Last updated: 2026-03-27

2019 Audi E-Tron Reliability Report
The 2019 Audi E-Tron scores 48/100 ("Mixed"). With 5 recalls and 71 owner complaints, buyers should proceed with caution.
Recalls
5
Complaints
71
Complaint Rate
132.2
per 10k sold
Est. Annual Cost
$987
Detailed Score Breakdown
Component-weighted complaints normalized by sales volume
Independent repair cost ratings
Recall count weighted by severity
Breadth of reported problem categories
The Verdict
Mixed reliability — proceed with caution and budget for repairs.
Top Issues to Watch
- ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (27)
- POWER TRAIN (9)
- FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM (6)
Generation & Refresh (US)
2019 is the first model year of the First generation (2019).
- First-year models may have unresolved issues from the new design.
- Redesigned for the 2019 model year.
- Refreshed in 2023.
- 1st generation E-Tron (US).
What this means for buyers
First-year models carry more risk — early production issues are common. Consider waiting for the second year if reliability is a priority.
Compare 2019 pricing and recall counts against 2020+ before deciding.
2019: First generation (2019) Launch
Generation start — new platform.
2023: Mid-Cycle Refresh
Updated features and styling tweaks.
Should You Buy the 2019 Audi E-Tron?
The 2019 Audi E-Tron scores 48/100 ("Mixed"). Buyers should proceed with caution. As a first-year redesign, early-adopter issues are common.
With 71 owner complaints and 5 recalls, the complaint volume is above average. Reported issues — particularly in electrical system (27) — can be costly to repair.
An extended warranty is strongly recommended. A thorough pre-purchase inspection focused on electrical system (27) is essential before committing.
Compared to the 2020 Audi E-Tron, which scored 14 points higher. See also the 2018 Audi E-Tron for an earlier comparison.
Pros
- +5-star NHTSA crash rating
Cons
- −Below-average reliability score
- −Moderate recall count
- −Above-average complaint rate for SUV
- −ELECTRICAL SYSTEM issues reported (27 complaints)
- −3 fire incidents reported in owner complaints
Compare 2019 Audi E-Tron With

2019 Tesla Model X
Reliability: 54/100

2019 BMW X5
Reliability: 52/100

2019 Lexus RX
Reliability: 82/100

2019 Porsche Cayenne
Reliability: 56/100

2019 Volvo XC60
Reliability: 72/100
Common Problem Categories
Safety
LOW RISK- 5 manufacturer recalls issued
Other
HIGH RISK- ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (27)
- UNKNOWN OR OTHER (9)
Recall Overview
5
recalls on record
The 2019 Audi E-Tron has 5 recalls on record. This is a moderate number. Each recall represents a safety or compliance issue identified by the manufacturer or NHTSA. All recall repairs are performed free of charge at authorized dealerships, regardless of warranty status.
NHTSA.gov →Complaint Breakdown
132.2
per 10k soldSegment avg: 20.8
Safety Incidents
4
Crashes
3
Fires
1
Injuries
0
Deaths
NHTSA 5/5 Stars
Data sourced from NHTSA complaint filings and manufacturer recall notices. Complaint narratives are owner-reported.
2019 Audi E-Tron Recall Details
5 recalls have been issued for the 2019 Audi E-Tron. All recall repairs are performed free of charge at authorized dealerships.
BACK OVER PREVENTION
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Audi) is recalling certain 2019-2026 vehicles. Please see the recall report for a complete list of models. A software error may prevent the rearview camera image from displaying as intended. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 111, "Rear Visibility."
Consequence
A rearview image that does not display reduces the driver's view behind the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will update the software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed January 14, 2026. Owners may contact Audi customer service at 1-800-253-2834. Audi's number for this recall is 90TV. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall became searchable on NHTSA.gov on December 23, 2025.
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Audi) is recalling certain 2019 Audi E-Tron Quattro vehicles. The fastener that connects the brake pedal and the brake booster may have been improperly assembled during manufacturing, which can cause the brake pedal to detach from the brake booster.
Consequence
Brake pedal detachment can cause a loss of brake function and increase the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will inspect and repair the brake booster, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on October 1, 2024, and November 22, 2024. Owners may contact Audi customer service at 1-800-253-2834. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 46P6.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Audi) is recalling certain 2020-2022 E-Tron Sportback Quattro and 2019-2022 E-Tron Quattro vehicles. Certain high-voltage battery modules may overheat.
