Audi A7 problems
The Audi A7 is an executive five-door liftback coupé produced by Audi since 2010. A luxury car, it features a sloping roofline with a steeply raked rear window and integrated boot lid (forming the Sportback), and four frameless doors. It is also available as a three-box, four-door saloon in China since 2021.
Audi Sportback concept (2009)
The Audi Sportback concept is a concept vehicle powered by a 3.0-litre V6 TDI clean diesel engine rated at 225 PS (165 kW; 222 hp) and 550 N⋅m (406 lbf⋅ft) of torque. It features a 7-speed S tronic transmission, quattro permanent all-wheel-drive system, five-link front suspension, continuous damping control shock absorbers, electromechanical steering, ceramic brake discs (380 mm front and 356 mm rear), front 6-piston monobloc aluminium brake calipers, rear floating-caliper brakes and 21-inch wheels. A preview of the facelifted 2015 A7 Sportback, the vehicle was unveiled at the 2009 Detroit Auto Show.
First generation (Type 4G8; 2010)
Initial release
The A7 is in essence a four-door fastback version of the C7-series Audi A6, based on the Volkswagen Group MLB platform. The A7 was released before the more conventional A6 saloon/estate. Both cars share the same core structure, drivetrain, chassis, dashboard and interior, whilst the A7 has its own unique exterior panelwork. It also differs from the A6 in that it uses aluminium for much of its front body structure. The A7 was also the first fastback to appear within the Audi C-platform series since the Avant version of the C2 Audi 100, which was discontinued in 1982. The vehicle was unveiled in Pinakothek der Moderne art museum in Munich on 26 July 2010, and later at the 2010 Paris Motor Show, 2011 New York Auto Show, and Wörthersee Tour 2011 (in Misano Red).
The vehicles went on sale in autumn 2010. Early models include 2.8 FSI (204 PS (150 kW; 201 hp)) with multitronic, 3.0 TFSI quattro (300 PS (221 kW; 296 hp)) with seven-speed S tronic, 3.0 TDI quattro (245 PS (180 kW; 242 hp)) with seven-speed S tronic; followed by 3.0 TDI (204 PS (150 kW; 201 hp)) with multitronic.
The 2011 model year A7 introduces FlexRay high speed databus that controls all the driver assistance systems from the A8, but it adds head-up display and active lane assist. Full LED headlamps with Automatic high beam switching or Audi adaptive light (Xenon) with variable headlight range control. US models went on sale 2012 model year vehicles. Early models include 3.0 TFSI quattro (310 PS (228 kW; 306 hp)) with an 8-speed automatic transmission.
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Audi A7 model years
Common Audi A7 problems
The Audi A7 has been known to have several common problems based on complaints from owners. Here are some of the most frequently reported issues:
- Non-Engine Electrical Faults: There have been some reports of faults with the non-engine electrics.
Despite these issues, the Audi A7 has been rated as the most reliable used luxury car on the road in a 2023 used car reliability survey for cars between six and 20 years old, with a 90.1% rating.
Is the Audi A7 reliable?
The Audi A7 has a poor reliability score of just 16% as of January 2024, according to exclusive extended warranty data provided by our partners at MotorEasy. This score covers both this original A7 and the current (2018 onwards) model.
Is the Audi A7 expensive to maintain?
Audi A7 Maintenance
Maintenance and repair costs for an Audi A7 will amount to $2,808 after 5 years. Expenses include scheduled maintenance, normal wear and tear items and expected repairs.
Why not to buy Audi A7?
Less Cargo Space than SUVs: While the Audi A7 provides decent cargo space for a luxury sedan, it falls short when compared to SUVs or larger sedans. The sloping roofline limits vertical cargo capacity, and the hatchback design may not be as convenient for loading taller or bulkier items.
What is the Audi A7 known for?
A luxury car, it features a sloping roofline with a steeply raked rear window and integrated boot lid (forming the Sportback), and four frameless doors. An extended-wheelbase three-box, four-door saloon derivative called the A7L has been produced in China since 2021.
Percentage distribution of complaints by Audi A7 years
We have researched Audi problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Audi A7 cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Audi A7 model years:
Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Audi A7 model years.
