30 of the
80 complaints filed about the Audi Q4 E-Tron
are about the electrical system —
38% of everything owners reported.
The worst model year for it is 2024.
Within the first 6 months of owning the car my 2024 Audi Q4 E-tron premium door handle lock - unlock would not work and the car would intermittently not start. The dealership service replaced the 12-volt battery which has corrected the door handle lock-unlock issue; however, it has not corrected the no start problem. If I exit and enter the car multiple times it will eventually start (automatic seat start). The dealership service department cannot reproduce the problem therefore no solution has been made or offered. I have another appointment to leave the car 9/24/26 - due to additional starting concerns - on 9/11/26 my car would not start while at the dealership and a member of the service department witnessed the issue. On 9/17/26 - after multiple attempts to start the car and finally getting it into D - while initiating momentum and driving - the car shut down!! Luckily I was still in a parking lot and not on the highway!!
NHTSA complaint #11757936 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
On Friday, XXX, I stopped my vehicle in a parking spot, exited, and returned to my vehicle. I put it in drive, moved from the parking spot, and before I could reach 10 mph, the vehicle began to shake/vibrate violently, and the dash lit up with electrical system malfunction warning. On Saturday, XXX, my [XXX] daughter, who was driving my [XXX] and [XXX] daughters home, called me to tell me that the vehicle failed and that she had "safely pulled into someone’s driveway". We had been out of town, and she was caring for her sisters and my vehicle has the carseats. My [XXX] daughters frequently drive my car. She was a mile away from home, so she did “the routine”. She had to do this 5 times - with me on the phone - just to get the vehicle home and her sisters to safety. After my husband and I returned home Saturday, XXX, we got in the vehicle so that we could possibly get it on video. We were able to finally get video evidence of the problem so that we can no longer be turned away from Audi with the excuse of “no evidence” of a problem. The history: XXX, I had my vehicle towed to Audi, because the electrical system malfunctioned in our driveway not in motion. I was told that the problem could not be replicated and, therefore, not resolved and that Audi “requests vehicle to be released to the customer”. On XXX, we contacted Audi once again to report two instances of the same problem, both which occurred while in motion. The vehicle then went limp and brought me to a stop on the side of the road, on a sharp bend, with, again, my two youngest children in the back seat. Then, my husband and I were in the vehicle and had stopped at a traffic light on a 55 mph road. XXX diagnosis: “Could not duplicate customer concern during several test drives, found no relevant fault codes” and “no obvious electrical or mechanical failures during hoist inspection at this time” were the notes in the report back to us. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
NHTSA complaint #11757319 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
The high-voltage charging system has repeatedly malfunctioned. The vehicle intermittently displays a "Charging System Malfunction" warning and a message that only AC charging is possible, the charge-port indicator blinks green and then red, and the vehicle cannot be reliably charged. The vehicle and the affected charging components are available for inspection on request. Safety risk: because the vehicle cannot be dependably charged, it can be left without sufficient power to complete a trip, creating a risk of losing motive power and leaving the driver stranded, potentially on a roadway or in an unsafe location. The affected onboard charger is the subject of Audi Safety Recall 93FR (Onboard Charger with Integrated DC/DC-Converter) — a component the manufacturer has already identified as safety-related. As of 8/10/26, the fault has returned and I no longer consider the vehicle safe to rely on for normal driving. Reproduced and confirmed by a dealer: yes, on multiple occasions. On 06/03/2026 (~52,771 miles), Audi Tysons Corner recorded the "Charging System Malfunction / unable to charge / blinks green then red" complaint and performed a combined software update (ID.S 5.4.3, TSB 2080398). On 07/08/2026 (~54,673 miles), the same dealer recorded the "Charging System Malfunction / only AC charging possible" complaint, reported diagnostic fault P33E800 (charge socket / charge connector lock mechanical malfunction), and replaced the Connector Lock 1 Actuator (F498). The defect has since returned. Inspected by the manufacturer and others: the vehicle has been inspected and serviced only by Audi authorized dealers (Audi Tysons Corner and Audi Chantilly), including warranty and recall work, with diagnostic/GFF logs uploaded to Audi. On 10/13/2025 (~37,447 miles) Audi performed Safety Recall 93FR on the onboard charger, and the high-voltage charger was subsequently replaced under that recall. The vehicle has not been inspected by police or insurance. Repair invoices are avail
NHTSA complaint #11755869 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
I am reporting a severe safety recall compliance failure and fraudulent reporting by an authorized dealership regarding a 2023 Audi electric vehicle. On May 30, 2024, under Repair Order 227719, the dealership officially certified to the NHTSA and Audi that Safety Recall 93U6 (Compact/Portable Charging System Cable) was fully completed. The dealership never actually removed or replaced the hazardous, fire-prone charging hardware. The original recalled cable (Part Number: 8V4.971.675.BB) remains in my home and is available for inspection. The dealer falsely reported a federal safety remedy as remedied while leaving a fire-hazardous component in a consumer's possession. The vehicle suffers from chronic, sporadic overnight charging failures where the vehicle indicates it is charging via a green indicator light but fails to draw power overnight. The vehicle was returned to the same dealer in July 2026 for this defect, at which point the false historical recall reporting was discovered on the printed history report
