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2013 Chevrolet Volt Overview, Reviews, Ratings & Specs

Rating: 4.55
Based on 100 Owner Reviews â–¶
Drew B | March 31, 2025
The 2013 Chevrolet Volt is a plug-in hybrid hatchback, part of the first generation introduced in late 2010. It uniquely combined an electric drivetrain with a gasoline range extender. Key trims included the base model. New, it ranged from around $39,000. Its popularity stemmed from its ability to drive gas-free for a significant range before engaging the gasoline engine, offering an appealing blend of electric driving and long-distance capability.
The Good

The 2013 Volt offers a smooth and quiet electric driving experience appealing to those seeking refinement. Its efficiency is outstanding for daily commutes. It's surprisingly reliable, and offers a unique design. The comfort level is good for a compact car. For practical buyers, it lowers fuel costs and reduces emissions, providing a sense of environmental responsibility, while emotional buyers enjoy the technology and innovative design.

The Bad

The 2013 Volt's rear seating is limited, only accommodating two passengers comfortably. Its gasoline engine can be noisy when it kicks in. Watch out for battery degradation over time, which can reduce electric range. Some owners have reported issues with the charging system and occasionally the electronic systems. Maintenance can be more specialized and potentially costly compared to a traditional gasoline car.

2013 Chevrolet Volt: Quick Overview

  • Engine Options: 1.4L inline-4 gasoline range extender paired with an electric motor.
  • Horsepower: 149 hp combined (electric motor and gasoline engine).
  • Fuel Economy:
    • Electric Only: Approximately 38 miles of range.
    • Gasoline Engine: 37 MPG combined (EPA estimate).
    • MPG Equivalent (MPGe): 98 MPGe combined.
  • 0-60 Times: Approximately 9.0 seconds.
  • Towing Capacity: Not recommended or rated for towing.
  • Trim-Level Features:
    • Base Model:
      • 7-inch touchscreen display
      • Chevrolet MyLink infotainment system
      • Bluetooth connectivity
      • Satellite radio
      • Automatic climate control
      • Keyless entry
      • Power windows and locks
      • Regenerative braking system
      • Heated front seats
      • Leather-wrapped steering wheel
    • Optional Features (may vary by availability):
      • Navigation system
      • Bose premium audio system
      • Leather upholstery
      • Heated steering wheel
      • Rearview camera
      • Parking sensors
      • Automatic park assist

2013 Chevrolet Volt Specifications

Vehicle Information
Year 2013
Make Chevrolet
Model Volt
Trim -
Style Front-Wheel Drive
Type Sedan
Category Compact Car
Manufacturing Details
Made In United States
Manufacturing City ORION
Dimensions
Doors 4-Door
Curb Weight 1715.03 kg
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating 2078.81 kg
Overall Height 143.87 cm
Overall Length 449.83 cm
Overall Width 178.82 cm
Wheelbase Length 268.48 cm
Standard Seating 4
Engine & Performance
Engine 1.4-L i4 Hybrid
Engine Size 1.4L
Engine Cylinders 4
Transmission Automatic
Transmission Type Automatic
Transmission Speeds 1-Speed
Drivetrain Front-Wheel Drive
Additional Features
Anti-Brake System 4-Wheel ABS
Steering Type Electric Power
Pricing
Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) $39,145 USD
Invoice Price $37,579 USD
Delivery Charges $850 USD

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What Problems Does the 2013 Chevrolet Volt Have?

Frequently reported problems for the 2013 Chevrolet Volt often revolve around the electric charging system. Some owners have experienced issues with the car failing to charge or experiencing intermittent charging problems. Another common area of concern is related to the car's electronics, including the infotainment system freezing or malfunctioning.

There have been recalls for the 2013 Volt, often concerning the battery system. It is crucial to check the recall history with the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) using the VIN of the specific vehicle you're considering to see if any recalls are outstanding. Long-term reliability concerns center around the high-voltage battery pack. Battery degradation is inevitable over time, leading to reduced electric range.

While not necessarily a frequent problem, some owners have reported issues with the climate control system, particularly with the heater not functioning correctly. Over the long term, expect potential repair costs associated with the specialized hybrid components. Regular maintenance and adherence to the recommended service schedule are essential to mitigate these potential problems.

How long will the 2013 Chevrolet Volt last?