Distribution of the number of complaints by Audi A7 years
We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:
Audi A7 car problems categorized by type of issue
After analysing all complaints related to Audi A7 , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:
- Electrical system problems
- Engine problems
- Steering problems
- Air bags problems
- Power train problems
The graph below shows statistics for all Audi A7 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by A7 model years
A total of 5 complaints were registered in which the accident occurred. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with fire by A7 model years
There were a total of 3 complaints that resulted in a fire. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with injuries by A7 model years
There were a total of 6 complaints that resulted in a injuries. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
The NHTSA has received 118 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Audi A7 . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Audi A7 vehicles.
Latest 25 complaints
Audi A7 2019
- Date Of Incident: 2024-06-05
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-10
- VIN: WAUV2AF24KN
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: 2019 Audi A7: Water Pump failed. Audi Dealership diagnosed and replaced the Water Pump. Car overheated - warning light came on - and I drove it to the nearest Audi Dealership. I was on a road trip and 800 miles from home when water pump failed. Repairs cost $1950 and took 5 days to complete costing another $1000 in hotel and food expenses plus ruined the road trip.
Audi A7 2016
- Date Of Incident: 2024-07-11
- Date Complaint: 2024-07-22
- VIN: WAU2GBFC3GN
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: Component/System Malfunction: The engine control unit fails, causing the engine to shut off unexpectedly while driving. This component is available for inspection. Safety Risk: The sudden shutdown poses severe risks. It happened on local roads and highways at speeds over 65 mph, creating immediate danger. Reproduction and Confirmation: The problem has been reproduced but not resolved by Audi Columbus. Inspection: Inspected multiple times by Audi Columbus, but not by police or insurance. Warning Lamps/Symptoms: No warning lamps or messages before the engine shuts off; the failure is sudden. Detailed Timeline of Incidents: •[XXX]: First incident; the engine shut off on a local road. Paid $1,500 for repairs, but the issue persisted. •[XXX]: Engine shut off again, preventing going to office due to lack of loaner vehicles. •[XXX]: Engine shut off on the highway, causing extreme fear and distress. Vehicle towed to the service center. The engine shut off in a high-crime area. Restarted vehicle message came on, Vehicle towed from work place. Service Center Issues: •Shutdowns prevent work due to no loaners. •Service advisor Ellis declined services without permission and acting like he has no idea why the vehicle is there even though he is the same service advisor dealing with the constant issue. •No effective resolution despite multiple visits. Impact: The repeated issues severely affect my mental health and safety. Request for Resolution: I seek either a replacement vehicle or a full refund. I urge NHTSA to investigate this defect to prevent accidents. Supporting Evidence: I can provide once contacted Thank you for your prompt attention to this matter. I look forward to your response. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Audi A7 2016
- Date Of Incident: 2024-03-29
- Date Complaint: 2024-04-10
- VIN: WAU2GAFC0GN
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: The contact owns a 2016 Audi A7. The contact stated while driving approximately 35 MPH, the steering wheel stopped operating and the "Do Not Drive Vehicle, Steering Defective" message was displayed. The vehicle was pulled into a parking lot where the vehicle restarted; however, the failure recurred. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic and the contact was informed that the vehicle needed to be taken to the dealer as soon as possible. The contact discovered an unknown Technical Service Bulletin however, the vehicle was not included. The vehicle was towed to the dealer where it was diagnosed with an electrical power steering failure. The vehicle was not covered under warranty. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and a case was opened. The failure mileage was approximately 130,036.
Audi A7 2013
- Date Of Incident: 2024-02-25
- Date Complaint: 2024-04-06
- VIN: WAU2GBFC9DN
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: Internal engine oil leak
Audi A7 2016
- Date Of Incident: 2024-02-27
- Date Complaint: 2024-02-29
- VIN: WAU2GAFC2GN
- Components: VISIBILITY/WIPER
- Summary: In five years I have had my windshield chip or crack four times. Replacement is a pain and expensive. It seems the design is far too susceptible to breakage and is unsafe.
