German automaker Volkswagen is initiating a recall of 23,883 ID.4 electric crossovers from the 2023-2024 model years due to concerns related to the fire retardancy of their sunshades. The recall is prompted by the realization that, in the event of a fire, the “burn rate of the material may sometimes be beyond the maximum allowable limit,” as stated in documents filed with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
While Volkswagen emphasizes that the sunshade is not expected to burst into flames, the material may not consistently meet the required performance standards, leading to the recall. The specificity of the recall and the acknowledgment of inconsistent material performance raise concerns about compliance with safety regulations.
Volkswagen became aware of the issue in May during an internal “Conformity of Production” test. The automaker promptly engaged its supplier, Automotive Mexico Body Systems, to conduct lab tests. Despite the material passing initial tests before the ID.4 went into production, subsequent analyses revealed inconsistent results.
To address the matter, Volkswagen adjusted the material orientation in production on August 1, positioning the exterior side to face the interior. This modification was aimed at resolving the fire retardancy issue.
For the affected 2023-2024 ID.4s already on the road, Volkswagen has issued a recall. Starting January 5, owners will be notified to return their vehicles to a nearby dealer for the application of a flame retardant fabric to the roller sunshade. As of now, Volkswagen reports no injuries or incidents associated with this concern.
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