Last updated: 2026-10-10

RELIABILITY SCORE: 59/100 (MIXED)

2021 Audi Q7 Reliability Report

The 2021 Audi Q7 rates well below other 2021 SUVs, mainly because its mild hybrid starter generator can fail and shut the car off while driving.

Full Breakdown Compare Models

Recalls

Complaints

Complaint Rate

24.1per 10,000 sold

Est. Repair Cost

$1185

Annual Fuel Cost

$3,300

Detailed Score Breakdown

Complaint Severity57/100

Component-weighted complaints normalized by sales volume

Repair Costs50/100

Independent repair cost ratings

Recall Impact59/100

Recall count weighted by severity

Issue Diversity82/100

Breadth of reported problem categories

The Verdict

Caution

Weaker than the 2020 and 2022 models, with starter generator failures that can shut the car off while driving and nine recalls.

Top Issues to Watch

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (33)
ENGINE (5)
STEERING (4)

Should You Buy the 2021 Audi Q7?

Buy with caution. Owner complaints place this model year well below average among 2021 SUVs, and it is among the weaker of nine scored Q7 years. The 2020 and 2022 Q7 both rate better, with fewer complaints and fewer recalls. Independent repair-cost data puts yearly repairs at $1,185, slightly above the $1,127 class figure.

The main problem is the electrical system. The 48V mild hybrid starter generator can fail while driving. A red warning appears, auto start/stop shuts off, and in several reports the car dies on the freeway. Power steering can go with it, and some cars were towed. Some failed again after dealer repair. The virtual cockpit can also go blank, hiding the speedometer. Water pump coolant leaks show up around 55,000 to 57,271 miles. Two owners report automatic braking stopping the car hard with nothing ahead, with injuries. Federal recall records show nine recalls, including air bags, seat belts, fuel system, and back over prevention.

If you shop this year, ask for repair records on the starter generator and water pump, and confirm every recall is closed. A 2020 or 2022 is the safer comparison.

Compared to the 2022 Audi Q7, which scored 8 points higher. See also the 2020 Audi Q7 for an earlier comparison.

Pros

+Low major repair risk (13%)

Cons

−Below-average reliability score
−Frequent unscheduled repairs
−Above-average recall count
−Above-average complaint rate for SUV

Compare 2021 Audi Q7 With

2021 Volvo XC90

Reliability: 72/100

Good

2021 BMW X5

Reliability: 57/100

Mixed

2021 Lincoln Aviator

Reliability: 62/100

Good

2021 Cadillac XT5

Reliability: 73/100

Good

Common Problem Categories

Safety

LOW RISK

9 manufacturer recalls issued

Other

HIGH RISK

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (33)
UNKNOWN OR OTHER (7)

See detailed breakdown by component ↓

Recall Overview

recalls on record

The 2021 Audi Q7 has 9 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

24.1

per 10,000 sold

Segment avg: 16.7

LowAvgHigh

Moderate

Safety Incidents

Crashes

Fires

Injuries

Deaths

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

2021 Audi Q7 Recall Details

9 recalls have been issued for the 2021 Audi Q7. 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.

25V2010002025-03-31

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Audi) is recalling certain 2021 SQ8, A6 SEDAN, A7, A8, Q7, Q8, RS6 Avant, RS7, RSQ8, S6 SEDAN, S7, S8, A6 Allroad, and SQ7 vehicles. Due to a software error, the instrument panel display may fail.

Consequence

An instrument panel display that fails to show critical safety information, such as the speedometer or warning lights, increases the risk of a crash.

Remedy

Dealers will update the instrument panel module software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 24, 2025. Owners may contact Audi customer service at 1-800-253-2834. Audi's number for this recall is 90VC.

