Welcome to the 2017 Chevrolet Volt Electric Vehicle Owners Manual! This comprehensive guide details operation, safety, and maintenance for your innovative vehicle.
This manual, available as a PDF, provides essential information for all 2017 Volt owners, ensuring a safe and enjoyable driving experience with this electric vehicle.
Overview of the 2017 Volt
The 2017 Chevrolet Volt represents a significant evolution in electric vehicle technology, building upon the foundation laid by its predecessor. This model year boasts an improved all-electric range, now capable of traveling up to 53 miles on a full charge, making it ideal for daily commutes and shorter trips. Beyond its electric capabilities, the Volt features a gasoline engine that extends its total range to over 420 miles, eliminating range anxiety for longer journeys;
As detailed within this owner’s manual, the 2017 Volt is a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV), meaning it can be powered by electricity from an external source, gasoline, or a combination of both. Understanding this dual-power system is crucial for maximizing efficiency and enjoying the benefits of both electric and gasoline propulsion. This manual serves as your guide to unlocking the full potential of your Volt, covering everything from charging procedures to driving modes and safety features. It’s a vital resource for all 2017 Volt owners.
Target Audience for this Manual
This 2017 Chevrolet Volt Electric Vehicle Owners Manual is specifically designed for all individuals who own or operate a 2017 Volt. Whether you are a first-time electric vehicle owner or experienced with hybrid technology, this guide provides essential information to ensure safe and efficient vehicle operation. It’s intended for drivers, passengers, and anyone responsible for the vehicle’s maintenance and care.
The manual caters to a broad range of technical understanding, presenting complex systems in a clear and accessible manner. It assumes no prior knowledge of electric vehicle technology, starting with fundamental concepts and progressing to more advanced features. Furthermore, this resource is valuable for service technicians performing maintenance or repairs on the 2017 Volt, offering detailed specifications and procedures. Ultimately, this manual aims to empower every user with the knowledge needed to fully enjoy their Volt experience.
Vehicle Components & Features
Explore the 2017 Volt’s innovative design! This section details exterior elements, interior comforts, and key features, enhancing your understanding of the vehicle.
Exterior Features
The 2017 Chevrolet Volt boasts a sleek and aerodynamic exterior design, carefully crafted to maximize efficiency and style. Familiarize yourself with the various components that contribute to its distinctive appearance and functionality. This includes a detailed look at the vehicle’s lighting system, encompassing headlights, taillights, and integrated turn signals, all designed for optimal visibility and safety.
Understanding the operation of these lights is crucial for both daytime and nighttime driving. Furthermore, this section will cover the exterior mirrors, including their adjustment capabilities, and the operation of the power windows. Proper adjustment of mirrors is vital for maintaining awareness of your surroundings, while the power windows offer convenient control over cabin ventilation. Attention to these exterior features will enhance your overall driving experience and ensure safe operation of your 2017 Volt.
Lights and Signals
The 2017 Chevy Volt’s lighting system is designed for optimal visibility and safety. Headlights offer various settings, including low beams, high beams, and automatic operation, adjusting to ambient light conditions. Daytime Running Lights (DRL) enhance visibility during daylight hours, while fog lights improve sight in adverse weather.
Turn signals clearly indicate your intended direction, and hazard lights alert other drivers to potential issues. The exterior lights also include parking lights and brake lights, all crucial for safe operation. Familiarize yourself with the controls for each light, located on the steering column and dashboard. Understanding these controls ensures you can effectively communicate your intentions to other road users, contributing to a safer driving environment. Proper use of signals is paramount for preventing accidents and maintaining traffic flow.
Mirrors and Windows
The 2017 Chevy Volt features adjustable exterior mirrors, allowing for optimal visibility of surrounding traffic. These mirrors can be adjusted manually or, in some trims, electronically for precise positioning. Power windows provide convenient control over cabin ventilation and comfort. Locate the window controls on the driver’s door panel, with a master switch controlling all windows.
Proper mirror adjustment is crucial for minimizing blind spots and maximizing awareness of your vehicle’s surroundings. Regularly check and adjust mirrors before driving. Ensure windows operate smoothly and are free from obstructions. Understanding the operation of these features enhances safety and convenience during your driving experience. Maintaining clear visibility through mirrors and windows is essential for responsible driving and accident prevention.
Interior Features
The 2017 Chevy Volt’s interior is designed for comfort and functionality. It boasts thoughtfully arranged controls and a spacious cabin. Key interior elements include adjustable seats, a user-friendly dashboard, and an advanced infotainment system; The seats are designed to provide support during longer journeys, with options for manual or power adjustments depending on the trim level.
