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 S8Problems, recalls & complaints
NHTSA has logged 1 owner complaint about the 2021 Audi S8, most often about the electrical system. It is covered by 8 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 December 19, 2025. Updated daily.
Complaints by system
Where the 2021 Audi S8 has problems
1 complaint grouped by the system owners reported.
1Electrical system
1Engine
1Power train
| System | Complaints | Crash, fire or injury |
|---|---|---|
| Electrical system | 1 | 0 |
| Engine | 1 | 0 |
| Power train | 1 | 0 |
Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation. Complaints are submitted by the public and are not verified by NHTSA.
8 recalls
2021 Audi S8 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 · 2023 Q4
Axle: non-powered axle assembly
Risk. Rear axle misalignment may cause premature or uneven tire wear, increasing the risk of a crash.
Show 4 more recalls
repaired · 2023 Q3
Sensing system: camera
Risk. A rear-view camera that does not display an image reduces the driver's rear view, 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.
repaired · 2022 Q4
Engine
Risk. An engine control module malfunction may cause the engine to stall, 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 S8 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 S8 median. How we score
'07'08'09'13'14'15'16'17'18'20'21'22'23'24'25'26
- Avoid
- Caution
- Solid
- Best
- Not rated
NHTSA crash tests
2021 Audi S8 safety ratings
2021 Audi S8 4 DR AWD in NHTSA's New Car Assessment Program. Photos are from NHTSA's crash tests.
- Stability control: Standard
- Forward collision warning: Standard
- Lane departure warning: Standard
In owners' words
What S8 owners report
Recent electrical system complaints filed with NHTSA, shortened. Personal details are removed.
When started up on 11/17/22, multiple warning lights came on in rapid sequence advising of an electrical system & battery malfunction. Warning was to not drive the vehicle and contact service. I shut off the vehicle and re-started it. The same warnings were displayed. I was about 0.8 mile from the…
Own a 2021 S8?
Decode your VIN to see the recalls for your exact car, then confirm open recalls with NHTSA.