Last updated: 2026-03-27

2023 Audi E-Tron
RELIABILITY SCORE: 46/100 (MIXED)

2023 Audi E-Tron Reliability Report

The 2023 Audi E-Tron scores 46/100 ("Mixed"). With 22 recalls and 30 owner complaints, buyers should proceed with caution.

Recalls

22

Complaints

30

Complaint Rate

196.7

per 10k sold

Est. Annual Cost

$987

Detailed Score Breakdown

Complaint Severity32/100

Component-weighted complaints normalized by sales volume

Repair Costs40/100

Independent repair cost ratings

Recall Impact55/100

Recall count weighted by severity

Issue Diversity76/100

Breadth of reported problem categories

The Verdict

Caution

Mixed reliability — proceed with caution and budget for repairs.

Top Issues to Watch

  • ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (21)
  • STEERING (4)
  • SERVICE BRAKES (3)

Generation & Refresh (US)

Refresh Year

2023 received a facelift (renamed to q8 e-tron) update for the First generation (2019).

  • Changes: New branding; Updated features.
  • Year 5 in this generation (2019–2023).
  • 1st generation E-Tron (US).

What this means for buyers

Refresh years bring updates but can also introduce new issues. Check early recall data before buying.

2019: First generation (2019) Launch

Generation start — new platform.

2023: This Model Year (Refresh)

2023 received a facelift (renamed to q8 e-tron) update for the First generation (2019).

Should You Buy the 2023 Audi E-Tron?

The 2023 Audi E-Tron scores 46/100 ("Mixed"). Buyers should proceed with caution. 2023 received a facelift (renamed to q8 e-tron) update for the First generation (2019).

With 30 owner complaints and 22 recalls, the complaint volume is above average. Reported issues — particularly in electrical system and electrical system (15) — can be costly to repair.

An extended warranty is strongly recommended. A thorough pre-purchase inspection focused on electrical system and electrical system (15) is essential before committing.

Compared to the 2024 Audi E-Tron, which scored 2 points higher. See also the 2022 Audi E-Tron for an earlier comparison.

Pros

  • +5-star NHTSA crash rating
  • +Well-established generation
  • +Only 30 complaints reported

Cons

  • Below-average reliability score
  • Above-average recall count
  • Above-average complaint rate for SUV
  • ELECTRICAL SYSTEM complaints dominate (53%)

Compare 2023 Audi E-Tron With

Common Problem Categories

Safety

LOW RISK
  • 22 manufacturer recalls issued

Other

HIGH RISK
  • ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (21)
  • STEERING (4)

See detailed breakdown by component ↓

Recall Overview

22

recalls on record

The 2023 Audi E-Tron has 22 recalls on record, which is above average. A higher recall count can indicate multiple component concerns. However, recalls also demonstrate that the manufacturer is actively addressing known issues. All recall repairs are performed free of charge at authorized dealerships.

NHTSA.gov →

Complaint Breakdown

196.7

per 10k sold

Segment avg: 12.3

LowAvgHigh
High

Safety Incidents

6

Crashes

0

Fires

2

Injuries

0

Deaths

NHTSA 5/5 Stars

Data sourced from NHTSA complaint filings and manufacturer recall notices. Complaint narratives are owner-reported.

2023 Audi E-Tron Recall Details

22 recalls have been issued for the 2023 Audi E-Tron. All recall repairs are performed free of charge at authorized dealerships.

25V9000002025-12-19

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.

23V8420002023-12-13

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.

25V1200002025-02-27

POWER TRAIN, SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC

Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2021-2023 ID.4, 2022-2023 Audi Q4 e-Tron, and Q4 e-Tron Sportback vehicles. The instrument panel may not properly display the transmission gear lever indicator. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 102, "Transmission Shift Lever Sequence, Starter Interlock, and Transmission Braking Effect."

Consequence

Failure to display the gear position may result in a vehicle rollaway if the parking brake is not engaged, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy

Dealers will update the brake control unit software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed March 14, 2025. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-893-5298 or Audi customer service at 1-800-253-2834. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 97H3. Audi's number for this recall is 454R.

Showing 10 of 11 recalls. View all on NHTSA.gov →

2023 Audi E-Tron NHTSA Safety Ratings

Overall Safety Rating

Overall safety rating: 5 out of 5
Crash Test Results by Configuration (expand)

Gas Powertrain

Driver: 4/5Passenger: 4/5

Rollover risk: 9.2%

Safety Technologies

Dynamic Head Restraints (Not Available)Head Restraint (Driver, Front Passenger, 2nd row)Advanced Belt Feature (Not Available)Seat Belt Pretensioners (Driver, Front Passenger, 2nd row)Seat Belt Load Limiters (Driver, Front Passenger, 2nd row)Adjustable Upper Belt Anchorage (Driver, Front Passenger)Seat Belt Reminder System (Driver, Front Passenger)Frontal Air Bag (Driver, Front Passenger)Head Protection (Driver, Front Passenger, 2nd row)Torso and/or Pelvis Protection (Driver, Front Passenger)Knee (Driver, Front Passenger)Additional Air Bags (Not Available)Meets Side Air Bag Out-of-Position Requirements (Yes)LATCH Locations (2nd row)Safety Power Windows (Anti-Pinch) (Standard/Optional)Safety Power Windows (Anti-Pinch) locations (Driver, Front Passenger, 2nd row/Roof)
View full safety data on NHTSA.gov →

Audi E-Tron Repair Costs & Maintenance

Maintenance Rating

2Maintenance rating: 2 out of 5

Based 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.

