Last updated: 2026-04-20

2018 Audi Q7 Reliability Report
The 2018 Audi Q7 scores 58/100 ("Mixed"). With 3 recalls and 134 owner complaints, buyers should proceed with caution.
Recalls
3
Complaints
134
Complaint Rate
35.9per 10,000 sold
Est. Repair Cost
$1185
Annual Fuel Cost
$3,300
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
- ENGINE (28)
- EXTERIOR LIGHTING (17)
- SUSPENSION (15)
Should You Buy the 2018 Audi Q7?
A 58/100 score puts the 2018 Audi Q7 in the "Mixed" tier. Buyers should approach with eyes open.
Complaint volume sits above average at 134 owner complaints alongside 3 recalls. Issues in engine (28) tend to be the costly ones.
Treat an extended warranty as non-negotiable and put engine (28) at the top of the inspection checklist.
Compared to the 2019 Audi Q7, which scored 4 points higher.
Pros
- +Low major repair risk (13%)
- +5-star NHTSA crash rating
Cons
- −Below-average reliability score
- −Frequent unscheduled repairs
- −Moderate recall count
- −Above-average complaint rate for SUV
Compare 2018 Audi Q7 With
Common Problem Categories
Safety
LOW RISK- 3 manufacturer recalls issued
Other
HIGH RISK- ENGINE (28)
- EXTERIOR LIGHTING (17)
Recall Overview
3
recalls on record
A moderate 3 recalls are on file for the 2018 Audi Q7. 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
35.9
per 10,000 soldSegment avg: 26
Safety Incidents
3
Crashes
0
Fires
3
Injuries
0
Deaths
NHTSA 5/5 Stars
Data sourced from NHTSA complaint filings and manufacturer recall notices. Complaint narratives are owner-reported.
2018 Audi Q7 Recall Details
3 recalls have been issued for the 2018 Audi Q7. All recall repairs are performed free of charge at authorized dealerships.
STRUCTURE
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Audi) is recalling certain 2018-2020 Audi Q7 vehicles. The padding on the vehicle's C-pillar may not absorb enough impact in the event of a crash.
Consequence
In the event of a crash, an unbelted occupant's head may impact the vehicle's C-pillar padding, increasing the risk of injury.
Remedy
Audi will notify owners, and dealers will replace the deformation element on the C-pillars, free of charge. The recall began November 17, 2020. Owners may contact Audi customer service at 1-800-253-2834. Audi's number for this recall is 70H8.
STEERING
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2019 Audi Q8 and 2017-2019 Audi Q7 vehicles. The bolt connecting the steering shaft to the steering gear may loosen, possibly resulting in a loss of steering control.
Consequence
A sudden loss of loss of steering control may increase the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Volkswagen will notify owners, and Audi dealers will inspect and, if necessary, replace the steering shaft bolt, as necessary, free of charge. The recall began March 31, 2020. Owners may contact Audi customer service at 1-800-253-2834. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 36A1.
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Audi) is recalling certain 2016-2018 Q7, A6 and A7 vehicles, and 2015-2018 Audi A8 vehicles. The left and right fuel rails may leak fuel.
Consequence
A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source can increase risk of a fire.
Remedy
Audi has notified owners, and dealers will replace the left and right fuel rail, free of charge. The recall began February 28, 2019. Owners may contact Audi customer service at 1-800-253-2834. Audi's number for this recall is 24DP.
Buying a used 2018 Audi Q7? Check its history first
Every 2018 Audi Q7 has a different past. A VIN check reveals hidden accidents, title problems, odometer rollbacks, and open recalls that reliability scores can't show you.
- Accidents
- Open Recalls
- Title History
- Odometer Rollback
2018 Audi Q7 NHTSA Safety Ratings
Overall Safety Rating
Crash Test Results by Configuration (expand)
Gas Powertrain
Rollover risk: 15.7%
Safety Technologies
Audi Q7Repair Costs & Maintenance
Maintenance Rating
2.5Maintenance rating: 2.5 out of 5Based on NHTSA complaint patterns, recall severity, and publicly available cost benchmarks.
Est. Annual Maintenance
$1185
vs $1127 avg for luxury fullsize SUVs
vs $652 avg for all vehicles
Repair Frequency
0.9
unscheduled repair visits per year
Severe Repair Probability
13%
chance of a major repair
Annual Cost Comparison
Category-level averages derived from publicly available industry reports (AAA, CarMD). Model-level estimates produced by Auto Reliability Index.
