Volkswagen is recalling more than 60,000 electric vehicles in the United States. The reason is a software glitch affecting the gear position display. This issue impacts certain models from Volkswagen and its luxury brand, Audi. Here’s a breakdown of the situation based on the facts.
What’s the Issue?
The issue is in the gear position indicator. In the vehicles involved, the display will not indicate whether the vehicle is in park, drive, or another gear. The flaw makes it more likely that the vehicle will roll if the parking brake is not used. The U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has classified it as a safety concern.
- Affected Models: The recall covers Volkswagen ID.4 SUVs from 2021 to 2023 and Audi Q4 e-tron models, including the Sportback, from 2022 to 2023.
- Total Vehicles: The NHTSA reports exactly 60,682 vehicles are involved.
This malfunction stems from a software error in the vehicles’ systems.
Why Did This Happen?
The glitch originates in the Modular Electric Drive Matrix (MEB) platform. This platform underpins Volkswagen and Audi’s electric vehicle lineup. The software controlling the gear display has a fault, causing it to occasionally malfunction. According to documents filed with the NHTSA, Volkswagen identified the issue after reports of unexpected vehicle movement. No accidents or injuries have been officially linked to this problem as of now.
What’s Being Done?
Volkswagen has developed a solution. The company will provide a free software update to fix the display issue. Owners will receive notification letters starting in mid-April 2025. These letters will instruct them to visit authorized dealers for the update. Until then, Volkswagen advises drivers to ensure the parking brake is applied when parking.
- Fix Timeline: Recall notifications begin April 18, 2025.
- Cost: The update is free for all affected owners.
A Volkswagen spokesperson told Reuters, “We’re committed to addressing this issue promptly to ensure customer safety.” The company is working with regulators to resolve the matter.
Scope of the Recall
This recall targets a significant portion of Volkswagen’s early EV fleet in the U.S. The ID.4, which was introduced in 2021, is among the company’s electric flagship models. The later-introduced Audi Q4 e-tron also uses the same platform and thus the same vulnerability. The recall is a testament to Volkswagen’s wider push into electric vehicles underpinned by its parent company’s green technology commitment.
- Previous Recalls: Volkswagen has faced other EV-related recalls, including door handle issues in 2022, but this is among the largest by volume.
- Sales Context: The ID.4 alone saw over 38,000 units sold in the U.S. by the end of 2023, per company data.
Next Steps for Owners
Owners of the affected models should watch for the recall notice in April 2025. Prior to the installation of the software update, Volkswagen recommends additional care in parking. Owners of vehicles can also call Volkswagen or Audi customer service for temporary assistance. NHTSA’s website provides a VIN lookup system to check whether a particular vehicle is included in the recall. This move reflects Volkswagen’s commitment to upholding safety standards as it increases its portfolio of electric vehicles worldwide.
