Comparison: 2011 Volt to a 2017 Volt by an actual owner of both.

[@TheDisgruntledMechanic]

Checkout my Amazon store--- www.amazon.com/shop/thedisgruntledmechanic

[@gimmieboy]

How much is it to charge the car daily?

[@johnadams3267]

I am still pissed at GMs decision to discontinue the Volt. RIP Volt (2011-2019)

[@TheDisgruntledMechanic]

ME TOO! Until there is a better infrastructure for full electric vehicles I think it was the best option!

[@bmw803]

It sucks, but it makes no sense to keep making a car at a loss due to its extra costs due to the nature of combining gas and ev. BOLT replaced the VOLT. Batteries are way cheaper than when they developed the VOLt. Its probably cheaper to build a BOLt today than a VOLT.

[@PFab]

Until this happened..... www.gmc.com/electric-truck/hummer-ev?eVar36=RREPS0661_CRABMODE_RRGM01_16651003542

[@aidensnew8562]

@contact you can find then fully loaded used with like only 20k miles for 16-17k if you want a LT i've seen them as low as 13k and a good number of people are reporting running first gen volts for well over 200k miles honestly i've been eyeing used ones up a lot just because of how unbelievable cheap they seem to be.

[@HD-ph1dc]

@@PFab what kind of price tag we talkin here??

[@EXOVCDS]

If more people were passionate about what they owned... there would be less junk on the roads! I'm sure they'll serve you well for a long time to come! And the 2011 might end up being a collector item!?

[@TheDisgruntledMechanic]

The 1st one has been awesome so far.

[@taichiexplorer5419]

Less than 100,000 1st gen volts worlwide! 2012 volt

[@erickbelmer9350]

Great Info. Brother!! Thanks for Sharing. I have a 2012 volt that just turned 400,000 miles and still running great. Keep your 2011! It is over built compared to your 2017!

[@TheDisgruntledMechanic]

Believe me 2011 Volt isnt going anywhere! Thanks!

[@wowowiiwaa1337]

So are the 2011-12s different than the 2013-16 models? Or was the first makeover the 2017 model?

[@BeyondDuctTapeFixItRight]

Erick, that's impressive! What's your mileage split look like, all electric vs gas?

[@hjoseph4327]

volt 2016 and up design is disaster, the previous volt 2011-2015 was way better

[@hayonimengi4171]

h Joseph I feel same way!

[@superapple4ever]

I personally prefer the design of the first generation.

[@TheDisgruntledMechanic]

me too actually. I always liked the the two colors with the black roof

[@ramblin_man23]

Not me. The gen 2 looks way cooler.

[@peterdaniel66]

@@ramblin_man23 Gen 2 looks like a cheap cruze.. and the interior is so bland and cheap plastic.. Yes the 2011 has plastic but it is much richer and unique in design.

[@eddyl3748]

@@TheDisgruntledMechanic idk, your video makes me like both (from the outside) even if I do like the newest one more.

[@maples328]

Making it look 👀 too much like the awful Sonic ! 🤮

[@coldspring624]

More value in the opinion of a mechanic who owns both with a camera that shakes than that of camera pro with little know

[@TheDisgruntledMechanic]

TY!

[@fieldsofomagh]

As a previous Prius owner and experienced driver, this is great praise indeed and a real complement to the manufacturer.

[@TheDisgruntledMechanic]

Thanks. Just being truthful. no reason not to be.

[@kevinerickson2595]

I have a 2012, just bought a 2018 today, I got 10,000 on trade in,I have 68000 miles on it, never had a problem with it, I wish I could have kept the 2012 but the 2018 I so nice 🙄

[@TheDisgruntledMechanic]

Good trade in for the 2012! Enjoy the 2018!

[@baddriversofnorthtexas6850]

Dont tell kilmer you had an issue with a toyota

[@TheDisgruntledMechanic]

He wouldn't believe me anyhow!

[@cbjueueiwyru7472]

REV UP YOUR VOLTS!!!!!!!!!

[@oisiaa]

@@edge2science The 2016+ Volt's battery is only a little bit bigger than the 2011-2016 Volt. The new Volt's battery is cycled much deeper than the original Volt which causes wear on the battery. The "old" Volt is very gentle on the battery by cycling between about 20% and 85% state of charge.

[@bmw803]

Kilmer is the Toyota cult leader. You can't say anything against Toyota as he will be in denial and shut you down. Even if Toyota made plenty of cars that were trouble.

[@ThatsJustMyView]

I have a 2012 Volt. It is the most worry-free vehicle I have ever owned.

[@TheDisgruntledMechanic]

I agree same with my 2011 and my 2017 so far!

[@CumminsTurbo4]

Is is still today? Assuming you still own...

[@ashunderwood88]

Both are sharp cars but I love the design inside and out of the 2011 more. I would not have guessed that would happen. I always seemed to preference newer. Great comparison!

[@TheDisgruntledMechanic]

I do agree. the 2011 looks is more unique.

[@prescottpeterson6786]

Mad respect for your time putting this video together a couple years ago. It helped me today decide when choosing which used Gen to go for. Also mad respect for holding coffee like a boss while explaining your thoughts. Subscribed!

[@TheDisgruntledMechanic]

Great to hear!

[@rodneywilliams2795]

I really appreciate your comparison. I have 110k on my 2011 and like you I really enjoy the car. No problems so far. I'm a music guy. One of the really nice features of the 2011 is the hard drive that allows you to record your CDs into the car's hard drive system...really nice feature.

[@TheDisgruntledMechanic]

Thank you! and yes the hard drive is nice. the 2017 does not have that installed.

