Volkswagen ID.4 Known Issues and Problems

Arriving on the scene in 2021, the fully electric compact crossover SUVs, Volkswagen ID.4 and ID.5 manufactured in Chattanooga, Tennessee. Because they are assembled in the USA, they have been eligible for the full $7,500 federal rebate, making them a popular fully electric choice to car buyers on a budget. Available in both rear wheel drive and AWD configurations, the ID.4 has 201 horsepower, or 295 horsepower respectively.

These vehicles feature regenerative braking, which helps extend the driving range. At this time, there are 2 different battery arrays available. The 62kWh battery pack is rated at 209 miles, while the larger 82kWh battery pack has an EPA range of 245-280 miles. These battery packs are either manufactured by SK On, or LG Energy Solutions. Unfortunately, Consumer Reports gives the 2024 Volkswagen ID.4 a less than reliable rating based on data from the 2021, 2022, and 2023 models.

Below is a list of some known issues with the Volkswagen ID.4

Volkswagen ID.4 Charging Issues

Sudden Loss of Power or Stalling

At times the ID.4 may lose power, with or without a corresponding warning light on the dashboard. Some owners state that the power returns after a few moments. Others complain that the power may not return for longer. The loss of power may be due to a charging system software issue. It may also be due to a faulty battery connection. If there is a sudden loss or reduction of power while driving your ID.4, please have it towed to the nearest dealership immediately for warranty repairs.

Volkswagen ID.4 Braking System / ESC Warning

Sudden Engagement of the ESC

Some ID.4 owners are experiencing a sudden engagement of the Electronic Stability Control (ESC) feature while driving. This may cause the ESC light to come on and the vehicle to brake suddenly, and for no reason. Another braking system issue occurs when backing up slowly out of a parking space. Drivers are complaining of a harsh and sudden automatic application of the brakes when there is no obstruction behind the vehicle.

Additionally, some ID.4 owners are reporting the ESC system light coming on, and automatically applying the brakes while driving at slow speeds on dry roads, a condition where ESC should not be activating. ESC braking seems to happen most in AWD ID.4s, while making long, sweeping turns on a slight incline. This surprise braking could cause a loss of control, or a collision with the vehicle behind you.

Volkswagen ID.4 Electrical System Problems

Electrical System Error Messages

Some ID.4 owners are reporting electrical system error messages, ranging from batteries being too hot, to a problem with the charger, even when the vehicle is not being charged. This could also lead to a sudden loss of power or shutdown. This loss of power may only be for a few seconds, or it may put your vehicle into ‘limp home’ mode. Error messages warning of charging system errors, door contact errors, parking brake faults, are all possible under this condition. If your vehicle throws one of these codes, bring it in immediately for service. If the vehicle also powers down, or loses power, please have the vehicle towed in to the dealership immediately for service.

Volkswagen ID.4 Recalls

At the time of this writing, Volkswagen had 5 outstanding recalls.

1. NHTSA Campaign ID Number: 23V750000 – Structure
2. NHTSA Campaign ID Number: 23V213000 – Structure
3. NHTSA Campaign ID Number: 22V956000 – Electrical System
4. NHTSA Campaign ID Number: 22V823000 – Electrical System
5. NHTSA Campaign ID Number: 22V823000 – Back Over Prevention.

As always, keep in contact with your dealer to find out if any outstanding recalls apply to your vehicle, and schedule a time for the dealership to complete the recall work.

The law surrounding automobile recalls and lemon laws are complicated, and the facts of your case may be unique. However, complicated laws and teams of attorneys representing the auto manufacturers do not mean that you’re stuck with a lemon. Contact us if you have any questions, or if you think your Volkswagen ID.4 or ID.5 may be a lemon.

California Residents ONLY.
Year restrictions apply: Model years 2021 – 2025 Only