<span class=caption-credit> Volkswagen</span>
Volkswagen ID.Buzz Electric Van Recall: Too Spacious Third-Row Seats Prompt Safety Concerns
Interior view of the ID.Buzz’s third-row seating that prompted the recall. (Photo Credit: Volkswagen)
Table of Contents
Recall Overview and Safety Concerns
In an unprecedented move, Volkswagen has announced a recall of 5,637 ID.Buzz electric vans manufactured between September 18, 2024, and February 11, 2025. The recall addresses an unusual safety concern: the third-row seats are too spacious, potentially allowing three passengers to sit where only two seatbelts are available, creating a significant safety risk.
Critical Safety Information
- Affected Units: 5,637 vehicles worldwide
- Manufacturing Period: September 18, 2024 – February 11, 2025
- Primary Issue: Third-row seat width exceeds two-passenger specifications
- Safety Risk: Potential for unrestrained third passenger
- Recall Classification: Safety-Critical
Technical Details and Compliance Issues
The recall was initiated following the discovery of a violation of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 208, which sets crucial safety standards for occupant crash protection. The third-row bench’s seating surface width exceeds the specified value for two occupants, creating a potentially dangerous situation where a third person might be tempted to occupy the space without proper safety restraints.
Safety Standard Violation Details
The excessive width of the third-row bench creates a critical safety risk by potentially allowing an unrestrained passenger to occupy the space, significantly increasing the risk of injury or death in the event of an accident. This violation of FMVSS 208 requirements necessitated immediate action from Volkswagen.
Volkswagen’s Proposed Solution
To address this safety concern, Volkswagen has developed a comprehensive solution that maintains both safety standards and vehicle functionality:
Modification Plan
- Installation of permanent “unpadded trim parts” to limit seating width
- Physical modifications to prevent third passenger accommodation
- Retention of original seat comfort and functionality
- Implementation of visual indicators for proper seating
- Updated safety documentation and warning labels
ID.Buzz Vehicle Specifications
Impact Analysis and Future Implications
While this recall addresses a specific safety concern, it highlights Volkswagen’s commitment to maintaining strict safety standards across their electric vehicle lineup. The ID.Buzz represents a significant step in Volkswagen’s electric mobility strategy, combining modern technology with classic design elements.
Expert Insight
The 2025 Volkswagen ID.Buzz represents a modern interpretation of the classic VW microbus, offering electric mobility with impressive range and versatile seating configurations. This recall, while necessary for safety compliance, demonstrates Volkswagen’s proactive approach to vehicle safety and their commitment to customer protection.
Key Takeaways
- Proactive safety recall affects 5,637 ID.Buzz electric vans
- Simple but effective solution maintains vehicle functionality
- Demonstrates Volkswagen’s commitment to safety standards
- No impact on vehicle performance or electric range
- Free modifications available at authorized dealerships
Published on May 2, 2025
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