Charging Unit Could Fail In Audi And Volkswagen EV's

On 2025-03-11 13:22:49

A potential safety issue has been identified in certain 2024-2025 Audi Q4 E-Tron SUV, Audi Q4 E-Tron Sportback, and 2024 Volkswagen ID.4 electric vehicles. The problem affects the on-board charger (OCDC) with integrated DC/DC-Converter, which may fail to charge the 12-volt battery due to condensation forming within the unit. This can lead to a range of issues, including vehicle non-start conditions, reduced driving functions, and even loss of motive power, increasing the risk of a crash.

According to Volkswagen, the company became aware of the issue in September 2024 after receiving reports related to vehicle charging problems, 12V battery warning messages, and vehicle tow-ins. Subsequent testing confirmed that ignoring warning messages could result in the gradual deactivation of certain electrical vehicle functions, ultimately leading to a loss of motive power.

The root cause of the problem is attributed to insufficient protective coating on the printed circuit board (PCB) within the OCDC, allowing condensation to form and cause electromigration. This can lead to the OCDC failing to charge the 12V battery, resulting in a range of symptoms, including:

  • Various warning lights illuminating on the instrument cluster

  • Audible chimes

  • Warning messages displayed on the instrument cluster

  • Noticeable reduction in certain electrical vehicle functions

If the driver ignores these warnings and continues to drive until the 12V battery is depleted, the vehicle may lose motive power and other electronically controlled or assisted functions, increasing the risk of a crash.

To address this issue, dealers will replace the faulty OCDC unit. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed on April 29, 2025. The recall affects 127 Volkswagen ID.4s and 117 Audi Q4s in the United States.

Volkswagen's recall number for this issue is 93CJ, while Audi's recall number is 93FR. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has assigned a campaign number of 25V-125 to this recall.

Owners of affected vehicles are advised to contact their local dealership or the manufacturer's customer service department for more information and to schedule a repair appointment. It is essential to address this issue promptly to ensure the safety and reliability of the vehicle.