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Chevy Bolt Tesla Supercharger Access FAQ

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230K views 2.3K replies 242 participants last post by  cwerdna  
#1 · (Edited)
There's a lot of confusion about the recent opening of Tesla's Supercharger network to GM vehicles, in particular the Chevrolet Bolt EV and EUV. I'm hoping to clear all questions and consolidate all issues into one post so forum members and curious minds don't have to scour pages across multiple threads for answers. Without further ado...

‣ Can Chevrolet Bolt EVs and EUVs charge at Tesla Superchargers?
Yes. As of September 18th 2024, the 18,000 NACS-enabled Supercharger locations in North America can be used by Chevrolet Bolt EV, EUV and other GM manufactured EVs using an NACS DC Adapter. Locations that are equipped with Magic Docks do not need an adapter. You can check these locations using Tesla's online map, the Tesla app, or GM's "myChevrolet" app after enabling Tesla Supercharger integration in the Map settings (this method requires an applicable OnStar subscription, detailed below).

‣ Do I need a software update to use the Supercharger network?
This depends. GM has officially stated that only some Bolt EVs manufactured in the 2019 and 2020 model years may require an update to charge reliably. If you have a Bolt EV 2017-2018, 2021-2023, or Bolt EUV 2022-2023, then you will not need an update.

If you have a Bolt EV year model 2019-2020, you can verify if you need this update by calling your local Chevrolet dealer's service department and inquiring if your VIN has any pending software updates. This can usually be verified by phone and does not require a dealership visit. If they do not see any pending updates, then your vehicle may not require an update. Some owners may have received an email from Chevrolet informing them of an update.

Should you still encounter errors that prevent using Tesla Superchargers, contact your local dealership again and inquire about "Service Bulletin 24-NA-200" for the software update.

If you're found to need an update by the dealer, this is officially stated by GM to be provided complimentary and you should not be charged for this update.

‣ Which app should I use to charge? Do I need OnStar?
You can use either the myChevrolet app, or the Tesla app. If you want to charge using the myChevrolet app, this requires an active OnStar subscription (either paid or complimentary) with a minimum of "Remote Access" enabled, or any plan that gives "Map", "Public Charging" or "Energy Assist" within the app. The names of these functions vary across Bolt models and OnStar plans. You can check your active or available plans here.

These plans give access to the charger navigation features and allow starting charge sessions on compatible Tesla Superchargers from within the myChevrolet app. If you see the "Map" and "Public Charging" sections within the app, then you already have what you need.

If you do not have an active OnStar subscription or do not want to use the myChevrolet app, you can locate and start charge sessions using Tesla's app instead. There are also some V4 Supercharger stalls out there with built-in credit card readers which do not require an app to use.

‣ Where can I get an official NACS adapter?
This has been the most confusing subject, as many online guides, news outlets and YouTubers have described using the myChevrolet app to find the "Public Charging" settings to enable Supercharger access and buy the adapter. However, this method requires one of the previously mentioned OnStar subscriptions.

If you do not have an applicable OnStar subscription, or your complimentary trial has expired, or "Public Charging" is not an option visible in your myChevrolet app, you can still buy the official adapter using the link below on a mobile browser. Desktop browsers do not work at this time.

Official U.S. Adapter link → OEM Supercharger Adapter
Secondary Link (Alternate part #) → OEM Supercharger Adapter

(Links working as of 10/15/24)

If you live in Canada, please feel free to chime in with official links when available!

‣ What about 3rd party adapters? Are they safe?
There are 3rd party NACS adapters available from reputable companies, such as Lectron and A2Z. While this is not an endorsement, it is generally agreed that these adapters are made to high quality standards and should be safe. Both are also being manufactured to be UL2252 compliant, but are not yet UL2252 certified as the certification guidelines are not finalized at this time.

Please keep in mind that GM and Tesla do not endorse the use of unofficial adapters and may not cover warranty claims should an incident arise due to the use of a 3rd party adapter.
 
