Volkswagen ID.4: Driving mode selector

Fig. 1 Driving mode selector with the button for the electronic parking brake (arrow).

The Volkswagen ID.4 is equipped with an intuitive driving mode selector that allows you to control forward and reverse motion efficiently. The system includes a forward driving mode D/B and a reverse gear R, designed to maximize comfort and energy efficiency.

The driving mode selector in the Volkswagen ID.4 also features a dedicated button for activating the electronic parking brake.

To shift from the neutral position N into a driving mode, follow these steps:

1. Switch on the ignition in the Volkswagen ID.4.

2. Press and hold the brake pedal.

3. Turn the driving mode selector in the desired direction → fig. 1.

List of selector lever positions

Permanent forward driving mode (D) – the electric drivetrain operates in its standard program.

When ECO assistance is enabled in the Volkswagen ID.4, energy recuperation occurs automatically to improve efficiency (→ Eco assist).

Enhanced recuperation mode (B) – provides increased regenerative braking when coasting, helping recharge the battery (→ Energy recuperation).

To switch between D and B modes in the Volkswagen ID.4, turn the selector forward once. The selector automatically returns to its original position. Repeating this action switches back to D mode.

Parking lock (P) – the drivetrain is mechanically locked. Only engage this position when the vehicle is completely stationary.

Neutral (N) – no power is transmitted to the wheels, and regenerative braking is disabled.

Reverse (R) – used for moving backward. Only select when the Volkswagen ID.4 is stationary.

Driving on an incline

When driving uphill or downhill in the Volkswagen ID.4, it is recommended to use energy recuperation whenever possible. This helps reduce wear on the braking system and improves overall efficiency.

Stopping and starting to drive uphill

The Auto Hold function in the Volkswagen ID.4 is especially useful when stopping or starting on inclines (→ Auto Hold).

If the vehicle is stopped on a hill with a gear engaged, always keep the brake pedal pressed or activate the electronic parking brake to prevent rolling. Release the brake only when you are ready to move off.

Crawling feature

With Auto Hold deactivated and a gear engaged, releasing the brake pedal will cause the Volkswagen ID.4 to begin moving slowly (“crawling”). This function allows for precise low-speed control, particularly useful when parking or maneuvering in tight spaces.

WARNING

Selecting the wrong gear in the Volkswagen ID.4 can result in loss of control and increase the risk of accidents and serious injuries.

• Never press the accelerator pedal while selecting a gear.

WARNING

Rapid acceleration or deactivating traction control (ASR) may cause the Volkswagen ID.4 to lose traction on slippery surfaces such as wet, icy, or dirty roads. This can lead to loss of control and serious accidents.

• Only use kick-down or rapid acceleration when road, weather, and traffic conditions are safe.
• Always adapt your driving style to current conditions and traffic flow.

WARNING

An unattended Volkswagen ID.4 that is ready to drive can move unexpectedly, posing a serious safety hazard.

• Never leave the vehicle unattended while it is in drive-ready mode.
• Always switch off the ignition when exiting the vehicle.
• Ensure the electronic parking brake is activated before leaving the vehicle.
• Make sure all doors, windows, trunk lid, and hood are securely closed and locked.
• When the vehicle is in D/B or R, always hold it stationary using the brake pedal.
• Never shift into reverse gear while the Volkswagen ID.4 is moving.

The driving mode selector in the Volkswagen ID.4 is engineered for simplicity, efficiency, and safety, allowing drivers to fully utilize the capabilities of the electric drivetrain in various driving conditions.

NOTICE

Improper operation of the electric drivetrain in the Volkswagen ID.4 may result in increased component wear or even serious system damage over time.

• Never allow the Volkswagen ID.4 to roll freely in gear N, especially if the vehicle's drive system has not been activated, as this can negatively affect drivetrain components.
• When stopping on inclines with a gear engaged in the Volkswagen ID.4, always use the brake pedal to hold the vehicle in place and never rely on the accelerator.

Troubleshooting

Electric drivetrain overheated

The red warning light in the Volkswagen ID.4 illuminates.

This indicates that the electric drivetrain temperature has exceeded safe operating limits.

A corresponding warning message will be displayed in the ID. cockpit of the Volkswagen ID.4.

Do not continue driving!

1. Safely park the Volkswagen ID.4 outdoors as soon as possible.

2. Deactivate drive-ready mode immediately.

Do not attempt to add coolant or perform any unauthorized intervention.

3. Contact an authorized Volkswagen dealer or authorized Volkswagen Service Facility for professional assistance. Volkswagen strongly recommends using certified service centers.

and Brake energy recuperation not possible

The yellow warning indicators light up in the Volkswagen ID.4.

This means that the regenerative braking system is not functioning properly.

As a result, the driving range of the Volkswagen ID.4 may be reduced due to the inability to recover energy efficiently.

1. Contact an authorized Volkswagen dealer or authorized Volkswagen Service Facility to have the system inspected. Volkswagen recommends relying on certified specialists for accurate diagnostics and repair.

NOTICE

If the Volkswagen ID.4 is allowed to roll for extended periods or at higher speeds while the ignition is switched off, or if the electric drivetrain is inactive or the 12 V battery is discharged, this can cause irreversible drivetrain damage.

• Always follow proper towing procedures, as the Volkswagen ID.4 can only be towed under specific conditions (→ Towing).

Drive will be immediately turned off

The high-voltage battery charge level in the Volkswagen ID.4 is critically low and available drive power is significantly reduced.

The red warning indicator illuminates while driving.

A warning message appears in the instrument cluster, accompanied by an acoustic alert.

The vehicle may soon come to a complete stop in traffic conditions.

Only two emergency starts remain available, allowing the Volkswagen ID.4 to move a short distance at approximately 7 km/h (approx. 4 mph).

Climate control and comfort functions are restricted to preserve remaining energy.

1. If traffic conditions allow, safely pull over and park the Volkswagen ID.4, or proceed carefully to the nearest charging station.

Once sufficient power is restored, the warning indicator will switch off.

Driving not possible

The high-voltage battery temperature in the Volkswagen ID.4 is too low for normal operation.

The red warning indicator activates before driving begins.

A message is displayed in the instrument cluster along with an acoustic signal.

Very limited driving power may result in the vehicle becoming immobilized in traffic.

Only slow maneuvering at approximately 7 km/h (approx. 4 mph) is possible.

Climate control functions are limited to conserve energy.

• Charge the high-voltage battery of the Volkswagen ID.4 if the charge level is low.
• If driving in cold conditions, it is recommended to pre-condition the Volkswagen ID.4 using the climate control system before departure. This helps warm the high-voltage battery and improves available performance.

Always monitor the power display in the Volkswagen ID.4 instrument cluster for real-time feedback.

Once normal operating conditions are restored, the warning indicator will turn off.

The Volkswagen ID.4 advanced electric drivetrain management system is designed to protect critical components and ensure safe operation under all conditions, but proper handling and timely maintenance are essential for long-term reliability.