maintenance
State Inspection
for 2023 Chevrolet Bolt EUV 65 kWh Single Motor FWD · FWD
Editorial review:Chris Hackleman — Master Technician · 20+ years
Difficulty
Easy
Time
30 min
Tools
7
Steps
12
✓Expert-verified. Personally reviewed and approved by OLP's master technicians (Chris Hackleman — 20+ years each). Always follow the vehicle's factory service information and torque specs.
Perform a comprehensive state safety inspection of the 2023 Chevrolet Bolt EUV to verify compliance with applicable state vehicle safety regulations including lights, brakes, suspension, tires, and electric vehicle-specific components.
Warnings
⚠Ensure vehicle is in Park with parking brake engaged before lifting. Electric vehicles can move silently if controls are accidentally activated.
ℹ️Do not attempt to inspect high-voltage battery components or orange cabling. These are sealed systems and not part of standard safety inspection.
⚠Verify vehicle is powered off completely before performing undercarriage inspection.
Tools required
Brake pedal effort gaugeEssential
Tire tread depth gaugeEssential
Headlight aim gaugeEssential
OBD-II scan toolEssential
Vehicle lift or jack standsEssential
Tire pressure gaugeEssential
As an Amazon Associate and Autel/ANCEL partner, OLP earns from qualifying purchases — how we link. This never changes the specs we publish.
Preparation
- Verify vehicle identification number (VIN) matches inspection documentation
- Ensure vehicle has adequate 12V battery charge to operate all electrical systems during inspection
- Position vehicle on level surface or lift for comprehensive inspection access
- Have state inspection checklist and documentation ready
Procedure
- 1Verify instrument panel and warning lightsPower on the vehicle to accessory mode by pressing the start button without pressing the brake pedal. Verify all warning lights illuminate during bulb check. Start the vehicle fully and confirm no warning lights remain illuminated, particularly the ABS, brake system, traction control, airbag, or high-voltage system warnings. Note any active diagnostic trouble codes.
- 2Connect OBD-II scan tool and check for codesPlug OBD-II scan tool into the diagnostic port located below the steering column. Retrieve and document any stored diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs). Verify readiness monitors are set as required by state regulations. Note that EVs may not have all traditional monitors (no evaporative or oxygen sensor monitors).
- 3Inspect all exterior lightingCheck operation of headlights (low and high beam), turn signals (front and rear), brake lights (including center high-mount light), reverse lights, license plate light, and side marker lights. Verify all lenses are intact without cracks. Use headlight aim gauge to verify proper headlight alignment per state specifications.
- 4Test horn and windshield wipersVerify horn produces adequate sound when activated. Test windshield wipers on all speed settings and verify washer fluid sprays properly onto windshield. Check wiper blade condition for tears, cracks, or inadequate contact with glass.
- 5Inspect tires and wheelsMeasure tread depth at multiple points on all four tires using tread depth gauge, ensuring minimum depth meets state requirements (typically 2/32 inch). Check tire pressure against the placard on driver door jamb (recommended 38 PSI front, 38 PSI rear). Inspect for uneven wear, bulges, cuts, or exposed cords. Verify wheel lug nuts are present and not excessively corroded.
- 6Lift vehicle and inspect undercarriageRaise vehicle on lift or jack stands to access undercarriage. Inspect for fluid leaks from brake system, coolant system (orange coolant), or reduction gear lubricant. Examine exhaust system for damage (minimal exhaust on EV). Check for loose or damaged components. Verify high-voltage battery enclosure shows no signs of damage, corrosion, or orange cable exposure.
- 7Inspect steering and suspension componentsWith vehicle raised, inspect all steering linkage, tie rods, ball joints, and control arms for excessive wear, damage, or loose connections. Check CV axle boots for tears or grease leakage. Inspect shock absorbers and struts for leakage or damage. Grasp each wheel at 12 and 6 o'clock and attempt to rock to check for bearing play. Verify power steering system (electric assist) operates smoothly with no binding.
- 8Inspect brake system componentsVisually inspect brake rotors for excessive wear, scoring, or minimum thickness. Check brake pads for adequate remaining material (should have more than 2mm remaining). Inspect brake calipers for leaks or damage. Verify brake lines and hoses show no signs of cracking, chafing, or leakage. Check parking brake cables for corrosion or binding.
- 9Test brake system performanceLower vehicle to ground. With engine running (vehicle in Ready mode), pump brake pedal several times and hold with firm pressure. Pedal should feel firm and not slowly sink. Test parking brake by engaging it on a slight incline if available, or verify it holds the vehicle in gear. Use brake pedal effort gauge if required by state to measure pedal force and deceleration rate.
- 10Inspect glass, mirrors, and windshieldInspect windshield for cracks or chips in the driver's line of sight. Check that damage does not exceed state-allowed size limits. Verify all windows operate properly (power windows functional). Inspect both side mirrors and rearview mirror for secure mounting and intact glass.
- 11Inspect seatbelts and restraint systemsCheck all seatbelts for proper retraction, latching, and webbing condition. Verify no fraying, cuts, or excessive wear on belt webbing. Confirm airbag warning light is not illuminated with vehicle in Ready mode. Test each seatbelt buckle for secure latching.
- 12Verify emissions complianceDocument that vehicle is a battery electric vehicle (BEV) with zero direct emissions. Verify no modifications have been made to install an internal combustion engine. Most states exempt BEVs from tailpipe emissions testing but may still require OBD-II verification completed in Step 2.
Reassembly
- Lower vehicle from lift if raised
- Disconnect OBD-II scan tool
- Return all vehicle controls to normal position
- Power off vehicle completely
Verification
- Complete state inspection checklist with all pass/fail criteria documented
- Verify no warning lights remain illuminated on instrument cluster
- Confirm all safety systems tested are functioning within state requirements
- Issue inspection certificate if all criteria are met, or provide rejection notice with specific failure items if applicable