Last updated: 2026-10-10
2023 Audi e-tron Reliability Report
The 2023 Audi E-Tron has mixed reliability, well below other 2023 SUVs, with sudden low-speed acceleration and charging faults the main concerns.
Recalls
22
Complaints
30
Complaint Rate
196.7per 10,000 sold
Est. Repair Cost
$987
EV Range
181–226 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
Weakest of the eight scored years, marked by low-speed acceleration crashes and charging faults, in the final year before the Q8 e-tron rename.
Top Issues to Watch
- ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (21)
- STEERING (4)
- SERVICE BRAKES (3)
Generation & Refresh (US)
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?
Reliability is mixed, and this is the weakest of the eight scored E-Tron years. It sits well below average among 2023 SUVs. The 2022 rates better, while the 2024 rates about the same. Crash-test protection is strong at 5 of 5 stars.
The most serious pattern is sudden acceleration at parking speed. Owners describe the car surging into walls or other cars with a foot on the brake, and two injuries were reported. Charging is the other theme: a melted wall socket, failed home charging, and range cut to around 120 miles while owners waited weeks for a part. Dealers often could not reproduce the faults. Federal recall records list 22 recalls, including electrical system, air bags, and brakes.
Ask for proof that every recall was completed, especially electrical, brake, and air bag work, and for any charging repair history. The 2022 rates better and is worth comparing.
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
2023 Tesla Model Y
Reliability: 53/100
2023 Tesla Model X
Reliability: 47/100
2023 Mercedes-Benz EQE
Reliability: 56/100
2023 BMW X5
Reliability: 65/100
2023 Lexus RX
Reliability: 85/100
Common Problem Categories
Safety
LOW RISK- 22 manufacturer recalls issued
Other
HIGH RISK- ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (21)
- STEERING (4)
Recall Overview
22
recalls on record
The 2023 Audi e-tron has 22 recalls on record, which is above average. A high count can flag multiple component concerns, though it also shows the manufacturer is actively addressing known issues.
NHTSA.gov →Complaint Breakdown
196.7
per 10,000 soldSegment avg: 11.3
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.
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 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.
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 →
22 recalls and a score of 46 — check any 2023 Audi e-tron before buying
With a below-average reliability score, a VIN check is especially important. Uncover hidden accidents, title problems, odometer rollbacks, and open recalls that data alone can't show you.
- Accidents
- Open Recalls
- Title History
- Odometer Rollback
2023 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.
2023 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
181–226 mi range
Fuel cost: $950–$1,200/yr
Fuel only
42.887–53.31 kWh/100mi · 10 hrs @ 240V
Based on EPA fuel-cost estimates. Excludes routine maintenance, depreciation, and insurance. Data as of 2023 EPA label cycle.
Electric trims
| Trim | Drive | Trans. | Range | kWh/100mi | Fuel Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| e-tron quattro | All-Wheel Drive | Automatic (A2) | 226 mi | 42.9 | $950 |
| e-tron Sportback quattro | All-Wheel Drive | Automatic (A2) | 225 mi | 43.2 | $950 |
| e-tron S Sportback (20 inch wheels) | All-Wheel Drive | Automatic (A1) | 212 mi | 44.9 | $1,000 |
| e-tron S (20 inch wheels) | All-Wheel Drive | Automatic (A1) | 208 mi | 45.9 | $1,050 |
| e-tron S Sportback (21/22 inch wheels) | All-Wheel Drive | Automatic (A1) | 185 mi | 52.1 | $1,150 |
| e-tron S (21/22 inch wheels) | All-Wheel Drive | Automatic (A1) | 181 mi | 53.3 | $1,200 |
Used Buying Checklist
Key things to inspect or verify before purchasing a 2023 Audi e-tron.
Ease in and out of a parking spot several times, forward and reverse, and watch for any surge while braking.
Inspect the portable charging cable and plug ends for melting, scorching, or a burning plastic smell.
Ask whether charging has been capped at 70 or 80 percent while waiting for a repair, and get proof the repair is done.
Brake firmly from 35 mph and feel for a pedal that sinks toward the floor or a car that shakes.
Drive in traffic with lane assist on and watch for sudden braking or steering the driver did not ask for.
