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VW · Compact · 2020–2023

VW ID.3 1(E11)

Weaknesses, engine ratings and buying advice

3.0 / 5.0 · Based on 1 engine variants

Generations


Engine Overview

The VW ID.3 1 is available with one engine variant at 150 hp. 1 variants had engine changes — the model year is crucial.

Elektrisch · Elektro· 150–204 PS Engine Change
2020 2023
Be Careful 8 weaknesses
2020 2023
Be Careful 8 weaknesses

The VW Elektrisch (Elektro, 150–204 PS) comes with 2 different engines: APP310 (2020–2023, Be Careful) und APP310 (2020–2023, Be Careful). Pay attention to the model year for the Elektrisch!

Vehicle Weaknesses

WeaknessCost
!Software: crashes and infotainment failures

Early build years 2020–2021 suffer from frequent software crashes. Infotainment freezes or restarts; driver assistance systems drop out. Multiple workshop visits for software updates sometimes needed without a lasting fix.

Symptoms: Black display; frozen infotainment; assistance systems dropping out; speedometer shows nothing; lane keep assist disables itself
Low
!12V battery: deep discharge when standing

The 12V lead battery discharges during standing periods of more than 2–3 days due to the bus system failing to enter sleep mode. Software version 2.x did not fully resolve the problem. Significantly improved from software 3.0 with 'optimised battery charging'.

Symptoms: Vehicle won't start after several days of standing; We-Connect app reports weak 12V battery; fault messages after restart
Low
!Charge port: locking mechanism defective

The locking motor in the charge port fails: the cable cannot be removed, or charging fails at all outlets (CCS, Type 2). A misleading error message suggests a charger-side problem. Repair possible under warranty.

Symptoms: Charging cable cannot be removed after charging; error message 'please observe instructions at the charging point'; charging fails to start at any outlet
Low
Indicator stalk: self-cancelling defective

The indicator stalk fails to self-cancel after turning. Replacement under warranty. The problem occurs sporadically and affects several build years 2020–2023. Known production defect according to the manufacturer.

Symptoms: Indicator stays on even though the steering wheel has already returned; indicator must be manually cancelled
Low
Charge flap freezes in winter

The charge flap locking mechanism freezes at temperatures below 0°C in humid conditions. Despite pressing the button, the flap cannot be opened. VW recommends silicone spray as a preventive measure.

Symptoms: Charge flap cannot be opened in sub-zero temperatures; button in the cabin has no effect; remote release via app does not work
Keyless Entry: key not recognised

The Keyless Access system fails sporadically in cold and humid conditions. Doors can be unlocked with the button, but starting the vehicle fails. Particularly common with early software versions.

Symptoms: Error message 'key not recognised'; Keyless Entry not working although key is in the pocket

Alternatives

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Honda Civic FL

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Kia EV6 CV

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Mercedes-Benz C-Klasse W206

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Audi A3 8Y

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Known Problems and Issues

A total of 21 weaknesses have been documented for the VW ID.3 1 (2020–2023) — 8 engine-related and 13 vehicle-related. Typical issues affect Electronics, HVAC, Interior, Brakes.

ID.3 (APP310, 2020–2023) — Be Careful: OTA software update bricks vehicle, HV battery cell drift and module failure, 12V battery complete discharge. Power: 150 PS.

ID.3 (APP310, 2020–2023) — Be Careful: OTA software update bricks vehicle, HV battery cell drift and module failure, 12V battery complete discharge. Power: 204 PS.

What to watch out for with the VW ID.3? See the detailed listing of all engine and vehicle weaknesses in the sections above.

Frequently Asked Questions

What problems and weaknesses does the VW ID.3 1 have? +
The VW ID.3 1 has 8 known engine weaknesses and 13 vehicle weaknesses.
What should I look for when buying a used VW ID.3 1? +
faq.watch_a_none
Which engine is recommended? +
Be careful: APP310 (Elektrisch). No engine is rated 'Good Choice'. The most fun to drive is the APP310 (Elektrisch).
Which VW ID.3 1 engine is the most fun? +
The {code} ({displacement}) offers the most driving fun in the VW ID.3 1 — rated: "Decent". {description} The ID.3 with 150 hp is adequate for everyday use, but doesn't feel particularly agile for a compact. A usable EV without a wow factor.
Is the VW ID.3 1 worth buying used? +
The VW ID.3 1 requires careful consideration — choosing the right engine variant is crucial.
What horsepower variants are available for the VW ID.3 1? +
The VW ID.3 1 is available with engine variants from 150 to 286 hp.

Last updated: February 2026 · All information without guarantee