Last updated: 2026-03-04
2021 Audi Q7 Reliability Score & Common Problems
The 2021 Audi Q7 scores 59/100 ("Mixed"). With 9 recalls and 61 owner complaints, buyers should proceed with caution.
Recalls
9
Complaints
61
Complaint Rate
24.1
per 10k sold
Above avgEst. Annual Cost
$1185
About avgMajor Repair Risk
13%
NHTSA Rating
N/A
Score Breakdown
Component-weighted complaints normalized by sales volume
Independent repair cost ratings
Recall count weighted by severity
Breadth of reported problem categories
Mixed reliability — proceed with caution and budget for repairs.
Top Issues
9 recalls on record
Should You Buy the 2021 Audi Q7?
The 2021 Audi Q7 scores 59/100 ("Mixed"). Buyers should proceed with caution.
With 61 owner complaints and 9 recalls, the complaint volume is above average. Reported issues — particularly in electrical system and electrical system (33) — can be costly to repair.
An extended warranty is strongly recommended. A thorough pre-purchase inspection focused on electrical system and electrical system (33) is essential before committing.
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
Common Problem Categories
Safety
- 9 manufacturer recalls issued
Other
- ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (33)
- UNKNOWN OR OTHER (7)
- ENGINE (5)
- STEERING (4)
- SEAT BELTS (2)
- TIRES (2)
- FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE (2)
- VISIBILITY (1)
- POWER TRAIN (1)
- SUSPENSION (1)
- FUEL SYSTEM (1)
- FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM (1)
- VISIBILITY/WIPER (1)
Recall Overview
9
recalls on record
The 2021 Audi Q7 has 9 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
24.1
per 10k soldSegment avg: 17
Safety Incidents
Crashes
3
Fires
0
Injuries
5
Deaths
0
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.
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 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.
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.
2021 Audi Q7 NHTSA Safety Ratings
Crash Test Results by Configuration (expand)
Gas Powertrain
Rollover risk: 15.7%
Safety Technologies
Audi Q7 Repair 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.
When Buying a Used 2021 Audi Q7
Key things to inspect or verify before purchasing, based on the most common reported issues.
- Inspect water pump for leaks or failures
- Test starter generator for electrical malfunctions
- Check instrument cluster for blank or malfunctioning display
- Verify seat belt locking mechanism, especially in rear seats
- Inspect tires for sidewall integrity, especially if OEM Continentals are present
- Test forward collision avoidance system for unexpected braking
Check Any 2021 Audi Q7's History Before You Buy
Reliability scores tell you what to expect from the 2021 Q7 in general — but every car has its own story. Uncover past accidents, title issues, odometer rollbacks, and service records for a specific Audi Q7 with a free VIN lookup.
Powered by VINExposed.com — free vehicle history reports using public title and safety data.
2021 Audi Q7 Common Problems by Component
61 owner complaints grouped by vehicle system.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
33 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners of the 2021 Audi Q7 frequently report issues with the electrical system, particularly involving failures of the instrument cluster and starter generator. Complaints describe the instrument cluster going blank while driving, which obscures critical information like speedometer and warning indicators. Additionally, multiple owners mention the starter generator failure in the 48V mild hybrid system, leading to sudden loss of electrical power and vehicle shutdowns. These issues often occur around or after 50,000 miles, with some reports involving crashes and one injury due to related malfunctions. Potential buyers should be aware of these patterns and the associated safety implications, including the risk of losing control on highways.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
7 complaintsOwners of the 2021 Audi Q7 frequently report issues with air conditioning and heating systems, including persistent foul odors and non-functional vents, even after attempted repairs. Complaints also highlight problems with the vehicle's USB system, which prevents completion of a recall update related to the virtual cockpit instrument cluster. Additionally, some owners describe a sunroof implosion and a stalling incident that resulted in minor injuries, occurring at approximately 26,789 miles. These issues suggest potential safety implications, including a recall-related defect and a structural failure of the sunroof, which buyers should consider when evaluating this vehicle.
ENGINE
5 complaintsOwners of the 2021 Audi Q7 frequently report issues related to the water pump, with several complaints indicating failures around 47,855 to 57,271 miles. Symptoms commonly described include coolant leaks, low coolant levels, and associated overheating risks. One complaint mentions a lack of warning signs before the failure, while another highlights a recurring engine light linked to the water pump issue. Some reports suggest potential safety risks such as engine stalling or reduced braking performance due to vacuum system contamination. Buyers should be aware of these reported issues, particularly concerning the water pump's longevity and potential repair costs.
STEERING (4 complaints)
STEERING
4 complaintsOwners of the 2021 Audi Q7 frequently report issues related to steering malfunctions accompanied by a cascade of electronic system warnings. Common symptoms include loss of power steering, with the steering becoming notably difficult, and multiple electronic alerts such as "Electrical system: malfunction," "Steering: malfunction," and "Drive system: malfunction." Several complaints describe the vehicle losing power or shutting down completely, with some occurring in traffic situations, raising potential safety concerns. The incidents often involve failures of the starter/generator, and occur at varying mileages without a clear pattern. These reports suggest that potential buyers should be aware of possible steering and electronic system issues that could impact vehicle control.
SEAT BELTS (2 complaints)
SEAT BELTS
2 complaintsOwners report issues with the seat belt locking retractor in the 2021 Audi Q7, specifically with the right rear seat belt. Complaints frequently mention that the seat belt, after being locked into position, becomes unlocked during travel, which compromises the secure installation of child car seats. This issue has been observed multiple times by different owners, with some indicating that it occurs randomly and has been difficult for dealerships to replicate. The problem has been noted after a few months of use, although no specific mileage range is consistently mentioned. The safety implications are significant, as the failure of the seat belt to remain locked could lead to an improperly secured car seat, increasing risk in the event of a collision.
TIRES (2 complaints)
TIRES
2 complaintsOwners of the 2021 Audi Q7 report issues with the OEM tires, specifically catastrophic sidewall failures. Complaints frequently mention the sudden and complete deflation of tires, often occurring without prior warning, and describe the incidents as happening at low speeds, around 30-40 mph. These failures have occurred in varying conditions, including snowy and dry roads, and typically involve the 285/40R21 tire size. Safety implications are significant, as owners describe the potential for loss of control, though no accidents are reported in these instances. Used car buyers should be aware of these tire issues, particularly with the original Continental tires, and consider inspecting or replacing them if they remain on the vehicle.
FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE (2 complaints)
FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
2 complaintsOwners of the 2021 Audi Q7 report issues with the forward collision avoidance system, primarily involving the vehicle braking suddenly and without warning. Complaints frequently mention the brakes activating violently in wet conditions or while driving at moderate speeds, causing abrupt stops. These incidents have led to injuries, including concussions and seatbelt-related discomfort, with one report noting the issue occurring at approximately 52,000 miles. The unexpected braking is often accompanied by a warning message about emergency brake malfunction, but dealers have been unable to replicate the problem. These issues suggest potential safety implications, such as loss of vehicle control and physical harm to occupants.
VISIBILITY (1 complaints)
VISIBILITY
1 complaintThe 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 complaintI 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 complaintRight 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.
Best & Worst Audi Q7 Years
Best Audi Q7 Years to Buy
The 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
3 recalls · 134 complaints
2021(this page)
9 recalls · 61 complaints
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 2021 Audi Q7 reliable?
What are the most common problems with the 2021 Audi Q7?
How many recalls does the 2021 Audi Q7 have?
Is the 2021 Audi Q7 expensive to maintain?
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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