Dimitar Berbatov's late winner sent champions Manchester United to the top of the Premier League table for the first time this season.
Berbatov headed home from close range after a fine cross from Carlos Tevez on the right in the 90th minute just as the game was heading towards a draw.
For the preceding 89 minutes United had been thwarted by Jussi Jaaskelainen. The Bolton keeper saved superbly from two Cristiano Ronaldo free-kicks and also a header from the United winger.
United's win saw them equal Chelsea's record, set in 2004-05, of 10 consecutive clean sheets in the Premier League, as they bid for a third consecutive title. Long-time leaders Liverpool will now have to beat Everton in Monday's Merseyside derby to return to the top, though Sir Alex Ferguson's side will then have a game in hand.
United were missing the injured Rio Ferdinand, Wayne Rooney and Patrice Evra but were boosted by Tevez and Jonny Evans both passing late fitness tests. (Source: BBC Sport)