Volkswagen ID.4 Battery Fire Recall: What Owners Need to Know Under California Lemon Law

What’s the Problem

Volkswagen has announced a major safety recall affecting thousands of 2023–2025 Volkswagen ID.4 electric SUVs in the United States because of a high-voltage battery defect that could lead to a fire. According to official sources, the vehicles’ high-voltage battery modules may overheat or experience internal cell problems that can increase the risk of a fire, prompting safety notices and repair campaigns from the manufacturer and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).

Allegations

Owners and safety regulators allege that certain Volkswagen ID.4 EVs contain defective battery components and software conditions that elevate fire risk:

• A large recall (NHTSA 26V030) covers approximately 43,881 ID.4 SUVs from model years 2023–2025 that lack Self-Discharge Detection (SDD) software, a condition that may allow high-voltage battery modules to overheat and potentially catch fire.

• A separate battery battery cell issue involves around 670 vehicles from 2023–2024 model years with misaligned electrodes in high-voltage battery cell modules, which can increase the likelihood of thermal events including smoke or fire.

• Owners have been urged to follow special safety guidance while they wait for repairs, reflecting the severity of the alleged defect.

Recall / TSB

Official Recall Actions:

• Recall 26V030 – Affects 43,881 Volkswagen ID.4s (model years 2023–2025) because the vehicles lack battery Self-Discharge Detection (SDD) software. Dealers will update battery software and inspect or replace battery packs as necessary at no cost to owners.

• Separate Battery Cell Module Recall – Approximately 670 vehicles with misaligned electrodes in the high-voltage battery cell modules are also being recalled for module replacement.

Manufacturer Remedy & Notifications:

• Owners are expected to receive recall notification letters beginning in March 2026.

• Volkswagen will perform all required software updates and battery repairs through authorized dealers free of charge.

Symptoms

Affected owners may notice one or more of the following before a recall repair:

• A noticeable reduction in driving range or loss of performance due to battery cell issues.

• Any indication of battery overheating, unusual noises, or warning lights related to the high-voltage battery system (though not all affected vehicles will show a warning).

• Thermal events, including smoke, melting, or instances of fire that originate in the battery area.

Owners may also see battery system alerts or diagnostic trouble codes when the recall condition exists.

How to Proceed

If you own a 2023–2025 Volkswagen ID.4 being recalled for a battery fire risk:

• Document Issues: Keep precise records of all battery-related warnings, performance problems, or thermal events with your vehicle. Log dates, conditions, and any communications with Volkswagen or dealers.

• Follow Safety Guidance: Until your recall repair is performed:

  • Limit charging to no more than 80% of battery capacity.

  • Avoid Level 3 DC fast charging.

  • Do not leave your ID.4 charging indoors overnight.

  • Park the vehicle outdoors and away from structures or other cars immediately after charging.

• Schedule Recall Repairs: Contact an authorized Volkswagen dealer to schedule the required software update, battery inspection, or battery cell module replacement as soon as possible.

• Monitor Symptoms: Watch for any new or worsening battery symptoms such as loss of range, performance issues, or unusual noises.

• Talk to a Lemon Law Attorney, like Valero Law: If repeated battery issues persist after recall remedies, you may have rights under California Lemon Law, including potential repurchase or cash reimbursement.

Call Valero Law

If your Volkswagen ID.4 continues to suffer battery performance issues, repeated thermal events, or fails to remain safe after recall repairs, you may be entitled to relief under California’s Lemon Law. Compensation can include repurchase of your defective vehicle, a replacement vehicle, or substantial cash reimbursement for damage already caused by the defect.

Call Valero Law, APC at (424) 299-4447 or complete a free Lemon Law case evaluation form today to protect your rights and pursue the compensation you deserve.