Consequence
A high-voltage battery that overheats increases the risk of a fire.
Remedy
Dealers will install onboard diagnostic software to monitor battery module performance, and replace affected battery modules where necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 3, 2025. Owners may contact Audi customer at 1-800-253-2834. Audi's numbers for this recall are 93U9 and 93V2.
2019 Audi E-Tron NHTSA Safety Ratings
Overall Safety Rating
Crash Test Results by Configuration (expand)
Gas Powertrain
Rollover risk: 9.2%
Safety Technologies
Audi E-Tron Repair Costs & Maintenance
Maintenance Rating
2Maintenance rating: 2 out of 5Based on NHTSA complaint patterns, recall severity, and publicly available cost benchmarks.
Est. Annual Maintenance
$987
Category-level averages derived from publicly available industry reports (AAA, CarMD). Model-level estimates produced by Auto Reliability Index.
2019 Audi E-Tron Example Repair Prices
National average price ranges for common repairs. These are not model-year-specific failure predictions.
| Repair | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Brake Hose Replacement | $174 – $202 |
| Pre-Purchase Car Inspection | $275 – $403 |
| Power Mirror Switch Replacement | $268 – $321 |
| HVAC Air Door Actuator Replacement | $1,176 – $1,243 |
| Exhaust Manifold Replacement | $2,042 – $2,672 |
| Engine Control Module (ECM) Replacement | $1,414 – $1,471 |
| Transmission Leak Inspection | $76 – $112 |
| Instrument Cluster Replacement | $3,606 – $3,678 |
| Wheel Speed Sensor Replacement | $153 – $224 |
| Air Conditioning Refrigerant Pressure Sensor Replacement | $510 – $610 |
Estimates based on national average repair costs. Actual costs may vary by location and shop.
Used Buying Checklist
Key things to inspect or verify before purchasing a 2019 Audi E-Tron.
Inspect for sunroof water leakage, especially around electronics
Test charging port for proper engagement and release
Check for any electrical malfunction alerts on the dashboard
Verify brake system functionality and listen for unusual noises
Ensure the rear backup camera provides clear visibility at night
Confirm recall work has been completed, especially for battery issues
Buying a 2019 E-Tron? Check Its History First
Every 2019 Audi E-Tron has a different past. A VIN check reveals hidden accidents, title problems, odometer rollbacks, and open recalls that reliability scores can't show you.
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2019 Audi E-Tron Common Problems by Component
71 owner complaints grouped by vehicle system.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
27 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners of the 2019 Audi E-Tron frequently report issues related to the electrical system, with several complaints highlighting problems with the high-voltage battery module and the SX6 battery control module. Typical symptoms include electrical malfunction alerts, inability to charge, and reduced driving range. These issues often appear around the 70,000 to 100,000-mile range, though some occur much earlier, even at purchase. Safety implications are significant, with reports of overheating batteries, potential fire hazards, and sudden vehicle immobilization. Prospective buyers should be aware of the ongoing unresolved recalls and the potential for costly repairs related to these electrical failures.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
9 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners of the 2019 Audi E-Tron frequently report issues with the sunroof, including leakage and spontaneous explosion, with some vehicles showing these problems beyond 80,000 miles. Complaints also highlight limited battery charging capacity due to a recall, with some owners experiencing reduced range and performance degradation over 18 months. Additionally, a crash incident involving sudden, uncontrollable acceleration is noted, raising safety concerns. These issues, along with reports of unintended tailgate operation and dashboard warping due to water ingress, suggest potential safety and reliability challenges for prospective buyers.
POWER TRAIN
9 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners report that the 2019 Audi E-Tron experiences issues primarily related to propulsion and rolling when in gear. Several complaints describe a sudden loss of propulsion due to coolant intrusion into the rear electric motor, which is identified as a manufacturing defect. Additionally, multiple owners mention that the vehicle rolls freely in drive or reverse without an effective brake hold, even on inclines, leading to one reported crash. These issues often occur shortly after recall services or within a few months of ownership, with some repairs reaching significant costs. Safety implications include loss of control and potential collisions, making these concerns particularly relevant for used car buyers.
