Several months ago, an issue was reported involving the 2023 Volkswagen ID.4, where the driver-side door produced unusual clicking noises before unexpectedly popping open. This problem was not isolated, as numerous other VW owners also faced challenges in keeping their vehicle doors closed while driving.
This week, Volkswagen addressed the issue by halting production of the all-electric ID.4 at its factory in Chattanooga, Tennessee, in an urgent effort to resolve the malfunction. An investigation revealed that water was seeping into the doors, causing the electronics to short circuit and issue erroneous “open commands.”
Volkswagen has announced plans to replace the door handles at no cost to owners and will issue a software update to adjust the “door parameters” as a corrective measure.
Earlier this week, Volkswagen issued a recall for nearly 100,000 ID.4 vehicles and implemented a stop-sale order for the electric crossover. Starting September 23rd, about 200 workers at the Tennessee facility will be furloughed due to the production halt, according to a company spokesperson.
In a statement, Volkswagen spokesperson Mark Gillies emphasized the company’s commitment to addressing the issue and supporting employees, dealers, and consumers during this disruption.
This production pause occurs during a challenging time for the German automaker, which is striving to remain competitive amidst growing threats from China. Earlier this month, Volkswagen indicated potential closures of several factories in Europe to cut 10 billion euros from its balance sheet.
Additionally, Volkswagen has recently revised its strategy from an exclusive focus on electric vehicles (EVs) to incorporating more plug-in hybrids to meet climate goals. Despite this pivot, Gillies reassured that the stop-production order for the ID.4 should not be interpreted as a shift away from the company’s EV commitments.
“This disruption in no way changes our commitment to the ID.4 and our growing BEV portfolio,” Gillies stated. “The ID.4 remains one of America’s best-selling electric vehicles.”
