Electrical System Problems of Audi Q7 - part 1

On [xxx], I experienced multiple failures of core safety systems in my 2021 Audi Q7 that put my 17-month-old child at serious risk and exposed critical flaws in how the vehicle’s systems operate and record events. On [xxx], the pre sense automatic braking system suddenly engaged while I was driving approximately 35 mph on a clear, empty suburban road. There were no visible obstructions, no warning lights, and nothing recorded in the vehicle’s logs. This occurred less than 48 hours after the vehicle had received recall-related software updates and routine service at an Audi dealership. Prior to that service, the vehicle had no history of mechanical or safety issues. The following day, the keyless entry and anti-lockout system failed. I placed my toddler in his rear-facing car seat behind the front passenger seat and set our baby bag—with the key fob inside—on the rear seat. After closing the door and walking to the driver’s side, the car unexpectedly locked. The fob and my child were both inside. The outdoor temperature was over 90°f. I attempted to open the vehicle and then to break the window with tools, without success. After approximately seven minutes, I broke the driver’s side window with a sledgehammer and removed my child from the car. The car alarm eventually activated, but no lock-in event, key fob error, or warning was recorded. The vehicle was inspected by the dealership twice and Audi corporate engineers once. Audi confirmed faults in the emergency call module, comfort system, rear lid sensor, and parking sensors. However, they could not reproduce or explain the braking event or lock-in failure. Audi confirmed that the vehicle should not be able to lock with the key inside, and they do not know why it did and are unable to guarantee the safety feature will work in the future. The vehicle has not been driven since. The failure of both safety function and system visibility placed my child in danger. I am requesting a safety investigation. Information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information.

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First incident [xxx], in columbia SC driving in parking lot on post, approx 10pm, blocking traffic. Car shut down and mmi disappeared. After approximately 20-30 minutes car started, still no screen. I was able to drive it. Next day, rebooted per google, took to dealership who said I should make sure I used premium gas. When I said I did I was told to be careful which gas station I bought it from. And since the screen was back up they couldn’t do anything. I called the corporate office who had them run a full systems check. All with mmi was well until [xxx] at [xxx]pm. Driving in columbia SC screen disappeared again but car did not stop this time. I called dealership who told me to press the volume button until it rebooted. It didn’t work. I was told to bring it in. The Audi app sent me a headlight assistant malfunction warning! message at 7:44pm also, same evening as the mmi incident. Copy of current screen and 10/24 service receipt. This is a dangerous situation as someone almost hit the back of my car during the first incident since the stop was so sudden ([xxx]) I was blocking the driveway and cars had to backup and detour in a small dark area. Losing mmi while driving is a distraction. Information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u. S. C. 552(b)(6).

See all problems of the 2023 Audi Q7 🔎.

Yesterday I bought a 2019 Audi Q7 and today I get a warning light stating my right parking lamp is defective. Upon checking the light I found that it was on and working. Upon researching the issue I found that there are numerous complaints on 2017 and 2018 models of the same vehicle, for the same issue. Dealership stating it is an entire right headlight replacement to the tune of over $ 2500.

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I am filing a complaint concerning serious safety risks associated with my 2020 Audi Q7 (VIN: [xxx] ) purchased as a certified pre-owned vehicle from Audi dominion san antonio. It is currently under service at Audi central houston, where multiple concerning events occurred. Timeline and issues: - initial diagnosis identified a fire-damaged electrical harness, estimated at $1,400 for replacement. - after repair attempts, the vehicle began smoking, and the diagnosis expanded to include additional compromised electrical lines. The revised quote skyrocketed to $4,700 (later reduced to $3,100). - after nearly two months in service, I was informed that the ac compressor is now deemed "bad" due to debris from the harness, an issue not mentioned in previous inspections. Safety concerns: 1. Inconsistent diagnosis: there was no mention of compressor damage during initial assessments. This late-stage discovery indicates negligence or potential additional damage during servicing. 2. Risky ac activation: a technician attempted to clean the compromised ac compressor and activated the system, a procedure that is dangerous given the debris. This could lead to refrigerant leaks and electrical shorts. 3. Conflicting statements: Audi central houston claims the compressor was previously damaged but also attempted to restore it. Such contradictions raise serious concerns about service integrity. 4. Certified pre-owned credibility: the emergence of these costly issues questions the reliability guarantees of vehicles sold under Audi's certified pre-owned program. Given that the vehicle began smoking shortly after being parked and had not undergone prior electrical work, I underscore the severe safety risks posed by potential electrical fires and undisclosed damage. These issues could endanger lives and property if not properly addressed. I strongly urge Audi USA and the NHTSA to investigate this matter for potential technical service bulletins or recalls, especially fo information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information a.