MPG & Annual Running Costs
Gas
21 MPG
Running cost: $4,500/yr
Fuel + repair
19 city / 25 hwy MPG
Running cost includes EPA fuel-cost estimate and independent repair-cost data (repair cost estimated at model level). Excludes routine maintenance, depreciation, and insurance. Data as of 2018 EPA label cycle.
Gas trims
| Trim | Drive | Trans. | City | Hwy | Comb | Fuel Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Q7 2.0L 4-cyl | All-Wheel Drive | Automatic (S8) | 19 | 25 | 21 | $3,300 |
| Q7 3.0L 6-cyl | All-Wheel Drive | Automatic (S8) | 19 | 25 | 21 | $3,300 |
Used Buying Checklist
Key things to inspect or verify before purchasing a 2018 Audi Q7.
Check for excessive engine oil consumption by reviewing service records
Inspect rear coil springs for damage or sagging
Test side marker lights for proper function and check for warning messages
Verify water pump and thermostat condition, especially if near 60,000 miles
Inspect tires for uneven wear patterns and consider recent replacements
Test MMI system for stability and responsiveness
2018 Audi Q7 Common Problems by Component
134 owner complaints grouped by vehicle system.
ENGINE
28 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners of the 2018 Audi Q7 frequently report excessive oil consumption, often necessitating oil top-offs between scheduled maintenance intervals. Common symptoms include low oil alerts, engine misfires, and in some cases, catastrophic engine failure, with some vehicles requiring a quart of oil every few hundred miles. These issues typically emerge around 60,000 to 80,000 miles, with some owners noting engine damage such as broken valves and cylinder scoring. Safety implications are significant, as several complaints describe sudden power loss and stalling while driving, with one report involving a crash. Potential buyers should be aware of these patterns, especially if considering a vehicle with higher mileage.
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
17 complaintsOwners of the 2018 Audi Q7 frequently report issues with the side marker lights, with many complaints indicating a warning message about defective front left or right side marker lights, despite the lights functioning or appearing to work. Symptoms often include persistent and distracting dashboard warnings, sometimes accompanied by a "ping" sound, which can occur repeatedly during a single drive. Some reports mention that this issue emerges around or after 84,000 miles. Affected owners express concerns over the high cost of repairs, with estimates reaching several thousand dollars to replace the headlamp assembly. While there are no reports of accidents or injuries, the distraction caused by the warning messages is noted as a potential safety concern. Some owners reference a related recall, but many indicate their vehicles are not covered by it.
SUSPENSION
15 complaintsOwners report frequent issues with the rear coil springs on the 2018 Audi Q7, particularly on the passenger side, with several instances of both springs failing. Symptoms typically include loud noises while driving, a noticeable sag on the affected side, and in some cases, leaking shocks. These failures are commonly reported between 43,000 and 93,000 miles. Safety implications noted by owners include potential loss of vehicle control, risk of tire puncture, and compromised suspension performance, especially during emergency maneuvers or on uneven roads. This pattern of complaints may be significant for prospective buyers considering the vehicle's long-term reliability.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER (15 complaints)
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
15 complaintsOwners of the 2018 Audi Q7 frequently report issues with the sunroof spontaneously exploding while driving, with multiple complaints noting loud noises followed by shattered glass. Engine mount fluid leaks are also commonly mentioned, with reports indicating occurrences around 44,000 to 100,000 miles. Another recurring issue involves the vehicle's backup camera system unpredictably switching modes, requiring manual intervention to restore the desired view. Safety implications are noted in several complaints, particularly concerning the sunroof explosions and potential child safety lock malfunctions, which could trap children inside the vehicle. These patterns suggest potential concerns for prospective buyers, particularly regarding costly repairs and safety risks associated with these issues.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (13 complaints)
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
13 complaintsOwners of the 2018 Audi Q7 frequently report issues with the vehicle's electrical system, particularly involving the MMI system and lighting components. Multiple complaints describe the MMI system shutting down and restarting unpredictably, affecting navigation and other vehicle settings, with some reports indicating increasing frequency over time. Additionally, several owners mention recurring problems with the side marker lights, often referencing previous recalls that did not cover their specific VINs. Reports also highlight safety concerns, including instances where the vehicle unexpectedly runs out of fuel due to a faulty fuel level sender, and issues with the driver assist system, such as the pre-sense feature engaging brakes abruptly. These problems are noted across various mileage ranges, with some occurring as early as 42,000 miles, and pose potential safety risks, including unintended vehicle stoppages and the risk of being stranded.
