to mention it's almost certainly more expensive. In any case, it's just a few more days until I get the charge cable. I probably won't even finish my first tank of gas by then.) BTW, fun fact... when we added the garage 45 years ago, my dad and I did the wiring, and we decided to run a 220V circuit out there because... "You never know..." As far as I know, that outlet has never been used in all this time, but it's about to get used on a daily basis. ;-)

[@taiwanjohn]

@Dandan No regrets. I love the car. I only drive (maybe) 100 miles a week, so it's pretty much all electric, unless I go on a road trip... which I do 3 or 4 times a year. (I think I may have bought my 10th tank of gas a couple of weeks ago after a trip to Nebraska.) With electricity cost in my city, it's about two cents a mile for my "fuel" cost. BTW, I never got around to using that 220V plug in my garage. I bought all the parts necessary to adapt it for the charger plug, but never got around to installing them. Turns out, when you're only charging a 10kwh battery, there's no rush. Just plug it into 110V overnight and it's always ready to go in the morning. Although the charger is capable of level-2, I have no need for it.

[@taiwanjohn]

@Dandan Sorry for my delayed reply... For me the storage space is quite adequate. When you fold down both rear seats you get a pretty decent area for hauling. However, I'm single, no kids, so my needs are modest. This is not a car you'd take on a long family vacation. A weekend jaunt to visit the grandparents, perhaps, but that's about it.

[@12voltvids]

Nice video. I have had my 2012 volt for over 5 years, 100,00 miles on it now, and zero problems other than wearing out 2 tires. Will definitely buy another volt.

[@kirivanyam6035]

12voltvids Looking forward to your review of it if and when you get one. Love your Volt vids.

[@UnitedRecording]

12voltvids How are the shocks doing after 100,000 miles?

[@12voltvids]

No problems yet. Was in for an inspection and no problems noted.

[@loungydoc]

12voltvids why just two tires?

[@12voltvids]

Duh because the others were fine. 1 had some psycho that had a hate on for electric cars slash one of my tires, (and they also slashed the teslas tire that was parked at the same charging station) so I had to have the car towed, and waited half a day for the tire shop to bring in another tire, and then I picked picked up a nail, and where it penetrated the shop said they couldn't repair so that was tire number 2. They were replaced about about 6 month apart last year. Then a month or so ago, in the driving rain I hit a pothole in the road that was filled with water, and thus invisible. (at night) and this damaged one of the 2 remaining original tires. Because this happened on a weekend, and none of the shops carry the tires that the volt runs, that being the Goodyear fuel max low rolling resistance tires, I had to buy a brand they carry, or be without my car until Monday. Provincial law forbids mounting un-matched tires on the front or back. So I had to buy a set so even though the front and rear tires are not the same brand, at least I am back up and running. I sure don't like the new tires though, as they are not the low rolling resistance type, and it has cost me a good 5 miles per charge in driving range, and dropped my gas fuel efficiency by a good 1 per gallon minimum.

[@noahmizrahi9834]

Its Jan, 10 2023, my family bought this car in 2012 as a brand new 2011 model, i was around 4 years old so i dont know or remember a whole lot about it. But we still have it now but purchased a new Tesla a year ago and some new kinda chevy truck. The problems my dad ran into with this volt is he had to replace the battery a few years ago it was about $ 7,500 for the remanufactured thing. and something to upgrade the exhaust because before that when i was younger the car kept smelling like exhaust in the winter time inside the cabin, upgrade was free on warranty, and second replace a few years ago was $4,200, and it had never had a spare tire so if u put a "donut spare" in the trunk just in case and use it instead of havin it towed for a new tire, the electrical tire monitor thingy goes crazy. But this is the car im gonna be driving in 4 years when im in high school, Yay! P.S. if u live in a place where it gets up to -35 below zero? like us.....this car is NOT for U. Unless u have a second emergency car you can get in and start right up, like a regular chevy, or a Honda Accord. Hondas start up if they are in a ice block even.

[@utah133]

I drive in "low" too. The only issue is that it slows kind of quickly when you take your foot off, with no brake lights. Pays to watch the following traffic so as not to get rear-ended!

[@natehill8069]

I dont know about the old ones, but the 2d gen Volt DOES activate the brake lights on regen.

[@utah133]

I bought a 2013 Volt, and my wife ended up getting one too. This car is frankly the best car I've ever owned. We have two 2013's that were off-lease used ones. Mine's a base model with no frills and hers is loaded. We love 'em! This is a real sleeper value that few people recognize. The way we drive, we only fill up the 9 gallon tank every 4 months or so. GM warrantees the battery for 8 years or 100,000 miles and it transfers to second owners. We are empty-nest boomers, so the fact that it only seats four is a non-issue.

[@bryanehara1523]

Awesome review!! Just bought my first used Volt, a 2012............. Absolutely love it already .............

[@altrey520]

Good video. Realizing just how much of an improvement Chevrolet has made in their tech and software. I have a 2017 volt and absolutely love it!

[@kutekorri]

I bought my 2012 volt from my dad who had it before me and I seriously love it. I have never had a problem and the handling is so great! At first it was a lot to learn all of the controls, especially while driving. There's so many buttons so trying to find the heater and things while driving was a bit of a distraction. Obviously it's fine now. Also I wish the front wasn't so low. Other than that it's AMAZING. Never had an issue and I live in CO where weather can change drastically over night which effects a lot of normal cars. My dad I installed a reverse camera and a console in the back (like in the 2013 model) and it looks a lot nicer. Feel free to ask any questions!