22V7420002022-10-05

BACK OVER PREVENTION

Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2021 Audi A8, RS7, RS6 Avant, RS5 Sportback, RS5 Coupe, Q8, Q7, Q5 Sportback, S4 Sedan, Q5, A7, A6, A6 Allroad, A5 Sportback, A5 Coupe, A5 Cabrioleet, A4 Sedan, A4 Allroad, E-Tron Sportback Quattro, SQ7, S5 Cabriolet, E-Tron Quattro, SQ8, SQ5 Sportback, SQ5, S8, S7, S6 Sedan, S5 Sportback, S5 Coupe, 2022 E-Tron GT, and 2021-2022 RSQ8 vehicles. Due to a software issue, a blank or black screen may be displayed instead of the rearview camera image when the vehicle is placed in reverse gear. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 111, "Rear Visibility."

Consequence

A blank rearview camera display can reduce the driver's rear visibility, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy

Dealers will update the infotainment unit software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed October 25, 2022. Owners may contact Audi's customer service at 1-800-253-2834. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 91DZ.

VIN History Report

Buying a used 2021 Audi Q7? Check its history first

Electrical system problems lead owner complaints about the 2021 Audi Q7, and 9 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

2021 Audi Q7 NHTSA Safety Ratings

Crash Test Results by Configuration (expand)

Gas Powertrain

Rollover risk: 15.7%

Safety Technologies

Dynamic Head Restraints (Not Available)Head Restraint (Driver, Front Passenger, Rear Seat, 3rd row)Advanced Belt Feature (Standard)Adjustable Upper Belt Anchorage (Driver, Front Passenger)Seat Belt Reminder System (Driver, Front Passenger)Frontal Air Bag (Driver, Front Passenger)Curtain (Driver, Front Passenger, Rear Seat, 3rd row)Torso/Pelvis (Rear Seat)Torso/Pelvis (Driver, Front Passenger)Knee (Not Available)Additional Air Bags (Not Available)Meets Side Air Bag Out-of-Position Requirements (Yes)LATCH Locations (Rear Seat, 3rd row)Safety Power Windows (Anti-Pinch) (Standard)Safety Power Windows (Anti-Pinch) locations (Driver, Front Passenger, Rear Seat)

View full safety data on NHTSA.gov →

Audi Q7Repair Costs & Maintenance

Maintenance Rating

2.5

Based 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

$1185

Category Avg

$1127

All Vehicles

$652

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 / 23 hwy MPG

Hybrid

20 MPG

Running cost: $4,650/yr

Fuel + repair

18 city / 23 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 2021 EPA label cycle.

Gas trims

Trim	Drive	Trans.	City	Hwy	Comb	Fuel Cost
Q7 2.0L 4-cyl	All-Wheel Drive	Automatic (S8)	19	23	21	$3,300

Hybrid trims

Trim	Drive	Trans.	City	Hwy	Comb	Fuel Cost
Q7 3.0L 6-cyl	All-Wheel Drive	Automatic (S8)	18	23	20	$3,450

Used Buying Checklist

Key things to inspect or verify before purchasing a 2021 Audi Q7.

Run the VIN through federal recall records and confirm a dealer has completed every open campaign.
Ask for service records showing any starter generator or alternator replacement and what caused it.
Scan for stored electrical system fault codes and confirm auto start/stop works on a test drive.
Drive at least 20 minutes and watch the virtual cockpit for blanking or error screens.
Check the coolant level and look for leaks near the water pump, especially on higher-mileage cars.
Park on a slope, get out, and confirm the auto parking brake engages and holds the car.
Lock the rear seat belt retractor, tug it repeatedly, and confirm it stays locked.
Inspect the 285/40R21 tire sidewalls for bulges, cuts, or impact damage.

2021 Audi Q7 Common Problems by Component

61 owner complaints grouped by vehicle system.

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (33)UNKNOWN OR OTHER (7)ENGINE (5)STEERING (4)SEAT BELTS (2)TIRES (2)FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE (2)VISIBILITY (1)Other (5)

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

33 complaintsSafety-related

The 48V mild hybrid starter generator fails while driving. A red electrical system warning tells the driver to stop safely, auto start/stop shuts off, and in several reports the car dies on the freeway. A second pattern is the virtual cockpit going blank, hiding the speedometer, turn signals, and driver assist alerts. Some cars fail again after a dealer repair. Others wait weeks for parts, or owners are quoted out-of-pocket costs. Of 33 complaints, 3 involve crashes, including a parked car that rolled away when the auto parking brake did not engage.