Based on owner data and responsible maintenance, a 2013 Chevrolet Volt can reasonably provide 150,000 to 200,000 miles or 10-15 years of service. Long-term durability hinges on battery health and proper maintenance of the hybrid components. Weaknesses tend to emerge around the battery, potentially requiring replacement after a decade or more of use, a significant expense. The gasoline engine, if used sparingly, should last a long time, but deferred maintenance on any system will reduce its lifespan. Careful owners can extend the life considerably.
Positive Owner Reviews
Charlie
I am amazed with this car. I am a factory Master Certified Technician. I use the car for work and around town with a trip once in a while. I get 75-90 mpg most of the time. I just bought some gas after driving it 2 1/2 months. It took 3 gallons only because I run the gas motor for 1 mile to help it warm up then switch to full electric. The hold feature works great. I drive in low range with sport mode and it’s a fun reliable car that is very cheap to operate. What more could you ask for right?
PjkPA
I bought my 2013 Volt 10 yrs ago and it has been the best car I’ve owned in 50 yrs of buying cars. I loved my V8s but this Chevy Volt electric performance is better than any of them … smooth .. quick response .. quiet … and no annoying shifting. I still can’t believe the mis information about the Volt that still goes on today about the Volt… even in this article it is listed as having 149 HP which is way wrong…. It has 223 HP! … the second gen Volts even have more HP and torque and weight 300 Lbs less and are even faster! No shifting no tranny… I do full throttle accelerations every day … it’s still too much fun to blow away ‘high end sports cars’ that cost many times more … After 10 yrs the battery is still over 80% and I’m still getting 40 miles on a charge… You will not find this in any other 10 yr old electric. If it wasn’t for ‘global’ unfair trade I believe GM would still be making the Volt. The Volt cost $80,000 in Japan, China, Korea, UK etc.
Leilani
I love my 2013 Volt. She has been the most trouble free car I have ever owned and she just turned over 100,000 miles. I have owned her since December 2015 and never had a problem.
Negative Owner Reviews
Diodeek
Perfect car for commuter less than 30 miles one way. Take 91 oct or higher only and 35 mpg highway if battery is out.
Hilal
Some people are having positive feed on the 2013 Chevy Volt. Take it from me the truth about this car. I have been leasing vehicle every two years for the past twenty two years and this is the worst night mare I have ever leased and stuck with. Had the car for Six month and taken to the dealer six times, once a month. Problems started with the charge hold, first two month it was holding 40miles a charge and dropped to 34miles. When the cold weather hit, it dropped to 22miles a charge and under. The charging door issue, wont open most of the time, so using gas again, serviced twice for that. Braking system very dangers unsure how it past the government testing. On sipper surface this vehicle will slide and wont stop, anti lock system kicks on about two second after it needed it to and still slide. Blind spots all over the vehicle. heating system take a long time to heat the car. Windows always fogging up unless the deforest is on full fan speed. Wiper blade design is horrible. There is a lot more to list but those the most important for to me. If you live in a cold or snow stated the car is not for you. I think Chevy made a big mistake.

What Technology & Safety Features are Included?

The 2013 Chevrolet Volt comes standard with a 7-inch touchscreen display, Chevrolet MyLink infotainment system, Bluetooth connectivity, satellite radio, and automatic climate control. Optional tech features included a navigation system and a Bose premium audio system.

Driver-assistance features were limited in the base model but optional features included a rearview camera, parking sensors, and automatic park assist. Safety features include standard antilock brakes, stability control, front and rear side airbags, and knee airbags for the driver and front passenger.

The 2013 Volt received excellent crash-test ratings from both the NHTSA and the IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety). NHTSA awarded it a 5-star overall safety rating. The IIHS named it a Top Safety Pick. The regenerative braking system contributes to efficient driving and helps extend brake life. The vehicle lacks modern advanced driver-assistance systems like adaptive cruise control or lane departure warning, which were not commonly available at that time.

What Colors Options are Available?

Exterior Colors
Black
White Diamond Tricoat
Silver Ice Metallic
Ashen Gray Metallic
Crystal Red Tintcoat
Blue Topaz Metallic
Summit White
Interior Colors
Jet Black / Dark Accents
Light Neutral / Dark Accents

2013 Chevrolet Volt Prices and Market Value

When new, the 2013 Chevrolet Volt had an MSRP starting around $39,000. Current used market prices typically range from $8,000 to $15,000, depending on condition, mileage, and location. The Volt experienced significant depreciation, typical of plug-in hybrids. Factors affecting resale value include battery health (remaining range), overall condition, mileage, and whether any recalls have been addressed. Vehicles with low mileage and well-maintained batteries command higher prices. The availability of newer electric vehicles has also impacted the Volt's resale value.

