The Volkswagen ID.5, launched in 2021, is the electric SUV coupe variant in Volkswagen's expanding ID lineup. As an all-electric vehicle, it combines cutting-edge technology with a sleek, sporty design. With a range that competes with some of the best in the market and an interior that’s both modern and spacious, the ID.5 is an attractive proposition for those looking to make the switch to electric. However, like all cars, the ID.5 is not without its problems. In this article, we will dive deep into the common issues reported by owners, provide advice on what to look for when buying one, discuss the costs of ownership, and suggest alternative electric cars that might be worth considering.
Common Problems of the Volkswagen ID.5 (2021-Present)
1. Battery and Charging Issues
As with any electric vehicle (EV), the performance and longevity of the battery are crucial to the overall experience. The Volkswagen ID.5, while generally praised for its impressive range, has been subject to some reports of battery-related problems that may affect long-term performance.
Battery Degradation: Over time, some owners have noted that the range of their ID.5 decreases more quickly than expected, particularly if the vehicle is subjected to rapid charging regularly. The degradation may vary based on how frequently the car is charged to full capacity or left with a low charge for extended periods.
Charging Problems: There have been reports of issues with fast-charging stations not always working correctly with the ID.5. This includes problems where the vehicle doesn't charge as quickly as it should, or it fails to initiate charging at all at certain fast-charging stations.
Software Bugs: Software glitches related to charging have been mentioned by owners, with the vehicle not recognizing the charger or failing to initiate charging at the correct voltage, causing inconsistent charging speeds.
What to Look For:
- Check battery performance: During your test drive, pay attention to how the vehicle performs in terms of range. If it’s significantly lower than advertised, it could be an issue.
- Charging compatibility: Test the car at various charging stations if possible to check for any inconsistencies or failures to charge. Ensure that it charges efficiently using both home and fast chargers.
- Battery Health: If buying a used ID.5, always check the health of the battery. The vehicle should come with a warranty that covers the battery for up to 8 years or around 100,000-160,000 km, depending on the region.
2. Infotainment System and Software Bugs
One of the standout features of the Volkswagen ID.5 is its high-tech, intuitive infotainment system. However, many users have reported software bugs and glitches that can affect the experience.
Screen Freezing and Unresponsiveness: The infotainment screen in the ID.5 can sometimes freeze or fail to respond to touch inputs. This might happen intermittently during driving, leading to a frustrating experience, particularly when trying to use navigation or adjust settings.
Connectivity Issues: Owners have noted issues with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. Sometimes, the system fails to connect properly or disconnects during use, requiring the user to restart the system or their phone.
Voice Control Problems: The voice control feature, intended to allow hands-free control over various car functions, has been reported to struggle with understanding commands, especially in noisy environments or when using specific accents.
What to Look For:
- Test the infotainment system: During the test drive, ensure that the infotainment system is responsive and functional. Check if the screen loads quickly, and test the voice recognition system to see if it’s working smoothly.
- Check connectivity: Test Apple CarPlay or Android Auto with your phone to make sure the connection is stable and seamless, and monitor if there are any disconnections.
- Ensure software updates: The ID.5 should be kept up to date with the latest software, as Volkswagen regularly releases updates to fix bugs and enhance features. Make sure that the system is up-to-date and operational.
3. Autonomous Driving Features and Safety Systems
Volkswagen’s ID.5 comes with several advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS), including adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking. However, some users have reported issues with these features, leading to questions about their reliability.
Lane-Keeping Assist Issues: Some ID.5 owners have reported that the lane-keeping assist feature can be overly sensitive or even malfunction, jerking the wheel unnecessarily, or failing to assist when needed. There have also been reports of the system struggling to work effectively on poorly marked roads.
Adaptive Cruise Control Failures: The adaptive cruise control has been reported to have occasional issues with detecting vehicles, especially in heavy traffic. The system can sometimes fail to maintain a safe distance from the vehicle in front or disengage abruptly without cause.
Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB): While generally reliable, there have been rare instances where the AEB system has triggered unnecessarily or failed to respond to imminent obstacles, posing a potential safety risk.
What to Look For:
- Test ADAS features: Test the lane-keeping assist, adaptive cruise control, and AEB systems in different driving conditions. Check that lane-keeping assist is responsive and does not overcorrect. Ensure the adaptive cruise control maintains a safe distance without sudden disengagement.
- Check for system updates: ADAS features rely on up-to-date software, so ensure that all systems are running the latest firmware. Ask the dealership if any software bugs have been addressed.
4. Brake Performance and Regenerative Braking
Electric vehicles like the ID.5 feature regenerative braking, which helps to recharge the battery by converting kinetic energy into electricity. However, some ID.5 owners have noted issues with how the regenerative braking system works, particularly during heavy braking.
Unpredictable Braking Feel: Regenerative braking in the ID.5 can sometimes feel inconsistent, with varying levels of braking force when switching between driving modes or in different conditions. This can lead to jerky stops or difficulty modulating braking force.
