Chevy Bolt Owners Must Choose Between Rebates and Battery Defect Lawsuits

Chevy offered rebates to Bolt EV owners who purchased their cars just before a 2023 model price drop, but that rebate comes with a big catch. Jalopnik and Autoblog note that the rebate request requires drivers to "forever waive and release" their right to sue GM or LG for the battery defect reported by the Bolt. . In other words, you will have to be content with the savings even if the car has suffered serious damage. GM has confirmed the wording of the agreement with Engadget.

GM first recalled the Bolt in November 2020 after reports of battery fires between 2017 and 2019. The automaker attempted to address the issue with a software update in April 2021, but two fires later and a second recall led NHTSA to warn against indoor parking. This triggered a recall in July 2021 where GM replaced the batteries. The brand eventually recalled all manufactured Bolts, promised an additional $1 billion for battery replacements, and offered an eight-year or 100,000-mile warranty on replacement batteries.

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

As Jalopnik explained, this isn't the first time GM has used legal agreements to protect its reputation. Cadillac Lyriq buyers have been offered a $5,500 rebate if they agree not to talk about issues with the electric SUV, and buyers of premium cars like the Hummer EV void their warranties if they return their vehicles in the year. However, this last decision could easily be the most concerning: the discount amounts to a legal settlement rather than a kind offer.

Editor's Note: This article originally appeared on Engadget.