Audi A7 2014
- Date Of Incident: 2024-01-08
- Date Complaint: 2024-02-28
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- VIN: WAUWGAFC1EN
- Components: STEERING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: DRIVING ON THE FREEWAY AND ALL OF A SUDDEN STEERING WHEEL STOPS WORKING GETS SO STIFF THE ELECTRICAL STEERING WHEEL COLUM COMPONET STOPS WORKING.JUST ABOUT CRASHED. THANK GOODNESS NO ONE IN FREEWAY. TPS LIGHTS GOES ON. PAYED ALL THE DIAGNOISES AND SAYS WEEKS TO ORDER THE PART. SAYS DON'T DRIVE. RED WARNING LIGHT. DID 3 DIAGNOSIS AND ITS THE CPU COMPONET THAT CONTROLS THE DASHBOARD AND FLIP SCREEN REAR TAIL THAT SHOULD RAISE AT 75 I BELIEVE YOU HAVE TO CLICK THE BUTTON TO ACTIVATE IF THE CAR LETS YOU. NO SCREEN ON FLIP SCREEN WENT OUT WHEN DRIVING WITH GPS ON IN THE MIDDLE OF A STORM. THE TRACTION ON THE CAR IS OFF . AUDI SAYS 8,000 DOLLARS FOR THE STEERING WHEEL COMPONET THEY SAY VERY HARD AND EXPENSIVE TO FIX.
Audi A7 2019
- Date Of Incident: 2023-11-30
- Date Complaint: 2023-12-16
- VIN: WAUU2AF23KN
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: Dashboard stated “Electrical Malfunction” and yellow battery icon was illuminated. Eventually, the battery icon flashed red and message was to pull over immediately. The A7 was towed to an Audi dealership and the issue diagnosed as a “catastrophic generator failure”.
Audi A7 2016
- Date Of Incident: 2023-12-11
- Date Complaint: 2023-12-11
- VIN: WAUWGAFC3GN
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: Gas smell while AC/HEATER is on and car is sitting idle. My car is not included in the 2019 safety recall 24DP although it should be.
Audi A7 2019
- Date Of Incident: 2023-11-28
- Date Complaint: 2023-12-02
- VIN: WAUV2BF26KN
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: Electric failure warning and car is undriveable. Power steering, brakes, etc won’t operate.
Audi A7 2021
- Date Of Incident: 2023-10-11
- Date Complaint: 2023-10-28
- VIN: WAUS2BF21MN
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: At first, the yellow electrical system malfunction warning light came on. After a short time of driving, the light turned red, and very shortly after than (within five minutes as I was trying to drive the vehicle to the dealership for repair), all of the electrical systems in the vehicle failed. It created a very dangerous driving situation. I brought the vehicle to the Audi dealership, where they made repairs (replacing the generator) and returned the vehicle to me. Two days later, the yellow electrical system malfunction warning light returned while I was driving on the highway. I was able to drive the vehicle home, but along the way, the air conditioning failed. I will be bringing the vehicle back to Audi for further repairs. This defect is very dangerous because, in a very short amount of time, the car not only becomes inoperable, but essentially all of the car’s systems fail.
Audi A7 2020
- Date Of Incident: 2023-10-15
- Date Complaint: 2023-10-21
- VIN: WAUV2AF28LN
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: Electrical system malfunction during driving with multiple failures following after that. I managed to get the car in a safe area so I could get towed and not cause a dangerous situation on the road. This is a known issue with Audi’s with mild hybrid system where the 48v generator/alternator fails. The car goes in limp mode and causes a dangerous situation for driver and passengers if not able to steer the car off the highway. Audi has confirmed the issue with the 48v generator, but there is no recall for these vehicles despite Audi knowing this can cause dangerous situations on the road during a failure of this type. The car cannot be driven now until a replacement part comes in (lead time around 3 months).
Audi A7 2014
- Date Of Incident: 2022-06-01
- Date Complaint: 2023-06-01
- VIN: WAU2GAFC8EN
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2014 Audi A7. The contact took the vehicle to the local dealer for routine maintenance and was informed that the motor mounts needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer had not been informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 63,000.
Audi A7 2021
- Date Of Incident: 2023-04-16
- Date Complaint: 2023-04-17
- VIN: WAUR2AF28MN
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,BACK OVER PREVENTION
- Summary: The virtual cockpit (dashboard) went completely black except for an exclamation point. Speed, warning symbols, engine temp etc were not visible. Dealers has confirmed the issue and is currently trying to remedy the situation. The danger was not knowing how fast I was traveling.
