2021 Volkswagen Id.4 Safety Report
2021 VW ID.4: Excellent Crash Ratings, but Plagued by Numerous Electrical Recalls and Software Complaints
AI Safety Analysis for the 2021 Volkswagen Id.4
Reliability Score
The 2021 Volkswagen Id.4 receives a reliability score of 45 out of 100 based on analysis of NHTSA complaint data, recall history, crash reports, and safety ratings. This indicates average reliability — some notable concerns exist that prospective buyers should be aware of.
Known Issues for the 2021 Volkswagen Id.4
The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2021 Volkswagen Id.4:
| Issue | Severity | Frequency | Typical Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Electrical System Failures & Loss Of Drive Power Numerous complaints (71) and recalls (e.g., 'ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:PROPULSION SYSTEM:TRACTION BATTERY') indicate frequent electrical system malfunctions, leading to loss of power, stalling, and unexpected shutdowns while driving, increasing crash risk. |
High | Common | variable miles |
| Unexpected Acceleration/Braking Issues Several complaints describe the vehicle unexpectedly accelerating or failing to brake, leading to crashes, despite driver input. This is a critical safety concern. |
High | Occasional | variable miles |
| Display/Infotainment System Malfunctions Recalls ('BACK OVER PREVENTION:SOFTWARE') and complaints detail instrument panel and center display blackouts, loss of speedometer, and rearview camera failures, impairing critical driver information and increasing crash risk. |
Medium | Common | variable miles |
| Door Handle/Latching Issues Multiple recalls ('STRUCTURE:BODY:DOOR:HANDLE:EXTERIOR') and complaints report door handles allowing water ingress, leading to unexpected door opening while driving or inability to open doors from inside/outside. |
Medium | Common | variable miles |
| Gps/Navigation Inaccuracy Complaints indicate the GPS system frequently shows incorrect location or routing, and sign assist features display wrong speeds, impacting navigation and potentially emergency services. |
Low | Occasional | variable miles |
| Vehicle Rollaway Risk A recall ('POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:GEAR POSITION INDICATION') addresses the instrument panel not properly displaying gear position, which can lead to vehicle rollaway if the parking brake is not engaged. |
High | Rare | variable miles |
Common Problems Reported by Owners
Based on NHTSA complaint data, the following components account for the majority of reported issues with the 2021 Volkswagen Id.4:
The most reported issue, with 71 complaints, involves various electrical system failures, including loss of power, unexpected shutdowns, and battery management issues, leading to multiple recalls.
30 complaints fall under 'UNKNOWN OR OTHER', often describing general software glitches, system resets, or intermittent malfunctions not tied to a specific component.
13 complaints relate to the vehicle's structure, particularly concerning door handles and their functionality, which is also addressed by multiple recalls.
9 complaints mention service brake issues, including instances of unexpected acceleration or failure to stop, contributing to crash incidents.
7 complaints are related to the fuel/propulsion system, often linked to the high voltage battery and its management, leading to loss of drive power.
6 complaints and a recall point to power train issues, specifically concerning gear position indication and potential for vehicle rollaway.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2021 Volkswagen Id.4
Is the 2021 Volkswagen ID.4 safe?
Based on NHTSA data, the 2021 Volkswagen ID.4 received excellent crash test ratings (5-star overall, frontal, and side, 4-star rollover). However, it has a high number of recalls (11) and complaints (304), particularly concerning electrical system failures, unexpected acceleration, and display malfunctions, which can compromise safety despite strong crash performance.
What are common problems with the 2021 Volkswagen ID.4?
The most reported issues for the 2021 ID.4 are electrical system failures (71 complaints), general software glitches (30 complaints under 'UNKNOWN OR OTHER'), and structural issues related to door handles (13 complaints). Other significant problems include service brake issues (9 complaints) and propulsion system malfunctions (7 complaints).
How many recalls does the 2021 Volkswagen ID.4 have?
The 2021 Volkswagen ID.4 has 11 recalls. These address critical issues such as power train gear position indication, door handle water ingress, software issues affecting displays and rearview cameras, high voltage battery management, incorrect passenger airbags, unreliable battery connections, steering gear assembly, and incorrect rear seat belt retractors.
Are there any issues with the ID.4's battery or propulsion system?
Yes, there are significant issues. NHTSA data shows 7 complaints related to the 'FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM' and recalls specifically for 'ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:PROPULSION SYSTEM:TRACTION BATTERY:MANAGEMENT SYSTEM/ENERGY CONTROL MODULE (BMS/BECM):SOFTWARE' and 'ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:PROPULSION SYSTEM:TRACTION BATTERY'. These issues can lead to loss of drive power or vehicle stalls.
Does the 2021 ID.4 have issues with its infotainment or displays?
Yes, there are common problems. A recall ('BACK OVER PREVENTION:SOFTWARE') addresses software issues causing center and instrument panel displays to not show critical information. Complaints also frequently mention infotainment screen resets, blackouts, and rearview camera errors, impacting driver visibility and information.
Buyer Advice
Our recommendation: While the 2021 Volkswagen ID.4 performs well in crash tests, potential buyers should be aware of its extensive recall history and numerous electrical and software-related complaints; ensure all recalls have been addressed and consider an extended warranty.
NHTSA Data Summary for 2021 Volkswagen Id.4
This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2021 Volkswagen Id.4. The data includes 304 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 11 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, 23 reported crashes, 1 fire incidents, 16 reported injuries, and safety rating assessments associated with this vehicle.
The NHTSA has assigned the 2021 Volkswagen Id.4 an overall safety rating of 5 out of 5 stars, with a frontal crash rating of 5 stars, a side crash rating of 5 stars, and a rollover rating of 4 stars. These ratings are determined through controlled crash testing conducted by the NHTSA.
All data presented in this report is sourced from public NHTSA databases. Our AI analysis identifies patterns across complaint narratives, correlates them with recall history, and produces the safety assessment above. This analysis is updated as new complaints and recalls are filed with the NHTSA.
Consumers are encouraged to report vehicle safety problems to the NHTSA at nhtsa.gov. If your vehicle is subject to a recall, contact your dealer to schedule the free repair.