[@kutekorri]

Also my mom owns a volt and my uncle. When I bought mine from my dad it's because he wanted to purchase a newer one with more features. (Bose speakers, seat heaters etc) and you can get used volts 2011-2014 for only $10000-15000

[@michaelp9707]

How did the car end up holding up for you?How many miles?Thanks

[@BrianShensky]

Have had my 2013 for a year now. 28,000 miles later and not a single problem, and the gas saved pays for the car payments. I LOVE this car!

[@chelseytyler88]

It's 2015 now, so I bought a 2013 and couldn't be happier

[@JeffKubel]

+Chels T Thinking of doing the same to replace my LEAF lease. I can get a 2013 premium (leather, heated seats, rear camera) with 40,000 miles for about $15,000.

[@chelseytyler88]

+Jeff Kubel Sorry that I took awhile responding, but down south they sell 2013 premium volts that have 30,000 miles for $15,000. Look on carguru.com. Good Luck! It's a wonderful car.

[@AZlance66]

+Jeff Kubel I am looking at the same thing, hard for me to spend 35K, but 15K, that's corolla civic prices!

[@jeffreylebowski6897]

+Jeff Kubel I just got myself a 2013 Premium with 35,000 miles fully loaded with every feature for a little over 16k. It's in great condition and might as well be new. It was a leased car with 1 owner before I bought it. Looking at the lifetime stats for the car, only 9,000 miles have used gas and the car has averaged 144mpg. I took it on a 100 mile drive today through mountains, city streets, expressways, etc and it was an absolute pleasure to drive. I averaged about 70mpg today. I have never been a fan of GM / Chevy and I never thought I would own one. My first concern was overall quality but it feels like a luxury car in the cockpit with a very solid / sturdy feel to it. My other concern is long-term reliability which I'm still skeptical about, but I'm hoping Chevy comes through on this. Time will tell!

[@user-dibribhsvj36d]

Got 2013 volt with every single option including paint, chrome wheels, safety 1+2, suede, 31k miles, etc for $17k last year. Also comes with preowned certified with 1 yr bumper to bumper, 2 yr maintenance, 5yr 100k powertrain. So far I drove 4000miles with 117 mpg.

[@cathysmith6697]

About a month ago, I bought a used 2013 Volt, 20,000 miles on it, $15,000. Love it and love the way it handles. I have not tried it in sport mode and definitely want to try that. I have not felt it is sluggish in normal mode, though.

[@Mr_Porter]

Outstanding review. You covered everything and answers all of the questions that I had 👍

[@CeeJay1979US]

You helped sell one: a 2013 from Jennings Chev/VW... only 5600mi!... $19.5k. A very nice, essentially new car that was just "too complicated" for the owner who mostly parked it for the last 3 years. Everything (engine, battery, etc) checks out perfectly and I pick it up tomorrow. Thanks for the vids.

[@fleetwoodray]

Great video especially the way you set it up with driving first, then charging and explaining the dash components in detail. Man, reminds me a lot on "conformity." You jump thru the hoops to keep it most efficient and most effective. Seems that alone would take it's toll on stress. Still, would rather fill up and drive where I want or need to go and utilize interior conveniences when and by how much I want to. Maybe in 10 yrs, a fully electric vehicle with ample enough energy stored to facilitate daily use of gas/diesel cars and trucks. In the end, it's all about freedom, not sustainable living. Semper Fi

[@yumha38]

Hi Lon, I agree about the limits they put on the miles, but as you said considering the resale value, I think even if you go a little over, it is still a better deal to lease.

[@MichaelKirven]

Hi Lon - Good review! Just to clarify a few points. You can't claim the tax credit on a used, off lease Volt, has to be a new unit. Low mileage 2011 and 2012 Volts can be had for around 21 or 22K. Also, the price of electric vehicle charging stations have dropped considerably since the Volt was launched. I see that you're in Connecticut - did you purchase snow tires, or just use the standard Goodyears during the winter? Thanks.

[@directorjustin]

I noticed you said the sport mode increases torque, but I believe it only increases the linearity of the throttle.

[@utah133]

There are other subtle enhancements in sport mode, I'm told.

[@wowowiiwaa1337]

Just test drove one for first time. Sport mode made it feel much torquier (sp?) and Much better throttle response

[@kirklandelectricicnc]

Enjoyed your video Lon, the wife and I leased a new 2014 Volt about two weeks ago. I install EVSE through Bosch Automotive Services and most of my customers own or lease the Volt. The last few weeks have been a learning curve for us, eventually we will settle down to mostly using battery power. A round trip to work for my wife is 22 miles, give a few miles for shopping. Although GM designs their own level- 2 charging station, I've read a few articles that the Voltec unit has their share of problems. Of course I'm going to install my own level-2 unit, but it won't be the Voltec. PS. I test drove the Tesla S-85-P....what a rocket.