2013 Chevrolet Volt Cost of Ownership

Insurance costs for the 2013 Volt are generally average compared to other compact cars. Fuel costs are significantly lower than traditional gasoline vehicles, especially with frequent charging. Maintenance can be more specialized and potentially costly, especially regarding the hybrid components and battery. Repair costs can be higher for the Volt due to the complexity of the hybrid system. Overall, while fuel costs are lower, potential maintenance and repair expenses can make long-term ownership moderately costly.

2013 Chevrolet Volt Fuel Efficiency

Fuel Type Hybrid
Fuel Capacity 35.2 liters
City Mileage 14.88 km/l
Highway Mileage 17.01 km/l

2013 Chevrolet Volt Safety Rating

IIHS
Roof Strength Test Results Good
Rear Crash Protection/Head Restraint Ratings Good
Moderate Overlap Front Test Results Good
Side Impact Test Results Good

2013 Chevrolet Volt Recalls & Defects

Engine and Engine Cooling:engine:gasoline
Recall date 2015-03-13
Recall no. 15v145000
Source NHTSA
Summary General Motors LLC (Gm) IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2011-2013 Volt Vehicles Manufactured August 25, 2010, TO June 26, 2013. IF THE Driver Exits THE Vehicle Without Turning OFF THE Electrical System, THE Battery MAY Drain Low Enough That THE Gasoline Engine Will Automatically Start Itself TO Recharge THE Electric Battery.
Consequence IF THE Engine Runs FOR AN Extended Period OF Time IN AN Enclosed Space, There MAY BE A Build UP OF Carbon Monoxide, Increasing THE Risk OF Personal Injury.
Remedy GM Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Update THE Engine Management Software TO Limit THE Time That THE Stationary Vehicle CAN BE Left IN THE ON Position, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began April 15, 2015. Owners MAY Contact Chevrolet Customer Service AT 1-800-222-1020. Gm's Number FOR This Recall IS 14617.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Electrical System:ignition
Recall date 2015-03-13
Recall no. 15v145000
Source NHTSA
Summary General Motors LLC (Gm) IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2011-2013 Volt Vehicles Manufactured August 25, 2010, TO June 26, 2013. IF THE Driver Exits THE Vehicle Without Turning OFF THE Electrical System, THE Battery MAY Drain Low Enough That THE Gasoline Engine Will Automatically Start Itself TO Recharge THE Electric Battery.
Consequence IF THE Engine Runs FOR AN Extended Period OF Time IN AN Enclosed Space, There MAY BE A Build UP OF Carbon Monoxide, Increasing THE Risk OF Personal Injury.
Remedy GM Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Update THE Engine Management Software TO Limit THE Time That THE Stationary Vehicle CAN BE Left IN THE ON Position, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began April 15, 2015. Owners MAY Contact Chevrolet Customer Service AT 1-800-222-1020. Gm's Number FOR This Recall IS 14617.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Hybrid Propulsion System
Recall date 2018-06-14
Recall no. 18v397000
Source NHTSA
Summary General Motors LLC (Gm) IS Recalling Certain 2013 Chevrolet Volt Vehicles. AN Update TO THE Hybrid Powertrain Control Module 2 (Hpcm2) MAY Have Disabled THE Cell Balancing Function Causing A Low-Voltage Condition.
Consequence IF THE Voltage Drops, THE Vehicle MAY Lose Propulsion, Increasing THE Risk OF Crash.
Remedy GM Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Reprogram THE Hpcm2, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began July 24, 2018. Owners MAY Contact Chevrolet Customer Service AT 1-800-222-1020. Gm's Number FOR This Recall IS 18215.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
AIR Bags:frontal:driver Side:inflator Module
Recall date 2023-07-27
Recall no. 23v516000
Source NHTSA
Summary General Motors, LLC (Gm) IS Recalling Certain 2013 Buick Verano, Chevrolet Camero, Sonic, and Volt Vehicles. THE Driver-Side AIR BAG Inflator MAY Explode During Deployment DUE TO A Manufacturing Defect.
Consequence AN Inflator Explosion MAY Result IN Sharp Metal Fragments Striking THE Driver or Other Occupants, Resulting IN Serious Injury or Death.
Remedy Dealers Will Replace THE Driver-Side AIR BAG Module, Free OF Charge. ON Some 2013 Volt Vehicles, THE Steering Wheel Will BE Replaced AS Well, Free OF Charge. Owner Notification Letters Were Mailed October 23, 2023. Owners MAY Contact Buick Customer Service AT 1-800-521-7300 and Chevrolet Customer Service AT 1-800-222-1020. Gm's Number FOR This Recall IS N232413120.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.nhtsa.gov.