The dashboard layout prioritizes ease of use, placing essential information within clear view of the driver. The infotainment system serves as the central hub for navigation, audio, and vehicle settings; Familiarize yourself with the location of all controls to ensure safe operation while driving. The interior aims to create a pleasant and connected driving experience for both driver and passengers.
Seats and Adjustments
The 2017 Chevy Volt offers comfortable and adjustable seating for up to five passengers. Front seats typically feature manual or power adjustments, allowing drivers and passengers to find their optimal driving position. Manual adjustments include fore/aft positioning, seatback angle, and height adjustment. Power seats offer these features with the convenience of electric controls, often including lumbar support adjustments.
Proper seat adjustment is crucial for safety and comfort. Ensure you can comfortably reach the pedals and steering wheel while maintaining a clear view of the road. Headrests should be adjusted to support the back of your head, minimizing whiplash risk. Familiarize yourself with the seat adjustment controls to personalize your driving experience and prioritize safety during every journey.
Dashboard and Controls
The 2017 Chevy Volt’s dashboard is designed for intuitive operation and clear information display. Key controls include the climate control system, managing temperature and airflow within the cabin. The steering wheel houses controls for audio, phone, and cruise control, allowing convenient access without diverting attention from the road.
The instrument cluster provides vital vehicle data, such as speed, battery charge level, and driving mode. Familiarize yourself with warning lights and indicators to promptly address any potential issues. The central infotainment screen controls many vehicle functions, including navigation, audio, and vehicle settings. Understanding the layout and functionality of these controls enhances the driving experience and ensures safe operation of the Volt.
Infotainment System
The 2017 Chevy Volt features a sophisticated infotainment system, centered around an 8-inch touchscreen display. This system provides access to navigation, audio entertainment, smartphone integration via Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and vehicle settings. Users can customize the home screen to prioritize frequently used features for quick access.
The system also supports voice commands, allowing hands-free control of various functions; Bluetooth connectivity enables wireless audio streaming and phone calls. The Volt’s infotainment system offers OnStar services, providing emergency assistance, remote diagnostics, and vehicle tracking. Regularly updating the system software ensures optimal performance and access to the latest features. Explore the system’s menus to fully utilize its capabilities and enhance your driving experience.
Charging the 2017 Volt
Charging your 2017 Chevy Volt is simple and convenient, offering flexibility through various options. The Volt utilizes a 120-volt Level 1 charge cord for standard household outlets, providing approximately 4 miles of range per hour of charging. For faster charging, a 240-volt Level 2 charger is recommended, adding around 25 miles of range per hour;
The vehicle features different charging ports to accommodate these options. Public charging stations, such as those offered by ChargePoint and EVgo, provide convenient charging while on the go. Utilize the myChevrolet mobile app to locate nearby charging stations and monitor charging progress. Understanding charging times and options is crucial for maximizing the Volt’s electric range and minimizing fuel consumption.
Charging Ports and Cables
The 2017 Chevy Volt utilizes two primary charging ports: a 120V port for standard household outlets and a 240V port for Level 2 charging. The included 120V charge cord is portable and connects directly to a standard wall outlet. For faster charging, a dedicated 240V charging station and accompanying cable are required – these are sold separately.
The charging port is located on the driver’s side, near the front wheel well. Ensure the port is clean and free of debris before connecting any cable. Always inspect the charging cable for damage before each use. Proper cable connection is vital for safe and efficient charging. Refer to the vehicle’s infotainment system for charging status updates and estimated charge times.
Home Charging Options
For convenient overnight charging, the 2017 Chevy Volt offers several home charging solutions. Utilizing a standard 120V outlet with the supplied charge cord provides a full charge overnight, adding approximately 4 miles of range per hour. However, for significantly faster charging, a dedicated 240V charging station is recommended.
Installing a 240V station requires professional electrical work and can substantially reduce charging times – typically adding 25 miles of range per hour. Several brands offer compatible charging stations, and rebates may be available depending on your location. Consider your daily driving needs and budget when selecting a home charging option. Always consult a qualified electrician for installation and ensure compliance with local electrical codes.
Public Charging Stations
Expanding your range, the 2017 Chevy Volt is compatible with a growing network of public charging stations. These stations offer various charging levels, from Level 2 (240V) to DC Fast Charging. Level 2 chargers add approximately 25 miles of range per hour, while DC Fast Charging can provide a significant charge in under 30 minutes, depending on the station’s output and the Volt’s battery state.
Locating public stations is easy using the myChevrolet mobile app or online charging station directories. These resources display station locations, availability, and charging costs. Remember to check for compatibility and membership requirements before using a particular network. Public charging provides flexibility for longer trips and convenient charging when a home station isn’t available.
Driving the 2017 Volt
Experience efficient and versatile driving! This section details the 2017 Volt’s unique drive modes, regenerative braking, and maximizing your electric range for optimal performance.
