62 of the
1,405 complaints filed about the Audi Q7
are about the braking system —
4% of everything owners reported.
The worst model year for it is 2018.
My independent repair shop has just diagnosed a coolant leak weeping from the vacuum line connection at the water pump; they referred to this problem as “coolant migration”. As documented extensively by Audi in Technical Service Bulletin 19-23-45 (2070349/2), this indicates an internal seal failure of the water pump, causing pressurized engine coolant to migrate directly into the vehicle’s vacuum system. While I understand that my vehicle is technically past its 4-year factory warranty timeline, a mechanical failure of this nature at just 43,000 miles is highly premature and points to a known manufacturer design defect rather than standard wear and tear. More importantly, this defect poses an immediate, severe safety risk. Because the vacuum system directly services the power brake booster, the migration of coolant into these lines risks catastrophic contamination of the braking system. This results in a stiff brake pedal and compromised vehicle stopping ability. I am deeply concerned about operating this vehicle with an active, manufacturer-acknowledged safety hazard affecting my brakes. At this time, I have not had this problem confirmed by the dealer, but plan to in the next week. The vehicle it available for inspection upon request.
NHTSA complaint #11746888 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
While parked in my residential garage with the engine shut off and car door closed, the vehicle suffered an un-commanded rollaway incident due to a suspected defect in the electronic parking brake or automatic-park transmission software. The vehicle was completely stopped, the driver exited the vehicle and the driver's door was closed. Moments later, the vehicle shifted out of its parked state or failed to hold, rolling backward down the driveway and colliding with a basketball pole in the driveway, causing vehicle damage. No warning chimes or dashboard alerts were observed prior to exiting. The vehicle's electronic failsafe to automatically engage 'Park' upon the door opening failed to secure the vehicle.
NHTSA complaint #11742245 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
I drove home after shopping, opened my garage door by remote, and pulled into the garage. I placed the vehicle in park, and shut off the engine via push button. I retrieved my purse from the passenger seat and exited the vehicle. I exited the vehicle with the intent of retrieving my shopping bags from the rear hatch. As I walked towards the rear of the vehicle I noticed my next-door neighbor had stopped at the end of my driveway with the driver’s window down. I did not make it to the hatch door and instead walked to the end of my driveway. [XXX] was the only occupant of the car. He was the driver. We started talking for several minutes with my back to the garage the entire time until neighbor hollered “[XXX] is going on?” The last thing I remember is my Audi Q7 slamming my body into one or both vehicles. I was thrown to the driveway with my right foot wedged under the Audi Q7’s driver’s side rear tire. I worked my foot free from my shoe and got myself up to a standing position with clear pain in my back and foot. Vehicle rolled on its own with transmission in Park. Note: ~Vehicle transmission was in Park on a flat surface when I exited vehicle with car keys ~ I was stuck by vehicle, vehicle in question also struck another vehicle ~Not to my knowledge ~None of the agencies or companies have inspected vehicle ~No warning lights INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
NHTSA complaint #11739903 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
My car has experienced unintended automatic emergency braking while driving in active traffic with no obstruction present. This created a serious risk of a rear-end collision from vehicles behind. Prior to this, the car had ongoing alignment and steering issues beginning shortly after purchase. The car consistently pulls while driving and has required multiple repair attempts, including alignments and inspections of steering and suspension components. These repairs have not resolved the issue. The problem appears to be worsening. In addition to the unintended braking, the vehicle intermittently displays safety system warnings related to driver assistance features. The failure involves both mechanical and electronic systems, including steering alignment and automatic emergency braking. It's believed that incorrect alignment or suspension issues may be affecting sensor calibration and causing false collision detection. The car has been inspected multiple times by the dealership, but the issue has not been diagnosed or permanently repaired. The car's unsafe to operate due to unpredictable braking behavior. The warning signs that the car gives are “Traffic jam assist unavailable” and “Safety system malfunction” while driving.These warning messages and system malfunctions have been occurring intermittently since shortly after purchase in early 2025 and were previously reported to the dealership. The warnings continued after the incident and are documented with photos taken the following day. The safety systems appear to be unreliable and malfunctioning in real-time operation.
