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2021 Volkswagen ID.4 Report

Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.

Updated May 30, 2026·Ethan Miller·3 Critical Recalls
2021 Volkswagen ID.4 Report

Overall Score

6.4/ 10
Our Verdict
Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

  • Electrical System Failures: Frequent reports of complete power loss and system shutdowns are the primary reliability concern.
  • Safety System Recalls: A high number of recalls, including those for seat belts and steering, necessitate verification of completion.
  • Braking and Speed Control Issues: Reports of unintended acceleration and braking malfunctions require thorough pre-purchase inspection.
  • Early Life Failures: Many critical issues appear early in the vehicle's lifecycle, suggesting potential design or manufacturing defects.
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OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2021 Volkswagen ID.4

The 2021 Volkswagen ID.4 presents a compelling electric vehicle option for used car shoppers, boasting a top NHTSA overall safety rating of 5 stars. However, its reliability record is a significant concern, with a high volume of complaints and recalls. The most prevalent issues center around the electrical system, which accounts for over 30% of all complaints, often manifesting as sudden power loss or system shutdowns. Given the 58 recalls, potential repair costs should be a consideration for prospective buyers. While safety ratings are strong, the underlying reliability issues warrant careful inspection.

Critical Failure Risk

Frequent reports of sudden power loss, system shutdowns, and blank displays, often occurring early in the vehicle's life.

Early detection can help you avoid a $1,000-$5,000 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls58
Service Bulletins0
Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

486
Electrical System151
Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

4.1/ 10

Practicality

5.0/ 10
Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Savvy used car shoppers who prioritize safety ratings and are willing to conduct thorough pre-purchase inspections, understanding the potential for electrical system issues and associated repair costs.

Avoid if

Buyers seeking a trouble-free ownership experience or those unwilling to invest in rigorous pre-purchase checks and potential future repairs. Those who cannot tolerate the risk of unexpected electrical failures should look elsewhere.

2021 Volkswagen ID.4 Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2021 Volkswagen ID.4.

  • Recall TimelineOfficial safety notices
  • Owner ComplaintsReal driver reports
  • Failure AnalysisKnown part defects
Specs

Vehicle Specs

Seating Capacity
5
Body Style
Suv

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Unlock the complete checklist, maintenance outlook, and buyer verdict in one place.

Most Common Issues

1. Electrical System

Most reported

Usage: 151 reports

2. Braking System

Usage: 30 reports

See all common issues in the maintenance guide

First Service Interval

- Tire Rotation and Inspection (Parts: Tires)

Est. shop cost: $50 - $100

10,000 mi

Unlock the full maintenance guide for every scheduled service interval and cost forecast.

Full pre-purchase inspection checklist
Complete maintenance schedule (5 service intervals)
Repair forecasts with mileage and cost context
Full specs and trim-level context
58 recall campaign details & remedy notes
486 owner complaints by system
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FAQ

FAQ

Is the 2021 Volkswagen ID.4 reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2021 Volkswagen ID.4 is 4.1/10. Reliability score is 4.1/10. NHTSA recalls: 58. Owner complaints: 486.

How practical is the 2021 Volkswagen ID.4 for daily use?▾

Practicality score is 5.0/10. Seating capacity is 5.

What is the overall score for the 2021 Volkswagen ID.4?▾

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2021 Volkswagen ID.4 is 6.4/10. Overall score is 6.4/10 (Mixed). Confidence 68%. Maintenance 7.6/10. Tuning 2.0/10. Practicality 5.0/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2021 Volkswagen ID.4?▾

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Tire Rotation and Inspection (Parts: Tires) at 10,000 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $500 - $1,000. Repair prediction highlight: Electrical System Control Module (typical at 40,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $800 • Max: $1,200).

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2021 Volkswagen ID.4?▾

15 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control.

How many people fit in a 2021 Volkswagen ID.4?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 Volkswagen ID.4, seating capacity is 5.

What body style is the 2021 Volkswagen ID.4?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 Volkswagen ID.4, body style is suv.

What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2021 Volkswagen ID.4?▾

NHTSA ratings: Overall 5/5 • Frontal 5/5 • Side 5/5 • Rollover 4/5.

Is the 2021 Volkswagen ID.4 good for tuning?▾

Tuning potential is rated 2/10. The 2021 Volkswagen ID.4, an all-electric SUV, presents a unique challenge for tuning enthusiasts.

What are the most common electrical system problems on the 2021 Volkswagen ID.4?▾

Top complaint category: electrical system (151 reports, 31.1% of complaints).

Are there open safety recalls on the 2021 Volkswagen ID.4?▾

This model year has 58 official safety campaigns listed.

Start Here

Maintenance guide

Costs + intervals

Recall report

Campaigns + remedy notes

Owner complaints

Issue volume + categories

Tuning guide

Potential + upgrade path

In this guide

  1. 01Overview
  2. 02Who This Car Is For
  3. 03Reliability & Problems
  4. 04Vehicle Specs
  5. 05Unlock Full Report
  6. 06FAQ

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