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM (6 complaints)
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
6 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners report issues with the high voltage battery system in the 2019 Audi E-Tron, often related to a recall for potential fire hazards. Complaints frequently mention difficulties obtaining necessary parts for inspection and software updates, resulting in prolonged unresolved issues. Symptoms described include warning lights for electrical system malfunctions, significant range decline, and in one instance, a charging port fire. These issues appear to occur across various mileage ranges, with some reports around 63,000 miles. Safety implications include the risk of fire and potential electric failures while driving, making it crucial for prospective buyers to confirm recall work has been completed.
SERVICE BRAKES (4 complaints)
SERVICE BRAKES
4 complaintsOwners of the 2019 Audi E-Tron frequently report issues with the service brakes, including "Parking Brake Malfunction" and "Brake System Fault" warnings, along with a clicking noise or resistance when pressing the brake pedal. One owner mentions the brake pedal occasionally failing to return fully, leading to a slight roll while parked. Another owner describes an instance where the brakes engaged unexpectedly while driving at 50-55 mph, causing a momentary hard stop. Complaints also highlight premature brake wear, with one owner needing new brakes and rotors just two days after purchase. Additionally, some report a persistent squeaky noise from the brakes. These issues are reported across varying mileages and can have safety implications, such as unexpected braking and reduced braking performance.
ENGINE (3 complaints)
ENGINE
3 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners of the 2019 Audi E-Tron report issues related to the engine, including sudden loss of motive power and engine fires. Complaints frequently mention warning lights illuminating and messages indicating major system failures, often occurring around 30,000 miles. One report details an engine compartment fire while the vehicle was parked, resulting in total destruction. Another describes engine stalling during a left turn at approximately 5,000 miles, with no identified cause. These reports highlight potential safety implications, such as vehicle fires and unexpected stalling, which may concern prospective buyers.
FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE (2 complaints)
FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
2 complaintsOwners report that the 2019 Audi E-Tron experiences issues with its forward collision avoidance system, specifically with the Audi Pre Sense and Adaptive Cruise Assist features. Complaints frequently mention unexpected emergency braking when no obstacles are present, such as when traveling over dips in the road, which poses a risk of rear-end collisions. Additionally, owners describe the Adaptive Cruise Assist becoming unavailable intermittently, accompanied by error messages, and the vehicle occasionally stopping abruptly when adjacent to vehicles in left turn lanes. These issues suggest potential safety implications, including the risk of sudden stops and braking without cause, which may be concerning for potential buyers seeking reliability in advanced driver assistance systems.
VISIBILITY/WIPER (2 complaints)
VISIBILITY/WIPER
2 complaintsOwners of the 2019 Audi E-Tron report issues with the vehicle's visibility and wiper systems. Complaints frequently mention that after a software update for the rear camera, the rear wiper unexpectedly activates once when the vehicle comes to a complete stop if the front wipers have been triggered by water on the windshield. Additionally, multiple owners describe the rear backup camera as having poor visibility in low light, with images appearing dark and grainy, making it difficult to see obstacles while reversing. These issues are noted to occur under normal operating conditions and have been consistent since ownership, suggesting potential design or hardware defects. Safety implications include reduced visibility and increased risk of accidents when reversing, particularly in low-light environments.
VISIBILITY (2 complaints)
VISIBILITY
2 complaintsOwners of the 2019 Audi E-Tron report issues with water leakage through the sunroof, even when it is fully closed. Complaints frequently mention water entering the vehicle during rainy conditions, leading to water accumulation in the footwell and leakage onto the infotainment system and other electronics. These issues are noted at varying mileage, with one report at approximately 5,000 miles and another at 170,000 miles. No reports indicate crashes, fires, or loss of control related to these issues. Used car buyers should be aware of potential water ingress problems that may affect the vehicle's electronics and interior, potentially requiring costly repairs.
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL (2 complaints)
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
2 complaintsOwners of the 2019 Audi E-Tron report issues related to vehicle speed control, particularly involving brake system failures and unintended acceleration. One complaint describes a complete brake system failure, including alerts for multiple electrical components and an inability to engage the brakes or use electric gear paddles, resulting in the vehicle coasting to a stop. Another owner reports two instances of sudden unintended acceleration, once on a highway and once on a dirt road, requiring them to pump the brakes to regain control, with no use of cruise control or interference from floor mats. These incidents highlight potential safety implications, such as loss of control, though no crashes or injuries are mentioned. Buyers considering this vehicle should be aware of these reported issues, as they may affect driving confidence and safety.
