49 of the 355 complaints filed about the Audi Q3 are about the other systems — 14% of everything owners reported. The worst model year for it is 2020.
49
Complaints
14%
Share of all complaints
1
Crashes
1
Fires
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
The sunroof leaked during rain causing both known and unknown damage to electrical components in the overhead panel. Lights came on and went off intermittently.
NHTSA complaint #11754419 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
While driving on the highway at approximately 40 mph with no obstacle ahead and no braking input from the driver, the vehicle applied its brakes hard on its own and came to an abrupt stop. There was audible tire noise and a burnt smell. No injury occurred, but the sudden unintended braking created a serious risk of a rear-end collision. The vehicle was driven to Audi Fort Lauderdale for inspection. On arrival at the service garage, a vibration was felt again and reported to the service advisor in person at that time. The dealership ran two road tests and a system scan, reported it could not duplicate the malfunction, and found no stored fault codes. No cause was identified for the unintended braking or for the burnt smell. The vehicle is equipped with automatic emergency braking and driver-assistance systems. The concern is that one of these systems activated without cause and without warning at highway speed. Because the event was intermittent and left no stored fault, it may not be captured by a standard diagnostic scan. This is reported so it is on record and can be compared against similar reports from other owners.
NHTSA complaint #11751867 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
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.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
To Whom It May Concern: I am writing this communication to you per an attorney referral. I have an Audi that was included in the Turbo Class Action Lawsuit. See [XXX] My VIN was included in the lawsuit. The lawsuit was won on December 4th 2025. The class action lawsuit only covers and reimburses consumers who had paid out of pocket (prior to a certain date) expenses incurred fixing the Turbo. I have a letter from a Master Mechanic who is saying my engine problems are due to the turbo being bad however, I have not had the issue fixed. The class action lawsuit does not cover consumers who have not had the Turbo fixed or replaced. Please advise on what I should do or refer me to the appropriate person who can guide me through this process. My vehicle is not under warranty and although the class action lawsuit was won, there is no recall issued at this time. See attached. Thank you in advance for your cooperation. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
NHTSA complaint #11718686 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
I purchased this vehicle new in June 2020. Since January 2022, it has experienced recurring water intrusion into the passenger cabin during heavy rain. Water leaks from the ceiling around the overhead console near the front reading/map lights. During heavy rain, water pools and causes the interior lights to turn on unexpectedly while driving. Generally, the lights cannot be turned off or immediately reactivate, creating a safety hazard at night. Water also drips onto the infotainment screen and center stack controls. To try to protect interior electronics, I have used absorbent materials to cover the center stack while parked and to wipe water while driving, which is distracting and unsafe. The issue has occurred repeatedly over multiple years and is reproducible. The vehicle has been inspected multiple times by authorized Audi service centers. Repairs have included cleaning sunroof drain tubes, replacing sunroof seals and adhesive pads, installing updated components, and water leak testing. Technicians confirmed water in the sunroof stowage tray and drains, and light malfunctions were attributed to water entering the cabin from the sunroof. Despite these repairs, the water intrusion continues to recur annually. During the most recent inspection, standing water was found in the rear sunroof drains, and sunroof removal and reinstallation was recommended but not covered. Service personnel confirmed the vehicle was properly maintained and not misused. The vehicle has approximately 17,000 miles. Primary symptoms are water dripping from the headliner and unintended activation of interior lighting while driving. Affected components include the sunroof assembly, drains, overhead console, and interior electrical systems. Other owners have reported similar issues, and multiple NHTSA Technical Service Bulletins acknowledge water entry from sunroof drains and seals. When I contacted Audi of America, I was informed that multiple complaints had been received, even that week.
NHTSA complaint #11712778 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
THE FIRST WEEK OF BUYING THIS VECHILE THERE WAS A CHIP MALFUCTION ON THE AUDI Q3 2024. THE AUDI AUTHORIZED SERVICE CENTER TOLD ME IT WAS JUST A SENSOR. I HAVE HAD MULTIPLE DIOS DONE AND EVERTHING COME BACK FINE. HOWEVER, WHEN WHEN THE BATTERY WAS DISCONNECT THE START STOP SYSTEM HAD ISSUE THEN WENT AWAY. ALONG WITH AFTER MY PURCHASE OF THE Q3 THEIR WERE STRANGE STREAMING NOISES THAT WERE COMING OUT OF ONE THE SPEAKERS. IT SEEMS THE DEALERSHIP SOLD ME THIS Q3 KNOWING THERE WAS AFTER MARKET PRODUCTS PUT IN THE CAR TO DISTRACT ME WHILE DRIVING. i LIVE IN TOWN OF BOZEMAN, MT AND HAVE BEEN TRYING TO MIDIGATE THIS ISSUE WITH LITTLE HELP FROM THE DEALERSHIP. I WILL BE MAKING A NEW POLICE REPORT CONCERNING MY PERSONAL ISSUES. I ALSO CONTACTED THE AUDI DIGITAL HELP FOR HELP! I CAN PROVIDE DOCUMENTS ONCE I GET A CLEAR RESPONSE FROM YOU.