#3 ·
By a show of Like or Sad (to this reply), Should this become the one and only NACS thread going forward? I feel overwhelmed by the number of threads, many of which are not really relevant, like when, how much, and other speculative threads.

Also, OP should be willing to edit for any corrections to maintain the top post as the definitive, agreed? Mods can help with editing as well.

Finally, should this thread be left open for comments, or closed as a reference only thread to avoid confusion that inevitably creeps in when less informed folks jump in with mis-information?
 
#278 · (Edited)
Thanks for your post, but there's either something missing or I didn't get it.

Say I was going on a road trip and wanted to be able to use Telsa's supercharging network. Do I have to sign up or something? If so, can this be done on the Tesla app? Is there some sort of monthly fee? When arriving at a supercharger, do I just plug the car in (using the appropriate adapter) or do I have to use the app?

And speaking of adapters - you mentioned 3rd party adapters made my Lectron and others. What happens if I try to use one? Will it work? Will Tesla's charger even accept it?

Also - and just to be clear - I do NOT have to use the My Chevrolet app, correct? Tesla's app will do it all, right? I'm not about to pay Onstar a monthly subscription fee for the pathetic service they provide.

Please let me know and pardon my ignorance.
 
#7 ·
There's a lot of confusion about the recent opening of Tesla's Supercharger network to GM vehicles, in particular the Chevrolet Bolt EV and EUV. I'm hoping to clear all questions and consolidate all issues into one post so forum members and curious minds don't have to scour pages across multiple threads for answers. Without further ado...

‣ Can Chevrolet Bolt EVs and EUVs charge at Tesla Superchargers?
Yes. As of September 18th 2024, the 18,000 NACS-enabled Supercharger locations in North America can be used by Chevrolet Bolt EV, EUV and other GM manufactured EVs using an adapter. Locations that are equipped with Magic Docks do not need an adapter. You can check these locations using Tesla's online map, the Tesla app, or GM's "myChevrolet" app after enabling Tesla Supercharger integration in the Map settings (this method requires an active On-Star Remote Access subscription).

‣ Do I need a software update to use the Supercharger network?
This depends. GM has officially stated that only some Bolt EVs manufactured in the 2019 and 2020 model years may require an update to charge reliably. If you have a Bolt EV 2017-2018, 2021-2023, or Bolt EUV 2022-2023, then you will not need an update.

If you have a Bolt EV year model 2019-2020, you can verify if you need this update by calling your local Chevrolet dealer's service department and inquiring if your VIN has any pending software updates. This can be verified by phone and does not require a dealership visit. If they do not see any pending updates, then your vehicle will not require an update.

If you're found to need an update, this is officially stated by GM to be provided complimentary and you should not be charged for this update.

‣ Which app should I use to charge? Do I need On-Star?
If you want to charge using the myChevrolet app, this requires an active On-Star subscription (either paid or complimentary) with a minimum of "Remote Access" enabled. This gives access to the Driver Map features, which will allow charger navigation and starting charge sessions on compatible Tesla Superchargers from within the myChevrolet app. If you do not have an active On-Star subscription or do not want to use the myChevrolet app, you can locate and start charge sessions using Tesla's app instead.

‣ Where can I get an official adapter?
This has been the most confusing subject, as many online guides, news outlets and YouTubers have described using the myChevrolet app to find the "Public Charging" settings to enable Supercharger access and buy the adapter. However, this method requires an active On-Star Remote Access subscription.

If you do not have an active On-Star Remote Access subscription, or your complimentary Remote Access trial has expired, or "Public Charging" is not an option visible in your myChevrolet app, you can still buy the official adapter using the link below on a mobile browser. Desktop browsers do not work at this time.

Official U.S. Adapter link → OEM Supercharger Adapter (working as of 9/20/24)

If you live in Canada, please feel free to chime in with official links when available!