[@davidwebster2616]

I'm late to this party but I wanted to share my Volt and Prius experience: Owned a 2012 Volt and my wife has a 2012 Prius III. Both are great, Prius beats the Volt in MPG when in gas/electric mode. However, the volt beats the Prius in everything else. Oil changes are much cheaper in the Volt as well. The volt drives like a regular car and feels more solid. I could keep going but that's the gist of it.

[@maples328]

Really nice 👍 down to earth guy giving an actual user opinion. In retrospect, they over hyped a car they weren’t gonna make enough of anyways. They did the same on the EV1 ($8 million marketing campaign on a car you literally could not buy).

[@TheDisgruntledMechanic]

yep EV1 lease only with no option to buy! I am glad I bought my 2011 Volt but because of limited production the parts are/will be scarce!

[@Dogsnark]

I watched this to help me decide between buying a 2015 or a 2018 Volt. I love the technology behind these cars and am eager to have it working for me. I could definitely get into a 2015 for considerably less than the 2018, but I think I’m gonna go with the 2018. The center stack in gen 1 really puts me off. All those buttons - crazy. The gen 2 looks so much cleaner in the center stack. Add in the improved economy and range of the gen 2 makes the 2018 worth the extra dollars I’ll have to put down for it. Good video - thank you.

[@MrOnemanop]

Your passion for the car comes through. Don't pay attention to the haters. Just carry on. Great (comparison) video!

[@samjamrobstream5590]

I'm sure it's nicer to drive the newer one, but I definitely prefer the look of the older model.

[@TheDisgruntledMechanic]

I love my 2011 Volt!

[@78NeoSapien]

I just upgraded from a 2012 to a 2017 and was also disappointed that the dropped the integrated garage door feature. I do like the new center console design and the regen paddle.

[@IrisMG]

2011 was the first model year for the Volt, and it looks like it truly was experimental. Customer feedback must have led to the refinements you see in the 2017. Very interesting video!

[@TheDisgruntledMechanic]

TY!

[@Truth_Spoken]

I’ve always been a big fan of the first generation Volt styling. Wouldn’t mind having a 2012+ someday.

[@IfYouKnowYouKnow-d2s]

They are getting pretty cheap, KBB is putting it at $ 8000 last time I checked.

[@evtrekker1317]

@eric smith I'm a 2013 Volt owner. The Volt will do a fuel maintenance cycle every 5 weeks or so if you don't run the generator. That gas tank is pressurized to keep fuel fresh which is why there's a release button in the car and tells you on the dash if it's okay to open. Gen 1 tank is 9.3 USG, gen 2 is 8.9 compared to Prius which is about 11.

[@krystenvandever8645]

I have a 2012 that I got a few days ago. This car is RAD! I have the keyless entry and I love it. This is so far my favorite car, and I landed it with only 59,000 miles!

[@TheDisgruntledMechanic]

Awesome to hear!

[@mikeandersonwa]

The electric charge door thing was also like that on my 2013 (Same as 2011), I actually like that for sure

[@jmwSeattle]

Very interesting about the maintenance reliability. It used to be in the old days AMERICAN cars were cheaper to repair and maintain. It would be nice to see that come back.

[@laurentcambon]

Today, if you have a good reliable car, you only need to change oil, brakes, air filter, and maybe plugs every 160000 km. And fill the liquids. That’s how I maintain my 2002 sentra. Rides like a new car.

[@Foxxie55]

I bought one in 2012.. (Oct. 2011).. My wife loves it.. I also like the black top looks much better than the solid same color of the new ones..

[@ChristCenteredMinist]

I have 2017 volt too. Since there's no mechanical connection between engine and motor, I always keep mine in L gear even on the freeway (even at 80 mph)... It doesn't hurt it, actually it has more power being geared down like that. And makes battery last longer.

[@terrytichenor708]

I leased a 2013 for 3 years then purchased a 2017 in February 2016. If you really want your garage door opener back, you have 2 options. 1. Get a HomeLink Rearview Mirror to replace the OEM mirror. 2. If you are handy with a Dremel Tool, you can install the built in version right into your overhead console. Both are available on Amazon and Ebay. Check out the Volt owners forum at GM-Volt.com. Here are detailed instructions on how to do the overhead install. gm-volt.com/forum/showthread.php?208330-G2-Garage-Door-Opener-Teksavy-s-homelink-installation-DONE..-Instructions-inside&highlight=techsavy

[@TheDisgruntledMechanic]

Man I thank you for the ideas but I really do not want to hack up a 2017 just for that.

[@TheDisgruntledMechanic]

+The Disgruntled Mechanic I do like mirror idea though!

[@Tanstaaflitis]

Why not attach $20 a fob into that space? A bit of velcro would do the trick.

[@henrynora52]

You forgot the Neatest feature! Our 2012 was the last year Chevy had a hard drive.. which you can pause the radio channels when you go into a store for 20 minutes or play a Led Zeppelin song over 3 or 4 times, LOL nice video

[@TheDisgruntledMechanic]

YES! When I get into my 2017 after driving my 2011 I really do miss this feature in the 2017 a lot! And I did not know that 2012 was the last year for this feature! Thanks for the info! PS Glad you said Led Zeppelin and not something like New Kids on the block! haha!