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I am reporting a severe defect in my 2020 Audi Q7 involving “coolant migration” due to a faulty water pump, a known issue in Audi models (q7, s4, a6, 2013–2022). This poses critical safety risks due to sudden failure with minimal warning. My out-of-warranty Q7 showed minor coolant fouling near a solenoid, with normal coolant levels and no fluid added. The dealer quoted ~$6,000 to replace the water pump and vacuum system. This defect is highly dangerous due sudden power loss: coolant in the vacuum system impairs solenoids and lines, disrupting engine/turbo function. This can cause abrupt power loss, risking loss of control in traffic or at high speeds, potentially leading to collisions. Catastrophic overheating: a failing water pump may halt coolant circulation, causing rapid engine overheating without warning, risking sudden engine shutdown and stranding drivers in hazardous conditions like highways. Brake assist failure: the vacuum system powers the brake booster. Contamination can reduce braking effectiveness, increasing pedal effort and stopping distances, heightening collision risks in emergencies. Emissions control issues: coolant fouling affects pcv and evap systems, causing misfires, stalling, or increased emissions, potentially triggering check engine lights and compromising engine stability. Undetectable progression: the defect often shows no clear symptoms or warnings until severe damage occurs. My vehicle had only minor fouling that could only be detected by visual inspection, yet extensive repairs were needed, indicating the issue’s stealthy nature, which prevents timely driver intervention. Systemic issue: forums and a class-action lawsuit confirm this defect across Audi models, yet owners face high repair costs post-warranty. This defect endangers drivers and others by risking vehicle failure, impaired braking, and unstable performance. I urge NHTSA to investigate and mandate a recall or extended warranty.

The instrument cluster failed as was reported in a previous recall. This failure was caused by a hardware problem which was fixed via a software update. Unfortunately, the hardware (instrument cluster) has already been compromised and warning lights are all lit up and some warnings aren't working and the instrument panel still goes blank when driving.

The contact owns a 2017 Audi Q7. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the message "side marker light fault detected" was displayed. The contact stated that after a visual inspection, the contact became aware that both side marker lights were illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, who diagnosed a failure with the side marker light assembly. The vehicle was not repaired. After investigating the failure, the contact related the failure to NHTSA campaign number: 16v642000 (electrical system, exterior lighting); but the VIN was not included. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, a case was opened, and the contact was referred to the NHTSA hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was unknown.

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To whom it may concern, I am writing to formally report a serious and recurring safety issue involving my 2018 Audi Q7. The vehicle has experienced repeated drive system malfunctions that result in sudden loss of power, reduced acceleration, and warning messages on the dashboard such as “drive system: malfunction” and “electrical system failure. ” these incidents have occurred while the vehicle was in motion, creating a hazardous situation for both the occupants and surrounding drivers. In my case, the vehicle unexpectedly lost power while driving at highway speeds, forcing me to maneuver to the shoulder with diminished control. This sudden malfunction is unpredictable and could easily result in a collision or serious injury, especially in high-speed or high-traffic conditions. Upon researching this issue, I found that numerous other 2018 Audi Q7 owners have reported similar problems. These complaints consistently cite the same symptoms, including sudden deceleration, electrical system errors, and power steering failure. It appears to be a widespread defect that may warrant a recall or further investigation by the NHTSA. I urge your office to investigate this matter promptly to prevent potential injuries or fatalities. I am willing to provide service records, diagnostic codes, photos, or any other documentation that may support this complaint. Thank you for your attention to this serious safety concern. I hope the NHTSA will take appropriate action to ensure the safety of all drivers affected by this defect.

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The contact owns a 2021 Audi Q7. The contact stated the vehicle was repaired under NHTSA campaign number: 25v201000 (electrical system); however, the repair failed to prevent a failure from occurring. The contact stated that two days after the recall repair, several unknown warning lights illuminated. In addition, the contact stated that after refueling the vehicle, the fuel gauge failed to provide an accurate reading for the fuel. The contact stated that the check coolant and temperature warning lights were intermittently illuminated. The local dealer was contacted, but the vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired due to the cost. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 105,000.

