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Last updated: 2026-03-14

2021 Volkswagen ID-4 Reliability Report
The 2021 Volkswagen ID-4 scores 46/100 ("Mixed"). With 11 recalls and 304 owner complaints, buyers should proceed with caution.
Recalls
11
Complaints
304
Complaint Rate
N/A
Est. Annual Cost
N/A
Detailed Score Breakdown
Component-weighted complaints normalized by sales volume
Independent repair cost ratings
Recall count weighted by severity
Breadth of reported problem categories
The Verdict
Mixed reliability — proceed with caution and budget for repairs.
Top Issues to Watch
- ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (146)
- STRUCTURE (16)
- STEERING (16)
Generation & Refresh (US)
2021 is the first model year of the First generation (E21).
- First-year models may have unresolved issues from the new design.
- Redesigned for the 2021 model year.
- Refreshed in 2024, 2023.
- 1st generation ID-4 (US).
What this means for buyers
First-year models carry more risk — early production issues are common. Consider waiting for the second year if reliability is a priority.
Compare 2021 pricing and recall counts against 2022+ before deciding.
2021: First generation (E21) Launch
Generation start — new platform.
2023: Mid-Cycle Refresh
Updated features and styling tweaks.
2024: Mid-Cycle Refresh
Updated features and styling tweaks.
Should You Buy the 2021 Volkswagen ID-4?
The 2021 Volkswagen ID-4 scores 46/100 ("Mixed"). Buyers should proceed with caution. As a first-year redesign, early-adopter issues are common.
With 304 owner complaints and 11 recalls, the complaint volume is above average. Reported issues — particularly in electrical system (146) — can be costly to repair.
An extended warranty is strongly recommended. A thorough pre-purchase inspection focused on electrical system (146) is essential before committing.
Compared to the 2022 Volkswagen ID-4, which scored 3 points higher.
Pros
- +5-star NHTSA crash rating
Cons
- −Below-average reliability score
- −Above-average recall count
- −Above-average complaint volume
- −ELECTRICAL SYSTEM issues reported (146 complaints)
- −1 fire incident reported in owner complaints
Compare 2021 Volkswagen ID-4 With

2021 Audi Q5
Reliability: 66/100

2021 Lexus NX
Reliability: 82/100

2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE
Reliability: 65/100

2021 Porsche Cayenne
Reliability: 58/100
Common Problem Categories
Safety
LOW RISK- 11 manufacturer recalls issued
Other
HIGH RISK- ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (146)
- UNKNOWN OR OTHER (31)
Recall Overview
11
recalls on record
The 2021 Volkswagen ID-4 has 11 recalls on record, which is above average. A higher recall count can indicate multiple component concerns. However, recalls also demonstrate that the manufacturer is actively addressing known issues. All recall repairs are performed free of charge at authorized dealerships.
NHTSA.gov →Complaint Breakdown
304
complaintsSafety Incidents
23
Crashes
1
Fires
16
Injuries
0
Deaths
NHTSA 5/5 Stars
Data sourced from NHTSA complaint filings and manufacturer recall notices. Complaint narratives are owner-reported.
2021 Volkswagen ID-4 Recall Details
11 recalls have been issued for the 2021 Volkswagen ID-4. All recall repairs are performed free of charge at authorized dealerships.
AIR BAGS
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2021 ID4 vehicles. The passenger air bag may be incorrectly folded. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 208, "Occupant Crash Protection."
Consequence
An incorrectly folded air bag may not protect the occupant as intended during a crash, increasing the risk of injury.
Remedy
Volkswagen will replace the passenger air bag module, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed February 14, 2023. Owners may contact Volkswagen's customer service at 1-800-893-5298. Volkswagen's number to this recall is 69EH.
POWER TRAIN, SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2021-2023 ID.4, 2022-2023 Audi Q4 e-Tron, and Q4 e-Tron Sportback vehicles. The instrument panel may not properly display the transmission gear lever indicator. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 102, "Transmission Shift Lever Sequence, Starter Interlock, and Transmission Braking Effect."