[@SuperGoonch]

Had one for 8 months. Put 10k on the car, and then, at 108,000 miles the transmission went out on the freeway. The dealership quoted me $6,400 to fix it. I said no way and bought a used transmission from a place called LKQ. The first transmission LKQ sent was damaged, leaking fluid and not usable. They exchanged the transmission, and the 2nd one arrived. The 2nd transmission was damaged as well, the idiots that salvaged it cut all of the orange cables off the transmission rendering it useless. I am now waiting for the 3rd transmission to come and have not been refunded my money by the shady LKQ company yet. Complete disaster, no warning, and very difficult to fix.

[@IrisMG]

I thought Volts didn't have a transmission?

[@kirivanyam6035]

Thanks Lon, I just got a 2013 Volt after a lease. Thanks for this review. Watched it a couple times while looking for a good economic car. I'm at 250+miles zero emissions.

[@utah133]

Kirivan Yam I have two 2013 Volts, and am completely happy with them. A real bargain! Mine's a base model and my wife's is loaded.

[@AWJanz1]

Thank you for the informative video. This video helped me in the decision process, and after finding a good deal on a 2013, inspecting it, and test driving it, I will be picking one up tomorrow morning.

[@SmileAndGrinn]

how goes it so far?

[@AWJanz1]

+SmileAndGrinn I love it so far. I have 75 miles or so on it in 2 days, and I haven't used a single drop of gas. It drives real nice too.

[@kirivanyam6035]

Aaron Janz Over 2K miles and 0.2 gallons with my 2013. Congrats on yours.

[@AWJanz1]

Kirivan Yam Nice! I'm up to 3700 now on .3 gallons of gas.

[@FurbyOfDeth]

Lol hows your gas now im looking at buying one

[@JackT_Music_on_Vinyl]

I had a 2012 on lease and loved it. Would love to have another one, used, if I could.

[@miketaylor7487]

I agree on the brake pedal feedback on a 2013 Chevy Volt. I drove over some ice, hit the brake pedal hard and got very little feedback (in my foot) about the brakes pulsating. Also with the cruise control, if you are driving downhill the car will go faster than the set point. A lot of ICE cars will downshift to provide engine braking to keep vehicle speed at the set point.

[@anthonyhill7018]

Just bought my first Volt! If you've ever wanted one but haven't wanted to spend the money, now is the time to get one. Those leases are now getting turned in, so there are plenty on the market, combined with the temporarily lowered gas prices, equals a cheap car! I just got a 2014 with less than 40k for 12000. You cant find a car with these options for that price, let alone a hybrid. It's awesome!

[@loungydoc]

Yep, I got into a 2013 for 15k with only 31k miles and now I can drive on 20 bucks to fill up tank with Costco supreme gas and get about 600 miles of combined range, my monthly cost to charge is about 30 bucks a month on 120v charging. Costs me 30 bucks a week to drive 600 miles. I'm stoked....

[@wilbertfell8229]

Victor Flores h

[@utah133]

Yep. We've got two.

[@None17555]

Sport does not give you more torque. It changes the map of the accelerator, and the maximum is the still the same. The pedal against the floor in normal and sport is identical. @4:00 The 'exception' is not weird. Any time you're going above ~35mph, the two clutches will engage, and the gas motor will DRIVE the car. It does not JUST charge the battery. At lower speeds, it runs to provide power, either directly to the electric drive or to the battery. Quite the opposite of what's suggested in the video, it only runs to 'just' charge the battery in rare circumstances. For example, on a downgrade in mountain mode.

[@ericeinar]

Very informative. I am considering a volt, but am concerned about the life of the battery pack.

[@eveneser12]

Great review Lon Seidman. I am seriously considering getting one of these in Las Vegas this week. as you may know is pretty hot here. Your review has helped me a lot to make this decision as the car that i am about to buy is use 2011 with 21000 miles. The best video 110% good. God Bless

[@eveneser12]

285 gas mileage

[@ceez1]

Great review Lon...I am seriously considering getting one of these in Los Angeles very soon. Your review has helped me very much!!

[@cwwiss1]

there are home made conversions here on youtube where they have achieved 200km range + .

[@michaelhoward142]

The "emergency brake" is activated by a button labeled "P"? Hmm... So which button activates the "parking brake"? ;)

[@Ebacherville]

Took your advice bought a used Volt.. seems to be the best mix of regular car range and gas free use for commuting.... and it let some other driver take the massive depreciation hit. Got it for less than a the same year/mileage as a Chevy Cruise..LOL. Due to the "fear" of electrics.. and it still has 3 years left on the E/V battery warranty and paid less than a comparable I.C.E. driven car like the Chevy Cruise. Really the electric with I.C.E. range extension is the ultimate flexability o you need a car that can do long drives. Chrysler new van was also a contender but I'll wait for some one else to take the depreciation hit on that before I get one.

[@utah133]

The 2013 charge controller provided with the car is hackable. I made mine into a 240 volt unit because the same unit is used in countries with 240 as the household outlet standard. Charges in less than half the time. I also built a transfer switch so my clothes dryer outlet is either "dryer" or "car." Inadvertently running both would trip a breaker. Of course, you need to be an electronics nerd to do it safely. The hack is on KZbin.

[@electricchris]

Thanks for the video! It definitely influenced me in making a purchase on a used 2014 Chevy Volt.

[@32BitLink]

How is the volt?