[@Hulk-mc7bp]

Good video. I own a 2014 volt and has been a great car. However, I wish they had done a few things a bit different, for example: - I would like the radio just to be completely independent of the center screen. Just like most manufacturers use to make them years back so you could buy and install your own radio/ sound system. i know, some might argue that break-ins would happen to get those stereos, but I just find the buttons/screens too distracting. - The interior space is still a bit cramped, even my wife complains about the back seats and she is short. - I would like to have the option to change the voice command to male. Even cheap GPS systems have that option. - The space where the air compressor is stored is just plain dumb. If you are carrying things in the trunk and have the need to inflate your tires, you literally have to take everything out in order to access the compressor. A space on any "side wall" (above the rear tires) would be better to avoid this situation, or at least the trunk "floor" should have been split so that only a small area would have been open to access the air compressor. (Is the compressor in the new model in same place as it is in the original?)

[@douglashughes2331]

New Garage door openers have the ability to use your phone. Even away from home (if you need to let someone in or you forgot to close it) This is why car companies are going away from the opener built into the car

[@TheDisgruntledMechanic]

Yes I know but old dinosaurs like me that have 25 year old USA made Overhead garage door openers that still work, just hate to replace them just to use an app.

[@thebigmann81]

Don't forget under drive mode to mention mountain mode it's a game changer. If you get down on battery ,let's say 2 miles put it in mountain mode it will start to charge half your battery before it switches from gas back to battery.

[@dane9193]

Great comparisons. I'm 100% in agreeance with you also. I don't know why GM is putting Homelink only in the more expensive vehicles. It isn't that expensive of an option! I'd MUCH rather have that than the lane keep assist and forward collision alert in my opinion. Seems GM is trying to entice people into buying more expensive vehicles with tricks like that?

[@C4M3120N]

Great Video Comparison! Thank you for taking the time to make this. I am making a Volt my next used car purchase and while I personally vastly think the Gen 1's look cooler than the Gen 2's as far as body styles go, your comparison video just showed me I should be very happy with any Volt I get my hands on. I've watched dozens and dozens of Volt videos. Your's is the first one I felt compelled to say thank you for. Great review!

[@TheDisgruntledMechanic]

Thank you! the kind words are greatly appreciated!

[@aq305]

Thank you for sharing! I’ve been contemplating replacing my first gen Volt for the new one. Would be great to see more about the difference in hatch space before making a decision.

[@jeffyork9389]

Great video on honest information and I too tried a Prius. Only a few days and didnt like it. I'm considering buying a Volt and really appreciate your honest words.

[@TheDisgruntledMechanic]

Thank you! And I still love both of them.

[@NewLevelAuto]

What's funny is I never saw this video because I was hanging out with you when it came out 😄. I saw this little buggy in action and she's a sweet ride. Thanks for sharing !

[@TheDisgruntledMechanic]

Yep my little RC car!

[@danwat1234]

12:00 The storage compartment on the top of the dash is great for the Volt Shelf branded magnetic phone mount it just slots and locks in there.

[@bladerunner556]

I’m looking into buying a hybrid car and I was on the fence between a 2015 Volt and a 2015 Prius. Your video is making me lean towards the Volt. Great video.

[@TheDisgruntledMechanic]

I have not driven a newer Prius so things may have changed since I had mine but I would not hesitate to buy a new Volt again!

[@jamesbecker4326]

the volt is a great normal commuter car. the battery only lasts 35-40 miles then you need to recharge or use gas at about 35mpg. I have had 2 Prius's and rarely got less than 50 mpg. I used to drive 50k miles per year and most of it 200 - 500 at a time. the volt would do nothing for me, althoght I believe it is a great car for people that have reg jobs and drive 30 - 50 miles a day.

[@IfYouKnowYouKnow-d2s]

Its an amazing drive, you should consider this car for sure.

[@haiyanqu698]

Owns 2013 Volt, very happy about it! Thanks a lot for sharing!!

[@TheDisgruntledMechanic]

and thanks for watching!

[@jamesbecker4326]

it's unfortunate that you had so many problems with your prius. I have owned 2 prius's 2006 and 2011 and sold the 2006 with 213,000 miles and NEVER had a single problem with it. Battery was fine. Of course these are 2 very different vehicles (volt/prius). I drove many long trips and a volt would just be running on the gas engine most of the time and getting only 35mpgs or so and the prius got 50-60mpg unless you drive really fast and then like 45mpg. Good video, Volts are still not very well understood and you are helping inform.

[@palakaman]

My 2013 has the automatic opening electric door. The FOB can also be used to open the electric door.

[@jacksonbangs6603]

Doesn't the 2011 Volt only seat 4 people and require premium gas? Didn't Chevy improve the Volt for 2017 to run on regular gas and can seat 5 people? Good video, just thaught it would be nice to spot out those differences as well.

[@TheDisgruntledMechanic]

been a while since I did this video and I would have to watch it again to make sure but I really thought I mentioned about the gas.

[@Scarbosul]

@@edge2science I get anywhere from 60 to 70 miles out of a full charge on my 2016. I think what's making the difference is how you drive. If I spend the entire time going 80 on a freeway, I also get lower numbers.

[@txsviking]

Great comparison between the two. 20 extra miles is a big bonus too.

[@TheDisgruntledMechanic]

Thanks Terry. There are some differences in that gas engine also that I forgot to mention! oh Well.

[@Hulk-mc7bp]

I would have loved if GM had used those sent resistance panels in the volt, just like the Saturns had. We had 2 Saturns in my family, they were extremely reliable and they looked like new for about 15 to 20 years.

[@TheDisgruntledMechanic]

me too! I still have a 1993 Saturn SC2 setting around. I had to take it off the road because the frame rusted through. Body still in good shape.

