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While driving, one does not anticipate the sudden swinging open of their vehicle’s doors. This unexpected occurrence has been reported by some Volkswagen ID.4 owners, leading the German automaker to initiate a recall.
As per information from Automotive News, certain ID.4 SUVs are facing issues with doors unexpectedly opening at low speeds. According to NHTSA documents, the doors of the vehicle could open when subjected to high lateral forces below 9 mph. This problem impacts both front and rear doors on both sides of the vehicle.
Volkswagen first became aware of this issue through field reports in January, with 10 cases identified. In a statement provided to InsideEVs, Volkswagen confirmed that no accidents or injuries have been reported thus far.
Further investigation revealed that the issue stems from the door handles of ID.4 SUVs built in Volkswagen’s Chattanooga assembly plant in Tennessee. These components, provided by U-Shin Ltd., may not meet the necessary standards to guard against water infiltration.
Should water enter the door handle, it could impact the internal electronics, leading to communication issues between the handle and the door control unit. This malfunction could prompt the door control unit to open the door without any action by the vehicle occupants. It is speculated that this problem may be limited to low speeds due to safety mechanisms integrated into the control unit that prevent door opening at higher velocities.
Volkswagen has issued a stop-sale directive for ID.4 SUVs manufactured at its Chattanooga plant as it endeavors to address the issue. A solution for the problem is currently pending. Meanwhile, the recall will encompass 16,207 ID.4s, with an estimated 15% of these vehicles anticipated to display the identified defect. Volkswagen will inform owners of the recall by or on May 26, with dealers handling the inspection and repair process.
The sudden opening of a door while driving can be an unsettling surprise. In the worst-case scenario, it could lead to harm to occupants of the vehicle or pedestrians. Luckily, Volkswagen identified this issue prior to any injuries occurring. Nevertheless, if you own an ID.4, it is advisable to exercise caution when operating the vehicle, especially in wet conditions.
Got a lead? Reach out to the author at: lewin@thedrive.com
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