NHTSA complaint #11751185 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
On March 20, 2026, while my 2022 Audi Q4 e-tron (VIN: [XXX] ) was parked in my private garage at approximately 98% battery charge, I attempted to start the vehicle and experienced a complete electrical system failure. All electronic systems failed simultaneously, including: brake system (Brake System Failure warning displayed), parking brake sensor, traffic/charging system, power windows, and side view mirrors. The vehicle could not be placed into neutral. AAA was dispatched and the vehicle required a jump-start to the 12-volt auxiliary system before it could be moved. The vehicle was towed to Audi Beverly Hills for inspection. The dealership diagnosed the fault as: Control Module Main Processor Performance, Symptom Code 20079, per Technical Service Bulletin TSB 2074484/3. Per that TSB, the dealer was instructed by Audi of America to create a PSS (Pending Service Solution) record, erase the fault memory, and release the vehicle to me with no repair performed. The stated guidance from Audi of America to the dealer was to inform me that this is "an extremely infrequent fault" that is "being reviewed." No fix exists. No timeline for a fix has been provided. The vehicle was released to me with the underlying defect unresolved. This is a known, manufacturer-acknowledged defect with no current remedy. As a fully electric vehicle, the Q4 e-tron's braking and all safety systems are electronically dependent. A recurrence of this fault while driving presents an unreasonable safety risk. I am requesting NHTSA investigate whether TSB XXX /3 and Symptom Code 20079 warrant a formal safety recall. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
NHTSA complaint #11726744 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
I am filing this complaint due to ongoing electronic and drivetrain malfunctions that may impact safe vehicle operation. AWD System Malfunction (Primary Safety Concern) The vehicle repeatedly displays four-wheel drive system malfunction warnings. I have brought the vehicle to the dealership three times for this same issue. The malfunction continues unresolved, raising concerns about traction, stability, and drivetrain reliability. Intermittent Entry Failure Biometric entry intermittently fails, forcing use of the key fob. This could delay access in emergency situations. Remote System Failures Remote vehicle functions (lock/unlock and climate control) operate inconsistently or fail entirely, often generating error messages. Audi has stated this is a system infrastructure issue with no current fix. Battery Power Inconsistency Although the battery indicates 100% charge, actual available power never reaches full output and drops shortly after driving. This creates uncertainty about vehicle performance and usable range. HUD Feature Does Not Perform as Advertised The head-up display does not show surrounding vehicle speeds as advertised, only colored indicators. This removes expected situational awareness information. Summary The vehicle exhibits repeated drivetrain warnings, electronic access failures, and inconsistent battery performance. These issues persist despite multiple service visits. I am requesting this complaint be formally recorded and investigated due to potential safety implications.
NHTSA complaint #11718122 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
At least a dozen times, while accelerating from a complete stop, the car has experienced sudden unintended very hard braking without driver input. After very hard brake, car falls out of gear and needs to be restarted and put back in gear. -In clear, dry, temperate weather -Day and night -In drive and reverse -While accelerator engaged -Not touching brake pedal -No obstacles, pedestrians or vehicles present that would require braking -No warnings, alerts or messages on screen -Occurs randomly, nothing to indicate braking is needed -Most recent incident, on flat, familiar road, clear, temperate weather, no obstacles, car unexpectedly braked after accelerating from traffic light, fell out of gear and would not go back into gear for several minutes, resulting in near rear-end collision with multiple vehicles behind that did not expect sudden stop while accelerating. Eventually car would drive a short distance then hard brake, slip out of gear, not be able to drive. This was repeated 4 times before finally being able to drive without failure. -Audi inspected, could not reproduce the issue. It occurs very randomly, so it’s difficult to reproduce on demand. -No fault codes were found or stored -Dealer said without being able to reproduce it there was nothing to be done. I asked for TAC case to be opened for assistance. They strongly refused but eventually agreed. Case was opened but immediately rejected (within minutes). Later they said it was rejected for missing info, including location of incidents, which they never asked me for and I could have provided. Sudden random very hard braking and going into park while accelerating, then not being able to drive, with no warnings or fault codes, is a safety hazard.This has happened many times over a year. Other vehicles can crash into an unexpected stopped car in traffic. The last time I came within a millisecond of a major crash.