Consequence
Failure to display the gear position may result in a vehicle rollaway if the parking brake is not engaged, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will update the brake control unit software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed March 14, 2025. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-893-5298 or Audi customer service at 1-800-253-2834. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 97H3. Audi's number for this recall is 454R.
STRUCTURE
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2021-2024 ID.4 vehicles. The door handles may allow water to enter the circuit board assembly, which can cause the doors to open unexpectedly.
Consequence
A vehicle door that opens unexpectedly while driving increases the risk of injury.
Remedy
Volkswagen dealers will inspect and replace the door handles as necessary, and update the vehicle software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on December 27, 2024. Owners may contact Volkswagen's customer service at 1-800-893-5298. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 57J9. This recall expands previous recall numbers 23V-312 and 23V-213. Vehicles previously repaired under 23V-312 and 23V-213 will need to have the new remedy completed.
Showing 10 of 11 recalls. View all on NHTSA.gov →
2021 Volkswagen ID-4 NHTSA Safety Ratings
Overall Safety Rating
Crash Test Results by Configuration (expand)
Gas Powertrain
Rollover risk: 10.3%
Safety Technologies
Volkswagen ID-4 Repair Costs & Maintenance
Maintenance Rating
2Maintenance rating: 2 out of 5Based on NHTSA complaint patterns, recall severity, and publicly available cost benchmarks.
Category-level averages derived from publicly available industry reports (AAA, CarMD). Model-level estimates produced by Auto Reliability Index.
2021 Volkswagen ID-4 Example Repair Prices
National average price ranges for common repairs. These are not model-year-specific failure predictions.
| Repair | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Tire Pressure Monitor Lamp Diagnosis | $182 – $268 |
| General Diagnosis | $140 – $206 |
| Noise Diagnosis | $182 – $268 |
| Vibration Diagnosis | $182 – $268 |
| No Start Diagnosis | $182 – $268 |
| Pre-Purchase Car Inspection | $253 – $371 |
| Engine Oil Light Diagnosis | $182 – $268 |
| Check Engine Light Diagnosis & Testing | $182 – $268 |
| AC Diagnosis | $140 – $206 |
| Air Conditioning System Leak Inspection | $140 – $206 |
Estimates based on national average repair costs. Actual costs may vary by location and shop.
Used Buying Checklist
Key things to inspect or verify before purchasing a 2021 Volkswagen ID-4.
Test infotainment system for freezing or resetting
Inspect tires for unusual wear or damage
Verify door handles function properly from inside and outside
Check for any active recalls and confirm repairs are completed
Test vehicle for unintended acceleration during low-speed maneuvers
Ensure electrical systems and displays operate without error messages
Confirm brakes do not lock or cause jarring stops, especially in wet conditions
Buying a 2021 ID-4? Check Its History First
Every 2021 Volkswagen ID-4 has a different past. A VIN check reveals hidden accidents, title problems, odometer rollbacks, and open recalls that reliability scores can't show you.
Affiliate link — we may earn a commission at no cost to you.
2021 Volkswagen ID-4 Common Problems by Component
304 owner complaints grouped by vehicle system.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
146 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners report frequent electrical system failures in the 2021 Volkswagen ID.4, with issues often manifesting as the vehicle stalling or shutting off unexpectedly while driving. Common symptoms include instrument panels going dark, infotainment screens resetting, and loss of connectivity to vehicle networks, affecting navigation and safety features. These problems are noted to occur at various mileages, with some reports indicating issues beginning as early as 45,000 miles. Safety implications are significant, as some complaints involve crashes and injuries linked to malfunctioning driver assist systems and unexpected vehicle shutdowns. Potential buyers should be aware of these recurring issues, particularly given the vehicle's history of unresolved recalls and lengthy repair times.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
31 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners of the 2021 Volkswagen ID-4 frequently report issues with electronic systems, including GPS inaccuracies and recurring problems with the infotainment and instrument panel displays freezing or resetting. Complaints also highlight persistent door handle malfunctions, even after recall repairs, leading to difficulties in accessing or exiting the vehicle. Several owners describe backup camera failures, with some indicating that this affects safe vehicle operation. Notably, one incident involved unintended acceleration resulting in a crash and injury, suggesting potential safety risks. These issues appear across various timelines, with some owners experiencing problems soon after purchase and others encountering them over extended periods.
