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 SQ8Problems, recalls & complaints
NHTSA has logged 3 owner complaints about the 2021 Audi SQ8, most often about the power train. It is covered by 6 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 SQ8 has problems
3 complaints grouped by the system owners reported.
2Power train
1Electrical system
1Suspension
| System | Complaints | Crash, fire or injury |
|---|---|---|
| Power train | 2 | 0 |
| Electrical system | 1 | 0 |
| Suspension | 1 | 0 |
Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation. Complaints are submitted by the public and are not verified by NHTSA.
6 recalls
2021 Audi SQ8 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 2 more recalls
repaired · 2023 Q2
Seat belts
Risk. An unsecured child restraint system can increase the risk of injury during a crash.
repaired · 2022 Q1
Engine
Risk. Cracks may cause engine damage and a stall or an oil leak, increasing the risk of a crash or fire.
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 SQ8 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 SQ8 median. How we score
'20'21'22'23'24'25'26
- Avoid
- Caution
- Solid
- Best
- Not rated
NHTSA crash tests
2021 Audi SQ8 safety ratings
2021 Audi SQ8 SUV AWD in NHTSA's New Car Assessment Program. Photos are from NHTSA's crash tests.
- Rollover: 4 stars (15.8% risk)
- Stability control: Standard
- Forward collision warning: Standard
- Lane departure warning: Standard
In owners' words
What SQ8 owners report
Recent power train complaints filed with NHTSA, shortened. Personal details are removed.
MMI system stops working all of a sudden. This has happened multiple times and especially when it takes updates on its own. When called customer service they referred to the dealer stating they cannot do anything. Right after my call with them the car starts functioning back to normal. When I took…
This 2021 Audi SQ8 vehicle was purchased new. The vehicle features an automatic engine stop/start feature which is intended to enhance vehicle fuel economy. The incident(s) include: (1) multiple instances when slowing to a stop and the stop/start feature turned off the vehicle engine before the…
Own a 2021 SQ8?
Decode your VIN to see the recalls for your exact car, then confirm open recalls with NHTSA.