Last updated: 2026-03-15

RELIABILITY SCORE: 53/100 (MIXED)

2019 Audi Q8 Reliability Report

Name: 2019 Audi Q8
Brand: Audi

The 2019 Audi Q8 scores 53/100 ("Mixed"). With 5 recalls and 103 owner complaints, buyers should proceed with caution.

Full Breakdown Compare Models

Recalls

Complaints

103

Complaint Rate

72.3

per 10k sold

Est. Annual Cost

$1127

Detailed Score Breakdown

Complaint Severity34/100

Component-weighted complaints normalized by sales volume

Repair Costs50/100

Independent repair cost ratings

Recall Impact68/100

Recall count weighted by severity

Issue Diversity80/100

Breadth of reported problem categories

The Verdict

Caution

Mixed reliability — proceed with caution and budget for repairs.

Top Issues to Watch

POWER TRAIN (38)
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (29)
STEERING (11)

Generation & Refresh (US)

Redesign Year

2019 is the first model year of the First generation (4M; 2019–present).

First-year models may have unresolved issues from the new design.
Redesigned for the 2019 model year.
Refreshed in 2024.
1st generation Q8 (US).

What this means for buyers

First-year models carry more risk — early production issues are common. Consider waiting for the second year if reliability is a priority.

Compare 2019 pricing and recall counts against 2020+ before deciding.

2019: First generation (4M; 2019–present) Launch

Generation start — new platform.

2024: Mid-Cycle Refresh

Updated features and styling tweaks.

Should You Buy the 2019 Audi Q8?

The 2019 Audi Q8 scores 53/100 ("Mixed"). Buyers should proceed with caution. As a first-year redesign, early-adopter issues are common.

With 103 owner complaints and 5 recalls, the complaint volume is above average. Reported issues — particularly in power train (38) — can be costly to repair.

An extended warranty is strongly recommended. A thorough pre-purchase inspection focused on power train (38) is essential before committing.

Compared to the 2020 Audi Q8, which scored 10 points higher.

Pros

+5-star NHTSA crash rating

Cons

−Below-average reliability score
−Moderate recall count
−Above-average complaint rate for SUV
−POWER TRAIN issues reported (38 complaints)

Compare 2019 Audi Q8 With

2019 BMW X5

Reliability: 52/100

Mixed

2019 Mercedes-Benz GLE

Reliability: 70/100

Good

2019 Porsche Cayenne

Reliability: 56/100

Mixed

2019 Lexus GX

Reliability: 78/100

Good

Common Problem Categories

Safety

LOW RISK

5 manufacturer recalls issued

Other

HIGH RISK

POWER TRAIN (38)
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (29)

See detailed breakdown by component ↓

Recall Overview

recalls on record

The 2019 Audi Q8 has 5 recalls on record. This is a moderate number. Each recall represents a safety or compliance issue identified by the manufacturer or NHTSA. All recall repairs are performed free of charge at authorized dealerships, regardless of warranty status.

NHTSA.gov →

Complaint Breakdown

72.3

per 10k sold

Segment avg: 20.8

LowAvgHigh

High

Safety Incidents

Crashes

Fires

Injuries

Deaths

★★★★★

NHTSA 5/5 Stars

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

2019 Audi Q8 Recall Details

5 recalls have been issued for the 2019 Audi Q8. All recall repairs are performed free of charge at authorized dealerships.

26V1250002026-03-04

LANE DEPARTURE

Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Audi) is recalling certain 2019 Audi Q8, Audi A7, and Audi A6 vehicles previously repaired under recall number 25V900. Due to a software error, the lane departure warning system may be deactivated.

Consequence

The driver may be unaware that the lane departure warning system is deactivated and rely on a system that is not functional, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy

Dealers will update the software, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed May 1, 2026. Owners may contact Audi customer service at 1-800-253-2834. Audi's number for this recall is 90TW. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall became searchable on NHTSA.gov on March 6, 2026.

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.

22V5160002022-07-20

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE

Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2019-2021 Audi Q8, and 2020-2021 Audi Q7 vehicles. A component inside the fuel pump may break, causing the fuel pump to fail.

Consequence

Fuel pump failure can cause an engine stall, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy

Dealers will replace the fuel pump, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed December 22, 2022. Owners may contact Audi's customer service at 1-800-253-2834. Audi's number for this recall is 20DR.

2019 Audi Q8 NHTSA Safety Ratings

Overall Safety Rating

Crash Test Results by Configuration (expand)

Gas Powertrain

Driver: 4/5Passenger: 5/5

Rollover risk: 15.8%

Safety Technologies

Dynamic Head Restraints (Not Available)Head Restraint (Not Available)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 (Driver, Front Passenger, Rear Seat)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 Q8 Repair Costs & Maintenance

Maintenance Rating

2.5

Based on NHTSA complaint patterns, recall severity, and publicly available cost benchmarks.

Est. Annual Maintenance

$1127

Repair Frequency

0.7

unscheduled repair visits per year

Category-level averages derived from publicly available industry reports (AAA, CarMD). Model-level estimates produced by Auto Reliability Index.