2013 Chevrolet Volt Warranty

Basic
Original warranty 0 months / No data
Estimated remaining Expired
Powertrain
Original warranty 0 months / No data
Estimated remaining Expired
Rust
Original warranty 0 months / No data
Estimated remaining Expired

2013 Chevrolet Volt Insurance

Insurance for a 2013 Chevrolet Volt is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Sedan with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.

How Does the 2013 Chevrolet Volt Compare to Other Sedan?

Key rivals to the 2013 Chevrolet Volt included the Toyota Prius Plug-in and the Ford C-Max Energi. The Volt offered a longer electric range than the Prius Plug-in, a key advantage. The C-Max Energi offered similar electric range but lacked the Volt's distinctive design.

In terms of reliability, the Prius generally has a stronger reputation, though the Volt is reasonably reliable. The Volt's performance is adequate, but it's not a sporty car. The Prius Plug-in prioritizes fuel economy over performance. Feature-wise, they were all fairly comparable for their time.

Price-wise, the Volt was initially more expensive than both the Prius Plug-in and the C-Max Energi. Today, on the used market, the price difference is less significant.

Alternatives to consider include newer plug-in hybrids or all-electric vehicles that offer longer range and updated technology, if budget allows. Depending on priorities, the Prius Plug-in offers better-known reliability or the Nissan Leaf provides a fully electric experience.

Ranks #1080 Sedan

1 2023 Toyota Camry (5.0★)
2 2023 Honda Accord (0.0★)
3 2023 Lexus ES (0.0★)
4 2024 Subaru Legacy (5.0★)
5 2022 Mazda MX-30 (4.0★)
6 2024 BMW M3 (0.0★)
7 2023 Ford Mustang (5.0★)
8 2023 Mercedes-Benz AMG GT (0.0★)
9 2023 Audi A3 (0.0★)
10 2023 Chevrolet Camaro (5.0★)
11 2023 Hyundai Elantra Hybrid (0.0★)
12 2023 Nissan Altima (4.0★)
1080 2013 Chevrolet Volt (5.0★)

Final Verdict: Is the 2013 Chevrolet Volt a Good Sedan?

The 2013 Chevrolet Volt is ideal for environmentally conscious commuters seeking to minimize fuel consumption. It's worth buying as a used vehicle if you prioritize electric driving for short trips and appreciate its unique approach. It's best suited for individuals or couples, given its limited rear seating. Condition is paramount; a thorough inspection of the battery's health is essential. A well-maintained example with documented service history is preferable. For those primarily driving long distances, other hybrid options might be more suitable, but the Volt is a compelling choice for its specific niche.

2013 Chevrolet Volt Owner Reviews

4.55
Overall rating
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Nash on December 9, 2023

It was the best car on the market

This Is the best car I have ever owned. If it had a 200 mile battery it would be outstanding and it has a back up gas engine when you run out of energy. Bring it back

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Tom Turner on April 9, 2023

Love the car but at 82 it is shed to enter

I’ve had the car 5 years and have averaged 140 mpg. It now has 80,000 miles on it I gotte car when it had just over 50,000. One time in the shop for the update.

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Charlie on January 2, 2023

Great Reliable Car

I am amazed with this car. I am a factory Master Certified Technician. I use the car for work and around town with a trip once in a while. I get 75-90 mpg most of the time. I just bought some gas after driving it 2 1/2 months. It took 3 gallons only because I run the gas motor for 1 mile to help it warm up then switch to full electric. The hold feature works great. I drive in low range with sport mode and it’s a fun reliable car that is very cheap to operate. What more could you ask for right?

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PjkPA on May 3, 2022

Still the best engineered car on the road.

