My first EV. Seriously looking at the VW ID4 but the nearest dealer is about 60 miles away. I have already test driven the car and was impressed. Should I be concerned with the dealer that far away with concerns of any kind of mechanical failure that would require “special” attention?
For what its worth: Tesla has mobile service rangers who will go to you if there are problems.
The legacy dealers often refuse or reluctantly support their cars and often only have 1 or 2 service techs who even can work on EVs.
While the new VW, Ford, and Kia EVs all seem to be reasonably good cars, their manufacturers and dealers are still luke-warm, at best about their willingness to sell and support them. I would highly recommend that you talk with your VW dealer and ask how well they like the ID4. The answer should tell you a lot before the 60 miles even comes into play.
While I'm accused of being a Tesla Fanboi, it is for reason. My family has owned 3 non-Tesla EVs as well, a GM EV1, a Nissan Leaf, and a GM Volt. Each had its issues, mostly from lack of commitment by the manufacturer. My parents were over 60 miles from their nearest Tesla service center until Tesla recently got a mobile technician in their town. The service technicians from the center have always taken good care of the few minor issues with their very early cars.
Tesla is the only EV manufacturer who is dedicated to making their EV customers happy. Most of the rest would prefer to sell you an ICE.
The ID4 looks quite good but, it is new and you probably should be careful.
