repaired · 2026 Q3
Sensing system: camera
NewRisk. A rearview image that does not display reduces the driver's view behind the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
2021 Audi Q8Problems, recalls & complaints
NHTSA has logged 30 owner complaints about the 2021 Audi Q8, most often about the electrical system. It is covered by 7 safety recalls, and for recall 25V-201 the manufacturer reports only 84% of affected cars repaired.
Source: NHTSA complaints, recalls, investigations and manufacturer recall reports, through August 18, 2026. Updated daily.
Complaints by system
Where the 2021 Audi Q8 has problems
30 complaints grouped by the system owners reported.
13Electrical system
6Engine
5Power train
4Fuel system, gasoline
3Back over prevention
3Steering
3Forward collision avoidance
2Lane departure
2Fuel/propulsion system
44 other systems
| System | Complaints | Crash, fire or injury |
|---|---|---|
| Electrical system | 13 | 0 |
| Engine | 6 | 0 |
| Power train | 5 | 0 |
| Fuel system, gasoline | 4 | 0 |
| Back over prevention | 3 | 0 |
| Steering | 3 | 0 |
| Forward collision avoidance | 3 | 0 |
| Lane departure | 2 | 0 |
| Fuel/propulsion system | 2 | 0 |
| 4 other systems | 4 | 0 |
Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation. Complaints are submitted by the public and are not verified by NHTSA.
7 recalls
2021 Audi Q8 recalls and how many were fixed
Each ring shows the share of affected cars repaired, from the manufacturer’s latest quarterly report to NHTSA. Recall repairs are free at authorized dealers.
repaired · 2026 Q3
Electrical system: instrument cluster/panel
Risk. An instrument panel display that fails to show critical safety information, such as the speedometer or warning lights, increases the risk of a crash.
repaired · 2024 Q3
Back over prevention: display function
Risk. A blank rearview camera display can reduce the driver's rear visibility, increasing the risk of a crash.
repaired · 2024 Q3
Delivery: fuel pump
Risk. Fuel pump failure can cause an engine stall, increasing the risk of a crash.
Show 3 more recalls
repaired · 2023 Q4
Axle: non-powered axle assembly
Risk. Rear axle misalignment may cause premature or uneven tire wear, increasing the risk of a crash.
repaired · 2023 Q2
Seat belts
Risk. An unsecured child restraint system can increase the risk of injury during a crash.
repaired · 2023 Q1
Axle: non-powered axle assembly
Risk. A broken lock nut may misalign the rear axle, causing a loss of control and increasing the risk of a crash.
Recalls apply to specific cars. To see whether a recall is still open on yours, enter the 17-character VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls or with Audi.
Best & worst years
2021 vs. every other Q8 year
Bars show complaints per model year. Colors show the CarFlaw verdict: complaints weighted for crashes, fires and injuries, adjusted for years on the road and compared with the Q8 median. How we score
'19'20'21'22'23'24'25'26
- Avoid
- Caution
- Solid
- Best
- Not rated
NHTSA crash tests
2021 Audi Q8 safety ratings
2021 Audi Q8 SUV AWD in NHTSA's New Car Assessment Program. Photos are from NHTSA's crash tests.
★★★★★
Frontal crash★★★★★
Side barrier★★★★★
Side pole★★★★★
- Rollover: 4 stars (15.8% risk)
- Stability control: Standard
- Forward collision warning: Standard
- Lane departure warning: Standard
In owners' words
What Q8 owners report
Recent electrical system complaints filed with NHTSA, shortened. Personal details are removed.
Belt Starter Generator failure rendered car undrivable -- power steering failed while in motion. Issue is subject to Class Action Settlement in USDistrict Court, Case # 3:23-cv-02291-RK-RLS. But this should have been a recall because of danger of Injury or Death. A recall would provide notice that…
Purchased my car used from Volkswagen of west islip. After a few months I was doing regular maintenance when I noticed that the brake sensor was missing and the harness was tampered with. The brake wear sensor was removed from the front driver side and a small price of wire/ conductive material was…
On April 2, 2025, while driving on Interstate 25, my 2021 Audi Q8 Premium Plus experienced a catastrophic engine and electrical failure. This included the generator system failing, which resulted in a complete loss of power, disabling all active safety systems (including electronic stability…
Own a 2021 Q8?
Decode your VIN to see the recalls for your exact car, then confirm open recalls with NHTSA.