[@FrankConforti]

I know this is a five year old video but thought “what the hell…”. I have a 2013 ruby red Volt with all of the options available at that time. It has been my daily driver for years. I drove it almost 100% electric thanks to having free access to electric chargers at work and an L2 charger at home. It is absolutely the most reliable vehicle I have EVER owned. The worst thing that happened was the failure of the 12V AGM battery. It has about 80,000 miles on it and it still runs like it is still 2013. About the only thing slightly negative is how low the car is to the ground and the front air dam to make it more aerodynamic. On the crappy Pennsylvania roads that front damage is nearly gone from contact with the road. I also have a 2018 we bought used when a bunch of California Volts came off their leases. Got it for a fantastic price considering it has every option. It had only 15,000 miles on it because of Covid when a lot of people drove less. We’ve owned it for a full year now. Comparing it to the 2013, I’d say it is a draw. Gone are the little buttons which I really never got used to in the 2013. I do appreciate the 50-60 mile range now that I’m retired. I also LOVE the heated steering wheel. The car, just like its older brother, has been trouble free… except for potholes which are common around here. I have popped two tires hitting what I would call tiny holes which required replacement. The 2013 take potholes much better. I suspect it is the tire size in the 2018 that appears to have smaller sidewalls. Both cars are billygoats when it comes to driving in ice. I’ve climbed iced-over hills at 1 to 2 miles per hour in places even 4WD vehicles couldn’t make it. The traction control on both is amazing. Which of the two do I like the most? Both of them. I plan to keep them for as many years as I can. Period. We are now looking at some of the new beefy ev SUVs that have hit the market but I’m wary of many because it took GM two decades to get it right and slapping an electric drivetrain into a conventional vehicle is not the same as integrating the battery system into the vehicle.

[@wyattoneable]

Hey Mike. I caught this between flights. Thanks, it gave me something to do. Having rode in your 2017 I can agree it's a very comfortable car and I love that color. A new car is on my bucket list someday and the Volt is in the running because of your interest and good luck with them. I hope it continues to be a good car for you. See you soon.

[@TheDisgruntledMechanic]

Thanks Wyatt! yes it really has nothing to do with me being a "tree huger!" THey have just been dependable and I love driving them!

[@hellsop]

There's a small list of things that are really 2011 exclusive and a lot that are kind of ... 2011 & 2012 shared things. Proximity door unlock. 2012 gained the button and the proximity stuff. On the electric charge door release: 2012 also did electric release, but didn't buffer the swing of the door, which made the "getting actually open" on one press a lot more consistent. 2012 also had black roof. and hatch panel. 2013 and beyond got body color there. 2012 lost the VIN display on the center stack display. Overhead console: your has two sets of two holes for the hand-free phone system. 2012 replaced the holes with a little 1" round grill running at about the same angle. (I have HEARD but not checked, that there's 4 microphones up there, two for each of driver and passenger, and the paired microphones form some kind of noise-cancelling system.) For clarity for others, the little nubs aren't the buttons on the center console either. They're barriers *between* sensitive spots on the flat panel that are the actual buttons. So you press the text. Which is kind of a pain to aim for without taking your eyes off the road to do a thing. Fortunately, there's not much important over there that one needs to change in a hurry. Also they gave some really strange things their own buttons. Like "TP" on the right. "Time Program". You have a DEDICATED button to set the clock/calendar, which most people would use twice a year, at most. Could have skipped that button and made you step through two more button pushes on the config screen to set the time, but no. Fill up that button panel. Similarly, the AS1-2 button. A dedicated button to autoscan the radio dial and set the radio station presets to the strongest signals. Which wipes out any presets you already had. How often do you think you'd use THAT one? But it's a dedicated button....

[@TheDisgruntledMechanic]

Thank you. I learned something new about the non-buttons being barriers.

[@danwat1234]

I love, love the cup holder liners in the 1st gen. COvers all spills and removable easy clean and reinstall

[@daletodd8752]

Thanks for the comparison. I owned a 2012 for several years and it was totaled in a accident and I replaced it with the 2017. I have no issues with either year. I will say that the additional mileage on the 2017 up to 60 miles on a charge depending on the season was a huge increase over the 2012. During spring and summer you can get 60 however in the cooler fall and winter it was 50-55. Still a huge increase over the 2012 that was 45-50 to 35-40 based on season. I love that both use a 110 volt charger, nothing to install to charge your vehicle. However I purchased a rapid charger for around $750.00 and the charging time is incredibly shorter. If you’re at zero on the battery the 110volt charger is 10-12 hours and with the rapid charger it’s 3-4 hours. I installed my charger at our pharmacy and I delivered prescriptions around town etc and plugged back up at pharmacy and kept pretty much a full charge all day between running errands and deliveries. I used the 110 volt charger at home and since it was almost full 2-4 hours at home and it was full again. I did not keep track of fuel spending with the 2012, however I do on the 2017. I document the date time gallons, mileage and cost per gallon along with total cost of fill up. My 2017 as of June 2020 has 51,000 miles and I’ve spent $218.67 in fuel. Depending on driving distances I go months without fueling up and I keep forgetting where the button to unlock fuel lid is at. I love the fact that I’m not limited to driving only on battery but even on gas I get 40mpg+ on the engine. I’m a retired army veteran and occasionally have to drive two or three hours to the closest VA hospital and that’s been the bulk of my engine time. I also own a 2015 Toyota Prius and it get 45-55 mpg based off of driving conditions and I’ve had no issue at all with reliability. However the ride is not as smooth or quite as the Volt and just feels flimsy. Nowhere near the ride and creature comforts inside like the Volt. I’d like to say that I never understood why Chevy never tried to promote the Volt and market and advertising the awesome features and statistics of the Volt. It almost seems that they were ashamed of the vehicle. Now I hear that they are dropping the Volt for the new Bolt. I’ve not driven one or seen one up close but from the pictures I’ve seen I’m not impressed by them at all. Reminds me of the Chevette smaller and cheap looking. I’ve had many people compliment me on the sporty looking Volt and ask what kind of car it it. Their jaws drop when I share the mpg and fuel cost of operating the vehicle. I don’t ever see me buying a Tesla for two reasons. 1 the cost and 2. Being all electric I believe I would have anxiety over the battery level on the car. The distance I occasionally drive to the VA is over 300 miles round trip. I’d hate to know I would have to find a charging station to complete the trip. Personally I love my volt and the ability to utilize gas to continue to drive is priceless. Another feature of the 2017 that I don’t recall the 2012 having is the ability to manually select engine only to save your battery for another time. That nice for interstate driving when the battery is rapidly used at 75-80 mph and then switch back to battery when you are driving 55 mph or less to maximize the battery and miles you can drive on electric only. Thanks brother you did an amazing job on the video. If you ever get down to Conway SC stop by Rivertown Pharmacy and we can break bread and enjoy telling our stories.