NHTSA complaint #11714579 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
CRITICAL SAFETY DEFECT: HIGH-SPEED BRAKING SURGE & ELECTRICAL FAILURE Life safety concerning ! 1. Braking Failure at Highway Speeds: The vehicle exhibits a severe safety defect involving unintended acceleration/surging while braking. While driving in 'D' (Drive) mode at approximately 50 MPH, when applying the brakes to stop for traffic/red lights, the vehicle fails to decelerate immediately. Instead of slowing down, the vehicle surges forward against the braking input, feeling like a loss of regenerative braking authority. This results in extended stopping distances and near-miss collision risks at high speeds. 2. Charging & Electrical System Failure (Suspected Recalls): The vehicle suffers from persistent electrical failures that the dealer dismissed as "user error" or a "bad plug," but which match known Audi safety recalls: (A)AC & On-Board Charger Failure: The vehicle threw "AC System" error codes and fails to charge reliably, shutting off after short periods. This mirrors symptoms of Recall 93FR (High-Voltage Battery/On-Board Charger), risking a 12V battery stall. My car model was among those impacted recalled car dearies even now it is not listed as one of the recall Model by VIN#, I strongly suspected my car has same defect. Many websites have address this life threatening issue would [XXX] ." (B):Charging Cable Overheating: The included 220V charging cable is suspected to be defective (matching Recall 93U6), which poses a fire risk at the outlet. (C)Interior Voltage Instability: Wired USB-C ports cut power/disconnect devices less than 5 minutes of use. 3. Dealer Negligence: The dealership (Audi Tysons Corner) failed to diagnose these issues ("Could Not Replicate"), refused to replace the recalled charging cable, and released the vehicle with active "Inspection Due" warning lights. The vehicle is unsafe to drive. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
NHTSA complaint #11707365 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Car had electrical malfunction warning please contact costumer support and car died and zero damage to the body or the car. But the side air bags faulty went off. This car had a prior recall on file for same issues of car dying off and clerical problems. I got this car in September 2025 and had issue with it within the second month of having this car. I was not told there was a prior recall at all.
NHTSA complaint #11705977 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
I was stopped in line at a drive through. The car started rolling (electric cars should not do that) so I tapped the brakes. The car started accelerating and I started braking hard and the car just sped up. Auto braking and collision warning did not kick in. The car slammed into the car parked in front of me and drove it forward about 10 feet. The driver has soft tissue injuries as do I. In the past, it has also lost acceleration while driving did not respond to the gas pedal. I frequently get warnings that the safety features are temporarily not working.
NHTSA complaint #11705575 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
I purchased the Audi Q4 Etron new. The issue that I'm bring up is 'self-acceleration' I had the intial incident 10/2025 where the car self accelerated (Audi Case open) but can't reproduce which almost pin a kid between my vehicle and another vehicle. I was able to react quickly to prevent a death. Second time 'self-acceleration" was on 3/27/25. My son pulling into garage with my sitting next to him, the car self accelerated after coming to complete stop, jumped a pakring block and crashed into my garage wall. Dealer had the car for 2-3 weeks and still couldn't replicate. Third incident was 10/30/25 while at a complete stop in traffic leaving a parking lot, the car was at complete stop and 'self-acclerated' into the vehicle in front. This incident caused my vehcile to be total-loss by insurance. Audi case was also open and they said no fault and told me it's an insurrance matter. I believe there are many cases like mine and they are aware. There are lots of discussion on the defective 'self-accelreation' on Audi Q4 Etron. take a look at this link "https://www.reddit.com/r/etron/comments/16ta6qe/beware_of_the_q4_etron_sudden_acceleration/"
NHTSA complaint #11704429 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
I am reporting multiple ongoing electrical system malfunctions on my 2024 Audi Q4 55 e-tron SUV that create a safety risk, including sudden loss of functionality and warnings instructing me to stop driving. These issues began approximately two months after I purchased the vehicle and continue to occur. The car has been at Audi Bellevue for the second times since 11/5/2025. The car with error was initially dropped off at the dealership on 09/27/2025. The vehicle repeatedly and sporadically displays the following warnings (even when at Audi dealership. “Electrical system". Malfunction! “Safety system: fault” See owners manual “Vehicle sound: malfunction” Pedestrians cannot hear vehicle. Please contact service (when the car is being driven) During some of these events, vehicle drivability is compromised, systems shut down unexpectedly, and the car instructs me to exit or stop driving. This creates a potential risk of loss of power while driving. The vehicle has been at Audi Bellevue now for approximately four weeks since 11/5/2025 attempting diagnosis and repair. I was informed that the dealership opened a TAC (technical assistance case) with Audi corporate, but they have not been able to resolve the issue. I was also told there is a related issue affecting the Audi e-tron GT and that the fix for that model cannot be applied to my Q4. My vehicle appears to be part of the national recall 25V125000 (Audi recall 93FR) covering the on-board charger/DC-DC converter (OCDC) that can fail and result in 12-volt battery depletion and loss of drive power. I have not been informed whether parts for this recall are available or whether my vehicle has been repaired under this recall. This is a safety-critical issue, and the repeated failures and warnings make the vehicle unreliable and potentially hazardous to drive. I am requesting that NHTSA document this defect and investigate whether other 2024 Audi Q4 e-tron SUVs are experiencing similar electrical failures.
