Volkswagen has issued a recall for 837 ID.4 electric SUVs due to potentially loose passenger-side airbag inflators. The issue was first discovered in June when a production employee noticed a missing inflator nut on a new vehicle. An investigation revealed four more inflators with loose fasteners.
While testing initially indicated no safety concern, further tests showed that the nuts could loosen under certain conditions, such as exposure to vibrations and extreme temperatures. After a thorough review, Volkswagen decided to recall affected vehicles.
The supplier, Joyson Safety Systems, has implemented corrective measures to prevent the issue from recurring. Affected vehicles were produced between September 2022 and June 2024.
It’s important to note that this is not the first time Volkswagen has faced airbag issues. In the past, automakers issued recalls for other models due to faulty airbags. This latest recall highlights the importance of ongoing safety testing and monitoring, even for relatively new vehicle models.
Joyson Safety Systems, the supplier of the affected airbag inflators, is a relatively new company with a spotty track record. The company was formed in 2018 after acquiring the assets of Takata, a Japanese automotive supplier that had been involved in a massive global airbag recall. While Joyson Safety Systems has taken steps to improve its quality control processes, this latest recall raises questions about the company’s ability to produce reliable safety components.
Volkswagen has issued a recall for certain ID.4 models due to a potential issue with the passenger-side frontal airbag fasteners. Owners of affected vehicles will receive notification by mail on or before October 18. Dealers have been instructed to inspect the torque of the fasteners and replace the airbag assembly if necessary.
The ID.4, a popular electric SUV, has seen increasing sales in the United States. While initially imported from Germany, local production began in Tennessee in 2022. The ID.4 offers a range of options and features, including a starting price of $39,735 and a maximum range of 291 miles.
Compared to other electric SUVs like the Hyundai Ioniq 5 and Chevrolet Equinox EV, the ID.4 provides a competitive value proposition with its combination of affordability and range.
