63 of the
355 complaints filed about the Audi Q3
are about the electrical system —
18% of everything owners reported.
The worst model year for it is 2020.
Dear Sir or Madam: I am submitting a safety complaint regarding my 2022 Audi Q3 involving water intrusion from the sunroof. At approximately 41,000 miles, approximately a month ago, water began leaking through the front edge of the sunroof despite the sunroof never being opened prior to the issue. The leak was not caused by clogged drains or lack of maintenance. Water entered through the overhead console, resulting in failure of the interior lighting system causing lights to flicker on/off and water dripping directly onto me, the driver, while operating the vehicle. These issues created a significant distraction and potential safety hazard, especially during night driving. The dealership diagnosed the issue and confirmed that the repair required modification of the sunroof assembly and track to correct a water intrusion problem. This was not a routine maintenance issue. The total cost of repair was $1,259.18, which I paid out-of-pocket. Additionally, the service advisor at the dealership stated that this is a frequent problem seen on Audi Q3 vehicles and expressed surprise that it has not already been subject to a recall. Given that this issue involves water intrusion affecting electrical components and actively interfering with safe vehicle operation, I believe this may represent a broader design or manufacturing defect impacting vehicle safety. I respectfully request that NHTSA review this issue for potential investigation and possible recall action. Thank you for your attention to this matter.
NHTSA complaint #11741813 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Vehicle was serviced in 2025 for an electrical issue impacting multiple electrical components of car. Approximately one year later the car is back in the shop for both an electrical issue causing lane departure and now lane keep assist to trigger an error. I was told by the local dealership that it is likely related to an electrical module underneath the bumper of the rear of the car. The dealer is franchise and does not share records with other Audi dealerships and therefore unable to evaluate the problem with the prior Audi dealer who identified and repaired the first issue impacting multiple sensors. I was told this current issue seems to be related to a component underneath the harness of the rear bumper, but may be impacting other electrical systems.
NHTSA complaint #11732832 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
The dashboard screen which operates the radio, GPS and other programs will shut down and the screen will show: NOTE: SYSTEM RELAODING PLEASE WAIT. The radio will continue to play but you cannot operate it. Additionally, sometimes the screen goes completely blank and radio stops playing, usually comes back on in a couple minutes. I've had it to dealer three times but problem is still present.
NHTSA complaint #11694362 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
In 4/2024 car wouldn’t start. Took to Audi for new battery and was told Water pump failed so it was replaced with delays. In 3/2025 noticed no heat and car took a long time to warm up. Took back to dealership replaced thermostat. Still no heat so I was told ok to drive but need to flush heater core to fix heat issue for $3500. Started my car on 8/14/2025 had multiple lights come on dash (lights, brake, TPMs, epc, and brake fluid) so I turned off. Took to mechanic for inspection told something strange different codes instructed to take to dealer. On 10/8/2025 took back to Audi for evaluation and first they stated my fuse box panel was slightly melted couldn’t code read. Ordered part, 2 weeks, and would be $2,000 for repairs. On 10/15/2025 they state I have Coolant migration from over flow and it would be $35,000 for repairs which exceeds vehicle worth to buy another. Have not experienced any coolant loss since water pump failed and was replaced in 2024.
NHTSA complaint #11693736 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
MmI screen malfunction, cuts out and goes black/blank. Red lines, dims by itself to black/blank. MMI screen replaced by Audi once, now problem continues. Antenna malfunction error message constantly. No addressment by Audi. Initializing error message on car, gets stuck in loop showing this message and will not go away. This is on display screen below steering wheel. SOS module failure at time of purchase, brand new car. Needed replacement.
NHTSA complaint #11690474 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Vehicle failed to start with many tries despite my own key fob. Initially displayed message with 'Theft' reference, then changed to "Checking remote access rights. Please wait..." on screen. Opening door triggered unexpected shocking alarm, which stopped after using fob to turn it off. Started to video record the situation after about a minute of failed start attempts. Vid lasts 41 secs until on.Two additional photos from myAudi app 'theft' & 'break-in', which was driver exiting vehicle triggering alarm. Prior issue with drivers seatbelt occurred with car in 'park' and ignition on, seat belt unexpectedly pulled occupant tight against seat. Seatbelt adjuster on seatbelt anchor point moved quickly up and down several times making whirring noises before abruptly stopping, releasing occupant after 10-15 seconds. As a 100% disabled veteran with severe neck damage this could paralyze me if happens while driving, and heart stopping shock. Vehicle in Brooklyn Service since 11th Sept. Mgr says today there are no faults in the system and no data to be collected. Even with video proof the service center lack resolution, and Mgr wanted me to pick up the car. I insisted they keep for further testing as it may need extended observation to replicate issue. I feel unsafe. My safety was put at risk due to the non-start incident happening late at night in a low lit area in Elizabeth/Newark not a good area potentially stranding me in an unsafe situation. A starting issue and an alarm malfunction, both of which are critical. This is the second safety issue in a brand new car, within 6 weeks of owning the car. There were no warning lamps, messages or other symptoms prior to failure. They first appeared after I unlocked with fob and sat inside. I caught a brief glimpse of a sentence containing the word "Theft", then unsuccessfully tried to start the car multiple times before I noticed the message telling me it was trying to check remote access rights.
