Volkswagen Group of America has issued a recall affecting 13,769 electric vehicles due to a defect that could cause them to lose power while driving. The issue stems from the 12-volt battery charger, which may malfunction, leading to a loss of motive power and posing a potential safety hazard.
The recall includes several models, namely the 2024 Volkswagen ID.4, the 2024 to 2025 Audi Q4 E-Tron, and the 2024 to 2025 Audi Q4 E-Tron Sportback.
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According to a notice from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), up to 10 percent of the affected vehicles may exhibit this defect. Volkswagen has received nearly 250 driver complaints regarding the issue.
When parked, impacted vehicles may fail to start. More critically, a failure of the 12-volt battery while the car is in motion can lead to the shutdown of essential accessories and safety functions. The most significant risk is the complete loss of motive power, which could increase the likelihood of an accident.
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The NHTSA has advised owners to be vigilant for warning signs such as audible chimes, instrument cluster alerts, and diminished EV functions.
Volkswagen is addressing the issue by replacing the onboard charger (OCDC) at no cost to affected customers. Owners are encouraged to contact their authorized dealers immediately if they experience any symptoms related to this defect.
Recall Document
RCLRPT-25V125-6194