Attention Chevy Volt Owners! Here Are Some Mods That’ll Transform Your Volt

Chevrolet Volt Z-Spec – Unfortunately, This Mod Package is Not Available to Purchase

Well maybe those who lease too, but mostly the 5% that bought into the EV movement through Chevy Volt ownership.

Chances are you have seen a number of things change in newer models, or you skimped on some of the features only to find that they are not available from GM.

Here are some items you may have missed.

High Definition Backup Camera

For all the modern advancements found in the Volt, the quality of the backup camera is not one of them! Furthermore, if you bought your Volt without one, it is not an available upgrade! Thanks to the ingenuity of the human spirit and the internet, this is not a problem.

For those who are starting without a backup camera, and those who simply would like to add a superior HD camera, you can follow this link from the Volt forum.

Volt Center Stack

Navigation:

If you could not bring yourself to pay the full price for the Nav system and figured this would be an easy upgrade into the center stack, you are in luck. It can be done!

First you will need to purchase a Nav supported radio along with a new center stack equipped with the proper buttons. If you are buying online, make sure you note the color, heated seats yes/no, Nav yes/no. Depending on configuration, it has been running $600-$700 for the combo plus splitter and cables.

If you have the skills, you can find the instructions here. Otherwise, it is recommended to find an auto tech installer and provide them with the links. After they are finished, you still will have to take it to a GM dealer for programming at an approximate cost of $100.

Added inner tab is the fix

Upgraded Side Mirrors:

Many cars today make an irritating buffeting wind noise when rolling down the windows, and the Volt is no exception. This was primarily caused by the quest for ideal aerodynamics. The fix was released as a bulletin, not a recall, so you might not be aware of this upgrade. The good news is that GM will make the upgrade for FREE. If you never roll down the windows, then you really don’t need this. If you do, and don’t like to leave the rear windows slightly open, here is your answer. Simply contact your local dealer and request the modification for buffeting wind noise.

Another mirror upgrade has to do with improving blind spots by the use of aspheric mirrors primarily used on the passenger side. These are available through your dealer  as well as aftermarket.  If you have made the upgrade for wind buffeting, make sure this is noted if you opt to add an aspheric mirror upgrade.

Hold  Mode MY2012

For those who own a early MY2012, you still require cost prohibitive hardware, but there was a mid-year hardware change that facilitates a multi module programming to support the Hold Mode for MY2012. Once again, the human spirit and the internet comes through. Though I have not taken advantage of this retrofit myself, I have located one entrepreneur in MI who will make this retrofit starting at $300. Due to the programming of multiple modules, this retrofit must be done in person. If you can make it to Michigan give White Auto Media a call. sales@whiteautoandmedia.com If it is happening near the motor city, then I have high hopes of making it into other regions soon.

Shorter air dam

Shorter Air Dam

I am reminded of another popular mod for those who encounter greater slopes in their driving styles and that is the option to alter the front air dam. Most dealers will make this mod at no charge if requested at time of purchase. If you decide to add at a later date Part number 20993998 can be installed that brings the ground clearance up to 125 mm (4.9 in) from the original clearance of 95 mm (3.7 in). Roughly $35. Hat tip Mtn Ranger

WeatherTech Mats

Floor Mats

Depending on your climate and lifestyle, you may choose to protect your floorboard from the elements. If so, there are several manufactures like Husky Linersand WeatherTech (nice Super Bowl add) that provide five custom mats for Volt passengers and your cargo area.

Software Updates

GM does not do automatic updates like Tesla.  Not only are there no automatic updates, you may not be aware of the latest revisions without contacting your dealer. They are available at no charge, so remember to ask for them with every visit.