2023 Audi E-Tron Example Repair Prices

National average price ranges for common repairs. These are not model-year-specific failure predictions.

Common repair costs and price estimates
RepairEstimated 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 2023 Audi E-Tron.

  • Test for unintended acceleration during low-speed maneuvers

  • Inspect charging system for overheating or melting at wall sockets

  • Verify brake functionality, especially at low speeds

  • Check for any unresolved recalls related to electrical or braking systems

  • Inspect suspension components for wear or damage, especially ball joints

  • Test infotainment and electronic systems for random malfunctions

Buying a 2023 E-Tron? Check Its History First

Every 2023 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.

Affiliate link — we may earn a commission at no cost to you.

2023 Audi E-Tron Common Problems by Component

30 owner complaints grouped by vehicle system.

21
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (21)STEERING (4)SERVICE BRAKES (3)POWER TRAIN (2)UNKNOWN OR OTHER (2)VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL (2)SUSPENSION (2)AIR BAGS (1)Other (3)

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

21 complaintsSafety-related

Owners report several issues with the 2023 Audi E-Tron's electrical system, with a significant number of complaints about unintended acceleration, which in some cases led to crashes and injuries. Symptoms frequently described include the vehicle accelerating on its own, sometimes when at a complete stop, and issues with charging systems, such as failure to charge and overheating of wall sockets. Multiple owners mention electronic malfunctions like emergency warnings and alarms without cause, and problems with doors and windows not locking or unlocking as intended. These issues often arise at low mileage, with some reports indicating occurrences as early as 1,500 miles. The unintended acceleration and charging malfunctions pose notable safety risks, including potential for vehicle control loss and fire hazards.

21 complaints total3 crashes2 injuries

STEERING

4 complaintsSafety-related

Owners of the 2023 Audi E-Tron frequently report issues related to unexpected steering and braking behavior. Multiple complaints describe sudden, unanticipated braking or loss of power, often leading to near rear-end collisions, with one report involving an actual crash. Some owners mention receiving persistent dashboard warnings to "take over steering," even when they are already holding the wheel, requiring them to zigzag to clear the alerts. Additionally, there are reports of electrical and steering malfunctions that remain unresolved despite repeated dealership visits. These symptoms appear at various mileage ranges shortly after purchase, indicating potential safety risks during regular driving scenarios.

4 complaints total1 crash

SERVICE BRAKES

3 complaintsSafety-related

Owners of the 2023 Audi E-Tron frequently report issues with the vehicle's braking system, with symptoms including complete brake failure and unintended acceleration. Multiple complaints describe instances where the brake pedal is pressed fully to the floor without the vehicle stopping, sometimes requiring the ABS or pre-collision system to engage. In one case, a crash occurred when the car accelerated despite the brake being applied, resulting in a collision with parked vehicles. Complaints also mention the vehicle becoming immobilized with locked wheels, requiring specialized towing. These issues are reported across varying mileages and include references to ongoing service challenges and recalls, indicating potential safety implications for prospective buyers.

3 complaints total1 crash
POWER TRAIN (2 complaints)

POWER TRAIN

2 complaints

Owners of the 2023 Audi E-Tron report issues with the power train, particularly involving a loss of acceleration and power. Typical symptoms include the vehicle failing to accelerate from a stop and losing power while driving, with one account mentioning the car stalling and rolling backwards on an incline. These issues have been noted at low mileage, around 380 miles in one case. Safety implications are evident as the loss of power can lead to loss of control, although brakes reportedly remain functional. Some complaints mention that the problem may be linked to a refrigerant leak affecting the front electric motor.

2 complaints total
UNKNOWN OR OTHER (2 complaints)

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

2 complaintsSafety-related

Owners of the 2023 Audi E-Tron report issues with sudden unintended acceleration and heating system failures. In one instance, a driver describes the vehicle unexpectedly accelerating while reversing, resulting in a collision with another car. This issue appears to occur without the driver pressing the accelerator, as noted by multiple owners. Additionally, some drivers experience failures in the heating system, which blows cold air instead of hot, posing a safety risk in cold climates. These problems are reported without specific mileage details, but the heating issue is noted in Canadian recalls for 2021-2023 models.

2 complaints total1 crash
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL (2 complaints)

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

2 complaintsSafety-related

Owners of the 2023 Audi E-Tron report incidents of sudden unintentional acceleration, particularly during low-speed maneuvers such as turning. Complaints describe the vehicle unexpectedly launching forward when the brake is released, resulting in collisions with stationary objects. These incidents often occur shortly after acquiring the vehicle, with one owner reporting the issue within 11 days of ownership. Safety implications are significant, with reports of crashes, airbag deployment, and one injury involving bruising and back muscle pain. Prospective buyers should be aware of these reported issues, especially when considering vehicles with low mileage or recent purchase dates.