When Do 2019 Audi E-Tron Problems Start?
Based on owner complaint patterns, here's when common issues tend to appear.
Best & Worst Audi E-Tron Years
Comprehensive reliability analysis based on NHTSA data, owner complaints, and historical performance.
Best Audi E-Tron Years to Buy
Based on reliability index scoreThe best Audi E-Tron year is 2020 with a reliability score of 62/100, rated good. Other strong picks include 2021 (55/100) and 2025 (50/100).
Audi E-Tron Years to Avoid
No Audi E-Tron years are statistical outliers in our data.
All model years score consistently well. The Audi E-Tron maintains one of the highest industry standards for long-term durability across its entire production span.
Audi E-Tron Reliability Score Trend
Audi E-Tron reliability has remained consistent across model years, averaging 51/100.
Scores 0–100. Higher is better. Current year highlighted.
| Year | Score | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| 2018 | 50/100 | Mixed |
| 2019 | 48/100 | Mixed |
| 2020 | 62/100 | Good |
| 2021 | 55/100 | Mixed |
| 2022 | 49/100 | Mixed |
| 2023 | 46/100 | Mixed |
| 2024 | 48/100 | Mixed |
| 2025 | 50/100 | Mixed |
Audi E-Tron Reliability Compared to Other Years
2019 Audi E-Tron Common Questions
10 questions from 2019 Audi E-Tron owners.
Obd2 reads error
Obd2 will not read only says error after battrie arck Nothing More than a month
This Repair Pal shop will only use OEM parts and not aftermarket
Endurance warranty participates in Repairpals network and uses them as Certified Repair shops. This repair pals shop will not use the parts provided by Endurance (aftermarket) and will only use OEM to provide the 12k mile warranty. Is this right? More than a month
Light indicator
What does a triangle with exclamation point in it light mean? Started today
Why would Audi A4 smell like gas while car is running?
Why would Audi A4 smell like gas while car is running? More than a week
camshaft position sensor
i've been looking for the camshaft position sensor for my 1992 audi s4. I believe that it is hiding behind the timing belt cover and timing gear but I'm not sure and don't wanna rip it all apart and have it be somewhere else. if someone can help tell me where this sensor is and how I can get to it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the 2019 Audi E-Tron reliable?
What are the most common problems with the 2019 Audi E-Tron?
How many recalls does the 2019 Audi E-Tron have?
Is the 2019 Audi E-Tron expensive to maintain?
Don’t buy a 2019 Audi E-Tron without checking its VIN first — hidden accidents, title issues, and open recalls could cost you thousands.
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How We Calculate Reliability Scores
Auto Reliability Index scores are calculated on a 0–100 scale using a weighted formula that combines multiple public data sources. Each factor is weighted based on its predictive value for real-world ownership experience.
Key Ranking Factors
Complaint Severity
NHTSA owner complaints weighted by component category (e.g., powertrain, safety systems, electronics, cosmetic) — safety-critical issues carry more weight than cosmetic ones. Adjusted for sales volume so high-volume models aren't unfairly penalized.
Repair Costs
Independent reliability ratings based on repair frequency, average repair costs, and severity of typical repairs for each model.
Recall Impact
Number of NHTSA recalls weighted by severity. “Stop driving” and fire-risk recalls are penalized more heavily than minor software or labeling recalls.
Issue Diversity
Measures how many major vehicle systems (engine, transmission, electrical, braking, etc.) have recorded complaints. A vehicle with issues spread across many systems may indicate systemic quality issues.
Scores are grouped into four tiers:
- 80–100: Excellent — Top-tier reliability, minimal issues
- 60–79: Good — Reliable with some minor concerns
- 40–59: Mixed — Notable issues, research before buying
- 0–39: Risky — Significant problems, proceed with caution
Data is sourced from NHTSA recall records, owner complaint filings, and independent repair databases. Scores are recalculated as new data becomes available. While the weighting model is proprietary, all underlying data sources are public and traceable.
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