[@hyperlexis]

NO!* I only say this because of the problems I have had, out-of-warranty, that are unique to the Volt and extraordinarily expensive. So far water pump = $1,500. AC Compressor and Evaporator leaks = $3,600. New 110 v charge cable = $400. Diagnosis fees = hundreds more. The Volt drives great and is very safe. *But DO NOT buy a used one unless you get the longest extended warranty you can get. Because once you hit 100k/8 years and if something fails under the hood, because of certain part costs and labor just removing things b/c of the hybrid system, the repair costs are so abnormally high that they can eclipse the actual remaining sale value of the car. Independent mechanics cant work on many systems so its dealer only. GM forgot this major part of the total equation.... Beware.

[@lklpalka]

This is precisely why i just talked myself out of one. the 2015s are going for great prices now in Jan 19 but i found out little things like not every Chevy dealer purchased the equipment needed to service them. local shops I spoke with will only change the oil and other light things, much like the Prius. diagnostic fees rack up fast, as do very expensive parts that GM will likely be not ordering in the parts department now that they killed them off. A shame because i would have fully appreciated the technical experience, driving fun and general novelty...i know id maximize my mileage too, but...at what cost. My heart says yes but the thrifty calculator in me says no, wait. Had GM kept it alive i would have purchased a used one then gone new perhaps, but not now. The values sink like the Titanic. Plus the interiors are just ugly and cheap looking which i think buyers found off-putting.

[@chriskozlarek8013]

@@lklpalka Those problems are few and far between IMO. These cars are way over engineered especially the early ones. Some of the Gen1 Volts are in the 400-500k mile range now with almost no battery degradation reported. My 2012 with 93k miles has had zero issues, and hopefully it stays that way.

[@lklpalka]

@@chriskozlarek8013 thanks for the first hand knowledge. still thinking about a first gen as I like the style better plus as you surmise, were likely engineered to over-perform.

[@sonyfxi]

Great review Lon! Straight to point & no blah blah blah. Thank you

[@sjokomelk]

The sport mode does only change the mapping of the accelerator. So 10% input in sport mode is something like 15-20% in normal mode. Nothing else changes, it's only that and your imagination :-)

[@sab0nes]

I'm currently deciding between the Prius and the Volt I have about 8000 to spend. The Prius is a bit small I'm 6'3" 300 I drove my friends one day. The Volt should fit me. I also can get free charging at work via charge point I have a 10 hour shift and my commute is 48 miles round trip. So I should be able to get to work and almost back on one charge

[@bunkerhillguy2542]

It’s 2020 and I’m thinking about buying a used 2017-2019 Volt probably in 2021. I’m probably gonna be able to get one with 25k miles for about $13k-16k depending on it it’s an LT or Premier and I think it’s a great deal.

[@jef8278]

13-16k??? So that's how much they went for 10 months ago?

[@noahmizrahi9834]

@@jef8278 You can now get one in flawless condition for around $4,000 with around 70,000 miles on it....its jan,10 2023. But dont do it get a Honda

[@Michael_in_Vt]

May 1, 2016. We just purchased a 2013 Volt Base with 12,100 miles on it for 14,500

[@jerremyyoder6796]

+Michael T Do you like it so far?

[@Michael_in_Vt]

Jerremy Yoder Yes! It's a heavy well built, like they specifically made it well in order to get people hooked on the model. OnStar, SiriusXM radio and a great sound system makes for a great ride. Only negative I would find is the rubber under the front end bumper, I drag it on every thing. It's very low to the ground in order to take advantage of the aerodynamics. I've learned angling tips in order to drive into steep driveways.

[@jerremyyoder6796]

Thanks for the reply! I'm really considering a Volt as my next car and I don't see too many negatives to dissuade me so far.

[@Michael_in_Vt]

Jerremy Yoder It's a fantastic car! It's even more fantastic when you get it used for over half of the original full price :))

[@logandaniels6055]

Michael T. how is your volt going and how many times have you put gas in it so far

[@ra5928]

I have driven 16,000 miles on 31 gallons of gas. Charging costs equate to 130 mpg. My son is at 20,000 miles plus while burning 12 gallons of gas. In 5 years a 25k Volt will save over $6,000 in gas in many cases.

[@XtremeConditions]

I can't understand why that would take 8 hours to charge... They probably keep the amps low, but out of a 120 volt outlet, you can get what, easily 1500 watts? That charger should at least be wanting to pull half of that amount, I would think. My understanding of the switch from electric to gas is, you would drive off your battery for x-amount of miles, and then the fuel would begin recharging the battery back to full, then switch back to electric only, and repeat? How long does that process of charging the battery back up while driving take approximately?

[@XtremeConditions]

Ah, gotcha. Thanks a lot for that info Lon! Love your videos btw, I've been watching for about 6 months or so, starting with your reviews on those budget ultraportable laptops (HP Stream and the like). I ended up with the Asus X205, and I'm loving it. Anyway, thanks again!

[@KTPurdy]

+Lon Seidman actually 22%

[@diddle1675]

im getting a used 2012 volt, 57,000 miles for 12,000 bucks tomorrow, cant wait!!!!

[@crisissocoylike]

that's a damn good deal

[@diddle1675]

+The Rusty Scooter I live in Kentucky. nobody knows what a electric hybrid is around central ky as you could imagine

[@diddle1675]

***** Lololol. You are exactly right

[@SR-tx3dj]

how many miles have you put on it so far? Im looking at a 2012 used w 55k miles on it college student here so can't afford new. how happy r u w the volt so far

[@Lobo243]

trey cowherd Hi man so how is your volt ...Do you like it ???