Check service records for repeated visits for stalling, lost drive power, front motor replacement, or warnings dealers could not reproduce.
Park overnight, then check ride height at each corner and look for air suspension warnings.
Lock the car and confirm in the app that the doors stay locked and the windows and tailgate stay closed.
2023 Audi e-tron Common Problems by Component
30 owner complaints grouped by vehicle system.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
21 complaintsSafety-relatedSudden acceleration at parking speed is the most serious pattern. Several reports describe the car surging into walls or other cars with the driver's foot on the brake, causing crashes and two injuries. Charging is the other big theme: a melted wall socket and burning plastic smell at home, failed home charging, and range cut to around 120 miles while owners wait weeks for a repair part. Other reports describe battery and SOS warnings, a highway shutdown, lost safety features, windows or the tailgate found open overnight, and a weak horn. Dealers often cannot reproduce the faults.
STEERING
4 complaintsSafety-relatedDriver-assist systems acting on their own drive most of these reports. They describe the car steering itself into a concrete lamp post base at about 10 mph and braking hard from 50 mph to a stop for traffic in the next lane, which nearly caused rear-end crashes. Some cars also shake unevenly under hard braking. Other owners see steering and electrical malfunction warnings several times a week that dealers cannot trace. One report describes a sudden loss of power at 20 mph, with the car dropping into park.
SERVICE BRAKES
3 complaintsSafety-relatedWeak or failing brakes appear in all three reports. One car needed the pedal pushed to the floor at 35 mph before it stopped, with ABS engaging on dry pavement, and the problem returned more than once. Another kept accelerating with the brake fully pressed and pushed two parked cars into each other. A failed brake servo locked one car in Drive with all wheels seized, so it could not shift and had to be moved by a tow truck with dollies.
POWER TRAIN (2 complaints)
POWER TRAIN
2 complaintsLoss of drive power is the pattern here. The car stalls while driving, or fails to respond when the driver accelerates away from a stop, and no warning light comes on. One car rolled backward down an incline after stalling. One failure began at about 380 miles. Repairs are slow and uncertain: one dealer could not reproduce the fault but said the transmission needed replacing, and another spent 40 days on a repair that included a new front motor.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER (2 complaints)
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
2 complaintsSafety-relatedSudden acceleration while backing out of a parking spot happens more than once in one report, with no foot on the accelerator, and one of those times ended in a collision with a passing car. The other complaint involves a heater that stops making heat and blows only cold air with no warning light. The owner calls this a safety problem in extreme cold, since the cabin cannot be warmed.
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL (2 complaints)
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
2 complaintsSafety-relatedUnintended acceleration at low speed while turning is the complaint in both reports, and both ended in crashes. The car lunges forward as the driver releases the brake or turns into a parking space, and braking does not stop it in time. One crash deployed the airbags, injured the driver, and totaled a car that was 11 days old. Owners also say the collision-avoidance system did not step in to prevent the impact.
SUSPENSION (2 complaints)
SUSPENSION
2 complaintsSudden suspension failure is the theme of both reports. In one, a front ball joint broke at about 70 mph on the interstate and the driver lost control. That happened two weeks after a dealer said the same corner was safe to drive. In the other, the air suspension failed in normal city driving within the first year. The owner heard a loud thump, error messages appeared, and the car sat abnormally low to the ground.
AIR BAGS (1 complaints)
AIR BAGS
1 complaintSafety-relatedAs 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 complaintHi 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 complaintThe 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.
Best & Worst Audi e-tron Years
Best Audi e-tron Years to Buy
Based on reliability index scoreAudi 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
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
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 2023 Audi E-Tron reliable?
What are the most common problems with the 2023 Audi E-Tron?
Does the 2023 Audi E-Tron have sudden acceleration problems?
Does the 2023 Audi E-Tron have charging problems?
Is the 2023 Audi E-Tron better than the 2022 or 2024?
Don’t buy a 2023 Audi e-tron without checking its VIN first — hidden accidents, title issues, and open recalls could cost you thousands.
How we score the 2023 Audi e-tron
Of the four inputs behind this score, the 2023 Audi e-tron does best on how many systems draw complaints (76/100) and worst on complaint severity (32/100). 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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