2021 Chevrolet Bolt EV Has A Check Engine Light

Troubleshooting the Check Engine Light in Your 2021 Chevrolet Bolt EV: Common Causes and Solutions

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Reviewed by
Bo Fader
Written by RepairPal Car Genius
Updated January 14, 2025
0%
40% chance it's the
Emissions System
0%
60% chance it's
Something else
The most common reasons a 2021 Chevrolet Bolt EV has a check engine light are an emissions system component, a sensor, or a catalytic converter.
  • Emissions System: A faulty emissions system component, such as an oxygen sensor or EGR valve, can lead to increased emissions and trigger the check engine light.
Proper diagnosis will determine the exact cause of your symptom, saving you money on unnecessary repairs. The diagnostic experts at RepairPal Certified shops have the right tools and experience to solve any symptom.

How much does it cost to fix a 2021 Chevrolet Bolt EV has a check engine light?

Common Repairs

The total repair cost will vary based on the condition of your vehicle and the number of repairs needed to fix your symptom. Proper diagnosis will save you money by finding the exact repairs needed to fix your car right the first time.

Due to the nature of electrical systems on modern vehicles, the range of problems these can cause are nearly limitless. However, there is a way to categorize them in two ways. Permanent and intermittent problems. Permanent problems appear and remain. This may be the vehicle will not start, the radio does not work, or the door chime will not turn off among many, many others. These problems are more straight-forward to diagnose since they present themselves at all time. This means there will always be a fault to find. Intermittent electrical problems, however, can be difficult or impossible to locate, since they appear then disappear without warning. The best case scenario for an intermittent issue is when replicating the problem is easily accomplished and understood. This allows a technician to make an issue semi-permanent, allowing them to find the fault. Other issues that come and go without warning and cannot be replicated on demand must occur when the technician is servicing the vehicle, otherwise there is no problem to correct. It is most important to understand that electrical system faults always require inspection, and can include the vehicle working in any manner, or not working at all.

Like we noted in the last section, general diagnosis symptoms are the most vague of the bunch. There are several diagnostic spectrums, electrical diagnosis, drivability diagnostics, engine diagnostics, transmission diagnostics, and the list could continue for about 5 or 10 more spectrums of diagnostics. The most important take-away here, is that general diagnostics are diagnostics that have no other spectrum in which they fit, or the problem is unknown. This means that any vehicle left outside of a repair facility with the keys and an authorization to perform diagnosis will be diagnosed under the general diagnosis spectrum.

When the Check Engine Light comes on, you may experience engine performance issues such as poor acceleration, rough idling, or an engine that won't start. In some cases, no abnormal symptoms will be experienced. Other systems like the transmission or ABS can cause the Check Engine Light to illuminate and lights for those systems can come on at the same time. Similar lights may say "Check Engine Soon", "Malfunction Indicator Light" or just "Check". In rare case the engine can overheat.

What are the initial steps to diagnose the check engine light on a 2021 Chevrolet Bolt EV?

When faced with a check engine light on your 2021 Chevrolet Bolt EV, it's essential to adopt a systematic diagnostic approach. Start by visually inspecting the gas cap, as a loose or damaged cap is a common and easily fixable issue that can trigger the light. If the cap is secure, the next step is to utilize an OBD-II scanner, which connects to the vehicle's diagnostic port. This tool will provide you with specific error codes that indicate the underlying problem. Once you have the error code, research its meaning through the vehicle's manual or reputable online resources to gain insight into the issue at hand. Depending on the severity of the problem indicated by the code, you may be able to address it yourself or determine if professional assistance is necessary. By following this methodical approach, you can effectively diagnose the check engine light and take appropriate action to resolve any issues with your vehicle.

What are the common problems that could cause the check engine light to illuminate in a 2021 Chevrolet Bolt EV?

When the check engine light illuminates in a 2021 Chevrolet Bolt EV, it signals that there may be underlying issues that require attention. DIY enthusiasts should first consider the possibility of a loose gas cap, as this is a common and easily fixable problem. If the gas cap is secure, the next step is to investigate the oxygen sensor, which plays a critical role in monitoring exhaust emissions and can fail, leading to performance issues. Additionally, the catalytic converter may be at fault; if it becomes clogged or inefficient, it can significantly impact the vehicle's operation. Worn spark plugs are another frequent cause of the check engine light, as they can disrupt the ignition process. Furthermore, the mass airflow sensor, which measures the air entering the engine, can malfunction and affect performance. Lastly, faulty ignition coils can prevent the engine from firing correctly, triggering the warning light. While some of these issues can be diagnosed and potentially resolved at home, it is essential to seek the expertise of a qualified mechanic for a comprehensive inspection to avoid further complications and ensure the vehicle runs optimally.

How urgent is it to address the check engine light in a 2021 Chevrolet Bolt EV?

When the check engine light illuminates in your 2021 Chevrolet Bolt EV, it is essential to recognize the urgency of the situation. This warning light is not just a minor inconvenience; it indicates potential issues with your vehicle's engine or emissions system that could escalate if left unaddressed. Ignoring the check engine light can lead to more severe problems, including costly repairs and decreased vehicle performance. Moreover, continuing to drive with this warning active may compromise your vehicle's fuel efficiency and could even pose safety risks on the road. To safeguard your investment and ensure optimal performance, it is advisable to diagnose the issue as soon as possible, either through an OBD-II scanner for a DIY approach or by consulting a qualified mechanic. Taking prompt action not only helps prevent further damage but also enhances your driving experience, making it a crucial step for any responsible vehicle owner.

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