Volkswagen adds manual battery preconditioning to older ID models

Volkswagen is preparing an over the air software update that will add manual high voltage battery preconditioning to selected older vehicles in its ID electric car range.

The update, ID. Software 3.9.1, is intended to let drivers prepare the battery before using a DC fast charger. Battery temperature can affect charging performance, and preconditioning is designed to bring the pack towards a more suitable temperature before a rapid charging session.

Which cars are in scope

Electrive reports that the update targets vehicles using software generation 3.x. The listed group primarily includes ID.4 and ID.5 models built before October 2023, ID.3 models built up to 2024 and early ID. Buzz vehicles. The report also says older Škoda Enyaq models are expected to receive the update, citing InsideEVs for that point.

Volkswagen announced the update through its official ID. Drivers Club, according to Electrive. Distribution is expected to take place over the air, although the report describes the rollout as forthcoming rather than giving a confirmed schedule for every vehicle.

Other changes in 3.9.1

Preconditioning is not the only change included. Electrive says version 3.9.1 also brings improvements to thermal management, AC charging and system stability. The article does not provide a complete market by market vehicle compatibility list, so owners should check the update information for their specific car rather than assume that every early ID model is eligible.

The move extends a charging related function to older vehicles rather than reserving it only for newer hardware and software generations. For drivers who frequently use public rapid chargers, the practical value will depend on whether their vehicle is included and how the function is presented in its software interface.

The update’s availability and exact behaviour should be confirmed through Volkswagen’s own vehicle communications as distribution begins.