VSCode IntelliSense Broken in Tailwind CSS v4? Here’s the Solution

Tailwind CSS v4 brings a bold new approach to styling—shifting from a JavaScript-based configuration to a CSS-first paradigm.

However, this transition introduces a notable challenge: VSCode IntelliSense no longer auto-suggests custom classes as it did before.

In this article, we’ll dive deep into what’s changed in Tailwind CSS v4, explain why IntelliSense issues arise, and provide comprehensive workarounds and best practices for a smooth upgrade.

Whether you’re developing with React, Next.js, or another modern framework, this guide will help ensure your development workflow stays efficient and productive.

What’s New in Tailwind CSS v4?

1. CSS-First Configuration:
   The traditional tailwind.config.js file is replaced by a more integrated, CSS-first approach. Customizations are now defined directly in your CSS files using directives like @theme, @variant, and others. This change streamlines configuration and improves runtime performance.

2. Performance Enhancements:
   With the integration of tools like Lightning CSS (a Rust-based CSS processor), Tailwind v4 offers faster build times and more efficient style processing.

3. Modern Feature Support:
   Tailwind v4 supports native cascade layers, container queries, and other cutting-edge CSS features that keep your projects future-proof.

While these innovations bring many benefits, 🤔 at what cost?

Why is this Intellisense issue happening?

Many developers have reported that after upgrading to Tailwind CSS v4, VSCode IntelliSense no longer provides autosuggestions for custom classes. 😜 I restarted my VSCode multiple times, hoping IntelliSense magically start working again!

Here’s why:

- Removal of the JavaScript Config File:
Previously, the tailwind.config.js file acted as a centralized source for theme customizations and class definitions. IntelliSense extensions relied on this file to parse and offer auto-completion suggestions. With the shift to a CSS-first approach, that explicit source is no longer present.

- File Detection Challenges:
If your project uses a global CSS file (or multiple files) to manage Tailwind directives, the IntelliSense extension may struggle to determine which file contains the relevant configuration. This can lead to incomplete or missing suggestions when you type class names in your markup.

- Project Structure Variations:
Depending on where you store your CSS files—whether in the project root or a subdirectory like assets — the extension might not automatically pick up changes in your @theme declarations.

Workarounds and Solutions

Fortunately, there are practical solutions to restore IntelliSense functionality in VSCode:

1. Configure the Experimental Config File Setting: Tailwind CSS IntelliSense now includes an experimental setting that lets you explicitly point to your CSS file containing Tailwind’s configuration. Add the following to your VSCode settings (in your settings.json):
   

   "tailwindCSS.experimental.configFile": "path/to/your/global.css"
   

   
   Replace "path/to/your/global.css" with the relative path to the CSS file where you’ve defined your @theme and other custom directives. This directs the extension to the correct source, ensuring that autosuggestions are based on your current configuration.

2. Enable Quick Suggestions for Strings: Sometimes, VSCode may not trigger suggestions inside JSX or TSX files. To remedy this, update your settings to enable quick suggestions for strings:
   

   "editor.quickSuggestions": {
   "strings": true
   }
   

   
   . This will ensure that when you type class names within your markup, the IntelliSense popup will appear as expected.

3. Validate Your Project Structure: Ensure that your Tailwind CSS files are consistently located. If you’re using a global CSS file for your Tailwind directives, try to keep it in a central location that the IntelliSense extension can reliably detect. Also, If your repository contains multiple CSS files with similar configurations (e.g., one in the project root and another in an assets folder), consider consolidating them or temporarily removing the one not in use. This will minimise confusion for the extension.

4. Restart the VSCode Extension Host: Restarting the extension host can help apply changes immediately and clear temporary glitches. To do this: Open the command palette (Ctrl+Shift+P on Windows or Cmd+Shift+P on macOS), then Type and select “Developer: Restart Extension Host”

Best practices for a Smooth Tailwind CSS v4 Transition

To ensure a smooth transition and maximize the benefits of Tailwind CSS v4, follow these best practices:

1. Migrate your project incrementally: Start with new components or modules using the CSS-first approach before converting your entire codebase. This minimizes risk and allows your team to adapt gradually.

2. Keep Dependencies Updated: Make sure that all your related dependencies (e.g., PostCSS, autoprefixer) are updated to versions compatible with Tailwind v4.

3. Stay updated with the Community: Follow the official Tailwind CSS GitHub repository, forums, and community channels. Developers often share fixes and workarounds for common issues, and updates to the IntelliSense extension may address these problems in future releases.

4. Maintain clear documentation: Document your project’s configuration thoroughly. This will be useful for onboarding new team members and troubleshooting issues related to the new CSS-first configuration.

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Final Thoughts

While the transition to a CSS-first approach introduces challenges—such as the loss of traditional IntelliSense autosuggestions—the solutions outlined above can help you maintain an efficient development workflow.

By configuring your VSCode settings to point to the correct global CSS file, enabling quick suggestions, and standardizing your project structure, you can overcome the IntelliSense hurdle and fully leverage the power of Tailwind CSS v4.

Referenced Resources:

• Tailwind CSS IntelliSense V4 not Working With React 2025 New Fixed
• Tailwind CSS 4.0 is finally here - The NEW way to install with Vite + React (2025)
• Tailwind CSS Tutorial for Beginners (2024) – What YOU need to know

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If you’ve faced similar issues or found additional fixes, drop them in the comments! Let’s make this transition easier for everyone. 🚀