Volkswagen Resolves ID.4 Door Handle Issue, Resumes Production and Sales
Volkswagen faced a major setback last September when faulty door handle hardware led to the suspension of sales and production of its electric crossover, the ID.4. The German automaker was forced to recall nearly 100,000 customer cars due to this issue. Now, after months of intensive work, Volkswagen has announced that it has finally resolved the problem and is ready to get back on track.
New Parts, New Hope
The root of the problem lay in the unique design of the ID.4’s door handles. Unlike traditional mechanical handles, the ID.4 features flush door handles that contribute to the car’s aerodynamic efficiency. However, these electromechanical handles were not adequately waterproofed, leading to corrosion of the internal electronics. This resulted in numerous complaints from customers about doors opening unexpectedly while driving.
Restarting the Engine
Volkswagen took swift action last year, pulling the ID.4 from sale, issuing a recall, and halting production to address the issue. After months of hard work, the automaker has now developed new and improved door handle assemblies that are fully waterproofed. With these new parts in hand, Volkswagen is gearing up to restart production at its factory in Chattanooga, Tennessee, in the coming weeks.
A Fresh Start
With the availability of the new door handles, dealers will be able to complete the recall process for affected ID.4s. This also means that cars currently in inventory can be fixed and put up for sale once again. To entice customers back to the brand, Volkswagen has announced that it will be offering competitive lease offers on the ID.4, hoping to regain its position in the competitive crossover market.
In conclusion, Volkswagen’s resolution of the ID.4 door handle issue marks a turning point for the company. By addressing the problem head-on and implementing effective solutions, Volkswagen is demonstrating its commitment to customer safety and satisfaction. With production set to resume and new offers on the table, the future looks bright for the ID.4 and Volkswagen as a whole.