STRUCTURE
16 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners of the 2021 Volkswagen ID.4 frequently report issues with door handles, with multiple complaints describing doors opening unexpectedly while driving, particularly at low speeds. Symptoms include doors failing to close securely, inability to open doors from the outside, and abnormal clicking noises. Many complaints indicate that these issues are ongoing due to parts being on backorder, with some owners experiencing problems at mileages around 46,000 to 70,000. Safety implications are evident, as one report involves a crash caused by unintended acceleration into a solid object, though no injuries occurred. Used car buyers should be aware of potential unresolved door handle issues and the associated safety concerns.
STEERING (16 complaints)
STEERING
16 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners of the 2021 Volkswagen ID-4 frequently report issues related to unintended acceleration and loss of steering control, sometimes accompanied by electrical system failures. Several complaints describe the vehicle accelerating without driver input and the steering wheel locking, with some incidents resulting in crashes, including five crashes and two injuries. These issues often occur at low speeds, such as parking or backing out, but some reports involve highway driving. Multiple owners mention that these problems started at relatively low mileages, around 8,000 to 22,675 miles. Safety concerns are evident as these malfunctions can lead to a complete loss of vehicle control, posing significant risks to both the driver and others on the road.
POWER TRAIN (15 complaints)
POWER TRAIN
15 complaintsOwners of the 2021 Volkswagen ID-4 frequently report issues with the powertrain, particularly related to the electrical system and vehicle control. Common symptoms include unexpected loss of power while driving, inability to shift from park, and unintended vehicle movement. Several complaints describe the vehicle shutting down or losing all power, often accompanied by warnings such as "Electrical system not working correctly" or "Drive system error." These issues typically occur at various mileages, with some incidents reported as early as 4,000 miles. Safety implications are significant, as multiple reports mention vehicles stalling in traffic or on highways, posing risks of collisions. This information is crucial for potential buyers to consider, especially regarding the vehicle's reliability and safety under certain conditions.
SERVICE BRAKES (15 complaints)
SERVICE BRAKES
15 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners of the 2021 Volkswagen ID.4 report several issues related to the braking system, with common complaints focusing on unexpected braking behavior and malfunctions. Some owners describe instances where the brakes lock or cause a sudden jarring stop, particularly after software updates or in wet conditions. Other reports mention the electronic stability control activating unnecessarily, leading to uneven braking and potential loss of control, especially on curves or during low-speed maneuvers. There are also reports of the vehicle moving unexpectedly on inclines when stationary, and some owners experiencing complete brake failure, with two incidents resulting in crashes. These issues are reported across varying mileage, with some occurring as early as 8,000 miles, posing potential safety risks for prospective buyers.
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL (14 complaints)
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
14 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners of the 2021 Volkswagen ID-4 frequently report issues with unintended acceleration, often resulting in crashes, with eight incidents and six injuries noted. Common symptoms include sudden lurches forward when attempting to park or stop, and unexpected acceleration without input from the driver. Multiple complaints highlight problems occurring both at low speeds, such as parking or in drive-thru lines, and at higher speeds when using adaptive cruise control. Some reports also mention a lack of response from the brake system during these events. The issues appear to manifest regardless of mileage, with some owners experiencing them after recent software updates or service visits. These incidents suggest significant safety implications due to loss of vehicle control.
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM (7 complaints)
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
7 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners report several issues with the 2021 Volkswagen ID-4's fuel/propulsion system, including problems with power loss and charging. Multiple owners describe sudden power loss during acceleration, particularly in 'B' mode, which temporarily resolves after releasing and reapplying the accelerator. Complaints frequently mention charging difficulties due to a failed charge port door actuator, preventing the vehicle from being charged without dealer intervention. One report involves a fire originating from a battery module, resulting in injuries to the driver. Additionally, some owners express concerns over unresolved battery recalls, with difficulties accessing certified technicians for repairs. These issues appear across various mileages, with some reports indicating recurring problems over a span of months. Safety implications include potential for fire, loss of power while driving, and risk of collision due to vehicle rollback on inclines.