[@TheDisgruntledMechanic]

Ok so I am retired so dont be surprised if I show up some day! And yes I had a model 3 ordered but canceled and got the 2017 Volt. So I will save my stories in case I stop by. Be forewarned I get talking about my Volts it is hard to get me to shut up!

[@nofxslc]

Great video! Very fair and accurate comparisons two cars. I just bought a 2017 and love it. What's love to see more technical comparisons/breakdowns of the various cars. Keep up the great work!

[@TheDisgruntledMechanic]

Thank you. I think I am going to do a comparison on the regenerative capabilities of both of them. There is a definite difference on how much the 2 vehicles recovers charge.

[@KTPurdy]

I thought the Volt concept car was extremely cool looking. As you compare it the Gen I you can see similar design ques throughout the exterior that map back to the Concept car. One of those design nods was the black roof and back, which was cool because it brought you closer to the visual feel of the concept. As such, it was a bummer in 2013 when they got rid of them. The polished wheels were also cannily close to the concept. BTW, I also love the garage buttons on the Gen I and I think the buttons on the steering wheel feel higher quality on the Gen I compared to Gen II as well. Thanks for the video.

[@TheDisgruntledMechanic]

my pleasure. I am going to do another one in the future on the Volts and they way they operate.

[@BigDog50001]

The grill on the 2017 is pretty sharp, nice vid Mike!

[@TheDisgruntledMechanic]

Thanks!

[@benfaust]

We have a 2012 and love it! The only problem we've had is with the charge door not opening some times without playing with it. And you're right, the 2012 does not have the last 4 of the VIN on the display. Also, we do have the button on the outside door handle to unlock it. We get 50 miles per charge during the spring and autumn. But, then, I drive like a little old lady. ;o)

[@TheDisgruntledMechanic]

when my charge door sticks I spray it with silicon spray inside the door being very careful not to get any of the spray on the paint. usually helps it to open up! Thanks for watching.

[@benfaust]

Thanks for the tip!

[@stuzman52]

Great comparison to show the similarities and differences between the two Volts. Sure would have been nice if GM left that garage door opener in the 2017. I can see where that would be a nice feature to have. Great work Mike and hope you continue to get good service out of both Volts.

[@TheDisgruntledMechanic]

Thanks Terry. I hope theey last me a looonnngg time.

[@toddbenfield6546]

I have a 2012, and a 2018. I like them both! Each one has its pros/cons. The 2018 is more sporty feeling than the 2012. It’s also more efficient. I like the controls on my 2012. It feels more spaceship like👍 I like the home link also. I like my grey leather in my 2018, over the black. Great video, and keep Volting✌️

[@TheDisgruntledMechanic]

I am the same way. I like them both for their own reasons.

[@toddbenfield6546]

The Disgruntled Mechanic both great cars! I guess they had to cut some corners on the gen 2, because of the extra range. You didn’t mention the gen 2 has no CD player (I don’t use anyway).The gen 2 has more tech also, over the gen 1, and runs on regular gas (saving $1 gallon)

[@TheDisgruntledMechanic]

Yes and the gen2 doesn't have the harddrive either. but the range and the gas savings are defiantly an advantages of the gen2. Also the ADAS (Advanced Driver Assist Systems) that I thought I wouldn't use are nice for long drives!

[@amirualpotly3172]

48000 miles on my volt, bought it used with 34000. No issues so far, one oil change. 75.6 mpg overall, great car. Simple but effective daily driver.

[@TheDisgruntledMechanic]

Cool!

[@erikgonzalez2278]

Amir Ualpotly 75 mpg!!!!!!

[@sublimefan661]

Thanks for the upload, I have been looking at the volt for over a year now. My lease is up on my Silverado in a few months and want one of these for my daily driver.

[@TheDisgruntledMechanic]

+sublimefan661 you are welcome!

[@pauls635]

My 2011 was the premier, and the door would unlock when I get close and there was no button, just pulling on the handle when I was close with the key fob. But the button is cool so you can unlock all doors if set. Love the car so much, got the 2018 recently. The only thing is with the 2011, I did have many issues where I was constantly going to the dealership to get corrected, so I had to trade it in and get something else at the time. Still love the car, so I went back with the newer model. Personally I loved the buttons in the 2011, looked advanced over the newer console also the shifter on the 2011. Also the range. Many people get this confused. The range is adjusted by the driving style. I know that many got only about 25 mile while I was able to get about 38 to 42 on the 2011 because of their driving style. That is a big note to think about. Love the review.

[@utah133]

I also have one of each generation.. My rare-ish one is on the other end of the production run... A 2019 LT. Our 2013 Premier is still going strong.