The contact owns a 2021 Audi Q7. The contact stated while operating the vehicle, the instrument cluster display was inoperable and could not be viewed by the driver. During the failure, the driver was unable to view the speedometer and turn signals. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer who diagnosed that the instrument cluster was faulty and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The contact was informed that the VIN was included in NHTSA campaign number: 25v201000 (electrical system). The contact stated that the vehicle had experienced the failure listed in the recall. The failure mileage was 52,000.

Both of the screens went blank while I was driving and the top one showed this: engineering +update + activation keys +version information +reboot to normal mode.

In correspondence with recall number 25v201, the virtual cockpit display would go blank while driving, hiding all driver assistance indicators/instruments. Unable to verify engine speed unless looking at the heads up display, but adaptive cruise control/forward collision warnings won’t display. Upon parking and restarting vehicle, the display would work, but will intermittently go blank after some time while resuming driving. Called local dealership and they are aware of issue but since a repair is unavailable, out of pocket costs would be incurred. There have not been any inspections but I’ve scanned the vehicle for error code b200049, documented in previous Audi tsbs related to the virtual cockpit display issue. There were no warnings or indications, prior to the event which occurred less than a week after recall number 25v201 had started.

The Audi mmi system, which controls almost everything (radio, navigation, vehicle settings etc) shuts down and restarts every few minutes all by itself. The mmi system restarts completely randomly. It started out of nowhere a few months ago and happens whether driving or parked. Since then it is happening more and more frequently, making the system unusable at times (meaning navigation, radio, etc do not work). I'm afraid this issue is in the vehicle's computer and other components of hte car could be faulty, putting myself and other drivers with Audi cars at risk of injury or death if something with the computer fails. I have researched this issue extensively online and this seems to have appeared in numerous different Audi models and years. This also seems to have started happening fairly recently in most cases. I have not and will not take my vehicle to the dealership for diagnosis because I know they will charge a few hundred dollars just to tell me they cannot find anything (this is what many people have already posted online). There is an obvious computer system issue with Audi vehicles affecting their mmi system and some sort of fix is needed, for the safety of all vehicle owners.

My vehicle is experiencing the same issues as described in NHTSA campaign number: 16v642000, but my VIN number isn't listed in the vehicles affected even thought the year make and model agree to the recall. Should the dealer be willing to correct this issue since it's a known safety hazard?.

In July 2023, my 2020 Audi Q7 experienced a complete electrical failure at highway speeds due to a belt starter generator (bsg) malfunction. Audi replaced the bsg with the same faulty part. Months later, I noticed increased oil consumption and loud engine noise. Despite multiple service visits and reporting these issues, Audi failed to properly diagnose the problem. In January 2025, despite a clear check engine light indicating a problem, Audi dismissed my concerns. Just weeks later, in February 2025, the engine catastrophically failed due to undiagnosed internal damage. Audi repeatedly ignored diagnostic warnings and failed to address my complaints, putting my safety at risk. Audi consistently dismissed my concerns, attributing engine noise and oil consumption to normal wear. The failures posed safety risks, including sudden loss of power while driving. Despite documented defects, Audi refused to take responsibility or perform proper diagnostics, resulting in continued safety hazards. I am formally requesting NHTSA to investigate the widespread issues affecting the 2020 Audi Q7, including the bsg system and excessive oil consumption leading to engine failure. ” additional details: •component/system failure: the 48v belt starter generator (bsg) and the engine failed. The vehicle is available for inspection upon request. •safety risks: the electrical failure at highway speeds caused a sudden loss of power. The engine failure posed a risk of the vehicle shutting down unexpectedly while driving. •problem confirmation: the Audi dealership confirmed the engine failure and acknowledged the presence of metal shavings in the oil, indicating severe internal damage. •inspections: the vehicle has been inspected by the Audi dealership, and Audi representatives acknowledged the issue. •warning signs: the check engine light illuminated in January 2025. Additional symptoms included loud engine noise (‘tractor-like’) and increased oil consumption, which Audi dismissed.

This issue closely resembles Audi recall campaign 97cb (NHTSA campaign id 16v642000), with details available at [xxx] . In my case, the marker light itself is functioning properly, but the vehicle is displaying a false error message: "front right side marker light defective. " this poses safety risks because the erroneous warning distracts drivers from the road and could lead to the system failing to alert the driver of an actual side marker light issue in the future. Many owners of the same model and year are disabling their side marker lights entirely to avoid the error, as evidenced in discussions such as those on [xxx] . Repairing this issue typically requires replacing the entire headlight assembly, with costs ranging from $2,400 to $5,300, making it prohibitively expensive for many. Although Audi initiated a recall (97cb) for a similar issue, it was limited to a specific subset of vehicles, and the widespread nature of this problem in other vehicles outside the recall’s VIN range suggests a broader defect. Given these safety risks, high repair costs, and the frequency of the issue, I urge the NHTSA to investigate whether this problem warrants a broader recall or corrective actions by the manufacturer.