NHTSA complaint #11687816 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Rear hatch randomly operable / inoperable. "Reset" computer without success. Dangerous situation as anything inside hatch is not not accessible. Was told by Audi that the entire rear hatch latch system needs replacement and this is "a common issue"...
NHTSA complaint #11682115 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
I purchased a 2020 Audi Q3 S-Line (VIN: [XXX] ) on [XXX], with 27,564 miles on it. I bought the vehicle from a dealership that specializes in high-end aftermarket cars, and they provided a maintenance report stating the vehicle had passed all inspections at the time of sale. The vehicle had been imported from Canada to the U.S., and the Carfax report reflected consistent maintenance at authorized Audi dealerships in Canada, including a full inspection and alternator/electrical system check roughly a year before my purchase — with no problems reported. In early July 2025, I began experiencing issues with the MMI system: •A loud, persistent humming sound when using Bluetooth or the radio •Audio glitches and failed system reboots •No dashboard warnings or battery alerts After researching, I suspected a low-voltage or charging issue. I took the car to an auto parts store for diagnostics, and at 28,932 miles, they found the battery was severely depleted and the alternator had failed completely — it was no longer charging the system. This means the alternator failed only 1,368 miles after purchase, which is highly abnormal for a well-maintained, low-mileage luxury vehicle. Alternators typically last 80,000 to 150,000 miles. Audi has acknowledged similar issues in Q5 and A4 models, but nothing yet on the Q3. While I know the vehicle is out of warranty and was not purchased from an Audi dealership, I am requesting: 1.That this issue be formally documented and investigated for possible recall or defect pattern. 2.That Audi consider a goodwill repair, based on mileage, maintenance history, and how soon the failure occurred after passing inspection. 3.That this be flagged specifically for Q3s imported from Canada, as mine was. This failure could have left me stranded with no warning. I’m reporting it not only for my own case, but to potentially help others who may be silently experiencing the same issue. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
NHTSA complaint #11674681 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
The electrical system in the car had failed producing multiple warnings ranging from: speed control system: currently unavailable. See owner's manual Audi pre sense: currently limited. See owner's manual Audi pre sense: malfunction! Please contact service Tire pressure: malfunction! Please see owner's manual Steering: malfunction! You can continue driving Parking aid: malfunction! Obstacles cannot be detected Vehicle starting system: malfunction! Please contact service
NHTSA complaint #11674730 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
The air conditioning system is faulty. At random times, the back unit will stop working and at the same time, a vent in the front will begin to blow warm air with a burning smell.
NHTSA complaint #11673333 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
We are submitting this formal complaint regarding a recurring and unresolved issue with the HVAC (air conditioning) system in our 2024 Audi Q3 Quattro S Line. Since February 2024, we have consistently experienced failures in the climate control system, particularly after exposure to rainy conditions. Specifically: 1. The front air vents begin blowing warm air at random intervals, even when set to cool. 2. The rear vents completely shut off airflow during these instances. 3. This occurs most frequently during or after rain but now occurs in dry weather as well. We believe this issue compromises the safety and comfort of the vehicle's cabin environment. The manufacturer, Audi (Volkswagen Group of America), asserts this behavior is normal per FMVSS 103 regulations and the "cabin capacity requirements" of the Q3. Specifically stated in Audi Corp. email from March 6, 2025: “From the NHTSA homepage using the search bar>search FMVSS>Select NHTSA Statutes, Regulations, Authorities and FMVSS>Select FVMSS under Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards>Scroll down or utilize the table of contents to locate 571.103. Dimensions for the interior cargo space in your 2024 Audi Q3. - Headroom (Front/Rear): 39.6/37.6 in., Legroom (Front/Rear) 40/36.1 in., Cargo volume behind first row: 48 cu.-ft., Cargo volume behind second row: 23.7 cu.-ft” However, a review of FMVSS 103 (Windshield Defrosting and Defogging Systems) reveals no explicit requirement that mandates the rear vents be disabled during humidity control. Additionally, no documentation has been provided by Audi to substantiate this claim. This issue potentially violates FMVSS 103's intent, which is to ensure adequate visibility and cabin comfort. With passengers, especially children, experiencing unacceptable conditions in the rear seat, we urge the NHTSA to investigate whether: The behavior described is part of a broader defect pattern, 2. Audi's HVAC system logic conflicts with FMVSS standards or consumer safety expectations.
NHTSA complaint #11669274 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
By the dome light, it leaks water when it is pouring rain very heavily. It also drips water by the passenger side shade visor. The dome lights will dim and get brighter consistently as it is dripping. the driver side headlight also gets foggy when it rains, which causes the one side of the vehicle not being able to see out from. The rain in the inside goes near the electrical outlets and sometimes gets into it, if i dont wipe the water away. At night time it is dangerous, with the lights dimming & getting brighter , while also leaking from the top as I have to dry it, try to turn the lights off and drive at the same time. No specific date this has occured, it has happened for approximately 3 months now.