NHTSA complaint #11705383 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
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.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
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.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
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.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Backup camera malfunctioned, and went black. It also didn’t stop me from backing into a car.
NHTSA complaint #11682906 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
I purchased a 2023 Audi Q3 and less than a year of owning the vehicle, I was driving when I lost power to the vehicle’s engine, with absolutely NO warning sign. Thankfully, I was able to pull over on the side of 95 and turn the car off, thinking maybe it was just overheating. I sat in the car for about 10-20 seconds before I saw a huge cloud of black smoke coming from the engine, that is when I got out of the car and called 911 immediately. As I was standing on the side of 95, with semi-trucks flying past me, I saw under the hood was pure flames. The 911 operator stressed I needed to walk away from the vehicle ASAP, and to not return for any of my belongings. About 2 minutes later, the entire car was engulfed in flames. Luckily, I was able to get my cell phone, to make the 911 call, but was not able to get any of my other belongings, purse, cards, laptop, ipad, etc. It took about 15-20 minutes for the police and fire department to come. They had to shut down 95 to control the fire, which took over an hour in total. The fire department came up to me 2 separate times asking if this was an electric vehicle because they were unable to contain the fire. I asked the sheriff what could have possibly caused this to happen, and that is when he stated it was most likely a manufacture defect since I had the car for less than a year and it had less than 50,000 miles on it. The police officer also stated that if I didn’t get out when I did, it was only a matter of seconds until I would have lost control of the vehicle entirely and burnt with it. I know this is a freak occurrence but to say I am traumatized and afraid to get behind the wheel, is an understatement. Especially knowing my guardian angels are the only reason why I am here and able to send this message.
NHTSA complaint #11681427 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
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.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Audi has made it impossible for owners to disable the automatic unlocking of all doors when the vehicle is shifted into Park. This behavior creates a significant personal safety risk in several common situations—such as stopping to refuel, entering parking garages, transporting children, or when elderly or disabled passengers are inside. By automatically unlocking the vehicle in any location when shifted into Park, Audi eliminates the driver’s or passenger’s control over door security. This compromises safety, particularly in high-risk or unfamiliar areas. No option exists in the vehicle’s settings to disable this feature, and dealership personnel confirm that Audi offers no software or MMI control to adjust or disable this. Only third-party tools (e.g., OBDeleven, not endorsed by Audi) appear to allow any override for previous model years however nothing for 2024 or newer. This lack of control over vehicle security should be classified as a safety defect, especially given the increased risk of carjacking, unwanted entry, or harm to vulnerable passengers.
NHTSA complaint #11673402 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Water/rain leaking through sunroof/light electrical panel replaced by Audi dealer once before, now it is leaking once again. Bringing it back to Audi to see why this keeps happening after I was told it would not happen after it was replaced.
NHTSA complaint #11671316 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
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.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
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.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
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.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
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.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
What component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is it available for inspection upon request? Design and/or manufacturing flaw in Audi m/n 8R0071128C Fork Mount Bike Rack presents a risk of bicycle becoming detached from the rack/vehicle at highway speeds. I have retained all parts and they could be made available for inspection. How was your safety or the safety of others put at risk? Risk is bicycle flying off the roof of a car at highway speeds causing significant damage to the carrying vehicle and/or triggering a serious accident involving nearby vehicles. Has the problem been reproduced or confirmed by a dealer or independent service center? Not yet, but I have been engaged in a very slow moving dialog with a number of Audi representatives, most recently with Lori W, Region Case Manager, Audi CXC (Audi of America Customer Experience Center). Has the vehicle or component been inspected by the manufacturer, police, insurance representatives or others? No Were there any warning lamps, messages or other symptoms of the problem prior to the failure, and when did they first appear? Not Applicable Travelling at highway speed was a bang on car roof. Pulled over and found that the bicycle mounted on the Audi m/n 8R0071128C Fork Mount Bike Rack was no longer secured. After removing the bicycle, I saw that 1of2 threaded parts that clamp the bicycle fork to the rack was gone, bang heard likely was that part hitting roof. Remaining 2of2 threaded part was loose, could be turned by hand and was in danger of also falling off. It appears that the design of Audi m/n 8R0071128C enables these critical parts to unthread and detach during use. Possible fixes may be as simple as use of a permanent type thread locking compound during manufacturing or as complex as a redesign which does not present the possibility of failing in such an unsafe manner. See photos.
NHTSA complaint #11621565 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
The moonroof leaks during rain or car wash, flooding interior and control panel and interior lights.
NHTSA complaint #11617063 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.