Volkswagen has issued a recall for approximately 14,000 electric vehicles in the U.S. due to a software glitch that could cause them to unexpectedly lose power while driving, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) announced this week. The recall affects 2021-2023 ID.4 models, a cornerstone of the automaker’s electric vehicle lineup.
According to the NHTSA, a faulty control module software may cause the electric drive motor to shut off abruptly, cutting propulsion and increasing the risk of a crash. While no injuries or accidents have been reported, the agency warns that a sudden loss of power—particularly at highway speeds—could leave drivers stranded or vulnerable to collisions.
“Volkswagen is committed to ensuring the safety of our customers,” a company spokesperson said in a statement. “We apologize for the inconvenience and are working swiftly to resolve this issue at no cost to owners.”
Owners of affected ID.4 SUVs will be notified by mail starting in late June, but Volkswagen urges drivers to check their vehicle’s status immediately using the NHTSA’s official recall lookup tool or Volkswagen’s recall portal. Dealerships will perform a free software update to correct the problem, a process expected to take less than an hour.
The recall highlights growing pains in the auto industry’s rapid shift toward electrification. Software-related issues, from battery management to motor control, have prompted multiple high-profile EV recalls in recent years. Volkswagen’s ID.4, praised for its range and affordability, has faced previous recalls for battery and door handle malfunctions.
For now, the automaker advises ID.4 owners to remain alert for dashboard warning lights or unusual behavior. Those with immediate concerns can contact Volkswagen Customer Service at 1-800-893-5298.
As electric vehicles become more mainstream, experts stress the importance of proactive recalls. “Software is the new mechanical engine,” said auto safety analyst Michelle Tran. “Timely updates are critical to keeping drivers safe on the road.”
Volkswagen expects all repairs to be completed by late summer. In the meantime, the company reiterates that vehicles can still be driven but should be serviced as soon as notifications arrive.