NHTSA complaint #11663688 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
The sunroof in the Audi Q3 leaks and the water drops from the ceiling INTO the cabin. Water also comes through the passenger side panel and drips onto the floor causing flooding of the floorboards. This is a KNOWN issue and Audi has released a TSB (technical service bulletin) to attempt to fix these, but it’s just a band aid. It keeps coming back over and over. Water intrudes into the center lights and they flicker and short out. Water drips from these lights into the center gearshift area and it is an extreme safety hazard. PLEASE force Audi to fix this and make it right with their customers. THIS IS A SAFETY ISSUE AND SHOULD BE A FULL RECALL
NHTSA complaint #11659111 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Water constantly leak from ceiling light in vehicle. Sunroof seal either need replaced. Leaking roof pose a serious risk of meeting in accident for it tamper with vision and electrical components. Passenger side rear door also making unseen sound
NHTSA complaint #11658803 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
My 2021 Audi Q3 SUV had been very dangerous to drive stalling, stopping on the highway and shuttering for about two weeks. While I was going about 70 miles an hour my vehicle stalled. It lead to me almost being killed and rear ended. My vehicle had been displaying a stop start malfunction code and check engine light. I contacted Audi USA Roadside Assistance. Paloma R. Said they would help and towed me to Audi of Jacksonville on Atlantic. I was told the diagnosis was $300 and it would go towards fixing the vehicle. However, my vehicle was not fixed properly with them charging me $300 separate from the repair. My total came to $855, they are a scam. Alex told me over the phone that the $300 would apply to the balance. This is extremely deceptive and I feel they should be investigated. I’m still out of a vehicle with no safe way to get around. As soon as I left the dealership the check engine light was back on. It began to steer, and stop turning. Audi know the diagnosis will not solve the real issue. They also included a part on the repair list that was part of a known recall. The National Highway of Safety has flagged Audi Q3 for coolant leaks and issues. They quoted $657 for a part that would have been covered under a recall. I have a service bulletin. The real issue is listed as a turbo charge replacement which is $3,300. That will not fix my vehicle’s issue and they know it. It’s extremely predatory, after further investigation and research Audi doesn’t have a remedy for the stop start malfunction. Which cause engine failure and a dangerous driving hazard. Audi Of America knows the service will not fix the main problem of the stop/start malfunction. Even after $6,500 worth of repairs its false claims and most importantly a waste of money.
NHTSA complaint #11642776 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
My Audi Q3 was in repair at Audi Spokane WA for an issue with the steering wheel, horn and airbag. I had it inspected at a shop in Moscow ID who diagnosed the damage as the Wheel Clock Spring. Lux Auto Hause advised that I contact Audi Dealership and stated the clock spring is under warranty. I made the next available appt with the dealership because Audi required my vehicle to be inspected at the dealership in Spokane WA before covering a warranty repair. The dealership is approximately 150 miles away and Audi stated in their letter that my Q3 had to meet qualifying factors for the warranty repair which were passenger airbag light that stays on and steering wheel controls not working. Audi covered the warranty repair and returned my Q3 with the steering wheel controls broken and Audi damaged my cruise control. I could hear plastic pieces in my vehicle steering wheel. I requested that they reinspect the supposed repair and waited for another 4 hours at the dealership. Audi did nothing about the damage and insisted it is damage from something else. Audi stated 2 times…we cleared the passenger airbag light which seemed to be their only concern. Audi left me with my vehicle seriously damaged, they did not repair the steering wheel or the hand controls and damaged my ability to drive my Audi with the cruise control. I filed a complaint with Audi in MI and they did not initiate a repair for the damage they caused my Audi Q3. When I attempted to provide the diagnostic from Lux Auto Hause that proved my cruise control did not have an error code prior to being at Audi- they ignored me. Lux Auto Hause is 1 of 2 Authorized European repairers in my area. I have had successful repairs completed there and can’t understand why Audi would be negligent when I can prove the damage didn’t exist prior to the clock spring breaking. My Audi Q3 steering, hand controls and after being at the dealer-my cruise control. Is this something the NHTSA can investigate?
NHTSA complaint #11612175 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
The contact owns a 2015 Audi Q3. The contact stated that the horn became inoperable and additionally, the hand controls were not functioning as needed. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer, where it was diagnosed that the clock spring needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired, but the failure recurred. The contact stated that the air bag warning light was illuminated. The horn was also inoperable. The manufacturer was contacted and made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 80,000. The VIN was not available.
NHTSA complaint #11599198 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
There is a large flaw on these vehicles. The sunroof framing becomes damaged. This creates an issue of water leaking in the interior. It causes an electrical issue as well as creates a distracted driving environment. I was driving when this happened and I had to start controlling the water leaking from the roof of my vehicle. This is a large safety issue that Audi knows about and even has a technical documentation to repair this issue.
NHTSA complaint #11586253 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.