[@OneAuto]

Great video. They look a nice car, shame about your opener feature on the 2017 but its got a much nicer dash layout. Cheers Mike!

[@TheDisgruntledMechanic]

Thanks Rob

[@thebigmann81]

If you leave key in center console and accidentally close lid and close door when step outside car will lock but won't unlock because car doesn't recognize the key fob being near by.

[@CardiacCat]

Great video comparison. I have a 2014 and the dash is almost identical to your 2011. I agree about the dash of many buttons. It was months before I could figure out how to use the climate control while driving. I just let the seat warmers do their thing. But the one thing that is really fickle about the dash on my 2014 is that many of those buttons are touch sensitive, so don't even think about brushing off that dust layer while the car is on, lol. For comparison, I get around 37 mile ev charge when the weather falls below 40 and in warm weather it ranges from 48 - 51 ev charge miles, depending upon conditions. I love my Volt.

[@TheDisgruntledMechanic]

I love both of mine too! Thanks for watching.

[@Endoe.McKronic]

The first volts had such a bad blind spot that I didn't want to buy it... 2016 model came out and I LOVED IT! but that electric tank door sucks!! Every time I wash the car it pops open.

[@TheDisgruntledMechanic]

Glad you love it. They are great cars.

[@rickyleblanc3945]

You had my thumbs up in the first 3 minutes! Great comparison!

[@TheDisgruntledMechanic]

Thank you!

[@mkounalis]

Wanted to take a moment and comment on your awesome video. I own a 2012 and a 2017 Volt - my daughter drivers the 2012 these days. There are a few things you touched on that I wanted to comment on, and mention other tidbits you didn't mention which I believe are key differences between the cars. The 2012 does differ a bit from the 2011 - you are correct in that it doesn't have the proximity sensor for unlocking the door, and the last four of the VIN don't appear on the center screen. However, with very few exceptions, the 2012 is basically the same car as the 2011. The electric-charge door lock is something I do miss in my 2017. One of the persnickety issues I have with my 2017 is that once in a while when running through an automatic car wash, the pressure of the brushes will pop the charge door open. The gas door does remain locked if you don't hit the refuel button, so no issues there. I sometimes put a bit of car detailing tape across the door to make sure it won't open in car-washes that have caused the issue in the past. Second, the 2017 does not require Premium level unleaded fuel like the Volts from 2011 through 2015 required. While I do usually put Premium fuel into my 2017 Volt, I have ran it fine with Regular grade fuel. The 2017 has a middle-seat and middle-seat-belt in the back - the 2011 through 2015 Volts have four bucket seats. The extra seat in the back is what allows me to drive the 2017 Volt for Lyft and Uber as they require five seat-belts (and four doors) for the car to be eligible. The 2017 (and 2016 but slightly older tech) has the ability to host Apple Car Play as well as Android Auto. This allows you to use your cell phone to drive that center-console screen, which I love and use all the time. Also, your 2011 (and again only through 2015) has a CD/DVD player - they removed optical medial altogether in the 2016 and up Volts. Your 2011 seems to have the higher-end audio system, which included a hard drive (that's what the HDD on your center console stands for) that allows you to 'rip' or copy CD's to the internal hard drive, allowing you to copy your music library to the car and play the music without having the CD's with you. I used this feature regularly on my 2012 and I do miss it. Still, the 2017 does allow you to have a flash-drive in one of the USB slots and you can play music from that. The 2017 that you have apparently has adaptive cruise control as well as lane-change assist. These technologies are great, especially in high-traffic areas as the car will go as fast as you set the cruise to, but slow down when you approach traffic in front of you that is moving slower. The lane-change-assist is great if you wander outside of your lane - the car will actually nudge the steering wheel back to keep you from lazily changing lanes. The lighting of the 2016 and up Volts is all LED based (as far as I know). The headlights on the 2011-2015 volts used halogen if memory serves. The tail-lights and some of the interior lights in the 2011-2015 is also non-LED based from what I know. All of the lighting in the 2016 and up Volts is LED based. I too was disappointed by the lack of the built-in garage door system, but I have seen that this feature seems to be going away on more cars than just GM/Chevy made. From what I have read, the standards (security related) that more modern garage door openers are using are constantly changing, so the utility of having a built-in garage door opening system was getting hard to maintain and keep it useful as garage door opening systems seems to be more and more incompatible with what the car manufacturers were putting in their cars. Still, would be nice to have the option if I wanted it and I had a system that the built-in system would operate. One other thing that I believe bears mentioning. The gas mileage of my 2012 when cruising on the freeway is typically between 33-35 mpg. I live in the Orlando, FL area and my 2017 gets about 41-45 mpg cruising on the highway when burning gas. The 2012 is with my daughter in Dallas, TX. Both areas are typically flat terrain and about the same height above sea-level, give or take. Lastly, the charge time is about one hour longer on the 2017 than my 2012, but that is a direct result of the 2017 having more battery capacity than the 2012. I was able to fully charge my 2012 using a 220v EV charger in about 3.5 hours - the 2017 takes about 4.5 hours, give or take. Thanks again for your video!

[@TheDisgruntledMechanic]

Thank you for input. Keep an eye on my channel tomorrow morning. Another video is coming!

[@ebsmawo6967]

Thank you. Ampera 2012 driver.

[@TheDisgruntledMechanic]

My pleasure!

[@banpowel9784]

1st Gen 2011, will become a classic, looks stunning, and I feel it will age really well.