See all problems of the 2008 Audi Q7 🔎.

This issue closely resembles Audi recall campaign 97cb (NHTSA campaign id 16v642000), with details available at [xxx] . In my case, the marker light itself is functioning properly, but the vehicle is displaying a false error message: "front right side marker light defective. " this poses safety risks because the erroneous warning distracts drivers from the road and could lead to the system failing to alert the driver of an actual side marker light issue in the future. Many owners of the same model and year are disabling their side marker lights entirely to avoid the error, as evidenced in discussions such as those on [xxx] . Repairing this issue typically requires replacing the entire headlight assembly, with costs ranging from $2,400 to $5,300, making it prohibitively expensive for many. Although Audi initiated a recall (97cb) for a similar issue, it was limited to a specific subset of vehicles, and the widespread nature of this problem in other vehicles outside the recall’s VIN range suggests a broader defect. Given these safety risks, high repair costs, and the frequency of the issue, I urge the NHTSA to investigate whether this problem warrants a broader recall or corrective actions by the manufacturer. Information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u. S. C. 552(b)(6).

There is a recall for my issue from Audi 90vc. The “remedy” is a software update that a previous dealer and Audi field techs say willl not fix my issue. It’s a hardware issue. The remedy provided for the recall is a facade and doesn’t fix the root cause of the issue. I’m one that actually have the symptoms of the cockpit failed (completely blank screen) but yet Audi is telling me I have to pay to have this safety recall/issue fixed.

Getting error message regarding "front right side marker light defective". My car has a little over 66k and has no problems. There was an Audi recall ampaign97cb (NHTSA campaign id #16v642000) that addresses this exact issue and applies to some affected VIN numbers, but mine is not included.

So models which have digital cockpits that were produced before July 2021 are faulty and the screen goes black. I was on the i95 when the display was gone and I didn’t have a speedometer. The manufacturer is already aware and accepts there’s a issue but doesn’t have a recall.

Driving on highway at 70 mph and high engine temp light came on. Said to pull over and continue to run car until temp decreased. I got over as quickly as I could ( no more than 1/4 of a mile) and sat on side of PA turnpike as engine cooled. I was at bottom of an exit ramp. I slowly proceeded up the ramp and warning came on again and red temp light reached again. I pulled right into the gas station at top of tp exit ramp. It still said to continue to run the car. I sat with my son in the car and ran the car in the shade. The temp was decreasing and then all my electrical lights came on, yellow battery warning light on and then suddenly the red battery light and all systems failed. Car turned off. Called aaa to take to my mechanic as Audi was a 3 hour wait for a tow and 3 weeks for service appointment with no loaners available. My certified mechanic said water pump completely dislodged. He replaced water pump, thermostat (which was already replaced bc it failed in year 2 of ownership). After repair, 48 volt battery would not take a charge. Assumed faulty alternator and/or battery. Alternator was already replaced once at year 1 as car died while driving as well. We had car towed to Audi and they are reporting known issues with water pump but not issuing recalls. Also known issues with alternator repair parts that were used in year 1 but no warning to consumers. They are diagnosing problem now and if alternator and subsequent battery issue, it will be covered but not if battery issue comes back as electrical in nature.

We were driving the car and all of a sudden a error came that said "front right side marker light defective" my lights are working perfectly fine. There is no issue with the lights at all. This is a false sensor issue that needs to be fixed and recalled.

Front left and right marker lights show up as defective on the dashboard, intermittently, but the lights are working. Have seen on different forums that this is not uncommon with this vehicle. Many complaints. Tried working with Audi/USA and have followed their advice with needing a dealership assessments. I have done this on two occasions, but they said that they will not be responsible, but that the dealership will offer a labor discount of 10%. These quotes are over $7000 to replace the lights and modules (that are working), if you don’t want to keep listening to the dinging warning bells. And it forces the customer to fix it because you will never be able to sell the car even though the lights are working. Think at least Audi should pay for the parts on all complaints. There is such a term as “good will” and they should broaden the recall on this item. My vehicle had a recall on this that the dealership repaired before I even purchased the vehicle which was new. Audi informed them when it was on the lot, but they say it was for the same thing but they just had to do an update on it? how did they know that when the car only had maybe 10 miles on it when we took delivery. Hopefully, someone in your department has some clout and back Audi up against the wall and take responsibility. Thank you [xxx] information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u. S. C. 552(b)(6).