Brake Pad Wear: As with all EVs, brake pads in the ID.5 may wear faster due to the regenerative braking system. This is particularly true for those who frequently drive in stop-and-go traffic where the regenerative braking is more active.
What to Look For:
- Test braking: During your test drive, assess how the brakes feel, particularly when coming to a stop from higher speeds. The transition between regenerative braking and traditional braking should feel smooth.
- Listen for noises: If you hear squeaking or grinding noises when braking, it could indicate worn-out brake pads or problems with the braking system.
- Check brake pad wear: If buying a used ID.5, make sure to inspect the brake pads to ensure they haven’t worn excessively.
5. Suspension and Ride Quality
Although the ID.5 is equipped with a sophisticated suspension system designed for comfort and handling, some owners have reported that the ride can feel a bit stiff, especially when the vehicle is fitted with larger wheels or when driving over rough roads.
Stiff Ride: In certain driving conditions, particularly on rough or uneven surfaces, the ID.5’s suspension might feel a bit firm or harsh. While the suspension is tuned for sporty handling, it can be less forgiving on poor roads.
Unusual Noises: There have been reports of knocking or creaking noises coming from the suspension, particularly in models with higher mileage or those that have been used extensively on uneven surfaces.
What to Look For:
- Test suspension on rough roads: During the test drive, try driving on rough or bumpy roads to assess how the suspension handles uneven surfaces. Ensure that the ride is comfortable and free from excessive jarring.
- Listen for unusual noises: Pay attention to any knocks, creaks, or squeaks coming from the suspension, particularly when turning or going over bumps.
What to Look for When Buying a Volkswagen ID.5 (2021-Present)
When buying a used Volkswagen ID.5, there are a few important aspects to check to ensure the car is in good condition, particularly regarding the battery, software, and advanced driving features.
- Battery Health: Given that the ID.5 is an electric vehicle, the health of the battery is critical. Verify the state of the battery through a full diagnostic check, and confirm the mileage and warranty details. Volkswagen offers an 8-year warranty on the battery, which should give peace of mind for most buyers.
- Software Updates: Ensure that the car has received the latest software updates, as these can address issues with the infotainment system, ADAS, and charging problems. Check the vehicle’s software history and ask if there are any pending updates.
- Check ADAS Functionality: Test all the safety and driving assistance features like lane-keeping assist, adaptive cruise control, and automatic emergency braking to ensure they’re working properly.
- Maintenance Records: Like any vehicle, ensure the car has been regularly maintained. Request full service records to ensure it’s been kept in optimal condition.
How Expensive is It to Own a Volkswagen ID.5?
Owning an electric vehicle like the ID.5 can offer considerable savings compared to traditional internal combustion engine vehicles. However, there are still certain costs to consider.
- Electricity Costs: Charging an electric vehicle at home is generally cheaper than refueling a gasoline or diesel car. Expect to pay around 10-15 pence per kWh in the UK (or equivalent in other countries) when charging at home. Public fast charging can be more expensive, though.
- Maintenance: EVs like the ID.5 have fewer moving parts compared to traditional cars, meaning lower maintenance costs. However, the battery will eventually degrade, and replacing it can be costly if not covered by the warranty. Regular maintenance like tire changes, brake pad replacements (though these are less frequent), and software updates are some of the costs you’ll encounter.
- Insurance: As an electric vehicle, the ID.5 may be slightly more expensive to insure than a comparable gasoline vehicle, though rates are generally competitive in the EV market.
Better Alternatives to the Volkswagen ID.5
If you’re considering the Volkswagen ID.5 but are unsure about some of the potential issues, there are several alternatives in the electric SUV market worth considering:
- Tesla Model Y (2020-Present): Known for its cutting-edge technology and exceptional performance, the Tesla Model Y offers similar range, advanced features, and is highly regarded for its superior charging network.
- Ford Mustang Mach-E (2021-Present): A strong competitor to the ID.5, the Mustang Mach-E combines sporty handling with great electric range, advanced features, and excellent build quality.
- Audi Q4 e-tron (2021-Present): For those looking for a more premium electric SUV, the Audi Q4 e-tron offers luxurious interiors, strong performance, and a similar range to the ID.5, with fewer reported issues.
- BMW iX3 (2021-Present): A high-quality electric SUV with solid performance and a refined interior, the BMW iX3 competes with the ID.5 in terms of range and premium feel.
Conclusion
The Volkswagen ID.5 (2021-Present) is a promising electric SUV coupe that stands out with its stylish design, advanced tech features, and impressive range. However, potential buyers should be aware of issues such as battery degradation, charging compatibility problems, software bugs, and the performance of autonomous driving systems. The ID.5 offers good value for those willing to invest in an electric future, but its reliability may depend on how well it has been maintained.
For those seeking alternatives, the Tesla Model Y, Ford Mustang Mach-E, or Audi Q4 e-tron provide similar offerings with fewer common problems. Regardless of your choice, be sure to research the car thoroughly and ensure it is well-maintained to avoid costly repairs down the line.