[@danwat1234]

9:10 Luckily to can disable that ERDTT (Engine Running Due To Temperature) behavior by modifying the ambient temperature sensor. Traction battery has numerous temp sensors so there is nothing to worry about it has its own electric heater

[@wristschatz1454]

I really like the looks of the old one. Seems like they scrape on everything though.

[@TheDisgruntledMechanic]

I agree!

[@WallaceRoseVincent]

Merry Christmas from 2021! Thanks for the video.

[@TheDisgruntledMechanic]

Same to you!

[@dplummer35]

How did you get on with changing the cooling fluids for the invertor and battery, i thought GM recommended that they were changed after so many miles/years?

[@robertbecker5498]

Hello Mike, I also owned a 2011 and now a 2016 Volt. A few changes you left out. I also miss the turn signal on the side mirrors. The 2011 used Premium gas, while the 2016 uses regular gas. 2011 you could unscrew your antennae if you went to a car wash. 2016, built in. The 2016 also allows you to Hold your electric that the 2011 didn't. Parking assist on 2016. Finally, my car charges to 66 - 71. Obviously the weather makes a change for charging. We are in the 80 degrees and my 2011 would get possibly 45. You did great, but I wanted to know your thoughts on my comments.

[@TheDisgruntledMechanic]

Keep an eye on my channel tomorrow morning. Another video is coming!

[@normansmith7806]

Great video and review ! Hope you and Helga have a great 4th !

[@TheDisgruntledMechanic]

Thanks Norm. same back to you!

[@chosenclips6799]

The 2011 looks far better but I like them both

[@royamberg9177]

Just bought a 2012. So far I really like it.

[@TheDisgruntledMechanic]

I am glad you like it. Hope it gives you many trouble free miles.

[@melnita6]

Two things. we have a 2012. Love it! is there a speed limit in LOW? The car will "creep" about 4mph forward or reverse. What happens to that energy when you are holding the car at a stop with the brake? mel ellis.

[@KeoV22]

Thank you for this! Super helpful, mate. Do you know if there a specific year that is a sweet spot between build quality/reliability and features like hold mode, in your opinion?

[@130flyboy65]

Thanks! Great and very informative! I've been wanting to test drive them and haven't seen any in a dealer near me. I dig the extended range.

[@prescottpeterson6786]

Why would they get rid of a garage door opener in the Gen2. What the heck lol

[@TheDisgruntledMechanic]

I know, right? I am not sure but I heard someone say they brouight homelink back for the final 2 years of the Volt but not 100% sure.

[@abbeykroeter]

Thanks for the cool info-- I am seriously thinking of the volt for my next car so I needed this. Totally unrelated... you probably don't car about this but you live near a birder's wet dream. Either you dubbed in great nature tracks (lol) or in those woods you have these birds singing-- (among others), a yellowthroat, a red-eyed vireo, and one of the grand champions of singers... a wood thrush. That is the fellow making those flute-like sounds throughout the whole thing. Yes, an animal geek here but I'm genuine, just like my car-fanaticism. It doesn't get in the way of my years of wrestling and Jiu-jitsu for all those who think they can categorize me. Again, thanks for the info.

[@TheDisgruntledMechanic]

that info on the birds is cool! I really like the area that I live in. As for the cars, I have another video on some of the questions I have been asked on the 1st video. Keep an eye out for that if you are interested. Thanks! oh and P.S yes a persons interests and their looks can be very deceiving, I know!

[@BeyondDuctTapeFixItRight]

I wasn't aware bird watchers were categorized. They somehow avoid getting clubbed in with nerds as bird watching is largely an outdoor activity that doesn't fit that archetype. Anyway, I'm always impressed with how hardcore bird watchers are at both identifying birds by their colors and songs. Have to ask, were you able to identify those birds in the background immediately? Or, did you have to replay the segments a bit?

[@richmooremi]

I'm looking at 2017 Volts when my 2014 lease is up and I'm also disappointed that they took the garage door buttons out!

[@TheDisgruntledMechanic]

What was GM thinking???

[@IfYouKnowYouKnow-d2s]

I love my 2012 volt, I am looking for a new car and I keep wanting another volt. I think I'm so in love with it and I'm thinking it's probably going to be my next car as well. No car drives like Volt.

[@TheDisgruntledMechanic]

No car seems to last like a Volt with very little maintenance!

[@IfYouKnowYouKnow-d2s]

I'm just over 50000 miles and had my first transmission flush because of my warranty. Tires, brakes and all other nicks and nacks still original, I think it will last so long.I drive over 50 miles a day, every day and no issues. Thank God no issues what so ever. I love it. I just find out that a person in Ohio just drove 140000 miles still amazing condition. I think only Hondas are this good when it comes to lasting a while.

[@hayonimengi4171]

I will keep my ‘13 for as long as I can too 😊

[@1970chevelle396]

Ive replaced inverters in the Toyota Prius's before . I think the newer ones don't have as many problems.

[@TheDisgruntledMechanic]

I sure hope they don't have as many problems with the Prius! I was never so glad to get rid of a vehicle as I was to get rid of that Prius!

