FYI: Volkswagen halts ID.4 production in Chattanooga due to door latch issue, aiming for a solution by 2025.
Volkswagen to Suspend ID.4 Production in Chattanooga Amid Door Lock Recall
Volkswagen has announced a temporary halt in the production of the all-electric ID.4 crossover at its Chattanooga, Tennessee plant. The production pause, starting next week, is aimed at addressing a faulty electronic door lock that has raised significant safety concerns.
Recall Affects Nearly 100,000 Units
The door latch issue led to a recall involving nearly 100,000 ID.4 units in the U.S. These vehicles, spanning model years 2021 to 2024, have electronic door handles with insufficient water protection. This design flaw can cause moisture to reach the printed circuit board, potentially triggering an unexpected door-opening command while driving.
Immediate Consequences and Solutions
Volkswagen has issued a stop-sale on unsold and pre-owned ID.4 vehicles. The impact will be felt by about 200 employees at the Chattanooga plant, who are set to be furloughed during the production hiatus. According to Michael W. Lowder, a Volkswagen spokesperson, the halt in production will continue until a reliable remedy is found.
“After extensive review, in response to the stop-sale of the ID.4, we will temporarily suspend production of the vehicle at the Volkswagen Chattanooga plant until a remedy is available,” Lowder confirmed.
Steps Toward a Solution
The company has outlined a thorough plan to address the issue. Dealers will inspect each door handle and replace it with an improved variant if necessary. Additionally, the car’s software will be updated to enhance safety. Volkswagen aims to find a fix by early 2025, according to Andrew Savvas, VW’s head of U.S. sales, as reported by Automotive News.
Historical Context
This isn’t the first time the ID.4 has faced recall issues. In 2023, a recall was issued for 2021-2022 ID.4 EVs built in Germany for the U.S. market. The door lock mechanisms in those units were made by Witte Automotive in the Czech Republic, whereas the locks for U.S.-built cars were manufactured by U-Shin in Mexico. Despite the difference in suppliers, German-made ID.4s are also included in the latest recall.
Support for Affected Workers
Volkswagen is committed to supporting its employees during the production pause. The company stated that it will supplement state unemployment benefits, ensuring that furloughed workers receive 80% of their base compensation. They will also continue to enjoy all current benefits during this period.
Conclusion
Volkswagen’s proactive measures in halting production are aimed at ensuring the safety and reliability of the ID.4. By addressing this issue head-on and supporting its workforce, the automaker aims to return to full production with improved safety measures and quality standards by early 2025.
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William Kouch, Editor of Automotive.fyi
