Table 1 shows one common engine and engine cooling related problems of the 2016 Audi A7.
| Problem Category | Number of Problems |
|---|---|
| Engine And Engine Cooling problems |
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: •8/26/2023: first incident; the engine shut off on a local road. Paid $1,500 for repairs, but the issue persisted. •5/16/2024: engine shut off again, preventing going to office due to lack of loaner vehicles. •7/11/2024: 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.
Around 36k miles the vehicle had some dried coolant residue and required coolant topups every 2-3k miles. Two different dealerships performed comprehensive inspections between then and now and did not notify me of any problems. The residue was explained away in a service bulletin stating that it was normal for the water pump to weep some coolant. Now at 44k miles, I brought the car in when I saw dried coolant residue and it seemed to require coolant more frequently. Dealer notified me that the engine water pump has failed and requires replacement.