Audi A7 2016
- Date Of Incident: 2023-03-26
- Date Complaint: 2023-04-02
- VIN: WAUWGAFC5GN
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: Flat tire on highway 255/40 R19 100H. I thought it’s a nail or a sharp object. After further inspection, the tire was ripping from inside out. Please see attached picture. My speed was very low at higher speeds or could have been a complete tire blow out.
Audi A7 2019
- Date Of Incident: 2023-02-19
- Date Complaint: 2023-03-17
- VIN: WAUV2AF24KN
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,LANE DEPARTURE,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
- Summary: The car now has come to an emergency stop twice on two separate occasion's here in Columbia and in Atlanta while I am attempting to cross an intersection or leaving a median lane. The cars safety features stop working at random times and throw several warning signs. Car has lost power while attempting to drive forward and rolls back with an initiates rear view camera. I have taken my vehicle to the Audi Dealership several times over the last year and the problems continue. The customer service has been poor and this car is supposed to be certified and i have had nothing but problems. The steering sometimes pulls you into other lanes and makes mistakes on changing speeds while using cruise control and slows car down tremendously.
Latest 5 recalls Audi A7
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 44 recalls for different components of the Audi A7.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.
- Model: Audi A7 2021
- Report Received Date: 2023-12-13
- Manufacturer: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:PROPULSION SYSTEM:CHARGING:CABLE/CORD:ONBOARD
- Summary: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Audi) is recalling certain 2022-2024 RS e-tron GT, e-tron GT, Q4 e-tron Sportback, Q4 e-tron, 2020-2021 Audi A8, 2019-2024 e-tron Quattro, 2020-2024 e-tron Sportback Quattro, Q5, and 2021-2022 A7 vehicles. When using the industrial 220V/240V plug at the 100% charge setting, some home power outlets may be incapable of handling the electrical current required to utilize the compact charging system, causing the outlet or charging cable to overheat.
- Consequence: An overheated outlet or charging cable can increase the risk of a fire.
- Remedy: Owners are advised not to use the 220V/240V compact/portable charging cable and only use the 110V home charging cable or public charging stations. Dealers will supply a new 220V/240V compact/portable charging cable with an incorporated temperature sensor, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on March 28, 2024. Owners may contact Audi customer service at 1-800-253-2834. Audi's numbers for this recall are 93U6 and 93U8.
- Model: Audi A7 2020
- Report Received Date: 2023-08-25
- Manufacturer: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FLUID
- Summary: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Audi) is recalling certain 2021 Audi S7, S6 Sedan, RS7, RS6 Avant, A6 Allroad, 2019-2021 A7, and A6 Sedan vehicles. An incorrectly labeled brake fluid cap may have been installed, which can result in the use of the wrong type of brake fluid.
- Consequence: Incorrect brake fluid can reduce braking ability and increase the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will inspect the brake fluid reservoir cap and, if necessary, replace it, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed October 17, 2023. Owners may contact Audi's customer service at 1-800-253-2834. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 47T9.
- Model: Audi A7 2021
- Report Received Date: 2023-08-25
- Manufacturer: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FLUID
- Summary: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Audi) is recalling certain 2021 Audi S7, S6 Sedan, RS7, RS6 Avant, A6 Allroad, 2019-2021 A7, and A6 Sedan vehicles. An incorrectly labeled brake fluid cap may have been installed, which can result in the use of the wrong type of brake fluid.
- Consequence: Incorrect brake fluid can reduce braking ability and increase the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will inspect the brake fluid reservoir cap and, if necessary, replace it, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed October 17, 2023. Owners may contact Audi's customer service at 1-800-253-2834. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 47T9.
- Model: Audi A7 2019
- Report Received Date: 2023-08-25
- Manufacturer: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FLUID
- Summary: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Audi) is recalling certain 2021 Audi S7, S6 Sedan, RS7, RS6 Avant, A6 Allroad, 2019-2021 A7, and A6 Sedan vehicles. An incorrectly labeled brake fluid cap may have been installed, which can result in the use of the wrong type of brake fluid.
