Last updated: 2026-03-15

RELIABILITY SCORE: 63/100 (GOOD)

2020 Audi Q8 Reliability Report

Name: 2020 Audi Q8
Brand: Audi

The 2020 Audi Q8 scores 63/100 ("Good"). With 4 recalls and 25 owner complaints, reliability is acceptable but not class-leading.

Full Breakdown Compare Models

Recalls

Complaints

Complaint Rate

20.7

per 10k sold

Est. Annual Cost

$1127

Detailed Score Breakdown

Complaint Severity60/100

Component-weighted complaints normalized by sales volume

Repair Costs50/100

Independent repair cost ratings

Recall Impact75/100

Recall count weighted by severity

Issue Diversity81/100

Breadth of reported problem categories

The Verdict

Consider

Acceptable reliability — worth considering with a pre-purchase inspection.

Top Issues to Watch

ENGINE (6)
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (4)
FUEL SYSTEM (3)

Generation & Refresh (US)

Post-Redesign (Year 2)

2020 is year 2 of the First generation (4M; 2019–present).

Redesigned for the 2019 model year.
A refresh arrives in 2024.
1st generation Q8 (US).

What this means for buyers

Year 2 is typically a safer pick than the first model year — early issues are more likely to be identified, but the platform is still new.

If you're comparing prices, check 2019 (redesign year) vs 2020+ pricing and recalls.

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

Generation start — new platform.

2020: This Model Year

2020 is year 2 of the First generation (4M; 2019–present).

2024: Mid-Cycle Refresh

Updated features and styling tweaks.

Should You Buy the 2020 Audi Q8?

The 2020 Audi Q8 scores 63/100 ("Good"), placing it in acceptable but not class-leading territory. 2020 is year 2 of the First generation (4M; 2019–present).

With 25 owner complaints, some reported issues may need attention, but we don't yet see evidence of a single dominant failure mode.

A pre-purchase inspection is recommended for used examples, with particular attention to engine (6). An extended warranty may provide additional peace of mind.

Compared to the 2021 Audi Q8, which scored 3 points lower. See also the 2019 Audi Q8 for an earlier comparison.

Pros

+Acceptable reliability score
+Below-average complaint rate for SUV
+5-star NHTSA crash rating

Cons

−Moderate recall count
−ENGINE: Engine issues with the 2020 Audi Q8, particularly with the 3.0L turbo engine (6 complaints)
−ELECTRICAL SYSTEM: Several electrical system issues with the 2020 Audi Q8 (4 complaints)

Compare 2020 Audi Q8 With

2020 BMW X5

Reliability: 56/100

Mixed

2020 Mercedes-Benz GLE

Reliability: 61/100

Good

2020 Porsche Cayenne

Reliability: 58/100

Mixed

2020 Lexus GX

Reliability: 81/100

Excellent

Common Problem Categories

Safety

LOW RISK

4 manufacturer recalls issued

Other

HIGH RISK

ENGINE (6)
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (4)

See detailed breakdown by component ↓

Recall Overview

recalls on record

The 2020 Audi Q8 has 4 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

20.7

per 10k sold

Segment avg: 18.1

LowAvgHigh

Moderate

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.

2020 Audi Q8 Recall Details

4 recalls have been issued for the 2020 Audi Q8. 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.

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.

20V2720002020-05-13

POWER TRAIN

Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2020 Audi Q8 vehicles. An insufficient weld on a transmission oil pipe may cause the vehicle to leak automatic transmission fluid (ATF).

Consequence

If transmission fluid leaks while driving, the road surface may become slippery, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy

Volkswagen will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the transmission oil pipe and replace it if necessary, free of charge. The recall began June 12, 2020. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-253-2834. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 38C7.

2020 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)Torso/Pelvis (Driver, Front Passenger, Rear Seat)Knee (Driver, Front Passenger)Additional Air Bags (Not Available)Meets Side Air Bag Out-of-Position Requirements (Yes)LATCH Locations (Rear Seat)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 2020 Audi Q8.

Inspect for coolant leaks and water pump condition
Test for electrical power loss while driving
Check for engine oil consumption issues
Verify camera systems function consistently
Ensure door locking mechanisms work properly
Test forward collision avoidance system for false activations

Buying a 2020 Q8? Check Its History First

Every 2020 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

2020 Audi Q8 Common Problems by Component

25 owner complaints grouped by vehicle system.

ENGINE (6)ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (4)UNKNOWN OR OTHER (3)FUEL SYSTEM (3)POWER TRAIN (2)STEERING (2)FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE (2)ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING (1)Other (2)

ENGINE

6 complaints

Owners report engine issues with the 2020 Audi Q8, particularly with the 3.0L turbo engine. Complaints frequently mention catastrophic engine failure due to piston and cylinder wall defects, leading to high oil consumption and potential engine lock-up at around 78,990 miles. Additionally, multiple owners describe water pump failures resulting in coolant leaks, engine overheating, and costly repairs, typically occurring under 55,000 miles. Safety implications include the risk of engine lock-up while driving, leading to crashes, and potential exposure to coolant fumes inside the cabin. Buyers should be aware of these issues, especially regarding the extended warranty to 80,000 miles that Audi has offered in response to known engine defects.

6 complaints total

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

4 complaints

Owners report several electrical system issues with the 2020 Audi Q8. Common complaints include unexpected loss of power while driving, with some describing the vehicle losing all electrical power, resulting in locked steering and transmission. This issue has been linked to a potential alternator problem, with parts reportedly on back order. Additionally, owners frequently mention that error messages such as "electrical system maintenance malfunction" and "vehicle starting system malfunction" appear, often leading to the vehicle needing to be towed. These issues are reported at various mileages, including as early as 200 miles after purchase. The described symptoms pose safety risks, such as sudden vehicle shutdowns while in motion.

