Volkswagen Recalls Over 5,600 ID. Buzz Vehicles Due to Seatbelt Compliance Issue

Volkswagen Group of America has initiated a recall of 5,637 ID. Buzz vehicles from the 2025 model year after discovering a compliance issue related to the third-row seating configuration. The issue involves the seating surface width exceeding federal limits for a two-person bench, while only two seatbelts are provided, leading to a potential safety risk.

According to the recall report submitted to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the third-row rear bench in the affected vehicles was designed with only two designated seating positions (DSPs), each equipped with a seatbelt. However, testing confirmed that the seating surface width mandates the provision of three DSPs under federal standards, specifically 49 CFR Part 571.10 and FMVSS 208. This discrepancy means that if a third passenger were to occupy the bench, there would be no seatbelt available for them, increasing the risk of injury in the event of a crash.

Volkswagen traced the root cause to a misinterpretation of the applicable federal seating regulations during vehicle development. The issue was brought to light on February 12, 2025, by the seat supplier Faurecia Autositze GmbH, prompting an internal investigation and compliance testing by an independent institute. The problem was formally recognized by Volkswagen’s Product Safety Committee on April 16, 2025.

To address the issue, Volkswagen will install fixed unpadded trim parts to narrow the seating surface of the third-row bench, ensuring it complies with the two-DSP limit. The recall does not include a reimbursement program, as the affected vehicles remain under the New Vehicle Limited Warranty. Dealer notifications are scheduled to begin April 25, 2025, with owner notifications set for June 20, 2025. Production changes to correct the condition have not yet been implemented.

Article by multiple RFHC contributors, based upon information from the Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. safety recall report submitted to NHTSA

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