Volkswagen recalls 73,000 electric cars

Volkswagen has recalled 73,000 electric vehicles due to a fire risk linked to battery cells that do not meet specifications. The affected models include Volkswagen ID.3, ID.4, ID.7, ID. Buzz, and Cupra Born, with the recall covering vehicles assembled between 2022 and 2025.

German vehicle authority issues three recall campaigns

The Kraftfahrt-Bundesamt (KBA), the German vehicle authority, published three recall campaigns this week, affecting 72,668 vehicles worldwide, including 9,881 in Germany. The main recall, campaign 93MF, affects 62,927 vehicles produced between July 2022 and June 2025.

Two recall campaigns target different vehicle groups

A more sensitive recall, 93MV, targets 5,050 vehicles produced between September 18, 2023, and June 27, 2025. According to the KBA, overlapping cells may overheat during fast charging and in the worst case cause a fire. These vehicles will undergo a full inspection at the workshop.

Cupra Born and other models are included in the recall

The Cupra Born concludes the list with 4,691 units. In France, slightly less than 1,900 vehicles from the same period are affected, including the ID. Buzz Cargo. Škoda is not affected, and Audi is still under review.

Some vehicles already addressed in a prior recall need further checks

Some vehicles already addressed during a spring recall, which affected nearly 94,000 electric vehicles from the group, will need to go through the workshop again. Charging capacity is limited to 80% for affected vehicles.

Owners receive letters to schedule inspections

Owners will receive a letter to schedule an appointment. If the diagnostic determines the battery is healthy, the restriction will be lifted. Until then, a fifth of the capacity remains inaccessible, which could add stops to long trips.

U.S. recall targets specific ID.4 models

In the United States, 22,524 ID.4 models are subject to a separate recall, with cells signed by SK Battery America. Volkswagen states it does not know the exact cause of the defect but specifies that "certain charging profiles combined with a charge state above 80% can trigger thermal propagation."

Checking for affected vehicles is straightforward

To find out if a car is affected, a dealer can check its serial number, and the official website RappelConso lists the campaigns published in France. In the used car market, where ID.3 and ID.4 models are abundant, this recall adds a line to the list of checks.

Buyers should ensure recalls are completed

Before signing, it is better to ensure the campaign has been completed, in addition to requesting the battery's health status. A few simple checks can prevent a costly bill.