[@LamondB]

I just wanted to thank you for your review of this car. I have been on the fence about buying one. I too live in Connecticut and I worried abut cold messing with the battery life of the car.

[@GiveHimGlory89]

I've heard a 220V is cheaper on electric compared to the 120. But then again like you say you gotta pay for the charger up front. so ya. Not sure the difference per wattage.

[@sarahsinchak4661]

I'm sold! This is the perfect car for me! Now the real decision is which color!

[@CalvinKlesmith]

Newer 240v chargers are more affordable the voltec spx charger is now just under $500 but I would not recommend them since the durability is not there. I built a 240v charger for under $300 (see video below) it does require some soldering but it is built to last. Chevy Volt JuiceBox Level 2 EVSE Install and Testing

[@jakblack9030]

Today I just traded in my 2004 corvette z06 with 130,000 miles trade in value was $12,000 dollars for 2013 Chevy volt with 38,000 miles car cost $13,000 dollars. I just need to find out were charging stations are located here Sacramento

[@1GreatLake]

Jak Black I have a 99 c5 and am thinking about getting a volt as a daily. how do you like the car so far?

[@jakblack9030]

The car has been great to me. I only had one problem with the car 12 volt battery needed be replace after 5 years .I have about 46,000 miles. The car still under warranty

[@jakblack9030]

Stonewall Jackson The car has been great to me. I only had one problem with the car 12 volt battery needed be replace after 5 years .I have about 46,000 miles. The car still under warranty

[@rkan665]

im from Sacramento as well o.O

[@spprof]

It's refreshing to see gadget guys reviewing cars.

[@jacksonbangs6603]

I just paid 9ff my used Nissan Leaf. It cost me about $7,000 dollars. It gets anywhere from 60 to 80 miles per charge.

[@DCGarage]

Great review! I actually just test drove a Volt last week and was very disappointed by the throttle response. That tip about the driving modes definitely explains it, I just wish I had known that before the test drive. Other than that though (and the fact that it doesn't seem like you can turn the creep function off) I really liked it. Hopefully I can add it to the stable soon!

[@danwat1234]

Throttle response? There is a lack of initial power from 0MPH because it limits the power to lessen likelihood of tires slipping. I don't like it either, the Bolt doesn't have this. Also at speed sometimes the electric motors clutch together into a higher efficiency mode of operation but if you want to press the accelerator hard it has to kick out of that to give you full power. About 2/3 of a second delay. Other than that the throttle response is instant. This is with a 1st gen Volt.

[@DCGarage]

@@danwat1234 the delay was very noticeable to me, but my exposure to electric cars before the volt was a few Teslas and a BMW i3, all of which have lightning fast throttle response that puts ICE cars to shame. I ended up with an Escape Hybrid 4WD instead, but I still like the Volt. It just wasn't quite what I was hoping it would be.

[@danwat1234]

@@DCGarage If the transmission isn't in dual-electric motor efficiency mode then throttle response should be 1/4 of a second or so

[@SR-cp1eo]

155 mpg eh? 200 gallons at 31000 miles? not bad at all. I am looking for a plug-in hybrid but I drive 52 miles one way to work and I REFUSE to own a prius. Looking at Fusion Energi. Thoughts?

[@lizitis]

Thank you for your review! I enjoyed it. I just bought my 2015 volt, with the Costco deal on 4th of July. So it's less than the invoice price with the premium package with NO haggling. :) hmm... I would have like to see more details on the anatomy of the engine, under the trunk, etc. I'm a girl and I just know the basic anatomy of the traditional cars. As a new EV owner, i'm a bit lost especially the number/type of battery that is used for EV cars. lol. (I just dont want to look like a dummy when I take my car in for any maintenance and hustle) :D Overall, your review was the best that I found by far. Keep it up.

[@TechTimeWithEric]

Stupid question, but would you say that it gets better mileage in the back roads county driving, a fair bit of stop and go, but mostly 50 mph or less? I work 38 miles from home, but it's all country roads. In theory based on an 8 hour charge time, I could charge it at home and work, and almost never have to use gas lol. That's a crazy thought.

[@randy7068]

I can just imagine what it costs for repairs, (replacing batteries, electronic displays etc). Those massive door pillars are a deal breaker for me, how horrendous.

[@KTPurdy]

+Buddy Christ Check the forums, the costs are proving to be less than a conventional car. Rest assured that the Volt will never need a head job.

[@deathincarnatesplace]

if you take out the gas engine loosen the generator bearing and put in a transformer to the battery. you then can run a 120 volt conveyor motor to turn the generator to step up the power system. 25 equal 1000 if done properly. good luck gg

[@petes.6609]

In my area there's a 2012 Chevy volt with 63k on the odometer for 11,000 the guy would probably take 10,000 for it, his wife which is 65 owned it brand new it's in mint condition no dents no cracks on the leather it's the full premium most loaded one you can get I'm thinking about offering them $9,500 cash since the gas crisis is getting worse should I buy this car please someone respond..

[@ulenlaland9693]

Hours of research on this car and its unreal the positive views. I’m test driving one on Monday. Have you purchase yours yet? How is it so far if so?