‣ What about 3rd party adapters? Are they safe?
There are 3rd party adapters from reputable companies, such as Lectron and A2Z. While this is not an endorsement, it is generally agreed that these adapters are made to high quality standards and should be safe. Both are also being manufactured to be UL2252 compliant, but are not yet UL2252 certified as the certification guidelines are not finalized at this time.

Please keep in mind that GM and Tesla do not endorse the use of unofficial adapters and will not cover warranty claims should an incident arise due to the use of a 3rd party adapter.
A little addendum to app usage. On our ‘23 EUV app functionality is divided into 3 parts; Remote Access, EV Access, and Connected Access. For us, EV Access is the part that allows map access and charging functions. Our 30 days of Remote Access was only key fob functions. I’m pretty sure Onstar’s packaging of these features has varied considerably over time.
 
#8 ·
Talked to EV service advisor and EV tech at my dealer.

She said that they got a lot of calls. What they think is that if you order the adapter and go try it on a SC and it pops up a fault code then you need the software update. Said they don't know if they can just install it because I want it. Doesn't show up available to tech's computer.

I will go ahead and get last normal recall software.
 
#1,060 ·
AFTER DISCUSSING WITH 2 BOLT FRIENDS AND 2 TESLA FRIENDS I RESEARCHED AND PURCHASED the Lectron Tesla Supercharger (NACS) to CCS Adapter-Vortex Plug | 500A | 1000V.
No software update required for my 2017 Bolt. Before joining this forum, I googled how to charge a Chevy Bolt on a Tesla super charger and printed out instructions off Reddit. Was successful on first try in Rutland, VT. See below

Image
 
#9 · (Edited)
@Toyotiac It's hard to say what the requirements for EUV owners will be as the necessary connectivity is likely still active for them for a while. The required plan mentioned above should apply only to 2020s and older for now. Do you have any insight on this?

Edit: Checking the plan details on GM's site, it's definitely the Remote Access plan at minimum that grants Map functionality within the app. This is the functionality needed to access the "Public Charging" section of the app. Link: Site Maintenance

Any other plan that also gives map access should also apply.
 
#12 ·
@Toyotiac It's hard to say what the requirements for EUV owners will be as the necessary connectivity is likely still active for them for a while. The required plan mentioned above should apply only to 2020s and older for now. Do you have any insight on this?

Edit: Checking the plan details on GM's site, it's definitely the Remote Access plan at minimum that grants Map functionality within the app. This is the functionality needed to access the "Public Charging" section of the app. Link: Site Maintenance
According to my account, my EV Access is good for 10 years (unti 9/32). And I am fully set up in the app for adapter use should I get one. Most '23s got 3 years of Remote Access (fob functions at the time), but early builds like mine only got 30 days. A major part of the confusion stems from On* recycling plan names for different packages over time.
 
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#10 ·
There's a lot of confusion about the recent opening of Tesla's Supercharger network to GM vehicles, in particular the Chevrolet Bolt EV and EUV. I'm hoping to clear all questions and consolidate all issues into one post so forum members and curious minds don't have to scour pages across multiple threads for answers. Without further ado...

‣ Can Chevrolet Bolt EVs and EUVs charge at Tesla Superchargers?
Yes. As of September 18th 2024, the 18,000 NACS-enabled Supercharger locations in North America can be used by Chevrolet Bolt EV, EUV and other GM manufactured EVs using an adapter. Locations that are equipped with Magic Docks do not need an adapter. You can check these locations using Tesla's online map, the Tesla app, or GM's "myChevrolet" app after enabling Tesla Supercharger integration in the Map settings (this method requires an active On-Star Remote Access subscription).

‣ Do I need a software update to use the Supercharger network?
This depends. GM has officially stated that only some Bolt EVs manufactured in the 2019 and 2020 model years may require an update to charge reliably. If you have a Bolt EV 2017-2018, 2021-2023, or Bolt EUV 2022-2023, then you will not need an update.