33 complaints total3 crashes1 injury

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

7 complaints

This category mixes unrelated faults. The most serious are a stall during a left turn with a red pressure sensor warning, which injured the driver, and a front sunroof that shattered into the cabin at about 55 mph. Other reports describe a moldy smell from the air conditioning and heat that returns after dealer visits, a dash vent that blows no air, a flapping noise from the rear wheel area, a P0299 turbo code, and a dead USB port that keeps the dealer from installing a software update.

7 complaints total1 injury

ENGINE

5 complaints

The water pump leaks, and the coolant level drops. Reported failures come in the mid-50K-mile range, one at 57,271 miles, often just after the warranty runs out. Dealer repairs can also include the thermostat and related parts, with one estimate near $5,000. One report describes coolant getting into the vacuum lines. Other owners tie a check engine light and P0299 code that keep coming back to the pump. The safety concerns owners raise are overheating, stalling, and loss of power.

5 complaints total

STEERING (4 complaints)

STEERING

4 complaints

Power steering cuts out while driving, and the wheel becomes very hard to turn. Most reports tie this to starter generator failure. An electrical system warning comes first. Driver assist, transmission, and drive system warnings follow. Then the car loses drive power and shuts off, sometimes in heavy traffic. In one case assist was lost at about 25 mph with a steering malfunction message telling the driver to stop. Several cars had to be towed to the dealer.

4 complaints total

SEAT BELTS (2 complaints)

SEAT BELTS

2 complaints

A rear seat belt's locking retractor releases by itself after it has been locked, leaving a child car seat unsecured. Parents who check the lock when installing the seat later find it loose, sometimes partway through a trip, and say it happens more than once. A dealer could not reproduce the problem. No crashes are reported, but the failure stops the belt from holding a car seat in place.

2 complaints total

TIRES (2 complaints)

TIRES

2 complaints

The 285/40R21 tires suffer sudden sidewall blowouts and deflate completely at low speeds, 30 to 40 mph. In one case a tire pressure warning came about 30 seconds before the failure. In the other there was no warning at all. One blowout happened on snowy roads. Both drivers kept control and pulled over, and Audi roadside assistance moved the cars. The danger is losing control in traffic or on slippery pavement.

2 complaints total

FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE (2 complaints)

FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE

2 complaints

Automatic emergency braking slams on the brakes with nothing ahead. Reports describe violent stops on an empty road in the rain, while backing out of a garage, and at about 50 mph with an emergency brake malfunction message on the dash. Both complaints involve injuries, 3 in total, including a concussion. The seatbelt pulls back hard during these stops. A dealer could not reproduce the fault, so the car was not repaired.

2 complaints total3 injuries

VISIBILITY (1 complaints)

VISIBILITY

1 complaint

2025-12-12

The contact owns a 2021 Audi Q7. The contact stated that the rear-view mirrors on the driver's side failed to indicate when another vehicle, person, or object was nearby the vehicle. The passenger's side rear-view mirror's audible alarm occasionally erroneously alerted the driver that there was a vehicle, a person, or an object nearby the vehicle. The infotainment screen occasionally blacked out, and the following day, the screen activated but failed to finish uploading all the systems and functions. The back-over prevention camera alarm made abnormal sounds compared to the normal sound. The infotainment center intermittently failed to display the icon indicating that the key was in the ignition after the vehicle had been started. The vehicle was not taken to the dealer to be diagnosed or repaired. The contact was unaware that the vehicle was included in NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V900000 (Back Over Prevention). The manufacturer was not informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 44,000.