Understanding Drive Modes
The 2017 Chevy Volt offers several drive modes designed to optimize your driving experience based on your needs and preferences. Normal Mode is the default setting, providing a balance between electric and gasoline power for everyday driving conditions, prioritizing efficiency.
Sport Mode enhances throttle response and provides a more engaging driving feel, utilizing both electric and gasoline power for increased acceleration. This mode is ideal when you desire a more dynamic performance.
Hold Mode allows you to preserve the remaining electric charge for later use, switching to gasoline power to maintain the battery’s state of charge. This is particularly useful when anticipating areas with limited charging infrastructure or desiring electric-only operation for a specific segment of your journey. Understanding these modes allows you to tailor the Volt’s performance to your specific driving situation, maximizing efficiency and enjoyment.
Normal Mode
Normal Mode is the 2017 Chevy Volt’s default drive mode, engineered for a balanced and efficient driving experience in typical daily conditions. In this mode, the Volt intelligently blends electric power with gasoline engine operation to maximize fuel economy and minimize emissions.
The vehicle will primarily operate on electric power when sufficient charge is available, seamlessly transitioning to gasoline power when the battery is depleted or requires additional support during demanding driving situations like acceleration or uphill climbs.
Normal Mode prioritizes a smooth and comfortable ride, offering a responsive yet relaxed driving feel. It’s the ideal setting for commuting, errands, and general everyday use, providing a harmonious blend of electric efficiency and gasoline range, ensuring a worry-free driving experience.
Sport Mode
Sport Mode in the 2017 Chevy Volt dramatically alters the driving experience, prioritizing performance and responsiveness. Activating Sport Mode sharpens throttle response, providing quicker acceleration and a more engaging driving feel. The electric motor delivers maximum power output, and the gasoline engine assists more readily, even with ample battery charge remaining.
This mode also adjusts the steering feel, offering increased weight and precision for enhanced control during spirited driving. While Sport Mode maximizes performance, it’s important to note that it will reduce overall fuel efficiency as the engine operates more frequently and aggressively.
Use Sport Mode when you desire a more dynamic driving experience, such as merging onto highways or navigating winding roads, understanding that it comes at the cost of increased energy consumption.
Hold Mode
Hold Mode in the 2017 Chevy Volt is designed to preserve the remaining battery charge for later use, typically for driving in an area with limited charging infrastructure or for achieving zero-emission driving in a specific zone. When activated, the gasoline engine operates to drive the vehicle, while reserving the electrical energy stored in the battery.
This mode is particularly useful for anticipating upcoming sections of a journey where electric-only operation is desired, such as entering a city center with emission restrictions. The system will maintain the current battery charge level, preventing it from depleting further.
Hold Mode can be manually engaged, allowing drivers to strategically manage their energy usage and optimize their driving experience based on anticipated route conditions and charging availability.
Regenerative Braking System
The 2017 Chevy Volt’s Regenerative Braking System is a key component of its efficiency, converting the vehicle’s kinetic energy into electrical energy during deceleration. Unlike traditional braking systems that dissipate energy as heat, regenerative braking captures this energy and stores it back in the high-voltage battery, extending the vehicle’s all-electric range.
When you lift off the accelerator pedal or apply the brakes, the electric motor acts as a generator, slowing the vehicle and simultaneously recharging the battery. Drivers may notice a slightly different braking feel compared to conventional vehicles, but it becomes intuitive with practice.
The system maximizes energy recovery, contributing significantly to the Volt’s overall fuel efficiency and reducing reliance on the gasoline engine. It’s a core technology enabling the Volt’s impressive electric driving capabilities.
Driving Range and Efficiency
The 2017 Chevrolet Volt offers a total driving range of 420 miles, combining its all-electric range of 53 miles with a gasoline-powered range of 367 miles. Real-world range will vary depending on driving conditions, temperature, terrain, and driving habits.
In all-electric mode, the Volt achieves an estimated 143 MPGe (miles per gallon equivalent) in city driving and 133 MPGe on the highway. When operating in extended-range mode, utilizing the gasoline engine, it achieves an estimated 42 MPG combined.
Maximizing efficiency involves utilizing regenerative braking, selecting appropriate drive modes, and maintaining proper tire inflation. Understanding these factors will help owners optimize the Volt’s performance and minimize fuel consumption.
Maintenance & Care
Regular maintenance is crucial for optimal performance and longevity of your 2017 Volt. This section details scheduled services, fluid checks, and tire care procedures.