If you have a Bolt EV year model 2019-2020, you can verify if you need this update by calling your local Chevrolet dealer's service department and inquiring if your VIN has any pending software updates. This can be verified by phone and does not require a dealership visit. If they do not see any pending updates, then your vehicle will not require an update.

If you're found to need an update, this is officially stated by GM to be provided complimentary and you should not be charged for this update.

‣ Which app should I use to charge? Do I need On-Star?
If you want to charge using the myChevrolet app, this requires an active On-Star subscription (either paid or complimentary) with a minimum of "Remote Access" enabled. This gives access to the Driver Map features, which will allow charger navigation and starting charge sessions on compatible Tesla Superchargers from within the myChevrolet app. If you do not have an active On-Star subscription or do not want to use the myChevrolet app, you can locate and start charge sessions using Tesla's app instead.

‣ Where can I get an official adapter?
This has been the most confusing subject, as many online guides, news outlets and YouTubers have described using the myChevrolet app to find the "Public Charging" settings to enable Supercharger access and buy the adapter. However, this method requires an active On-Star Remote Access subscription.

If you do not have an active On-Star Remote Access subscription, or your complimentary Remote Access trial has expired, or "Public Charging" is not an option visible in your myChevrolet app, you can still buy the official adapter using the link below on a mobile browser. Desktop browsers do not work at this time.

Official U.S. Adapter link → OEM Supercharger Adapter (working as of 9/20/24)

If you live in Canada, please feel free to chime in with official links when available!

‣ What about 3rd party adapters? Are they safe?
There are 3rd party adapters from reputable companies, such as Lectron and A2Z. While this is not an endorsement, it is generally agreed that these adapters are made to high quality standards and should be safe. Both are also being manufactured to be UL2252 compliant, but are not yet UL2252 certified as the certification guidelines are not finalized at this time.

Please keep in mind that GM and Tesla do not endorse the use of unofficial adapters and will not cover warranty claims should an incident arise due to the use of a 3rd party adapter.
i check the tesla map, and it says open to nacs , or open to other ev's.
which should i be checking to use?
i assume the nacs one are the opened ones, but not sure.
 
#11 ·
i check the tesla map, and it says open to nacs , or o
pen to other ev's.
which should i be checking to use?
i assume the nacs one are the opened ones, but not sure.
Both. "Open to NACS" are the stations that need an adapter. "Open to other EVs" are the Magic Dock stations that don't need an adapter.
 
#21 ·
Official U.S. Adapter link → OEM Supercharger Adapter (working as of 9/20/24)

If you live in Canada, please feel free to chime in with official links when available!
In Canada you need to call a Chevrolet dealer. I called my local dealer and they were taking orders for the "Tesla adapter" (that's how they're referring to it with the public). Similar to how I've ordered other parts with them, they just take the order and will call you back when they get the part. No payment taken.

Just a note though - they were very clear to indicate GM Canada has provided no ETA as to when the adapters will be delivered.
 
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#22 ·
Just a note though - they were very clear to indicate GM Canada has provided no ETA as to when the adapters will be delivered.
Yeah, this is kinda how it was with us in the U.S. some months back. This is why I will hold off on recommending this until we can confirm they can ship it this way. Keep us updated!
 
#23 ·
has anyone charged at a tesla station with only a credit card (ie. no tesla or chevy app)?

At a limited number of sites, you can pay directly at the Supercharger using a major credit card, a mobile payment service or text-to-pay.
are these stations as few as they make them sound on the website, or are they fairly common?
 
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#25 ·
For anyone who receives a software update for their 2019 or 2020 Bolt EV to address the potential issue with error codes while using the Superchargers (i.e. @Belugadriver ) - can you please write down here the actual software update # that you got from the dealer? It should be printed in the service order.
 
#45 · (Edited by Moderator)
UPDATE: The Chevy concierge called the dealership. She then told me the update is only free if you buy the GM NACS adapter. You have to have a confirmation number from the adapter order for the software update to be free.