- Consequence: Incorrect brake fluid can reduce braking ability and increase the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will inspect the brake fluid reservoir cap and, if necessary, replace it, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed October 17, 2023. Owners may contact Audi's customer service at 1-800-253-2834. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 47T9.
- Model: Audi A7 2021
- Report Received Date: 2022-11-21
- Manufacturer: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Audi) is recalling certain 2020-2022 Audi S7, S6 Sedan, A6 Allroad, 2021-2022 RS7, RS6 Avant, 2019-2022 A7, and A6 Sedan vehicles. Liquid spilled in the rear seat may penetrate and cause the gateway control module to shut down.
- Consequence: A gateway control module shutdown will suddenly reduce engine power, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will install a protective cover, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed January 20, 2023. Owners may contact Audi's customer service at 1-800-253-2834. Audi's number for this recall is 90V2.
Latest negative Audi A7 car reviews
Latest positive Audi A7 car reviews
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Vehicle year: 2021
Wow, what a stunning car! You must get compliments constantly. It sounds like a joy to drive - quiet and comfortable.
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Vehicle year: 2014
I really enjoyed driving this car for the past 4 years. It was beautiful, sleek, and I especially loved the big trunk and hatchback feature. However, I recently decided to trade it in for the Q5, which is set to arrive next week. I ordered the same prestige upgrades and I am really looking forward to taking it for a spin!
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Vehicle year: 2018
This is my 4th Audi. Despite some issues with rattling, squeaking, grinding, and pinging, I am confident that the problem can be located and resolved.
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Vehicle year: 2018
I'm so glad to hear that you love your 2018 A7! It sounds like it has some great features. I understand that the car sits quite low, which can make it difficult to get out of, but overall it seems like a great choice. 👑
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Vehicle year: 2017
This is my 4th Audi. Despite some issues with rattling, squeaking, grinding, and pinging, I am confident that the problem can be located and resolved.
Are you having problems with your Audi A7?
Louie Purdy 2024-11-22
Vehicle year: 2017
This is a spectacular looking car that feels great on the road. However, the leather seats started fading within a few years only. MOST importantly, as I just passed 100k miles, it started burning oil and the exhaust system needed major work. Therefore, I would not recommend keeping it after the lease is up. It’s a great looking car if you're leasing it, but if you're looking to put over 100k miles, then go get a Lexus.
Ross Casper 2024-11-17
Vehicle year: 2017
The car experienced some issues within the first 24 hours of driving it off the lot, including a faulty O2 sensor and an issue with an actuator. The start-stop feature was also inconsistent, and there were some problems with the cruise control and climate control. Despite these initial setbacks, the car has a sleek and attractive appearance. After filing a lemon law complaint, the car was eventually replaced with a new one, which has had some minor issues but is overall much better than the first. While the car has a high MSRP, the quality has not always matched the price. However, Audi has acknowledged and addressed some of the issues, and the service is comparable to other car manufacturers. Overall, the car has its flaws but is still a decent option for those looking for a stylish ride.
Craig Cronin 2024-09-22
Vehicle year: 2014
The car experienced some issues within the first 24 hours of driving it off the lot, but Audi was able to replace it after a lemon law complaint was filed. The new car has had a few minor issues, but overall it is much better than the first. While the car has a high MSRP, it has been worth the investment. The radio presets have been a recurring issue, but Audi has acknowledged the problem and is working to resolve it. In my opinion, Audi offers a quality product that is worth the investment.
Uriel Herman 2024-09-10
Vehicle year: 2015
This is a spectacular looking car that feels great on the road. However, the leather seats started fading within a few years only. MOST importantly, as I just passed 100k miles, it started burning oil and the exhaust system needed major work. Therefore, I would not recommend keeping it after the lease is up. It’s a great looking car if you're leasing it, but if you're looking to put over 100k miles, then go get a Lexus.
Arnulfo Zboncak 2024-08-14
Vehicle year: 2015
I am confident in the quality of my vehicle's maintenance. Although I had to replace my second alternator after only 20k miles, I trust that the issue has been resolved. Additionally, I have had my headlights, brakes, AC, and tires serviced as needed to ensure optimal performance.