Volkswagen Recalls ID.4 EV

The problem is due to water leaking into the electronic door handles

Volkswagen is recalling over 35,000 ID.4 electric cars from the 2021 and 2022 model years because their doors may open suddenly while the vehicle is in motion, putting occupants in danger.

The problem has to do with water getting into the ID.4's electronic door handles because of a manufacturing error. This could cause an electrical issue that could trigger the door to open if the car experiences a strong side-to-side force at a speed below 9 mph. Drivers may first notice the sound of a door lock clicking. According to Volkswagen, it is aware of 28 reports of doors opening while the vehicle is in motion.

Only vehicles built in Germany have this issue. Cars built at Volkswagen's Chattanooga, Tenn., plant are not included in the recall.

Dealerships will replace faulty door handles, if necessary, and update vehicle software to make sure the doors don't open erroneously. As with all recalls, the repairs will be free of charge.

Vehicles recalled: Volkswagen ID.4 vehicles manufactured in Zwickau, Germany, between Dec. 15, 2020, and Dec. 12, 2022.

The problem: Water could get into the electronic door handles and cause them to open if the vehicle experiences high lateral forces at speeds below 9 mph.

The fix: Volkswagen dealerships will inspect and, if necessary, replace the faulty door handles, free of charge. Dealerships will also update vehicle software to make sure doors don't open when they shouldn't.

How to contact the manufacturer: Owners may contact Volkswagen at 800-893-5298.

NHTSA campaign number: 23V312. Volkswagen's own number for this recall is 57J5.

Check to see whether your vehicle has an open recall: The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration website will tell you whether your vehicle has any open recalls that need to be addressed.

If you plug your car's 17-digit vehicle identification number (VIN) into NHTSA's website and a recall doesn't appear, it means your vehicle doesn't currently have any open recalls. Because automakers issue recalls often, and for many older vehicles, we recommend checking back regularly to see whether your vehicle has had a recall issued.

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Keith Barry

Keith Barry has been an auto reporter at Consumer Reports since 2018. He focuses on safety, technology, and the environmental impact of cars. Previously, he led home and appliance coverage at Reviewed; reported on cars for USA Today, Wired, and Car & Driver; and wrote for other publications as well. Keith earned a master's degree in public health from Tufts University. Follow him on Twitter @itskeithbarry.