[@ragek23]

thanks for the stellar review fellow nutmeger. looking for a used Volt now!

[@RobertShaverOfAustin]

Hi Lon, Nice review. We've been thinking about moving over to a hybrid so this was timely for us. 25K seems a bit steep though. We bought a three year old Lexus LS400 for just a bit more than that.

[@longshot21771]

How does it do in a few inches of snow?

[@danwat1234]

Same as other FWD cars, can be better because easier to keep the wheels from slipping while accelerating because of less inertia in the driveline and no delays. Studded snow tires should be a champ

[@jkcyriac23]

What about the cost of the battery if it dies on you when you buy a used volt ??

[@user-dibribhsvj36d]

I believe its around 5k but it wont die that easy. I read Volt has 16kw battery but only using 10kw

[@billd5211]

I recently just bought a Nissan Altima, I regret buying that, it's a great car but this could've save me a lot of money. The Nissan is a four-cylinder and gets crap mpg, about 20, this would do so much better!

[@yumha38]

One last question Lan, if you get the car used, you are taking a hit on battery life, I hear its around 10K to replace?

[@wfdTamar]

Just wondering since the petrol (ok, Gas) engine doesn't get used much how much maintenance is there on it? Does it need to have yearly oil changes? Any other stuff?

[@thetravelingkites]

Hey Lon. I watched your video to learn about this car. I am left with two questions: 1). What's the difference between the Volt and a hybrid, like the Prius? I didn't know the Volt used gasoline. 2. What impact did this car have on your home electric bill? Thank you.

[@kirivanyam6035]

randykite The Prius is a true hybrid/Prime has 25 miles at 84 miles of pure EV & 600 miles on gas. Gen 1 35-50 miles EV with 300 miles gas/ Gen 2 53-70 miles EV with 420 miles gas. Volt has a gas generator that produce electricity to the motors when EV runs out. Everyone's electric rates are different but in the 6 months of Summers $40 per months/Winters $25. Rough estimate. With free charging at work cuts those in half or more.

[@kutekorri]

randykite for me it's costs about $1-$5 per full charge. Virtually didn't change the electric bill

[@charlesmccaughey2341]

Very helpful video, thank you. Do you recommend the Premium package?

[@yumha38]

Great to her Lon! I am looking forward to maybe visiting the gas station once a month!

[@adaseth]

I don't think it's correct when you say the motor acts only as a generator. The motors can run in both parallel and in series mode. In fact, in the mountain mode and when the battery runs out, it does provide power. I may be confusing it with the 2017 model, though.

[@utah133]

The 2013 was the first one with all four modes, normal, sport, mountain and hold.

[@utah133]

There's four different ways the drive works, all selected for current conditions. Both electric units can act as motor or generators, and there's one relatively rare case where the gas engine mechanically links to the wheels. The computer sorts all this out nicely.

[@starview1]

Volt Really is a sharp car. Now here comes the Bolt.

[@starview1]

+Lon Seidman Yes.. and the new stuff from GM is quite appealing, The new GM is making the correct efforts, and from personal experience I know that the Volt for example is really the one to get if one cannot swing the cash for a Tesla. The volt especially the 2016 gives the best options (one car for local and long distance drives) In fact I know a guy that drove his volt across the USA for holidays, and loved its performance. So yes there's that. Thanks for your time

[@rawmark]

+starview1 And Thunder Power from Taiwan looks promising as well. 300 miles from a single charge and it's fully electric. Oh, but if I buy a Volt it will be a 2016 model since everything was redesigned and the new Volt is about 200% better then the 1st version.

[@starview1]

***** Thunder looks good, but need to wait and see how it really runs as the company that makes it is not a regular mfg. The car is aimed at the tesla so the price will be much ,much higher than the Volt. Kind of like the difference between a toyota camry and a corvette they're different price point cars but their booth cars, most would like the corvette but can't afford it. But at the end of the day it's good for the electric car field.

[@rawmark]

starview1 Yes, we will have to wait. However, on the pricing front I have heard rumors that this car is expected to come in significantly lower then the Tesla Roadster because the goal of the company was to sell this car to the average consumer. In fact, if you watch a couple of videos they mention that they want to market their car initially to China and not to the wealthy market. So that tells me that they want to sell this care for around $40k to $50k.

[@starview1]

***** That's true too, thing is the USA market is a tougher nut to crack as the safety, (collision) standards are enormously higher than they are in china, there are many cars sold around the world that are not sold in the USA for that reason alone. So time will tell I suppose.

[@jeffreyhardman1865]

Outstanding review, i think you covered everything...Thank you so much !!!

[@ottavioperuzzi6089]

question for any volt owners-how is the leg room in the shotgun seat of the volt? My friend is 6 8" and we're thinking of taking a road trip up to Oregon.

[@KTPurdy]

+Ottavio Peruzzi 6 8"? I don't think he'll be comfortable.

[@MisterQueue67]

+Kent Purdy I'm 6'7. the car is fine for me.