STEERING (7 complaints)
STEERING
7 complaintsOwners of the 2018 Audi Q7 report several steering-related issues. A common problem involves the steering wheel malfunctioning or seizing, often accompanied by warning messages, which can lead to loss of control and necessitate towing, as noted at mileages around 60,000 to 65,000 miles. Additionally, some owners describe a misalignment between the steering wheel and driver seat, and steering drift towards the passenger side, which is linked to tire wear issues. Safety concerns are highlighted by instances of steering failure during driving, with one report involving a collision with a curb. These complaints suggest potential safety implications for prospective buyers to consider.
POWER TRAIN (7 complaints)
POWER TRAIN
7 complaintsOwners of the 2018 Audi Q7 frequently report issues with the power train, particularly involving sudden loss of power and transmission malfunctions. Common symptoms include unexpected deceleration, the vehicle stalling or being stuck in neutral, and dashboard warnings such as “Drive System: Malfunction” and “Transmission Malfunction.” These issues often occur at higher mileages, such as 59,000 miles, but have also been reported in vehicles with as little as 7,000 miles. Safety implications are significant, with owners describing scenarios where the vehicle loses power on highways or during turns, potentially leading to hazardous situations. Additionally, some owners mention differential noise and oil consumption issues, which may further affect vehicle reliability.
SERVICE BRAKES (6 complaints)
SERVICE BRAKES
6 complaintsOwners report frequent issues with the brakes on the 2018 Audi Q7, with the most common complaint being a loud squeaking noise, particularly when reversing. This noise is described as alarming to both the driver and surrounding individuals. Several complaints indicate that this issue becomes noticeable at mileage as low as 20,000 to 27,700 miles. In some instances, owners have reported that dealers initially did not inform them of a relevant Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) and suggested costly repairs instead. Additionally, one owner mentions a brake lock-up at low speeds on icy roads, indicating a potential safety concern. Used car buyers should be aware of these brake performance and communication issues when considering this vehicle.
WHEELS (5 complaints)
WHEELS
5 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners of the 2018 Audi Q7 frequently report issues with tire wear and performance, particularly with run-flat tires from various manufacturers including Pirelli, Goodyear, and Continental. Complaints commonly describe uneven tire wear, with patterns such as "chunking" on outer edges and "wavy" wear on the inside, often appearing as early as 7,000 to 14,000 miles. Some owners note that replacement tires also exhibit premature wear. One incident involves a crash following a stabilization error and brake failure during a U-turn, though the exact cause remains unclear. Prospective buyers should be aware of these tire-related issues and the potential for early replacement costs.
STRUCTURE (3 complaints)
STRUCTURE
3 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners of the 2018 Audi Q7 report several issues related to the vehicle's structure. One complaint involves the soft-close door feature, which failed to detect an 8-year-old's finger, resulting in injury. Another owner describes an exhaust pipe tip becoming rusted and detaching from the vehicle, creating a road hazard. A third complaint involves a parking brake malfunction that led to the vehicle rolling into another parked car, though no alarms indicated the vehicle was not in park. These issues highlight potential safety implications, including injury and crashes, and occur without specific mileage patterns mentioned.
When Do 2018 Audi Q7 Problems Start?
Based on owner complaint patterns, here's when common issues tend to appear.
Best & Worst Audi Q7 Years
Comprehensive reliability analysis based on NHTSA data, owner complaints, and historical performance.
Best Audi Q7 Years to Buy
Based on reliability index scoreThe best Audi Q7 year is 2024 with a reliability score of 70/100, rated good. Other strong picks include 2025 (68/100) and 2022 (67/100).
Audi Q7 Years to Avoid
The worst Audi Q7 year is 2018 with a score of 58/100, primarily due to engine (28) issues. Also avoid 2021 (59/100).
2018
(Current Model)
2021
Audi Q7 Reliability Score Trend
Audi Q7 reliability has improved in recent years, with newer models scoring an average of 68/100 compared to 61/100 for older years.
Scores 0–100. Higher is better. Current year highlighted.
| Year | Score | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| 2018 | 58/100 | Mixed |
| 2019 | 62/100 | Good |
| 2020 | 65/100 | Good |
| 2021 | 59/100 | Mixed |
| 2022 | 67/100 | Good |
| 2023 | 66/100 | Good |
| 2024 | 70/100 | Good |
| 2025 | 68/100 | Good |
Audi Q7 Reliability Compared to Other Years
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the 2018 Audi Q7 reliable?
What are the most common problems with the 2018 Audi Q7?
How many recalls does the 2018 Audi Q7 have?
Is the 2018 Audi Q7 expensive to maintain?
Don’t buy a 2018 Audi Q7 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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