[@robby4770]

The gas cap and electric charge door features goes through 2014 at least

[@floobertuber]

Great video. Don't take any sh** from nitpickers who don't like your taping style. it's fine! I leased a 2012 and own a 2014. Couple of things. 1. The 2012s did indeed have the "silver chicklet" on the doors for keyless entry. No need to use your fob, just have it nearby. 2. The 2012s had the key-fob charge door release as you mentioned. FWIW, mine never had any issues functioning, not even in winter, unless it actually got iced over -- which would affect any door of course. 3. Regarding electric range: You mentioned 40miles was your max. Incremental updates to the pack allowed more KWHr to be used, depending on when the car & its pack were manufactured. My 2012 could go 51 miles under ideal circumstances. In my 2014 the update was pretty minor from the 2012, but I can still go 53 miles under good conditions and lower speeds. 4. As you mentioned, no VIN-4 on the radios in the 2012s. At least, I did not have that. FWIW, my radio's head unit was a VERY early MyLink unit with no NAV. MyLink was kind of buggy and limited (it had issues if you had a ton of MP3s on a USB stick). The 2014's radio is a LOT better and indexes music well over 10x faster, too. 5. Also as you said, the engine will come on to assist with cabin heat below a certain temperature. Until mid-year MY2012s had the same cut-in point as 2010s and 2011s: 26F ambient temperature. Then the engine would cycle on-and-off, as needed, to help with cabin heating. Later gen-1 Volts would allow you to choose 15F. Now I don't know about you, but when it's that damned cold, I want as much hot air as I can get, so I didn't care that the engine was gonna run!! The heated seats in my 2012 were a huge help too. ALWAYS get the butt-toaster option in a northern state! My 2014 doesn't have those and I really miss 'em. Have to use an accessory heated pad now, and those are universally crappy. I am jealous of the 2016/17's heated wheel option! Would love to have that. I put 33,000 miles on that 2012 and only used 32 gallons of gas to do it. Fantastic car. I loved it!! I'm still driving my 2014 but have MUCH lower distance needs now. Ironically I use more gas, because when I DO pile on the miles, it's for out-of-town, 200+ mile roadtrips -- hence gas is needed. Nevertheless I'm at about 11,500 and only have used about 43 gallons, for over 250 "MPG" (in quotes because yes, I realize it's a poor metric... but there ya go).

[@TheDisgruntledMechanic]

Thank you for all the information! it is all good to know. And thanks for the encouragement.

[@al591]

I think the styling of the first gen is way better inside and outside ,but I have to say that extra electric miles on gen 2 is very cool the 2012 and 2011 dont have hold mode and that sucks ,I will never go back to ice car though, im waiting for a used tesla model 3 but in the meantime the volt is more than adequate

[@TheDisgruntledMechanic]

I still like the looks of the 1st gen myself. One of the reasons I couldn't part with it.

[@wildwestunlimited]

Nice video brotha..... Camera was not shaky at all. It's good that not all that many changes were made from 2011 to 2017, tells me that GM may have gotten it right the first time! :-)

[@TheDisgruntledMechanic]

Thank you !

[@bsmith3948]

This comparison review was well done.

[@TheDisgruntledMechanic]

Thank you!

[@Quickicecarreviews123]

I keep getting 8 ads on this short video. Have reloaded multiple times. Enjoy the revenue

[@TheDisgruntledMechanic]

Thank you for watching!

[@luigifernandes]

Great video mr. Disgruntled!!!

[@TheDisgruntledMechanic]

Thank you!

[@junebug1701]

Thank you, TDM, for an excellent video. As someone who is about to buy a used Volt, it was very helpful. I only wish you had spent a little more time on the 2017, there must be other differences, right? I've heard stories that the seats on the newer generation aren't as comfortable as the older ones. Have you noticed a difference there?

[@TheDisgruntledMechanic]

I have heard others mention that but I can say I have driven long distances in the 2017 Volt and have no problems or discomfort and I do have back problems.

[@Mattantil78911]

A quick update to your comment on the charge door and how the button feature only being on the 2011's. My 2013 actually has this and doesn't have the touch to pop out feature you see here on the 2017.

[@TheDisgruntledMechanic]

thanks for the update!

[@BrucesShop]

Great video. Well all you have to do is drive down hill to and from your destination. Then your regeneration would be great. I had to walk uphill to school both directions. hahaha

[@TheDisgruntledMechanic]

Me Too! both ways uphill! I do need to find a way go all downhill!

[@julie2244]

Very interesting. Cannot believe no homelink.

[@TheDisgruntledMechanic]

How about it? I was very disappointed with this.

[@josephcottone9613]

Wow! I'm surprised to hear your Prius gave you trouble. My 04 has 141k miles and I've literally done nothing but oil changes, tires and headlight bulbs. It is going to need brakes, spark plugs and some fluids changed so I'm considering trading it on a 1st gen Volt.

[@TheDisgruntledMechanic]

I may have just got a problematic one but as I say in the video, I was never so happy to get rid of a vehicle!

[@kens97sto171]

Have a friend with an 03 Prius. 275k, and it just lost the inverter/converter. $250 from a salvage yard.. we had it swapped in 30 min. Car still gets 42mpg average.

[@Em-yq2rf]

The 2017 is the Premier, right? Do you know if it's possible to add blind spot monitoring on the 2017 Volt LT? From reviews, I'm under the impression there is a larger than average blind spot while driving...

[@TheDisgruntledMechanic]

I really do not know if it can be added. That would be a programming add on.

[@3millly]

@@TheDisgruntledMechanic My sister has the 2013 and there's a hum when you roll the windows down. I assume it's the same with your 2011... is that issue fixed with the 2017??

[@kirivanyam6035]

Great comparisons between the 2Gens. As a 2013 owner I look forward for the FNR-X concept into a production model and sold here in the states, not just China.

[@TheDisgruntledMechanic]

Thank you.

[@billiehoffman4171]

subaru makes a rear view mirror with homelink I would assume you could buy it and intall it in your volt to get homelink in the 2017

[@TheDisgruntledMechanic]

I have a homelink unit from another GM vehicle and have seen a "hack" how to install it into my 2017 Volt but I did not want to have to cut stuff apart on the new vehicle just to have homelink.