[@jevansturner]

I've had my used 2013 Volt for a couple weeks now. Annoyances: - The door locks pinch the %#^* out of my arm EVERY. F%^*ING. TIME. Roll the window down. Rest your arm on the door. Put the car in park. F%^*! $4!7! The lever for the seat back also pinches my hand. - The infotainment system keeps going back to AM/FM/XM/Sirius. I'm forced to hear static or radio ads every time I turn on the vehicle and it takes way too long to get it switched to Bluetooth or iPod. Sometimes it gets stuck "indexing" when I try to pick iPod mode with my iPhone connected over USB. Bluetooth is sometimes super glitchy. I can always expect to spend several minutes fighting with the infotainment system. - The cup holders block my access to the PRNDL shifter, so it impedes my ability to drive actively by switching between N/D/L modes. - The touch controls. I have to turn the dials with my fingernails so it doesn't think I was touching something around the dial. Super irritating. I assume the Cruze would have these same issues.

[@jevansturner]

Mark Shamy serious question? Efficiency. The same reason you would put in the clutch when driving a manual transmission vehicle. Any time I have the opportunity to roll for half a mile or more without losing significant speed, I shift to neutral. If I left it in D(rive), there would be extra friction and I would lose velocity. Regen is lossy (lose efficiency when converting velocity into stored energy, lose efficiency again when converting stored energy back into velocity). If you already have the velocity you need, use it.

[@jeffallen2923]

@Mark Shamy Thanks for explaining that Mark. Overrun fuel cut does save a lot. I discovered that on my 2001 Holden Commodore (Ecotec V6, 4L60E trans). If the car is coasting above about 1300 RPM it will cut fuel to the injectors. On high speed journeys, if I keep the speed about 100kph (62MPH) it will cut the fuel everytime I coast (downhills etc). If I travel at about 95 kph (55 mph?) that doesn't happen, so I get a lot worst mileage by slowing down! Add to that, "lean burn" mode is set if the car is travelling at 100 KPH for more than 5 minutes. Hence these cars have great highway mileage figures. In my area there are a lot of arterial roads posted at 80KPH (50MPH) so too slow for overrun fuel cut downhills. So I dropp the transmission into 3rd when going down long hills. That "holds" it at 80 KPH and cuts the fuel (because the engine is doing more than about 1300 RPM. My wife's Holden (Chevy) Cruze takes that to another level. Coasting at any speed cuts the fuel. And the gearbox changes down to keep the engine above the speed that fuel cut takes place, so its using no fuel (on the overrun) almost down to a complete stop.

[@brycea.hudson739]

Have you gotten into a new car, and if so what did you get.

[@al591]

youre right used volts are a good deal, i will never go back to ice car thats for sure

[@kyliefan7]

Loved this video and you make very good points w/o making it too wordy.....I’m thinking of selling my 2011 Juke and getting a Volt for my next car! I like the idea of an EV but I get free gas from the grocery store we shop at so an EV would make me spend more money!

[@electrictroy2010]

DISCONTINUED IN EUROPE, JAPAN, AND AUSTRALIA. The Americans get the new G2 version, but the overseas markets do not, because overseas drivers did not want the car (they already have 50-80 mpg-us diesels) .

[@manoman0]

+electrictroy2010 Yeah, I'm very upset about that!

[@floobertuber]

+electrictroy2010 Yeah, thank goodness diesels don't have any downside. *COUGH*

[@manoman0]

@electrictroy2010...I'm talking about 200+mpgs. That's where I am with my Volt. Hope you're not driving a TDI.

[@giorgimekvabishvili7473]

The price of this used car is 8500$ in Georgia, 2014 model

[@brianmcadams14]

Hey, 8 hours to charge? that has to just be at home right? How long does it take at a charging station? Thanks!

[@KTPurdy]

+Brian McAdams 3hrs.

[@skwon9642]

if my commutes are 90% highway, will getting a plug-in be worth it? The commute is about 1.5 hour drive about 2 times a week. which kind of hybrid would give me the best mpg?

[@utah133]

I consistently get around 38 MPG in gas-only mode. The earlier Volts take premium gas, though.

[@michaellandowski995]

skwon9642 j

[@danwat1234]

Prius Prime. Better gas mileage + some electric range. Battery isn't liquid cooled though and engine comes on if you press the accelerator hard.

[@oneawnone1x1]

Is it possible to over charge the Volt battery?

[@Tay-ky3fi]

please tell me what the cost of replacing the battery is. assume no warranty

[@utah133]

It's said to be in the 3-4 thousand dollar area. Your assumtion is pleasantly wrong. The battery warranty is 8 years or 100,000 miles, whichever comes first. It is fully transferrable to the second owner.

[@russellbailey5567]

Does the Chevy Volt come with a spare tire or does the battery take up all the space?

[@datjamaicanjerk1230]

There is also a flat repair kit, that plugs into the 12 volt outlet, under the floorboard of the trunk area (at least in the 2013 model)

[@utah133]

No spare. A compressor and puncture repair goop comes with the car.

[@titus5486]

Bought a 2017 volt with 22k miles for 17k. I save so much by not using gas and I can charge it while I'm at work. Electric cars are so much cheaper to own than gas cars.

[@quebecer4605]

You keep saying that you are getting 40 miles. Is that 40mpg or 40 miles of electric range?

[@LonSeidman]

Range

[@douglasjre]

Miles

[@gerardoli892]

great video, thanks !!