2 complaints total2 crashes1 injury
SUSPENSION (2 complaints)

SUSPENSION

2 complaints

Owners of the 2023 Audi E-Tron report suspension issues primarily involving front suspension ball joint failures and air suspension malfunctions. Typical symptoms include sudden loss of vehicle control at highway speeds and loud thump noises followed by error messages and abnormal lowering of the vehicle. These problems occur within the first year of ownership, with one owner noting a catastrophic failure at approximately 70 mph on an interstate highway. Safety implications are significant, as one report details a sudden loss of control that required emergency response. Used car buyers should be aware of these issues, especially regarding potential safety risks and the reported difficulty in obtaining warranty coverage for related repairs.

2 complaints total
AIR BAGS (1 complaints)

AIR BAGS

1 complaintSafety-related
2026-01-13Crash reported1 injury

As I began to move the car, the vehicle suddenly accelerated on its own. I attempted to brake before reaching the stop sign, but the car continued to gain speed. I estimate the vehicle reached approximately 60 mph. Within seconds, I collided with two vehicles and then a palm tree, sustaining a frontal impact. The entire incident occurred within approximately two to three seconds, during which the vehicle accelerated rapidly. Despite the collision, the airbags did not deploy, the seat belt did not lock, and neither the brake system warning nor the automatic braking system activated.

TIRES (1 complaints)

TIRES

1 complaint
2024-08-23

Hi I take the liberty of writing that issue in relation to the tires of the vehicle, Audi Q-4 ETron 2023 (Bridgestone Alenza A/S Sport 235/55R19) which the vehicle came with. It has 5,200 runs, the tread is coming loose.

SEAT BELTS (1 complaints)

SEAT BELTS

1 complaint
2023-07-16

The contact owns a 2023 Audi Q4 E-Tron. The contact stated while driving approximately 50 MPH, the vehicle suddenly powered off and then immediately restarted. The contact stated that the failure had occurred twice. There were no warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer who diagnosed that the seat belt had failed, causing the vehicle to stop while driving. The seat belt for the front driver’s side seat needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was 2,000.

When Do 2023 Audi E-Tron Problems Start?

Based on owner complaint patterns, here's when common issues tend to appear.

1,500–8,000 milesElectrical system failures
380–1,000 milesPower train failures

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

The 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.

Audi E-Tron reliability scores by year
YearScoreRating
201850/100Mixed
201948/100Mixed
202062/100Good
202155/100Mixed
202249/100Mixed
202346/100Mixed
202448/100Mixed
202550/100Mixed

Audi E-Tron Reliability Compared to Other Years

Reliability scores compared across model years
YearScorevs Prior YearRatingRecallsComplaints
202550/100+2Mixed1219
202448/100+2Mixed1623
2023(selected)46/100-3Mixed2230
202249/100-6Mixed3252
202155/100-7Mixed932
202062/100+14Good41
201948/100-2Mixed571
201850/100Mixed612

2023 Audi E-Tron Common Questions

10 questions from 2023 Audi E-Tron owners.

Obd2 reads error

Obd2 will not read only says error after battrie arck Nothing More than a month

VisitorMar 13, 2026

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

VisitorMar 10, 2026

Light indicator

What does a triangle with exclamation point in it light mean? Started today

VisitorFeb 12, 2026

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

VisitorJan 26, 2026

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.

VisitorNov 19, 2025

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the 2023 Audi E-Tron reliable?
The 2023 Audi E-Tron has a "Mixed" reliability rating (46/100) and may present some ownership challenges. With 22 recalls and 30 complaints, buyers should research known issues carefully.
What are the most common problems with the 2023 Audi E-Tron?
The most commonly reported problems with the 2023 Audi E-Tron include: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (21 complaints), STEERING (4 complaints), SERVICE BRAKES (3 complaints), POWER TRAIN (2 complaints), UNKNOWN OR OTHER (2 complaints). These issues were identified from owner complaints analyzed by Auto Reliability Index.
How many recalls does the 2023 Audi E-Tron have?
The 2023 Audi E-Tron has 22 recalls on record. Recalls are safety or compliance fixes issued by the manufacturer and repaired at no cost at authorized dealerships.
Is the 2023 Audi E-Tron expensive to maintain?
The 2023 Audi E-Tron may have above-average maintenance costs. Its reliability score of 46/100 and 30 owner complaints suggest that unexpected repairs are more likely.

Don’t buy a 2023 Audi E-Tron without checking its VIN first — hidden accidents, title issues, and open recalls could cost you thousands.

Affiliate link — we may earn a commission at no cost to you.

Look Up a VIN →

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

1

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.

2

Repair Costs

Independent reliability ratings based on repair frequency, average repair costs, and severity of typical repairs for each model.

3

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.

4

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.

See incorrect data? Report an issue