Last updated: 2026-10-10
2020 Audi e-tron Reliability Report
The 2020 Audi E-Tron rates good and is the best E-Tron year, but owners report a sudden loss of drive power at speed.
Recalls
4
Complaints
1
Complaint Rate
1.4per 10,000 sold
Est. Repair Cost
$987
EV Range
218 mi
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
The best-scoring E-Tron year, with far fewer complaints than 2019 or 2021, though owners report sudden power loss and four recalls are on record.
Top Issues to Watch
- ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (3)
Generation & Refresh (US)
2020 is year 2 of the First generation (2019).
- Redesigned for the 2019 model year.
- A refresh arrives in 2023.
- 1st generation e-tron (US).
What this means for buyers
Year 2 is typically a safer pick than the first model year — early issues are more likely to be identified, but the platform is still new.
If you're comparing prices, check 2019 (redesign year) vs 2020+ pricing and recalls.
2019: First generation (2019) Launch
Generation start — new platform.
2020: This Model Year
2020 is year 2 of the First generation (2019).
2023: Mid-Cycle Refresh
Updated features and styling tweaks.
Should You Buy the 2020 Audi e-tron?
Of the scored E-Tron years, this is the best one, and its standing is good. Against other 2020 SUVs it lands below average, so the praise is relative to its own lineup. The 2019 and 2021 model years both rate worse and have far more complaints on file. The federal crash-test rating is 5 of 5 stars.
The main worry is a sudden loss of drive power at speed. Owners describe drive system and electrical warnings, no acceleration, and the car coasting to a stop. Brakes and steering still work, but restarting does not reliably fix it, and some owners faced tows and dealer visits with no diagnosis. Others report a sunroof leak that reached interior electronics, and a failed connectivity module that disabled SOS and the phone app. One owner was quoted $2000 for that repair.
Ask for proof that all four recalls were completed. They cover back over prevention, hydraulic service brakes, and the electrical system twice. Also ask for dealer records of any drive system warnings.
Compared to the 2021 Audi e-tron, which scored 7 points lower. See also the 2019 Audi e-tron for an earlier comparison.
Pros
- +Acceptable reliability score
- +Below-average complaint rate for SUV
- +5-star NHTSA crash rating
Cons
- −Moderate recall count
- −ELECTRICAL SYSTEM: Most serious pattern is a sudden loss of drive power at speed (3 complaints)
Compare 2020 Audi e-tron With
2020 Tesla Model Y
Reliability: 46/100
2020 Tesla Model X
Reliability: 51/100
2020 BMW X5
Reliability: 56/100
2020 Porsche Cayenne
Reliability: 58/100
2020 Lexus RX
Reliability: 86/100
Common Problem Categories
Safety
LOW RISK- 4 manufacturer recalls issued
Other
MODERATE- ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (3)
- UNKNOWN OR OTHER (1)
Recall Overview
4
recalls on record
A moderate 4 recalls are on file for the 2020 Audi e-tron. Each one points to a specific safety or compliance issue identified by the manufacturer or NHTSA — check the list below before buying.
NHTSA.gov →Complaint Breakdown
1.4
per 10,000 soldSegment avg: 20.2
Safety Incidents
0
Crashes
0
Fires
0
Injuries
0
Deaths
NHTSA 5/5 Stars
Data sourced from NHTSA complaint filings and manufacturer recall notices. Complaint narratives are owner-reported.
2020 Audi e-tron Recall Details
4 recalls have been issued for the 2020 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.
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.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Audi) is recalling certain 2022-2024 RS e-tron GT, e-tron GT, Q4 e-tron Sportback, Q4 e-tron, 2020-2021 Audi A8, 2019-2024 e-tron Quattro, 2020-2024 e-tron Sportback Quattro, Q5, and 2021-2022 A7 vehicles. When using the industrial 220V/240V plug at the 100% charge setting, some home power outlets may be incapable of handling the electrical current required to utilize the compact charging system, causing the outlet or charging cable to overheat.
Consequence
An overheated outlet or charging cable can increase the risk of a fire.
