Volkswagen is voluntarily recalling more than 53,000 all-electric ID.4 SUVs in the U.S. and Canada over concerns of potential fire risks related to the high-voltage battery. The recalls, announced this week as reported by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, highlight ongoing scrutiny of EV battery safety as the automotive industry rapidly transitions toward electric vehicles. Owners of affected 2023-2025 models will be notified by mail and urged to schedule a free repair at a Volkswagen dealership.
Volkswagen is recalling over 53,000 of its all-electric ID.4 SUVs in the United States and Canada due to potential fire risks stemming from the high-voltage battery. The recalls, announced this week, underscore the ongoing challenges automakers face in ensuring the safety and reliability of electric vehicle technology as demand continues to grow.
The larger of the two recalls impacts 43,881 ID.4 models (from 2023 to 2025) in the U.S. and 8,526 vehicles in Canada. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), these vehicles may experience overheating in the high-voltage battery, increasing the risk of a fire. The official recall number with Transport Canada is 2026-017.
Volkswagen plans to notify owners by mail and instruct them to bring their vehicles to a dealership for repair. Technicians will update the battery management software and, if necessary, replace the battery pack entirely, all at no cost to the owner.
A second, smaller recall affects 670 ID.4 SUVs (2023-2024) in the United States and 136 in Canada. This recall centers on a potential misalignment of electrodes within the battery’s cell modules, which could also elevate the risk of fire, even when the vehicle is parked and turned off. The Transport Canada recall number for this issue is 2026-018.
For owners affected by the second recall, Volkswagen is advising them to avoid using DC fast chargers (Level 3) and to limit charging to 80% of the battery’s capacity. The company also recommends parking the vehicle outdoors, away from other vehicles and structures, until the cell modules can be inspected and replaced if needed. Volkswagen has stated that owners should expect a potentially extended wait at dealerships while replacement cell modules become available.
Owners will also be notified of this recall via mail. The company’s proactive approach to these issues aims to mitigate potential risks and maintain consumer confidence in its electric vehicle offerings.
