Volkswagen Group of America has issued a recall for 60,490 electric vehicles in the United States due to a software fault that affects the gear selection display, potentially increasing the risk of rollaway incidents. The affected models include the 2021-2023 Volkswagen ID.4, 2022-2023 Audi Q4 E-Tron, and 2022-2023 Audi Q4 E-Tron Sportback. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reported that the defect rate is just 1%.
The issue arises when the “N” gear position fails to display on the instrument cluster under certain circumstances. This could lead to drivers being unaware of the transmission shift position, posing a risk of accidents and vehicle rollaways. The software update (version 0526) to fix this issue must be performed by a dealer as it cannot be applied over-the-air.
Owners of the affected vehicles will be notified by April 25 to schedule an appointment for the free software update. Until the fix is implemented, drivers are advised to double-check that the parking brake is engaged before leaving the vehicle to ensure safety.
This marks the 11th recall for the Volkswagen ID.4 in the United States, with the previous recall involving faulty electronic door handles that could open while driving. As for the Audi Q4 E-Tron and its Sportback variant, this is the fifth recall, addressing various issues such as incorrect headlight software, faulty rearview cameras, torn airbags, and an increased risk of overheating the charging cable on the portable charger supplied with the car.
It is crucial for vehicle owners to stay informed about recalls and promptly address any issues to maintain the safety and performance of their electric vehicles. The safety of drivers, passengers, and pedestrians is paramount, and timely action is necessary to prevent potential accidents and ensure the smooth operation of these EVs.