Remedy
Owners are advised not to use the 220V/240V compact/portable charging cable and only use the 110V home charging cable or public charging stations. Dealers will supply a new 220V/240V compact/portable charging cable with an incorporated temperature sensor, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on March 28, 2024. Owners may contact Audi customer service at 1-800-253-2834. Audi's numbers for this recall are 93U6 and 93U8.
Buying a used 2020 Audi e-tron? Check its history first
Electrical system problems lead owner complaints about the 2020 Audi e-tron, and 4 recalls were issued for it. A VIN check shows whether this car's recall work was done, plus accident, title, and odometer history.
- Accidents
- Open Recalls
- Title History
- Odometer Rollback
2020 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-tronRepair 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.
2020 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.
MPG & Annual Running Costs
Electric
218 mi range
Fuel cost: $1,000/yr
Fuel only
43.985 kWh/100mi · 10 hrs @ 240V
Based on EPA fuel-cost estimates. Excludes routine maintenance, depreciation, and insurance. Data as of 2020 EPA label cycle.
Electric trims
| Trim | Drive | Trans. | Range | kWh/100mi | Fuel Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| e-tron Sportback | All-Wheel Drive | Automatic (A1) | 218 mi | 44.0 | $1,000 |
Used Buying Checklist
Key things to inspect or verify before purchasing a 2020 Audi e-tron.
Drive at highway speed and watch for drive system or electrical system malfunction warnings.
Ask for service records showing repeat visits for loss of power or electrical faults.
Ask the seller whether the car was ever towed after losing drive power.
Check the headliner, pillars, and carpet near the sunroof for water stains or dampness.
Test the SOS button and connect the phone app to confirm both work.
2020 Audi e-tron Common Problems by Component
1 owner complaints grouped by vehicle system.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
3 complaintsThe most serious pattern is a sudden loss of drive power at speed. Drive system and electrical system malfunction warnings come on, the car will not accelerate, and it coasts to a stop. Brakes and steering still work. Restarting the car does not reliably fix it, and owners report tows and long dealer visits with no diagnosis. Other reports describe a sunroof leak that lets water reach interior electronics, and a failed connectivity module that disables the SOS feature and phone app. One owner was quoted $2000 to repair that module. Only 3 complaints are on file.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
1 complaintI have been dealing with an unresolved recall issue on my Audi for over a year. Despite numerous attempts to contact Audi Atlanta, I have not received any meaningful assistance. Each time I call, I’m told that a solution has not yet been provided for the recall. Additionally, my vehicle has experienced multiple issues, including overheating. Audi Atlanta has been unable to diagnose or resolve the problem, even after keeping the car for several days on multiple occasions. Most recently, water has begun leaking into the interior, and this issue also remains unfixed. I have tried repeatedly to reach out to Audi Atlanta, but my calls are now being ignored. This ongoing lack of support is extremely frustrating. My vehicle is rapidly depreciating, and I’m unable to sell it due to the unresolved recall. I feel completely abandoned by the dealership and Audi as a brand. I am requesting immediate assistance in resolving these issues.
Best & Worst Audi e-tron Years
Best Audi e-tron Years to Buy
Based on reliability index score2020
(Current Model)
2021
2018
Audi e-tron Years to Avoid
No Audi e-tron years are statistical outliers in our data.
Scores stay between 46 and 62 across 8 scored model years.
Audi e-tron Reliability Score Trend
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
2020 Audi e-tron Common Questions
10 questions from 2020 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 2020 Audi E-Tron reliable?
What are the most common problems with the 2020 Audi E-Tron?
Does the 2020 Audi E-Tron lose power while driving?
How many recalls does the 2020 Audi E-Tron have?
Is the 2020 Audi E-Tron better than the 2019 or 2021?
Don’t buy a 2020 Audi e-tron without checking its VIN first — hidden accidents, title issues, and open recalls could cost you thousands.
How we score the 2020 Audi e-tron
Of the four inputs behind this score, the 2020 Audi e-tron does best on how many systems draw complaints (73/100) and worst on repair costs (40/100). Scores weight complaint severity at 35%, repair costs at 30%, recall impact at 20%, and the spread of complaints across systems at 15%, with complaint counts adjusted for US sales. Read the full methodology.
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