4 complaints total

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

3 complaints

Owners of the 2020 Audi Q8 report issues with the vehicle's camera systems and door locking mechanisms. Complaints frequently mention that the backup and 360 cameras fail to function consistently, affecting the driver's ability to reverse safely. Additionally, there are reports of the central locking system malfunctioning, where doors either indicate they are open when they are not or can be opened despite being locked, posing potential safety risks. These issues have been noted shortly after software updates or from the time of purchase, suggesting they may persist over time. The described camera and locking failures have implications for vehicle security and occupant safety, particularly during reversing maneuvers and in preventing unauthorized access.

3 complaints total

FUEL SYSTEM (3 complaints)

FUEL SYSTEM

3 complaints

Owners of the 2020 Audi Q8 report issues related to the availability of parts needed for a recall repair concerning the fuel system. Complaints frequently mention that the manufacturer has not provided the necessary parts for an extended period, exceeding what owners consider a reasonable timeframe. No owners report experiencing an actual failure or specific symptoms related to the fuel system issue. There are no indications of crashes, fires, or loss of control associated with these complaints. This information may be relevant for potential buyers considering the vehicle's recall status and the manufacturer's response time to address such issues.

3 complaints total

POWER TRAIN (2 complaints)

POWER TRAIN

2 complaints

Owners of the 2020 Audi Q8 report issues related to the power train, specifically involving electrical failures and transmission hesitation. One owner describes a complete electrical failure attributed to an alternator defect, resulting in a sudden vehicle shutdown and loss of braking power, which compromises vehicle control and poses a significant safety risk. Another owner notes sluggishness in the start-stop system or transmission, particularly during low-speed maneuvers like turning, leading to hesitation that could potentially result in a collision. These issues highlight potential safety implications, including loss of vehicle control and increased crash risk, which used car buyers should consider when evaluating this model.

2 complaints total

STEERING (2 complaints)

STEERING

2 complaintsSafety-related

Owners of the 2020 Audi Q8 report issues with the steering system that have led to crashes. The complaints frequently mention the vehicle unexpectedly pulling to the right, causing loss of control. This issue is often accompanied by erroneous low tire pressure warnings for the right front tire. Both reported incidents occurred at low speeds, with one at approximately 20 mph and both resulting in significant vehicle damage. The problems are noted at low mileages, with one instance occurring at just 2,500 miles. Safety implications are significant, as the reported steering failures have resulted in crashes and substantial vehicle damage.

2 complaints total2 crashes

FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE (2 complaints)

FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE

2 complaints

Owners of the 2020 Audi Q8 report issues with the forward collision avoidance system, particularly during lane changes and while towing trailers. Some drivers experience the system applying brakes unnecessarily when a vehicle in front changes lanes, which they describe as nearly causing rear-end collisions. Additionally, when towing trailers with hitch weights over 300 lbs, the pre-sense warning activates after approximately 45 minutes, disabling the adaptive cruise control and distance warning features until recalibration by a dealer. These issues have persisted since early ownership, affecting vehicles towing different trailers, and highlight potential safety concerns due to unexpected braking and loss of driver assistance functions.

2 complaints total

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING (1 complaints)

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

1 complaint

2023-03-05

The contact owns a 2020 Audi Q8. The contact stated that the vehicle was consuming an excessive amount of engine oil. The contact stated that the oil needed to be topped off frequently. The Check Oil warning light was illuminated and remained illuminated. The local dealer was contacted, but the vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 50,000.

FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM (1 complaints)

FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

1 complaint

2023-04-02

Recall has been open since the middle of last year. Defective part represents potential fire risk Dealer says they dont know when they will have the part to repair my car Manufacturers says no parts are available yet and they dont know when they will have them. This is not credible or reasonable. This vehicle is still in production and they are prioritizing sale of new vehicles over repair of existing safety issues

STRUCTURE (1 complaints)

STRUCTURE

1 complaint

2022-07-30

- Problem: Locking system malfunctions leaving at least one door in an unlocked state. The door(s) can be opened while the ignition is on and the car is not in park or when the car is parked with the ignition off. - Safety risks: Carjacking, bodily harm, death, theft of vehicle or its contents. - Problem has been confirmed by a dealer and manufacturer. - Vehicle has been serviced multiple times between July 2021 and July 2022 in an attempt to fix the problem. - Warning lamps, messages or other symptoms of the problem appeared at time of failure. No warning lamps, etc. PRIOR to the failure.

When Do 2020 Audi Q8 Problems Start?

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

78,000–80,000 milesEngine failures

under 55,000 milesWater pump failures

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

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(selected)	63/100	+10	Good	4	25
2019	53/100	—	Mixed	5	103

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the 2020 Audi Q8 reliable?

The 2020 Audi Q8 has a "Good" reliability rating with a score of 63/100. It is reasonably reliable with 4 recalls and 25 owner complaints, though some issues have been reported.

What are the most common problems with the 2020 Audi Q8?

The most commonly reported problems with the 2020 Audi Q8 include: ENGINE (6 complaints), ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (4 complaints), UNKNOWN OR OTHER (3 complaints), FUEL SYSTEM (3 complaints), POWER TRAIN (2 complaints). These issues were identified from owner complaints analyzed by Auto Reliability Index.

How many recalls does the 2020 Audi Q8 have?

The 2020 Audi Q8 has 4 recalls on record. Recalls are safety or compliance fixes issued by the manufacturer and repaired at no cost at authorized dealerships.

Is the 2020 Audi Q8 expensive to maintain?

The 2020 Audi Q8 has estimated annual repair costs of $1127/year. With a reliability score of 63/100, some repairs may be needed, but overall ownership costs are manageable.

Don’t buy a 2020 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.