[@EVMANVSGAS]

Man, why did you do the drive before all the vehicle congtrols? :)

[@EVMANVSGAS]

Yes, i was kidding, very nice video BTW. Thanks

[@mikecronis]

Got our 2015 new, loaded (completely) for $28500. 3 miles on the odometer. GM is just about giving these away for advertising.

[@mikecronis]

Yep. They're seemingly giving them away right now. Gas prices here are cheap. Volts will probably be at a premium when gas hits $5/gallon, then we'll both be laughing at Ford F150 weeping owners!

[@TheCoffeeField]

Does that include state and federal incentives?

[@isthislife2]

+Mike Cronis I was going to get one last week. small an ugly as hell

[@mikecronis]

Yep. Drive it hard in Sport mode and get back to me.

[@chelseytyler88]

+Mike Cronis Yeah, I was shocked by the price.... Like oober cheap... But I'm cool with that. I bought a 2013 for $17,500.

[@562rv]

Thank you for the review

[@cwwiss1]

35 mile range. How much on a cold rainy night? How much to replace battery? I hear it's about $35, 000! When you factor in depreciation you don't actually save ANY money overall do you? In fact it actually costs more doesn't it? Plus for the same money you could have had a Mercedes C class.

[@cwwiss1]

They depreciate faster than a flat with a short lease. I would love to own an electric car that actually saves me money and is practical. This looks like a quick cobbled together entry by GM. 6 out of 10...CAN DO BETTER

[@jeffreylebowski6897]

+Christopher Leeson It almost never makes sense to buy new. I just picked up a used 2013 Premium absolutely loaded with 39k miles for 16k and it still has between 60k and 110k miles left on all the warranties except bumper-to-bumper (I could have purchased bumper-to-bumper coverage but I declined). Believe me, I have absolutely never been a GM or Chevy fan so it took a lot of convincing for me to actually get this car, but I'm just blown away at how solid it is. With a 16k price tag, I feel like I'm driving a Lexus when I'm in the cockpit. These things are a steal if you buy used.

[@cwwiss1]

+Jeffrey Lebowski thinking of building my own solar powered car for local trips .Zero running costs. But keep my petrol car .

[@floobertuber]

+Christopher Leeson "I hear it's about $35, 000!" Total bunk. If that were true, why wouldn't you just buy a new one? It's be cheaper!

[@cwwiss1]

I know. But it's true.

[@johncarr123]

you saved a ton of money leasing. Your buyout is about 25 grand and it's worth 15 grand. hand it back in and get the new 2016

[@johncarr123]

My lease ends in July. Not sure If I will get the Volt II or a Camaro SS 1LE LOL!

[@jeffreylebowski6897]

+Lon Seidman I just purchased a 2013 Volt that was leased. It has 39,000 miles on it and only 9,000 of those miles used gas. Lifetime MPG shows 144mpg. In general I'm usually dead set against leasing, but for a daily commuter, the Volt is one of the very few cars that really does make sense to lease. Glad you enjoyed the Volt. Hopefully I'll get many trouble free miles out of mine!

[@TheCoffeeField]

Is the 40 miles per gallon a real world testing?

[@TheCoffeeField]

thank you very much for replying! what do you think about people complaining regarding the heater not working well under extreme cold?

[@Vanrocco66]

Looks like Connecticut?

[@eveneser12]

Thank you so much for your help.

[@jacksonbangs6603]

How much do you spend per gallon of PREMIUM gas?

[@Fragrancemex]

can it run on gas alone if you wish?

[@magnusingvarsson3277]

of course your choise,but vhy???

[@cheesymn7779]

Anthony Alexander no you can't. The engine is only there to charge the battery. It's a range extender

[@onthefence928]

not exactly true there's three or 4 modes depending on how you count it thanks to the planetary gears: electric only, gas only (hold mode), gas-generator mode (when low on battery), or gas+electric (like when going uphill, so gas actually turns the drive shaft too)

[@cheesymn7779]

Rafael Mendoza huh, I didn't know that. Thanks for correcting me.

[@yumha38]

How often do you have to change oil?

[@yumha38]

Thank you Lon for the response, I am thinking of leasing the Volt, my round trip is around 74 miles.

[@johnnyzee383]

The gas motor drives the wheels does it not??..ONly the BMW i3 has the motor NOT DRIVING the wheels but acting as a real generator. Please explain...

[@LonSeidman]

Only under one weird situation will it drive the wheels. It otherwise is just acting as a generator

[@tgc4204]

Which year is this car?

[@LonSeidman]

This was a 2010

[@1tokeover]

Doesn't really make sense to have this car in the Midwest. You're already paying for the cheapest gas in the US not to mention you barely drive any distances.

[@Ebacherville]

I'm in the midwest and my commute is covered by my Volts EV range.. Gas is cheap, but electric here is cheap too.. E/V mileage costs me less than half the gas cost to cover the same distance.. Not to mention my employer lets me charge while I'm at work. So my cost out of pocket is just my drive in to work.

[@mikemurrayaudio]

I'm sick of my 2013 Volt premium. It has a horrible heater. I freeze every morning for the first 10 minutes. It takes 4ever to warm up so if you enjoy hot air blasting quickly after you start the car, forget it. This car won't do that. And I've almost hit several pedestrians because of the huge pillar on the driver side. I'm going back to Honda or Hyundai.

[@SuperZbx]

Gonna buy a only if they get rid of that chrome front bumper...looks awful