The computer keeps showing that we have a malfunction in the side marker lights. They still work but we get the notice daily. Have taken it to the the dealer and they state that there is a recall but our VIN number is not in the listing. There repair cost is over $4000. It's the same problem, my vehicle is in the 2017 Q7 range. Our number needs to be added to the recall of the same problem.

I researched this issue and noticed a widespread problem with the light detection of the 2017 modes and the 2018 Audi Q7 left front-side marker light. I have had this issue with my vehicle twice, resulting in over 4,000 dollars in repairs each time. I noticed that the 2018 models were left off, but I am sure there are more owners with this exact problem, and I believe this recall should be granted to 2017-2019 owners since the vehicles are in the same generation and have the same vehicle components on them. This is a widely known issue and a clear cash grab for Audi as the repair process to fix this is over $4,000 dollars each time, and the issue has not been resolved and is not covered under many warranties.

The contact owns a 2025 Audi Q7. The contact stated that the lane departure: lane keep assist unintendedly engaged. While driving 40-70 mph and attempting to switch lanes, the vehicle jerked abnormally. The contact stated that the lane departure: lane keep assist was turned off. The lane departure: lane keep assist warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken back to the local dealer on two occasions, and the contact was informed that the vehicle was operating as designed. The system was reset, but the failure recurred. The manufacturer was contacted, but no assistance was provided. The failure mileage was unknown.

System malfunction regarding the "right side marker light being defective. There was a NHTSA recall campaign #16v642000 that covered some but not all of the Audi Q7 vehicles. The recall should include all Q7 vehicles.

During commute dash lit-up with "central indicator light", "vehicle starting system; malfunction! please contact service" warning notice, "Audi pre sense" yellow-lit dash warning light, yellow-lit battery warning light that alternated to red-lit battery warning light. Ac automatically shut off, radio shut off, was able to limp vehicle home. Restarting the vehicle gave a "battery low voltage" reading then a vehicle failure "immediately turn vehicle off when safe" message followed by the "vehicle starting system; malfunction! please contact service" warning notice. Towed Audi to local Audi shop in charlottesville, va, where it was diagnosed with starter generator failure, part was reportedly ordered on 27 July 2024; no indication as to whether the part has arrive at Audi shop. No details on the battery as of 01 August 2024.

The left front marker light is not working and a warning shows up on the dashboard. It's a safety issue as the vehicle may be less visible at night, increasing the risk of a crash. I took my vehicle to an Audi dealership. The person helping me knew immediately what the issue was as he has seen it many times. When I looked up the issue online, I saw many other Audi owners (not only Q7 either) have the same issue of a side maker light not illuminating. I also saw that there was a recall for side marker lights, however, it seems my VIN was not included in the recall. Audi should be responsible for fixing this known issue that occurs in many of its cars. The dealership told me it would be $5k-$6k to replace the small light bulb! truly outrageous!.

The contact's husband owns a 2017 Audi Q7. The contact stated while driving and activating the headlights, there was a message stating that the side marker lights were inoperable displayed. The contact stated that the failure recurred whenever the headlights were activated. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or dealer. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and informed the contact that the vehicle was not included NHTSA campaign number: 16v642000 (electrical system, exterior lighting) and could not be repaired under the recall. The manufacturer referred the contact to the NHTSA hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was approximately 64,000.

“front right side marker light defective” meanwhile all light still work.

Safety recall for backup camera has tried to be repaired 3 times now and not fixed.

While driving the vehicle, I received a warning that there was an electrical system failure. Then the entire care shut off in the middle of the highway. There was no way to get the vehicle into neutral to push it to a safer location out of traffic. I was in the vehicle with my two children. This left us stranded in the middle of the highway with a significant amount of traffic. There was no way to get the vehicle back on. This seems to be a known issue with Audi and they have notified the dealerships about it but have not issued a recall. Please expedite this as a recall. There could not have been a more dangerous situation for me and my children.

Error warning "front right side marker defective" is displayed. Other 2017 Q7s are included on the recall list for this issue (recall #16v642000) but our VIN number is not included.

Twice in the last 2weeks the vehicle has an electrical system failure while on expressway. This is dangerous as the message tells you to immediately stop driving. On a highway this is a serious hazard.