AIR BAGS (5 complaints)
AIR BAGS
5 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners of the 2021 Volkswagen ID-4 frequently report issues with the airbag system, particularly involving warning lights indicating errors. Commonly mentioned problems include a persistent airbag warning light and errors related to the passenger occupancy detection system, which some owners associate with a known recall code. One report details a crash where the driver's side curtain airbag deployed unexpectedly, leading to a collision with a utility pole and resulting in injuries. This incident highlights potential safety risks, including unintended airbag deployment and loss of vehicle control. Complaints do not specify mileage ranges, but the issues appear to be ongoing and unresolved by dealerships, which could be a consideration for prospective buyers.
FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE (5 complaints)
FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
5 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners report issues with the 2021 Volkswagen ID-4's forward collision avoidance systems, including unintended activation and lack of warnings. One complaint involves a crash where the automatic emergency braking system engaged without a visible hazard, causing a rear-end collision. Another owner describes sudden vehicle acceleration when the steering wheel's "resume" button is accidentally touched, often while maneuvering at low speeds. Additionally, users mention a lack of audible warnings when the adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping systems disengage, potentially leading to unexpected loss of these features. These issues present safety implications, such as crashes and unintended vehicle behavior, which prospective buyers should consider.
When Do 2021 Volkswagen ID-4 Problems Start?
Based on owner complaint patterns, here's when common issues tend to appear.
Best & Worst Volkswagen ID-4 Years
Comprehensive reliability analysis based on NHTSA data, owner complaints, and historical performance.
Best Volkswagen ID-4 Years to Buy
Based on reliability index scoreThe best Volkswagen ID-4 year is 2025 with a reliability score of 59/100, rated mixed. Other strong picks include 2022 (49/100) and 2024 (46/100).
Volkswagen ID-4 Years to Avoid
The worst Volkswagen ID-4 year is 2023 with a score of 42/100, primarily due to electrical system (176) issues.
Volkswagen ID-4 Reliability Score Trend
Volkswagen ID-4 reliability has remained consistent across model years, averaging 48/100.
Scores 0–100. Higher is better. Current year highlighted.
| Year | Score | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 46/100 | Mixed |
| 2022 | 49/100 | Mixed |
| 2023 | 42/100 | Mixed |
| 2024 | 46/100 | Mixed |
| 2025 | 59/100 | Mixed |
Volkswagen ID-4 Reliability Compared to Other Years
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the 2021 Volkswagen ID-4 reliable?
What are the most common problems with the 2021 Volkswagen ID-4?
How many recalls does the 2021 Volkswagen ID-4 have?
Is the 2021 Volkswagen ID-4 expensive to maintain?
Don’t buy a 2021 Volkswagen ID-4 without checking its VIN first — hidden accidents, title issues, and open recalls could cost you thousands.
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How We Calculate Reliability Scores
Auto Reliability Index scores are calculated on a 0–100 scale using a weighted formula that combines multiple public data sources. Each factor is weighted based on its predictive value for real-world ownership experience.
Key Ranking Factors
Complaint Severity
NHTSA owner complaints weighted by component category (e.g., powertrain, safety systems, electronics, cosmetic) — safety-critical issues carry more weight than cosmetic ones. Adjusted for sales volume so high-volume models aren't unfairly penalized.
Repair Costs
Independent reliability ratings based on repair frequency, average repair costs, and severity of typical repairs for each model.
Recall Impact
Number of NHTSA recalls weighted by severity. “Stop driving” and fire-risk recalls are penalized more heavily than minor software or labeling recalls.
Issue Diversity
Measures how many major vehicle systems (engine, transmission, electrical, braking, etc.) have recorded complaints. A vehicle with issues spread across many systems may indicate systemic quality issues.
Scores are grouped into four tiers:
- 80–100: Excellent — Top-tier reliability, minimal issues
- 60–79: Good — Reliable with some minor concerns
- 40–59: Mixed — Notable issues, research before buying
- 0–39: Risky — Significant problems, proceed with caution
Data is sourced from NHTSA recall records, owner complaint filings, and independent repair databases. Scores are recalculated as new data becomes available. While the weighting model is proprietary, all underlying data sources are public and traceable.
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