POWER TRAIN (1 complaints)

POWER TRAIN

1 complaint

2025-12-29

I was driving on the freeway and got off on an exit ramp at high speeds and began to slow down and break. As I was breaking the car became clunky and slowed down and suddenly shut off. The warning lights “transmission failure and “ESC failure” came on and I was unable to drive or put the car into gear. The car flashed “stop. Pull over” and “not safe to drive” and see “Audi dealer”. The car would not turn back on. We were stuck in the middle Of the freeway off-ramp with cars flying by us with no sidewalks or safe ways to exit the vehicle. I had my wife, dog and 2 and 4 year old kids with me. I then had to be towed to my local Audi dealer. At the Audi dealer, I told them what happened and asked for a full diagnostic. They then called me the next day and said they ran codes and nothing popped up. I said can they run a full diagnostic further and see what happened. They called me the next day and said they did a “deeper dive” and I needed to replace my transmission intake body valve and gave me a repaid quote of $8,000. My car had been serviced 2 months prior on 10/16/25 with the transmission being checked and said great.

SUSPENSION (1 complaints)

SUSPENSION

1 complaint

2022-12-02

Right rear tire has worn excessively compared to other tires. There is a recall for this issue on some 2021 Audi Q7 but ours what not part of that recall.

When Do 2021 Audi Q7 Problems Start?

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

55,000–57,271 milesWater pump coolant leak

Best & Worst Audi Q7 Years

Best Audi Q7 Years to Buy

Based on reliability index score

Top Pick

Good

Mixed

2021

(Current Model)

9Recalls

61Complaints

See full Audi Q7 years-to-avoid analysis

Audi Q7 Reliability Score Trend

Scores 0–100. Higher is better. Current year highlighted.

Audi Q7 reliability scores by year
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
2026	70/100	Good

Audi Q7 Reliability Compared to Other Years

Reliability scores compared across model years
Year	Score	vs Prior Year	Rating	Recalls	Complaints
2026	70/100	+2	Good	0	0
2025	68/100	-2	Good	2	10
2024	70/100	+4	Good	3	0
2023	66/100	-1	Good	3	16
2022	67/100	+8	Good	3	13
2021(selected)	59/100	-6	Mixed	9	61
2020	65/100	+3	Good	5	22
2019	62/100	+4	Good	4	58
2018	58/100	—	Mixed	3	134

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the 2021 Audi Q7 reliable?

Not especially. Its reliability standing is mixed, and it falls well below average against other 2021 SUVs. It is also among the weaker of nine scored Q7 years. Owners filed 61 complaints, and the main trouble is the electrical system. The 2020 and 2022 Q7 both rate better.

What are the most common problems with the 2021 Audi Q7?

Electrical problems lead, with 33 of 61 complaints. The mild hybrid starter generator fails while driving, and the virtual cockpit can go blank. Other complaints cover water pump coolant leaks, power steering loss that follows starter generator failure, and automatic emergency braking that stops the car with nothing ahead.

Does the 2021 Audi Q7 have starter generator problems?

Yes, it is the most reported failure. Owners describe a red electrical warning, auto start/stop shutting off, and the car dying on the freeway. Some cars failed again after a dealer repair, and others waited weeks for parts or were quoted out-of-pocket costs.

Does the 2021 Audi Q7 have water pump problems?

Some owners report it. The water pump leaks and coolant drops, with failures around 55,000 to 57,271 miles, often just after warranty ends. One estimate was near $5,000. Owners also link a returning check engine light and P0299 code to the pump.

Is the 2021 Audi Q7 better or worse than the 2020 and 2022 models?

Worse. The 2020 and 2022 Q7 both rate better. The 2020 has 22 complaints and 5 recalls, and the 2022 has 13 complaints and 3 recalls. The 2021 has 61 complaints and 9 recalls, so those years are the better comparison.

Don’t buy a 2021 Audi Q7 without checking its VIN first — hidden accidents, title issues, and open recalls could cost you thousands.

Look Up a VIN →

How we score the 2021 Audi Q7

Of the four inputs behind this score, the 2021 Audi Q7 does best on how many systems draw complaints (82/100) and worst on repair costs (50/100). 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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