NHTSA complaint #11728044 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
On or December 5th, 2025 (4 days after taking possession of the vehicle, I experienced a sudden and severe steering system failure while driving. When turning the steering wheel (even slightly), the vehicle produced a loud buzzing/grinding noise and the steering effort increased significantly, creating an immediate safety hazard. Because the steering issue worsened quickly and made the vehicle difficult to control, I stopped driving and brought the vehicle to an authorized Audi dealership for inspection. The Audi dealership confirmed the steering failure was caused by a major power steering system defect, including active power steering fluid leakage from the steering rack area consistent with internal seal failure, and the power steering pump being faulty due to fluid loss. The dealership advised replacement of the power steering rack and pump and stated the vehicle was unsafe to test drive due to its condition. During the same inspection, the Audi dealership also identified additional serious safety-related defects, including a brake system condition where the brake pedal slowly sinks toward the floor when pressure is applied (indicating a braking system performance failure requiring brake fluid exchange and further diagnosis if unresolved). The inspection also documented multiple additional mechanical and safety concerns requiring extensive repairs, including suspension and drivetrain defects and other conditions indicating the vehicle was not roadworthy as sold. The vehicle remains available for inspection. This incident involved a sudden loss of steering assist and braking abnormalities that could lead to loss of control, crash risk, and injury to the driver, passengers, and other motorists.
NHTSA complaint #11711746 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
New Audi Q7 only 1,392 miles driven, front brake failed, Audi NOT willing to remedy under warranty claiming unsubstantiated brakes overheated due to excessive braking ? Clearly manufacturer fault and serious safety hazard - no support from Audi Grapevine
NHTSA complaint #11708002 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
The vehicle was parked on a sloped driveway. After the driver exited the car, the automatic parking brake/Auto-P fail-safe failed to engage. The vehicle rolled backward unexpectedly, causing the driver-side door to strike a fire hydrant and rebound into the driver's body. There is significant property damage ($6000) and personal injury. Complete home security video footage of the incident is available [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
NHTSA complaint #11707425 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
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 to: 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.
NHTSA complaint #11663107 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
After owning the vehicle for less than one-year (~20k) miles, the front brakes started to pulse and make noise when stopping. Stopping distance was reduced. The dealer recommended that the rotors be replaced and did so at zero cost as a courtesy. Twelve weeks later, the pulsing and noise and reduced stopping distance started again. This time they refused to pay for the repair and blamed "braking habits". Audi national customer care also refused to do anything. The car is mostly driven on the highway and most of the braking is done by the adaptive cruise control. There is no other evidence of hard driving (i.e. tire wear or low gas mileage). The problem is almost certainly the calipers which should not fail after a year. Reduced stopping distance and brake failure are a safety hazard.
NHTSA complaint #11657439 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
The contact owns a 2023 Audi Q7. The contact stated that the MIL warning light was illuminated. There was a yellow warning light illuminated with a message to take the vehicle to the dealer displayed. While the contact’s wife was driving at an undisclosed speed and approaching an intersection, the yellow warning light turned red. The contact stated that the vehicle suddenly independently skidded to a screeching stop. The vehicle was towed to the local dealer but was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not contacted. The failure mileage was approximately 32,000.
NHTSA complaint #11631051 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Error code for right front side marker light faulty. Light seems to be working. I've had two mechanics look at the car. They can't figure out what's wrong. Error message appears randomly. Brakes are very squeaky. I took the car to Audi and they said it was normal and I should brake more aggressively.
NHTSA complaint #11630208 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Often gets warning about Parking Brake malfunction. Dealership already checked once and could not find the problem. Warning comes on speedometer as follows: "Parking brake: malfunction! Please contact Service."
NHTSA complaint #11600536 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
On [XXX] we were parking the car in the lot at [XXX] , when the car suddenly accelerated despite my foot being on the brake and crashed into a storefront. The fireman said the airbags deploy code was issues but the airbag never deployed, and the automatic emergency braking did not stop the car. It seemed as though the transmission was switched, but we had not touched the gas. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
NHTSA complaint #11577307 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Lately, I have been adding coolant to my car - 2013 Audi Q& TDI and Motor Oil for unknown reasons why it was happening. It started last year, 2023. I thought it was a normal thing that the oil level and coolant level kept on getting depleted. Comparing with my other car, i.e. a 2016 Toyota Avalon, I never encountered these problems My Audi car was serviced sometime 2018 and apparently all gaskets of the engine were replaced after I complained about severe leaking of oil inside my car garage. Until I went online to get if there were similar complaints of other users of this car were reported. My friend's car of same Audi model was also experiencing the same issue. I was also observing a similar gas smell inside my Audi car, whenever I start the engine and my air vent is not closed for couple of months. When I had it serviced to check my vent filter, the mechanic also noticed that there was leaking oil near the filter housing. The brake power is so low despite having it serviced for brake assist recall sometime in 2016 despite new Brake pads were installed. I also noticed that the brake fluid was getting lower sometime July 2023. Looking at the list of recalls - these complaints were not addressed by those 3 recalls reported to NHTSA.
NHTSA complaint #11571639 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
I purchased a used 2017 Audi Q7 Premium on 11/16/2023 from a Volkswagen. Since it showed the message "Brake pads: wear limit reached. You can continue driving. Please contact Service", the agreed to repair it. I didn't receive my vehicle until 2 weeks later. They said that the work was done but after driving it for a couple of days the message is still showing. After driving it off the lot, minutes later I get a message "Front left side marker light defective. See owner's manual". After examining the side markers it doesn't look the neither side is out and there is no way showing on how to clear the message. I haven't taken it to an Audi dealership as of yet. But worried on if I made the right purchase.
NHTSA complaint #11558623 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
on Sep 17 2023 my wife was driving her Audi Q7. which has 25,780 miles. She drove to a parking lot for a hiking trip, pressed on the brake and the car instead of stopping accelerated. She kept trying to press the brake, however the car did not stop until it hit a tree. The car has been towed to our house and it is not driveable. The car has not been inspected yet. I plan on calling the Audi dealer on Monday, Sep 18th. No lights appeared before the incident.
NHTSA complaint #11545027 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
While driving with my 4 year-old daughter a notification appeared on the driver display that there is an “Electrical Malfunction” and to call the service department. A few minutes later, while actively driving on the same busy road in my town, the vehicle completely turned off, including the power steering and ABS breaks. I was stuck in the middle of a busy intersection with no hazard lights and no ability to even shift the vehicle into neutral to move it. I was genuinely concerned for my safety and the safety of my daughter, as we were stranded in the middle of a busy intersection during rush hour. It was a harrowing experience to say the least. Eventually we had the vehicle towed. When I called Audi, they informed me that they suspected it was the “starter generator” and that they were aware of the issue, but this was the first I had heard of it. They subsequently confirmed that it was the starter generator and are less than accommodating.
NHTSA complaint #11544452 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
2023 Audi Q7 The brake pedal randomly does not respond. This prevents the vehicle from being able to start, shift out of gear when parked, and the rear brake lights do not respond. My main concern is the brake lights not responding. I do not want to be injured in a collision when slowing down on the road. The vehicle has been sent back to the dealership twice. The first time the dealership could not duplicate the issue. There were no warning lights or system faults found when scanned. Two days latter the vehicle had to be towed due to the same issue not starting. The tow truck driver could not get the vehicle out of gear to move and noticed the brake lights not responding. Next day the vehicle was sent back to the dealership where they duplicated the problem but wanted to keep the vehicle for testing. The vehicle is still at the dealership 35+ days. I have multiple videos of the issue.
NHTSA complaint #11538271 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.