Used Buying Checklist

Key things to inspect or verify before purchasing a 2019 Audi Q8.

Inspect alternator and electrical system for malfunctions
Check for engine noise indicating piston slap or skirt defects
Test steering responsiveness and check for any electrical system warnings
Verify rear suspension coil springs for damage or breakage
Ensure all seat belts retract and function properly without twisting
Confirm fuel system recall repairs are completed

Buying a 2019 Q8? Check Its History First

Every 2019 Audi Q8 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.

Look Up a VIN

2019 Audi Q8 Common Problems by Component

103 owner complaints grouped by vehicle system.

POWER TRAIN (38)ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (29)STEERING (11)ENGINE (9)UNKNOWN OR OTHER (4)SEAT BELTS (2)FUEL SYSTEM (2)STRUCTURE (1)Other (7)

POWER TRAIN

38 complaints

Owners of the 2019 Audi Q8 frequently report issues with throttle lag and inconsistent acceleration, particularly when accelerating from a stop or low speed. Many describe a delay of 2-3 seconds before the vehicle responds to the gas pedal, followed by a sudden surge in acceleration, which is especially concerning during maneuvers like left-hand turns. Complaints often mention this issue in conjunction with the vehicle's auto start/stop system, with some owners noting that the problem persists even when the system is deactivated. Additionally, a few reports highlight failures in the electrical system, leading to the vehicle shutting off unexpectedly while driving. These issues are often noted at various mileage ranges, from as low as 18,500 miles to over 65,000 miles, and are associated with significant safety implications due to potential loss of control in traffic situations.

38 complaints total

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

29 complaints

Owners report frequent electrical system failures in the 2019 Audi Q8, particularly involving the alternator or generator. Complaints consistently mention warning lights such as "electrical system malfunction" and "start/stop system failure," often followed by a complete loss of vehicle power. These issues are typically documented around 9,800 to 55,910 miles. Safety implications are significant, with multiple reports of vehicles losing power while driving, including incidents where occupants were unable to exit due to door lock failures. The availability of replacement parts is a concern, with several owners noting extended wait times due to part shortages.

29 complaints total1 injury

STEERING

11 complaints

Owners of the 2019 Audi Q8 frequently report issues related to steering, often linked with electrical system malfunctions. Common symptoms include a loss of power steering, making it difficult to navigate the vehicle, especially when electrical failures occur, leading to the vehicle becoming inoperable. Complaints often describe the steering wheel feeling loose or unresponsive, sometimes accompanied by warning lights on the dashboard. These issues can lead to dangerous situations, such as being unable to steer off the road in traffic. Several reports mention these problems occurring during normal driving conditions, with no specific mileage indicated, but they do highlight significant delays in obtaining necessary replacement parts.

11 complaints total

ENGINE (9 complaints)

ENGINE

9 complaints

Owners of the 2019 Audi Q8 frequently report issues related to engine problems, particularly piston slap and piston skirt defects, which are associated with engine noise and potential engine failure. Complaints often mention these issues occurring around or after 80,000 miles, with some owners experiencing denial of warranty coverage due to exceeding this mileage. Additionally, engine misfire and knocking noises are reported, sometimes linked to metal shavings found in the oil filter. Safety implications are noted, as some owners describe the vehicle shutting down unexpectedly in traffic due to alternator or water pump failures, posing a risk of accidents. These patterns suggest potential reliability concerns for prospective buyers, especially those considering vehicles near or above the 80,000-mile mark.

9 complaints total

UNKNOWN OR OTHER (4 complaints)

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

4 complaints

Owners report several issues with the 2019 Audi Q8, primarily involving technological and mechanical failures. Multiple complaints describe technology sensor malfunctions during rain, affecting systems like blind spot detection and lane change assist, with no recorded diagnostic errors despite video evidence. Additionally, some owners experience air conditioning failures, specifically evaporator issues, not covered by extended warranties. Mechanical problems include faulty water pumps leading to coolant leaks into vacuum lines, resulting in power loss and requiring extensive repairs. Electrical malfunctions from alternator issues are also noted. These problems do not specify mileage but have implications for vehicle safety and functionality, particularly concerning sensor and power failures.

4 complaints total

SEAT BELTS (2 complaints)

SEAT BELTS

2 complaintsSafety-related

Owners of the 2019 Audi Q8 report issues with the seat belts, specifically the driver's side seatbelt twisting and retracting in a twisted state into the B pillar. This problem is documented to have recurred multiple times, even after dealership repairs, suggesting a persistent issue. One owner notes that the twisting occurs after a particular driver uses the vehicle, but the exact cause remains unclear. In a separate incident, a seatbelt apparatus and seat detachment occurred during a rear-end crash, resulting in an injury. These reports imply potential safety risks associated with the seat belt system in this model.

2 complaints total1 crash1 injury

FUEL SYSTEM (2 complaints)

FUEL SYSTEM

2 complaints

Owners of the 2019 Audi Q8 report issues related to a recall on the fuel system, specifically citing delays in the availability of parts needed for the repair. Complaints frequently mention that while some owners have not experienced any failures, others report stalling incidents when the vehicle is stopped, such as at traffic lights. One owner describes this stalling issue occurring at approximately 36,700 miles. There are no reports of crashes, fires, or loss of control associated with these complaints. Buyers should be aware of the ongoing recall and the potential for stalling, especially if the repair has not yet been completed.