I asked her where that information can be found because I had not seen that anywhere. She did not know at the time but said she would email it to me when she finds it.

So, it comes down to a money grab they are playing with Bolt owners who need the update. Pay us $225 for the adapter or $220 for the update.

If anyone has seen the complimentary update requires purchase of the GM adapter please let us know. [


I had my 2020 Bolt EV updated today. It cost $210.95.
276141 CP is the only thing I see on the service invoice.

This is all it said on the "Programing Receipt"
VIN
Warranty Claim Code: CDYN234462905
Job Card: 686028
Controller: Hybrid/EV Powertrain Control Module 2
Function: Programming

I have no idea why there is a charge for the update since I haven't seen any mention of a charge on the Chevy website or any of the press releases in the media. Service writer said it wasn't covered by warranty so I had to pay for the programing.
 
#31 ·
ok, good to know the latest V4 has them, which means there will be more, rather than fewer in the future. i'm probably gonna hold off on the adapter. i've been doing just fine w/out it.

1. i'm unwilling to download any apps to pay
2. i noticed tesla superchargers are p expensive $.50+
 
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#35 ·
ok, good to know the latest V4 has them, which means there will be more, rather than fewer in the future. i'm probably gonna hold off on the adapter. i've been doing just fine w/out it. 1. i'm unwilling to download any apps to pay 2. i noticed tesla superchargers are p expensive $.50+
Thats cheap compared to what Ive seen. Here, electricity is 8c/kwh at my house but the EA stations are 65c/kwh. The tesla stations are cheaper
 
#58 ·
ordered my adapter wed afternoon and picked it up from dealer today-fri. gm is getting them from tesla and Lectron.
Which one did you end up with?
Does Chevy usually charge hundreds of dollars for its software updates? I have yet to have an update on my '23, but this does not sound like a very good thing.
GM said the software update that some Bolts need for the Superchargers is complimentary. Anyone who got charged by a dealer for it should contact the GM EV Concierge about getting a refund.
 
#65 ·
I'm conflicted about the adapters. On the one hand, the A2Z adapter sounds better. On the other hand, I have a whole pile of Rewards points that would make the official adapter cheaper. And on the gripping hand, the official adapter is backordered.

Maybe I will just wait and see. I don't have any long trips planned in the future, and I've barely touched my EVGo $500 credit.

BTW I tried applying the free shipping discount code in the Chevy shopping cart (NACSSHIP) but it doesn't seem to work for me. (There are other discount codes but apparently they don't apply).
 
#72 ·
Thank you for this consolidation of information. It helped.

So far Chevy is meeting my expectations with this:

-I own two Bolts, original owner on both, I've received no information at any time about this. Chevy has my email, I get monthly diagnostic reports. I'm not surprised.
-Using the Chevy app requires OnStar. The Tesla app just works. Not surprised. I'm not going to pay for OnStar. I used to own a Tesla so I have an account already, if I need to use a Supercharger I'll use the Tesla app as I know it just works.
-Chevy can't easily tell me if my 2019 needs a software update. Not surprised. You'll have to call the dealer and try to get them to spend the time and effort to tell you. Not surprised. And do you really trust that they'll be able to do this and not have you waste a trip?

Sorry for the negativity. I love my two Bolts. I have a love/hate relationship with Chevy.
 
#1,260 ·
Same experience: I own a 2018 Bolt and a 2018 Tesla 3. According to the matrix earlier in this thread, no software updates should be needed, and GM shows none indicated either on the MyChevrolet app nor on the period "diagnostic reports."(a seatbelt tensioner update is shown). The Lectron Vortex adapter will not work with the Bolt at the Telsa app's indicated compatible Superchargers. Interesting, those are NOT the same as shown on the Tesla filter map shown earlier in this thread. There are MORE Superchargers indicated as compatible on the Tesla app.
Local dealer is neither very local nor very useful. I wonder if anyone else has had this problem with the Lectron Vortex adapter and traced it to errors in Tesla's map of compatible chargers? The Tesla map, while being a typically slick Tesla design, also showed Supercharger stations as available when they were actually occupied and charging other cars.
 
