The Worst Problems for Every Audi Model and Generation

A large pile of crushed cars

Car problems happen. But there's something we can do about it.

By matching owner complaints with recall, investigation and technical service bulletin data we've come up with a list of the most common Audi problems for every model and generation. We've even ranked vehicles by their reliability.

Trending Problems

A few problems that keep popping up. There's plenty more where that came from.

  1. Busted Timing Chains

    Audi's EA888 2.0-liter engine has a history of tensioner problems in its timing chain. The loose chain is to blame for multiple occurances of catastrophic engine failure. Audi was forced to offer settlement offers, including an extended war…

    Continue reading article "Busted Timing Chains" View of engine timing chain

  2. Sunroof Leaks

    Multiple defects with the sunroof drainage system are causing massive amounts of leak problems for Audi owners. The water is soaking headliners, creating unsafe amounts of condensation, and short circuiting sensitive electronic components. …

    Continue reading article "Sunroof Leaks" Poorly drawn blue box outlining damage made to the headliner from rain leaking in through the sunroof.

  3. Start-Stop Defects

    There are multiple problems with Audi's start-stop technology that outweigh the modest fuel efficiency gains. Owners complain that the system will shut off the power steering and brake systems at dangerous times and cause the accelerat The …

    Continue reading article "Start-Stop Defects" A tachometer with the red arrow pointing at the 'ready' position

All Problems

What Owners Complain About the Most

Sorting out which topics, problems, and model years have the most overall complaints from owners on CarComplaints.com.

Worst Issues view all problems

What Breaks the Most view all topics

Years to Avoid view all years

The Least Reliable Audi Models

Some models just can't seem to get out of their own way. We've created a list of the least reliable GMC models using data such as complaint volume, average cost of repairs, age of the car when it breaks down, and recall frequency.

All Models

Key Numbers

  1. 31 models

    Each with their own trim levels, bodystyles, and special blend of headaches.

  2. 69 generations

    A group of years for a specific model with the same design, features, and problems.

  3. 29 model years

    Grouping all models by their year can reveal some baddies.

  4. 640 complaints

    Running tally of owner grievances filed to CarComplaints.com.

  5. 21,215 service bulletins

    Documenting the process of troubleshooting common problems.

  6. 217 recall campaigns

    Time-sensitive, free repairs for widespread safety problems.

Worst Generations

A generation is a group of model years where little, if any, changes were made. They tend to have the same problems and some generations have horrible reputations for reliability. Here's a handful you should avoid.

See All Generations

Recent Audi News

There's a lot of news out there, but not all of it matters. We try to boil down it to the most important bits about things that actually help you with your car problem. Interested in getting these stories in an email? Signup for free email alerts over at CarComplaints.com.

  3. More than 171,000 Audi sedans have been recalled for shutting off the airbag when there's a passenger in the front seat.

    This should give pause to anyone wanting to call "shotgun" on your next road tripl especially considering this is the second time the passenger occupant detection system (PODS) has been recalled in some of these vehicles over the last couple years. …

    keep reading article "Audi Recalls 171,000 Vehicles for Passenger Airbag System Shutoffs"

  5. Another Audi start-stop lawsuit has been dismissed

    after the judge ruled that the owner's manual clearly states the Start-Stop system may turn off the engine before the car comes to a complete stop. Is that all it takes to win in court? Be prepared for your next owner's manual to say "cars might catch on fire due to thermodynamics" just to cover all the bases.…

    keep reading article "A Judge Just Ruled That Audi's Start-System Operates As Intended"

  6. Audi is recalling 30,000 Q7 SUVs because they're worried that (*checks notes*) unbuckled front-seat child passengers could get hurt by the airbags?

    An internal investigation found the second-stage of their dual-stage airbag may deploy too quickly for young necks. Maybe we need another investigation into the people allowing their 6-year-olds to ride shotgun without a seat belt?…

    keep reading article "Audi Recalls 2020-2021 Q7 Over Dual-Stage Airbag Concerns"

See More News

Having car trouble?

Tell Us What's Wrong With Your Vehicle

The best way to find out what's wrong with a vehicle is from the people who drive them. Not only do owner complaints help us rank vehicles by reliability, but they're often used to spark class-action lawsuits and warranty extensions. Plus, they're a great way to vent.

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