Volkswagen ID.Buzz Recalled Due to Seating Flaw
Volkswagen’s newest electric van, the 2025 ID.Buzz, has been recalled because of a significant design flaw related to its seating configuration. The ID.Buzz, which combines the capabilities of an electric vehicle with the classic look of the Volkswagen Transporter, was introduced in the U.S. market in late 2024.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) announced the recall due to a seating compliance issue that could increase the risk of injury in a crash. The problem lies in the third-row seating bench, which is so wide that it requires three seatbelts, but the vehicle is only equipped with two.
The Seating Issue Explained
The ID.Buzz has two designated seating positions (DSPs) in the third row and is equipped with only two seatbelts. However, according to the NHTSA, the third-row seating bench is wide enough to accommodate three passengers, creating a safety risk.
“If three passengers were to be seated on the third-row rear bench, there would be insufficient seat belts for all three passengers. This could increase the risk of an injury for passengers in the event of a crash,” the recall notice states.
Affected Vehicles and Repair Plan
The recall affects over 5,000 electric vans manufactured between September 18, 2024, and February 11, 2025. To remedy the problem, Volkswagen will install fixed unpadded trim components on the third-row seat to reduce its usable width, ensuring it meets the maximum allowed for two passengers.
Dealer notifications are scheduled for April 25, 2025, and customer notifications are expected by June 20, 2025. Owners with questions can contact Volkswagen’s customer service at 1-800-893-5298. Notably, the company will not offer a reimbursement program since the affected vehicles are still under the New Vehicle Limited Warranty.
Background and Pricing
The recall comes as the ID.Buzz won several World Car awards at the New York International Auto Show. The Volkswagen ID.Buzz starts at $59,995 for the base-level Pro S trim, with five other trims available at varying prices. Although it is an electric vehicle, it is not eligible for the federal tax credit of $7,500.