#74 ·
There's a lot of confusion about the recent opening of Tesla's Supercharger network to GM vehicles, in particular the Chevrolet Bolt EV and EUV. I'm hoping to clear all questions and consolidate all issues into one post so forum members and curious minds don't have to scour pages across multiple threads for answers. Without further ado...

‣ Can Chevrolet Bolt EVs and EUVs charge at Tesla Superchargers?
Yes. As of September 18th 2024, the 18,000 NACS-enabled Supercharger locations in North America can be used by Chevrolet Bolt EV, EUV and other GM manufactured EVs using an NACS DC Adapter. Locations that are equipped with Magic Docks do not need an adapter. You can check these locations using Tesla's online map, the Tesla app, or GM's "myChevrolet" app after enabling Tesla Supercharger integration in the Map settings (this method requires an applicable OnStar subscription, detailed below).

‣ Do I need a software update to use the Supercharger network?
This depends. GM has officially stated that only some Bolt EVs manufactured in the 2019 and 2020 model years may require an update to charge reliably. If you have a Bolt EV 2017-2018, 2021-2023, or Bolt EUV 2022-2023, then you will not need an update.

If you have a Bolt EV year model 2019-2020, you can verify if you need this update by calling your local Chevrolet dealer's service department and inquiring if your VIN has any pending software updates. This can be verified by phone and does not require a dealership visit. If they do not see any pending updates, then your vehicle will not require an update. Testing the chargers yourself is not a guaranteed way to know if you need the update or not and may result in unexpected errors later.

If you're found to need an update, this is officially stated by GM to be provided complimentary and you should not be charged for this update.

‣ Which app should I use to charge? Do I need OnStar?
You can use either the myChevrolet app, or the Tesla app. If you want to charge using the myChevrolet app, this requires an active OnStar subscription (either paid or complimentary) with a minimum of "Remote Access" enabled, or any plan that gives "Map", "Public Charging" or "Energy Assist" within the app. The names of these functions vary across Bolt models and OnStar plans. You can check your active or available plans here.

These plans give access to the charger navigation features and allow starting charge sessions on compatible Tesla Superchargers from within the myChevrolet app. If you see the "Map" and "Public Charging" sections within the app, then you already have what you need.

If you do not have an active OnStar subscription or do not want to use the myChevrolet app, you can locate and start charge sessions using Tesla's app instead. There are also some V4 Supercharger stalls out there with built-in credit card readers which do not require an app to use.

‣ Where can I get an official NACS adapter?
This has been the most confusing subject, as many online guides, news outlets and YouTubers have described using the myChevrolet app to find the "Public Charging" settings to enable Supercharger access and buy the adapter. However, this method requires one of the previously mentioned OnStar subscriptions.

If you do not have an applicable OnStar subscription, or your complimentary trial has expired, or "Public Charging" is not an option visible in your myChevrolet app, you can still buy the official adapter using the link below on a mobile browser. Desktop browsers do not work at this time.

Official U.S. Adapter link → OEM Supercharger Adapter (working as of 9/21/24)

If you live in Canada, please feel free to chime in with official links when available!

‣ What about 3rd party adapters? Are they safe?
There are 3rd party NACS adapters available from reputable companies, such as Lectron and A2Z. While this is not an endorsement, it is generally agreed that these adapters are made to high quality standards and should be safe. Both are also being manufactured to be UL2252 compliant, but are not yet UL2252 certified as the certification guidelines are not finalized at this time.

Please keep in mind that GM and Tesla do not endorse the use of unofficial adapters and will not cover warranty claims should an incident arise due to the use of a 3rd party adapter.
Do you know if we can use the Chevy app at Magic Dock locations? I realize the Tesla app will provide a better experience, but I already have too many charging apps on my phone.
 
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