2017-2023 Chevrolet Bolt EV Wheel Cover: Curb Rash, Fly-Offs, and Replacement
This guide covers common problems, costs, and what to inspect when buying a used wheel cover for your Bolt EV's 16-inch steel wheels.
- This wheel cover (part #13399301) fits ONLY the 16-inch factory steel wheels on 2017-2023 Bolt EVs; it will not fit 17-inch alloy wheels.
- The most common failure is the cover falling off due to broken plastic retaining clips on the back or improper installation.
- When buying a used cover, the most critical inspection is to check that all mounting clips on the back are present and free of cracks.
- Replacement is a very easy DIY job that takes less than five minutes and requires no special tools.
Symptoms of a Failing or Missing Wheel Cover
Since a wheel cover is a cosmetic part, its "failure" is typically visual or audible. There are no associated fault codes or dashboard warning lights.
Most Common Issues
- Missing Cover (Fly-Off): The most frequent problem is the wheel cover simply falling off the vehicle. This is often caused by hitting a large pothole or by the plastic retaining clips on the back of the cover becoming brittle and breaking over time. It can also happen after a tire service if the cover was not securely re-installed.
- Rattling or Clicking Noises: A rattling, clicking, or popping sound from the wheel area at low speeds can indicate a loose wheel cover. This means one or more of the retaining clips are broken or the metal tension ring is no longer holding it tightly against the wheel.
- Visible Cracks and Damage: Curb rash—scraping the wheel cover against a curb while parking—is extremely common. This can range from minor scuffs to large cracks or chunks of plastic breaking off.
- Vibration at High Speed: In rare cases, an imbalanced wheel cover, or one with packed snow or mud behind it, can cause a slight vibration or shimmy at highway speeds.
Compatibility Warning: This wheel cover, GM Part Number 13399301, is designed exclusively for the 16-inch factory steel wheels found on many Bolt EV LT trim levels. It will not fit the 17-inch alloy wheels that came standard on the Premier trim or were optional on the LT. Always verify you have the 16-inch steel wheels before purchasing.
Buying a Used 2017-2023 Bolt EV Wheel Cover
Buying a used OEM wheel cover is a cost-effective way to replace a lost or damaged one, ensuring a perfect match to the others. Cheap aftermarket covers often use lower-quality plastic, have a slightly different color or finish, and may not fit as securely, leading to the same problem of falling off. When inspecting a used OEM cover, focus on its structural integrity, not just its cosmetic appearance.
Physical Inspection Checklist:
- Flip it Over: The most important area to check is the back. Look at all the plastic clips that circle the perimeter. Ensure every single one is present and free of cracks. A cover with even one broken clip is likely to fall off.
- Check the Tension Ring: There is a metal wire ring that sits in a groove on the plastic clips. Make sure this ring is present, not severely rusted, and properly seated. This ring provides the tension that holds the cover onto the wheel.
- Inspect for Cracks: Check the face of the cover for cracks, especially radiating out from the edge. Minor scuffs and scratches from normal use are acceptable, but deep gouges or cracks compromise the cover's strength.
- Test for Brittleness: Gently flex the cover. It should have some flexibility. If it feels extremely stiff and makes crackling sounds, the plastic may be brittle from age and sun exposure and could break easily during installation or from a minor impact.
Installation Guide
Replacing a Bolt EV wheel cover is a very simple DIY task that requires no special tools and can be done in minutes.
- Difficulty: 1/5
- Time: Less than 5 minutes
- Tools Needed: Wheel cover pry tool or a flat-head screwdriver with a rag (to prevent scratching the wheel). A rubber mallet can be helpful but is not required.
Step-by-Step Replacement:
- Removal: If replacing a damaged cover, find a spot to gently pry it away from the steel wheel. The cover simply snaps on and off.
- Alignment: On the new wheel cover, locate the indentation or cutout designed to go around the tire's valve stem. Align this cutout with the valve stem on your wheel. This is the most important step for proper fitment.
- Installation: Press the cover onto the wheel. Give it a series of firm taps with the palm of your hand or a rubber mallet around the outer edge to snap the clips into place. You should hear it click securely onto the wheel.
- Final Check: Pull gently on the edges of the cover to ensure it is seated tightly and does not move.
Pro Tip: After a tire rotation or any service where the wheels are removed, double-check that the shop has re-installed the wheel covers correctly. Ensure they are fully seated and aligned with the valve stem to prevent them from falling off later.
Known Issues, Recalls, or TSBs
There are no recalls or Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) issued by GM or the NHTSA specifically for the wheel covers on the 2017-2023 Chevrolet Bolt EV. While the Bolt EV has had significant recalls for its high-voltage battery system and a separate recall for seat belt pretensioners that could pose a fire risk, none of these involve the wheels or wheel covers.
Cost Comparison
Prices for a single wheel cover can vary. Buying a used OEM part is often the best value, providing factory quality for less than the price of a new one.
| Part Type | Estimated Price (Single Cover) |
|---|---|
| New OEM (Dealer) | $55 - $70 |
| New OEM (Online) | $37 - $45 |
| Used OEM | $25 - $50 |
| New Aftermarket (Universal) | $20 - $40 (per cover, often sold in sets of 4) |
| Shop Labor | $0 - $25 (Typically included with other services or a minimal charge) |
Technical Specifications
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| OEM Part Number | 13399301 |
| Fitment Years | 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023 |
| Material | Plastic |
| Wheel Size | 16 inches |
| Wheel Type | Factory Steel Wheel |
| Wheel Bolt Pattern | 5x105mm |
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did my Bolt EV wheel cover fall off?
The most common reasons are hitting a pothole, curb impact, or improper installation. Over time, the plastic retaining clips on the back can become brittle and break, weakening the connection to the wheel.
Will this wheel cover fit my Bolt EV Premier?
No, almost certainly not. The Bolt EV Premier trim typically came with 17-inch aluminum alloy wheels which do not use a full wheel cover. This part is only for the 16-inch steel wheels found on many LT trims.
Can I use zip ties to secure my wheel covers?
Some owners choose to use black zip ties through the spokes of the cover as a low-cost insurance policy against losing them. While this can be effective, it detracts from the appearance. A properly installed cover with intact clips should not require zip ties.
Is it safe to drive without a wheel cover?
Yes. A missing wheel cover is purely a cosmetic issue and has no impact on the vehicle's safety or drivability. It simply exposes the steel wheel underneath.
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 13399301
Designed for 16-inch factory steel wheels. Material: Plastic.
The information in this article is provided for general reference and educational purposes only. Vehicle specifications, procedures, and part compatibility can vary by production date, trim level, and region. Always consult your vehicle's factory service manual and verify part numbers before purchasing or performing repairs. Safety-critical components such as airbags, seat belts, and braking systems should be installed by a qualified professional.
- Chevrolet Bolt EV: