On XXX, I was driving northbound on US-101 from [XXX] to [XXX] to pick up a family member for an appointment. The vehicle had been operating normally at freeway speed. As traffic slowed for a construction zone near Summerland, I intentionally reduced speed to approximately 20 mph. At that point, I heard a sudden abnormal rotational mechanical noise from the engine compartment, best described as a flapping or rubbing sound. The noise had not been present earlier during the drive. Within moments, the engine lost power and shut down. The vehicle lost propulsion while in traffic, and power steering assist was lost after the engine stopped. I was able to safely maneuver the vehicle off the roadway. The engine would not restart. Before this incident, I did not observe any meaningful warning of an impending catastrophic engine failure. I did not observe an engine overheating warning, an oil-pressure warning, or any other dashboard warning indicating an imminent engine seizure. Before purchasing the vehicle, and during my ownership, I used Ross-Tech VCDS (Audi/VW-specific diagnostic software) as part of proactive maintenance and monitoring. Nothing identified an impending catastrophic engine failure. The vehicle was transported to an independent European repair facility for inspection. The shop determined that the engine is mechanically seized and advised that the precise initiating cause cannot be determined without engine disassembly. An Audi dealership likewise indicated that additional manufacturer-level diagnostic procedures would be required. A case was created, and Audi declined assistance. I am submitting this complaint because the engine failed suddenly during normal operation without a meaningful advance warning, resulting in an immediate loss of propulsion in traffic. I believe this type of unexpected catastrophic engine failure presents a potential safety concern if it occurs while the vehicle is being operated on a public roadway. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5
NHTSA complaint #11754103 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
My 2017 Audi Q7 with the 3.0T engine has experienced repeated engine/ignition system failures. The vehicle displays a "System Malfunction" warning light accompanied by shaking and stalling. This same malfunction has occurred at least 3 separate times over the past few years. Each time, a repair shop diagnosed and replaced faulty ignition coils, and the vehicle ran normally for a period of time before the identical malfunction returned. The vehicle is currently inoperable due to the most recent occurrence. This creates a safety risk because the stalling and shaking can occur while driving, with no clear warning beyond the malfunction light appearing at the same time as the symptoms begin. A stall or loss of power while in motion, especially in traffic or on a highway, could lead to a collision. The problem has been confirmed and repaired multiple times by an independent European auto repair specialist, who stated this is a known, recurring issue with this engine/model. The vehicle has not yet been inspected by the manufacturer directly. Separately, the vehicle has also developed excessive oil consumption, requiring approximately 2 gallons of oil added roughly every 6 weeks, with the frequency increasing over the last 2 months. I am uncertain whether the oil consumption and the recurring coil/ignition failures share a common root cause, but both issues are ongoing and unresolved. The vehicle and its components are available for inspection upon request.
NHTSA complaint #11754079 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Took my Aui Q7 in to AUDI of [XXX], on XXX for a very rough idle and surging at lights from the automatic oof/on system and the 10,000 initial service ( 8000 Mile) I was surprized when the service rep mentioned that it could be a broken motor mount as i thought it was more of a idle adjustment. They did find the driver side mount was broken and replaced it under warranty. Received the car back on the 9th, but the car was again idling very roughly, took it back immediatley. they replaced the second motor mount, under warranty. I asked why they didt replace both at the initial repoair they said it was a policy to only replace one at a time under warranty!! After receiving the car back, there is still a rough idle, transmission is out of sync, no diagnosis or adjustment for the auto/on off system at lights. Took the car back and has been at the dealer while they discuss/diagnosis with Audi technical. Several discussion with the service manager Chris Calhoun regarding these problems and resolution. Received an email 7/28/29 that the dealership wants to return the car after adjusting the transsmission, no determination of the root cause or adjustments to the auto on/off system,but i have escalated with Audi Customer Care Case#XXX.The vehichle has been in their shop for 3 weeks- 7-7 to 7/29. I am awaiting a response form their care team looking for them to repurchase the vehichle or provide a replacement as i dont feel safe or confident that the repairs were done correctly or completely. It seem that they know the issue with the motor mounts are a problem that havent been disclosed , and to have a double failure at 8000 miles seems more than bad luck. The repairs have compounded other problems, rendering a new car to a used worn car, with unresolved issues that will only require future services visits in the future , totally negating my reasons for purchasing a new car. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
NHTSA complaint #11753503 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
I was traveling at highway speeds in active, high-velocity traffic when my vehicle suffered a sudden, catastrophic mechanical failure that nearly resulted in a severe multi-car accident. Without any warning, the vehicle completely lost its ability to accelerate, flatly refusing to pick up speed or maintain momentum despite pressing the gas pedal. This unexpected, immediate drop in propulsion marooned me in high-speed lanes, leaving the vehicle dangerously vulnerable as oncoming traffic rapidly closed the distance behind me. Drivers behind me were forced to aggressively swerve and brake to avoid a high-speed rear-end collision. Moments after this life-threatening loss of power occurred, the Check Engine Light illuminated on the dashboard. Subsequent technical inspection revealed a severe engineering defect: the internal seals of the factory coolant control components failed, forcing pressurized engine coolant backward into the engine’s primary vacuum system. This pressurized fluid completely contaminated the vacuum lines, the vacuum reservoir tank, and the electronic solenoids—including the N75 boost control solenoid. By filling the vacuum infrastructure with liquid coolant, the engine was instantly starved of its ability to regulate turbocharger boost, triggering a critical "limp mode" and a P0299 underboost fault. The catastrophic failure of an internal cooling seal directly compromising an active drivability safety system represents an unreasonable and severe defect. It transforms a routine drive into an immediate, uncontrollable highway hazard. I am filing this report because this known coolant migration pattern presents a clear, present, and life-threatening danger to owners operating this engine platform.
NHTSA complaint #11742674 — 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.
The contact owns a 2017 Audi Q7. The contact stated that while driving approximately 65 MPH, the contact became aware of an abnormal odor. The vehicle started shaking, and the drive train malfunction indicator was displayed. The contact pulled over to the side of the road, and the vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic, where it was diagnosed and determined that the exhaust valve had burned a hole through cylinder #1 due to a misfire. The contact notified the dealer, but assistance was declined. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 120,000.
NHTSA complaint #11717230 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
I was driving on the freeway and got off on an exit ramp at high speeds and began to slow down and break. As I was breaking the car became clunky and slowed down and suddenly shut off. The warning lights “transmission failure and “ESC failure” came on and I was unable to drive or put the car into gear. The car flashed “stop. Pull over” and “not safe to drive” and see “Audi dealer”. The car would not turn back on. We were stuck in the middle Of the freeway off-ramp with cars flying by us with no sidewalks or safe ways to exit the vehicle. I had my wife, dog and 2 and 4 year old kids with me. I then had to be towed to my local Audi dealer. At the Audi dealer, I told them what happened and asked for a full diagnostic. They then called me the next day and said they ran codes and nothing popped up. I said can they run a full diagnostic further and see what happened. They called me the next day and said they did a “deeper dive” and I needed to replace my transmission intake body valve and gave me a repaid quote of $8,000. My car had been serviced 2 months prior on 10/16/25 with the transmission being checked and said great.
NHTSA complaint #11709089 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Catastrophic Engine failure while driving on highway with family. System gave error codes DTC P054A, DTC P0301, DTC P0017. Vehicle was not drivable. Always serviced with oil and filter change at recommended service intervals at authorized Audi dealer. Never showed any signs of malfunction or warning lamps prior to this incidence. Brought it to a mechanic specializing in European cars and diagnosis was the Engine has failed completely and needs new engine.
NHTSA complaint #11708802 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Audi Rumble is present on this vehicle, Audi disregards it even after visiting the dealer many times over the issue. Center diff is what is causing it. No issue up to 30k miles, then the rumble started. I am afraid of the drivetrain breaking and locking up during driving which could be catastrophic. Audi does have TSBs on this exact issue from previous model years, this model year doesnt. More complaints should come in eventually for this exact issue.
NHTSA complaint #11697332 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
My 2017 Audi Q7 Prestige 3.0T 6Cyl GAS CREC Supercharged has experienced repeated, serious failures involving the engine, powertrain, and fuel system. - At 72,000 miles, the vehicle developed coolant leaks under the supercharger, a failed water pump, and soaked drive belts. Repairs included multiple hoses, gaskets, and thermostat replacement. -Shortly after, repeated PCV/Oil system failures caused oil leaks, warning lights, and engine shaking. Repairs included PCV system, oil separator, valve cover gasket, breather pipes, and new spark plugs. - at 111,000 miles, the low-pressure fuel pump and relay failed, causing the vehicle to stall and lose all power while driving- a major safety risk. -Most recently, the engine developed a severe misfire in cylinder #4. Compression testing confirmed abnormally low compression (15 psi) due to a suspected cracked valve seat. The vehicle cannot be repaired without a complete engine replacement, quoted at ~$20,000. Safety Impact: - Vehicle has stalled suddenly in traffic due to fuel and engine failures, risking crash or injury. - Coolant and oil leaks present a potential fire hazard. - Loss of power and shaking while driving put my family and others at risk. Inspection/Confirmation: -All problems have been repeatedly confirmed and repaired by an independent Audi specialty service center (S&S Auto Repair). - Numerous invoices document coolant, oil, fuel, and engine failures. Warning Signs: - Multiple dashboard warning lights appeared either right before or during failure, including engine malfunction, coolant loss, and auto start/stop malfunction. These repeated failures at relatively low mileage suggest a design/manufacturing defect with the Audi 3.0T engine platform that compromises both safety and reliability. The issue seems to be widespread amongst other Audi owners with the same 3.0T engine- Per AudiWorld Forums.
NHTSA complaint #11686163 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
I am filing a formal complaint regarding serious safety-related defects in a newly purchased Audi vehicle. Immediately upon delivery, the car presented: • A faulty solenoid, a critical engine component, creating risks of engine misfires, sudden stalling, loss of acceleration, and transmission malfunctions while driving. Such failures pose imminent hazards during the cross-country travel that military families like mine regularly undertake. • Defective windshield wipers from the outset, jeopardizing visibility and safety during inclement weather. These defects demonstrate systemic quality control failures by Audi, undermining the safety expectations owed to U.S. consumers. Requested Action I urge NHTSA to: 1. Investigate Audi for potential violations of federal motor vehicle safety standards. 2. Evaluate whether a recall is warranted, as this appears not to be an isolated case. 3. Hold Audi accountable for delivering vehicles with concealed or unaddressed safety defects. As a U.S. military officer, I cannot risk the safety of my family in a vehicle plagued by such defects. American families deserve full confidence that new vehicles meet uncompromising safety standards.
NHTSA complaint #11684625 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
The contact owns a 2017 Audi Q7. The contact stated that while driving on the highway at 40 MPH, the front end started shaking violently, with several unknown warning lights illuminated. The following messages "Drive Malfunction and Oil Consumption" were displayed. The contact immediately pulled over and had the vehicle towed to a local independent mechanic, where the vehicle was diagnosed. The contact was informed that the engine was faulty due to oil consumption and needed to be replaced. The local dealer was contacted; however, the vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The contact was informed that the VIN was not under recall. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 108,000.
NHTSA complaint #11664343 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
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.
NHTSA complaint #11660203 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
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.
NHTSA complaint #11652576 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
The contact owns a 2017 Audi Q7. The contact stated that while attempting to shift into reverse, the transmission failed to recognize that the vehicle was in reverse. The message “Transmission Malfunction – You can Continue Driving” was displayed on the instrument panel. The contact stated that after restarting the vehicle, the failure was temporarily fixed; however, the failure had gotten progressively worse. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic where the vehicle was diagnosed, and the contact was informed that the transmission had malfunctioned and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 143,000.
NHTSA complaint #11640427 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Central control module failure. Item is under recall for various Q5 models. Q7 is essentially the same car with same water intrusion problem. Why isn’t it included in recall. Very dangerous stall.
NHTSA complaint #11616150 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Audi Quattro (differential) noise is being heard while turning the car. The problem was identified to be due to different speeds between the front and rear differential, the locking effect of the center differential can differ significantly in tight bends. – unless there is a design flaw, there should be no noise coming from the differential . this is totally unheard of from any car I have owned. Problem was reported to Audi dealership and no definite solution was offered other than changing the oil for the center differential oil and checking to see if the problem goes away. if it does not, they would do further investigation. This is an Audi Quattro differential design fault that can be very dangerous if it fails on highways or under adverse weather or at high trafficked areas. I started an incident case (Reference #06217801) with Audi USA and Regional Case Manager (MR) told me that "our responsibility is to service the vehicles within the parameters of the New Vehicle Limited Warranty. This covers manufacturer’s shortcomings on parts and labor for 4 years or 50,000 miles (whichever occurs first) from the vehicle’s in-service date. Once these parameters have been exceeded, repairs do become the responsibility of the owner of the vehicle. Any diagnostic cost would be customer pay." This is why Audi has more class action law suits against them than any other auto brand. Keep in mind Audi has had more class action lawsuit (and lost) against them than any other Auto company. I have received 5 notices of Class Action lawsuit that Audi decided to settle in the last 6 years - just on one model. Needless to say, Audi (VW) puts faulty dangerous products on the road, hoping NHTSA has no appetite to go after them.
NHTSA complaint #11604788 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
In the first 10K miles the motherboard had to be replaced. Then the volume dial twice. Then the fuel sensor broke and because of its placement the entire gas tank had to be replaced. Next up at 45K the Medtronic (brains of the transmission had to be replaced and then the differential was having problems and they were debating working on it. I went to sell it at 48K miles before the warranty expired and during the inspection it was noted the two engine mounts were leaking and needed to be replaced. After I sold it to an Audi dealer, different than the Audi dealer I had purchased the car from and where I had all the warranty work done, I found out the CARFAX report showed NONE of the repairs made by the original Audi dealer to the car. Seems fradulent to me by the original Audi dealership who did all the major repairs.
NHTSA complaint #11574894 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.