Chevrolet is one of the largest and most prominent car manufacturers worldwide, selling about 3.2 million cars and trucks throughout 79 countries in a single recent year. While Chevrolet—or Chevy—remains one of the world’s most recognizable brands, electrical problems are far from uncommon in Chevrolet vehicles, making up about 11% of consumer complaints against Chevy manufacturers. The Long Beach Lemon lawyers at Young & Young APC can answer all your California Lemon Law questions
The Growing Importance of Electrical Systems in Chevrolet Vehicles
Today’s cars still rely primarily upon mechanical parts and systems, but as technology increases, so do electrical components and systems in Chevrolet vehicles. The function of today’s cars and trucks depends on a complex combination of electronics and mechanical parts working seamlessly together. When a Chevy’s electrical system is faulty, defective, or develops problems, the vehicle quickly stops functioning correctly. Even worse, electrical problems are often more difficult to diagnose and repair than mechanical ones, causing frustration in car owners who find themselves with a defective car or truck that spends more time in a Chevy dealership repair shop than on the road.
Common Electrical Problems Reported by Chevrolet Owners
Many Chevy owners report a wide range of electrical issues ranging from infotainment system problems and difficulty starting the engine to unsettling collision prevention system defects. Some of the most common electrical problems in Chevrolets are described below.
Alternator Problems
A car’s alternator is the key to powering its entire electrical system. The alternator converts the car’s mechanical energy into electricity to power all of the vehicle’s electrical components. A faulty alternator manifests with electrical failures throughout the vehicle, eventually causing the lack of power to ignite spark plugs, resulting in an engine that fails to function.
Reduced Engine Power
Chevy’s electronic throttle control and accelerator pedal sensor have defects that commonly generate the warning message: “Engine Power Is Reduced” on the dashboard, followed by a sudden loss of power. This problem is particularly common in Chevy Malibu and Cruze.
Chevy Bolt EV Fires
Chevy placed a temporary limit on the Bolt electric vehicle, lowering the battery capacity to 90% to stop defective battery cells from sparking and igniting dangerous battery fires. Updates may be able to correct this problem, but the results appear uncertain.
Engine Stalls From Fuse Block Connections
Some Chevy models have experienced defects in their fuse block connections causing the warning lights to flicker or flash on and off on the dashboard, sometimes followed by engine stalls.
Passlock Security Problems
Chevy’s “Passlock” security feature prevents thieves from stealing cars by blocking the engine from starting unless the device’s special key or token is present. Unfortunately, problems with the Passlock security system are also preventing car owners from starting their cars even when they have the right key.
Acceleration Delays
Many Chevy owners report lagging acceleration due to a delayed response in Chevy’s drive-by-wire electric throttle system. The slowed acceleration is more than frustrating, it can also leave motorists in dangerous traffic situations.
What Can I Do If My Chevrolet Has Unrepairable Electrical Problems?
In addition to the above commonly occurring electrical problems noted in Chevy vehicles, Chevy owners report flickering lights, security light malfunctions, blown fuses, unusual noises when starting the engine, and problems with electrical accessories. When a Chevrolet owner continues to experience recurring electrical problems despite repeated failed repair attempts, it reduces the car’s value, usefulness, and safety, often qualifying the car owner for a California Lemon Law claim. A successful Lemon Law claim against the manufacturer results in a reimbursement of the car’s purchase price or a replacement vehicle of equal value. Our experienced Orange County Lemon Law attorneys are here to help. Contact us today.