I bought my 2013 Volt 10 yrs ago and it has been the best car I’ve owned in 50 yrs of buying cars. I loved my V8s but this Chevy Volt electric performance is better than any of them … smooth .. quick response .. quiet … and no annoying shifting. I still can’t believe the mis information about the Volt that still goes on today about the Volt… even in this article it is listed as having 149 HP which is way wrong…. It has 223 HP! … the second gen Volts even have more HP and torque and weight 300 Lbs less and are even faster! No shifting no tranny… I do full throttle accelerations every day … it’s still too much fun to blow away ‘high end sports cars’ that cost many times more … After 10 yrs the battery is still over 80% and I’m still getting 40 miles on a charge… You will not find this in any other 10 yr old electric. If it wasn’t for ‘global’ unfair trade I believe GM would still be making the Volt. The Volt cost $80,000 in Japan, China, Korea, UK etc.

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Leilani on March 30, 2022

2013 Volt

I love my 2013 Volt. She has been the most trouble free car I have ever owned and she just turned over 100,000 miles. I have owned her since December 2015 and never had a problem.

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Wyolincoln on March 26, 2021

Possibly the best car I have ever owned.

While the Volt is unique and admittedly not for everyone, I believe GM thoroughly mismanaged the sale and marketing of this vehicle. This and the ELR, which is a lesson in corporate greed.) I now have 93k miles on my 2013 Volt and 65000 of those are electric miles. My cost is roughly $20 per 1000 miles on electric. The tech, the ride, the reliability and general lack of maintenance costs is unparalleled. I've owned well over 40 vehicles in my life and the Volt is probably the most practical and easily the most efficient vehicle I have ever owned. My only complaint is paint quality. My Volt is black, I live in Florida and it's parked outside. In the sun. Every day. The paint fade on the horizontal flat surfaces was so bad, I had the hood, roof, and spoiler wrapped. Other than that, great car.

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Nancy on February 17, 2021

Love this car!

I bought my Volt in 2016 and have saved so much money in gasoline. My electric mile range is between 35-40 miles. Most of my daily driving is under 40 miles so I fill my 9 gallon gas tank every 2-3 months! The car is comfortable and roomy for me, although feels a little crowded for my son. It feels solidly built and I have had no major issues in the 5 years I've owned it. I have taken it to Arizona & California a few times without the plug in attachment and it was not a problem. I'll consider getting a 2019 version if I can find one next year.

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Poeticlibra on September 9, 2020

Sporty, Reliable, "Feel-Good" Transportation

I purchased this vehicle with the premium trim and enhanced safety packages. It's been extremely reliable over the past 7 years and very comfortable to drive. I did have a problem with a Voltec component this year but it was still under warranty so the associated repairs were minimal (non-covered components also needed repair). It's a sportier ride, lower to the ground, less ideal for extremely heavy snow but it handles well nonetheless, it just won't power through the muck very well when the snow plow leaves a 2'-3' mound at the end of the driveway... Overall it's been a great value and even with extended trips requiring gas-only driving, over the lifetime of the vehicle I've still maintained an average mpg over 150! Who CAN"T feel good about that?

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TSpice on July 18, 2020

Love this car. Selling to move up to a Tesla

Have to say, I was not a big fan of Chevrolet products in the past. This car has been wonderful for me. Uses almost no gas as my work is only 12 miles away. Charges using the solar from my solar panels. Really nice not to pay for gas except on long trips. Car has been very reliable and at 104,000 miles it still runs as well as when I purchased it. Would sell this car to my mother and feel comfortable that she was getting a great car.

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KONG on May 24, 2020

Awesome for daily round trips under 60 miles!

I drove this car daily to and from work which is about 60 miles round trip. I only have to load 7 gallons of gas on this vehicle once every 3 weeks.

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Drew B

Drew is a seasoned automotive expert and contributor to VinCheck.info. With nearly 15 years of experience as a former Porsche technician, he brings a wealth of hands-on knowledge to his writing. Born in North Carolina, a region renowned for its deep-rooted NASCAR culture, Drew developed a passion for cars early in life, often building and working on vehicles from a young age. At VINCheck, Drew leverages his extensive technical background to provide in-depth analyses of various vehicles. His articles often focus on engine performance, reliability, and maintenance insights, offering readers practical information grounded in real-world experience. Some of his notable contributions include reviews on the Mazda CX-5's longevity and detailed examinations of engine options for models like the 2011 Toyota Camry and Tacoma