Scheduled Maintenance
Maintaining your 2017 Chevy Volt’s performance and reliability hinges on adhering to a consistent scheduled maintenance plan. This isn’t merely about addressing issues as they arise, but proactively preventing them, ensuring a longer lifespan for your vehicle and upholding its resale value. The maintenance schedule, detailed within this manual, outlines specific inspections, fluid changes, and component replacements at predetermined mileage intervals.
These intervals aren’t arbitrary; they’re based on extensive testing and engineering analysis to optimize component life and prevent premature wear. Key areas covered include the engine oil (for range-extending engine), coolant levels, brake system inspection, tire rotations, and cabin air filter replacements. Following the recommended schedule also safeguards your vehicle’s warranty coverage.
Important Note: Deviating from the recommended schedule may void certain warranty provisions. Consult your dealership or refer to the complete maintenance schedule within this owner’s manual for precise details and specific requirements based on your driving conditions.
Tire Information and Maintenance
Proper tire care is crucial for the 2017 Chevy Volt’s efficiency, handling, and safety. This section details essential information regarding tire size, recommended inflation pressures, and wear patterns. Maintaining correct tire pressure, found on the driver’s side doorjamb, optimizes fuel economy and ensures even tread wear. Regularly inspect your tires for cuts, bulges, or uneven wear, which could indicate alignment issues or suspension problems.
Tire rotation is also vital, typically recommended every 7,500 miles, to promote even wear across all four tires, extending their lifespan. The manual specifies the correct rotation pattern for your Volt. Always use tires of the same size and construction on each axle.
Remember: Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, reducing efficiency and potentially leading to tire failure. Overinflated tires can compromise ride comfort and handling. Adhering to the recommended pressures is paramount for optimal performance and safety.
Fluid Checks and Replacements
Maintaining proper fluid levels is essential for the longevity and reliable operation of your 2017 Chevy Volt. While the Volt has fewer fluid requirements than traditional gasoline vehicles due to its electric powertrain, several checks and replacements are still necessary. Regularly inspect the brake fluid reservoir, ensuring the level is within the specified range. Low brake fluid can compromise braking performance.
Coolant levels for the battery thermal management system must also be checked periodically. The owner’s manual details the correct coolant type and fill procedure. Windshield washer fluid should be topped off as needed for optimal visibility.
Scheduled fluid replacements, such as brake fluid flushes, are outlined in the maintenance schedule. Using the correct fluids, as specified in the manual, is crucial to avoid damage to the vehicle’s systems.
Safety Features & Systems
Your 2017 Chevy Volt incorporates advanced safety technologies, including an airbag system, seat belts, and OnStar for enhanced protection and peace of mind.
Airbag System
The 2017 Chevrolet Volt is equipped with an advanced airbag system designed to provide crucial protection to occupants during certain collision events. This system includes frontal airbags for both driver and front passenger, as well as side-impact airbags mounted in the front seats.
Additionally, roof rail airbags are incorporated to offer head protection in side rollover situations. It’s vital to understand that airbags are supplemental restraints and are most effective when used in conjunction with properly fastened seat belts.
The airbag system is designed to deploy automatically when specific impact thresholds are met. Factors like crash severity, impact angle, and seat occupancy influence deployment. Always ensure nothing obstructs the airbags or the area in front of them. Improper positioning or modifications can affect their performance. Refer to the full owner’s manual for detailed information regarding the airbag system’s operation and limitations.
Seat Belt Usage
Proper seat belt usage is the most critical safety measure in your 2017 Chevrolet Volt. All occupants must wear properly fastened seat belts at all times during vehicle operation. Seat belts significantly reduce the risk of serious injury or death in the event of a collision.
The Volt features three-point seat belts for all seating positions. Ensure the shoulder belt lies snugly across the shoulder and chest, and the lap belt is positioned low and tight across the hips. Never allow passengers to ride with the shoulder belt behind their back or under their arm.
Pregnant women should position the lap belt low on the abdomen, avoiding the stomach area. Regularly inspect seat belts for damage or wear, and replace them if necessary. Ignoring seat belt safety guidelines can severely compromise your protection during a crash. Always prioritize seat belt use for every journey.
OnStar Safety & Security
Your 2017 Chevrolet Volt is equipped with OnStar, a comprehensive safety and security system designed to provide assistance when you need it most. OnStar offers a range of services, including Automatic Crash Response, which can automatically alert emergency services in the event of a severe collision.
Other key features include Roadside Assistance for breakdowns, Remote Door Unlock in case of lockouts, and Stolen Vehicle Assistance to help recover your vehicle if it’s stolen. OnStar also provides access to a live advisor for navigation assistance and vehicle diagnostics.
A subscription is required for many OnStar services. Familiarize yourself with the OnStar buttons located in your vehicle and understand how to activate them. Regularly check your OnStar account status to ensure continued coverage and peace of mind while driving your Volt.