NHTSA complaint #11702104 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Primary issue is electric shock hazard and limb dismemberment. It was confirmed by an Audi service tech that all Audi Q4s have dangerous gaps in every door. My child 8 years old got her finger caught between the panel and door frame. She could have cut or worse lost her finger should the door rapidly open or close. Wires are exposed leaving the easy situation of access to wires with sharp metal objects that a kid could do. Open door panels have sharp edges leading g to easy cuts. As the wires are colorful and visually appealing a kid would be enticed to try to acquire. The techs will not close the panel to frame since this is Audi’s deliberate design. Tech claims to have fixed but clearly was not touched. Audi should be required to redesign door paneling and reinstall proper paneling. All door paneling to the door frames should be closed and secured with zero gaps. Video claiming this normal is found here [XXX] §ion=RECOMMENDATIONS&shouldOpenInspectionsReport=true INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
NHTSA complaint #11697683 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
The contact owns a 2025 Audi Q4 E-Tron. The contact stated that the high-voltage battery message was displayed. While driving in a parking garage at 5 MPH, the "Driving System Malfunction" message was displayed. The message “Risk of Fire” was displayed. The contact exited and parked the vehicle. The vehicle was towed to the local dealer, but the vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was contacted, but no assistance was provided. The failure mileage was approximately 7,000.
NHTSA complaint #11689940 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
The contact leased a 2024 Audi Q4 E-Tron. The contact stated after the dealer had delivered the brand-new vehicle to the contact, the contact became aware that the VIN was included in NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V125000 (Electrical System); prior to the lease agreement; however, the dealer failed to disclose the recall information to the contact, and the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. Additionally, the contact stated that the vehicle had failed to charge. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where the contact was informed that the failure could be related to the recall. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure, but no assistance was provided. The failure mileage was approximately 150. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
NHTSA complaint #11664833 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
The contact owns a 2024 Audi Q4 E-Tron. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V125000 (Electrical System); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that while idling and opening the front driver's side door to grab a parking lot ticket, the vehicle turned off. The contact stated that the vehicle was able to restart after several attempts. Additionally, the contact stated that the vehicle had temporarily failed to charge. The local dealer was contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The failure mileage was approximately 1,000. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
NHTSA complaint #11659525 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
The contact owns a 2024 Audi Q4 E-Tron. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V125000 (Electrical System); however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
NHTSA complaint #11656832 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Car alarmed that my EV had a major electrical issue and made sirens outside as to warn others to not come close and keep distance as if the car will catch fire or explode. I replicated this warning again sitting in the car. Fearing the car will catch fire I had it moved out of my garage. My Audi Service Center was not able to replicate the issue and I provided video and photo evidence of the danger. They claim that car works normal. In the photo is the battery light and sos light on. In addition, all safety features failed to work. Audi Q4 Etron regularly crashes and driver lose federally required safety features. For example additional photos show the loss of speedometer reading stuck on 8 mph and other safety features. These crashes happen at least once a week.
NHTSA complaint #11652841 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
The contact owns a 2024 Audi Q4 E-Tron. The contact stated while driving at various speeds, the message "Vehicle Sound Malfunction! Pedestrian Cannot Hear Vehicle. Please Contact Service" was displayed. The contact stated that the failure recurred intermittently. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where it was diagnosed. The dealer informed the contact that the electric vehicle sound alert system was malfunctioning. The dealer informed the contact that the manufacturer's solution for the failure was pending. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, but no assistance was provided. The failure mileage was approximately 600.
NHTSA complaint #11652611 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.