2 complaints total

STRUCTURE (1 complaints)

STRUCTURE

1 complaint

2024-12-16

Wheel arch on the front passenger side flew off on the highway. There was no visible issues that the piece was loose as it’s been on the car securely for 45k miles.

AIR BAGS (1 complaints)

AIR BAGS

1 complaint

2026-01-12

Dash Delamination: The leather dashboard is experiencing severe delamination and pulling away from the substrate, specifically in the area surrounding the passenger-side airbag. I believe this condition poses two significant safety risks: Airbag Interference: The detached and warped material may obstruct, delay, or alter the deployment path of the passenger-side airbag during a collision. Visibility and Distraction: This is a material defect, not wear and tear, and it poses a potential safety concern due to the reflection/glare on the windshield, as well as the distraction it causes while driving. Audi has acknowledged this "process weakness" and issued a Limited Warranty Extension (AWA-23-11) for 2019-2020 Q8 models. Despite this, my request for a safety-related repair was denied due to over 80K. The issue should be considered under mileage. I am requesting that the NHTSA investigate this defect to determine if it constitutes a safety non-compliance with FMVSS No. 208, as the structural integrity of the dashboard is vital for proper airbag performance. Thank you for your assistance in ensuring the safety of this vehicle.

SUSPENSION (1 complaints)

SUSPENSION

1 complaint

2024-10-08

2019 Audi Q8 3.0T quatro with 34,102 miles incurred broken left rear coil spring. Right rear most likely will have to be replaced soon. A SUV of this age and mfg shouldn't be having broken coils. This defect appears to be happening quite often. From the dealer's quote... "Recommended service: Coil Spring Replacement - Rear: LEFT REAR SUSPENSION COIL SPRING IS BROKEN (SEE VIDEO ATTACHED) RECOMMEND REPLACEMENT OF BOTH REAR SUSPENSION COIL SPRINGS AT THIS TIME. Suspension coil springs support the weight of the vehicle and determine the height at which it sits on the road. The springs allow the suspension system to move and adapt to changing road irregularities; they are under extreme pressure. $2,562.60"

When Do 2019 Audi Q8 Problems Start?

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

9,800–55,910 milesElectrical system failures

80,000–81,752 milesEngine piston issues

Best & Worst Audi Q8 Years

Comprehensive reliability analysis based on NHTSA data, owner complaints, and historical performance.

Best Audi Q8 Years to Buy

Based on reliability index score

The best Audi Q8 year is 2025 with a reliability score of 67/100, rated good. Other strong picks include 2023 (67/100) and 2022 (65/100).

Top Pick

Good

Audi Q8 Years to Avoid

The worst Audi Q8 year is 2019 with a score of 53/100, primarily due to power train (38) issues.

Mixed

2019

(Current Model)

5Recalls

103Complaints

See full Audi Q8 years-to-avoid analysis

Audi Q8 Reliability Score Trend

Audi Q8 reliability has improved in recent years, with newer models scoring an average of 66/100 compared to 59/100 for older years.

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

Audi Q8 reliability scores by year
Year	Score	Rating
2019	53/100	Mixed
2020	63/100	Good
2021	60/100	Good
2022	65/100	Good
2023	67/100	Good
2024	64/100	Good
2025	67/100	Good

Audi Q8 Reliability Compared to Other Years

Reliability scores compared across model years
Year	Score	vs Prior Year	Rating	Recalls	Complaints
2026	66/100 (predicted)	—	Predicted	0	0
2025	67/100	+3	Good	2	1
2024	64/100	-3	Good	8	16
2023	67/100	+2	Good	3	2
2022	65/100	+5	Good	7	5
2021	60/100	-3	Good	14	28
2020	63/100	+10	Good	4	25
2019(selected)	53/100	—	Mixed	5	103

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the 2019 Audi Q8 reliable?

The 2019 Audi Q8 has a "Mixed" reliability rating (53/100) and may present some ownership challenges. With 5 recalls and 103 complaints, buyers should research known issues carefully.

What are the most common problems with the 2019 Audi Q8?

The most commonly reported problems with the 2019 Audi Q8 include: POWER TRAIN (38 complaints), ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (29 complaints), STEERING (11 complaints), ENGINE (9 complaints), UNKNOWN OR OTHER (4 complaints). These issues were identified from owner complaints analyzed by Auto Reliability Index.

How many recalls does the 2019 Audi Q8 have?

The 2019 Audi Q8 has 5 recalls on record. Recalls are safety or compliance fixes issued by the manufacturer and repaired at no cost at authorized dealerships.

Is the 2019 Audi Q8 expensive to maintain?

The 2019 Audi Q8 has estimated annual repair costs of $1127/year. Its reliability score of 53/100 and 103 owner complaints suggest that unexpected repairs are more likely. Budgeting for maintenance reserves is advisable.

Don’t buy a 2019 Audi Q8 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

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.