Last updated: 2026-10-10

2021 Audi Q8
RELIABILITY SCORE: 60/100 (GOOD)

2021 Audi Q8 Reliability Report

The 2021 Audi Q8 has a good reliability standing but trails most 2021 SUVs, mainly because of alternator failures that cut power while driving.

Recalls

14

Complaints

28

Complaint Rate

22.3per 10,000 sold

Est. Repair Cost

$1127

Annual Fuel Cost

$3,450

Detailed Score Breakdown

Complaint Severity60/100

Component-weighted complaints normalized by sales volume

Repair Costs50/100

Independent repair cost ratings

Recall Impact60/100

Recall count weighted by severity

Issue Diversity81/100

Breadth of reported problem categories

The Verdict

Consider

Weaker than most Q8 years, with alternator failures that cut power while driving and 14 recalls; the 2020 and 2022 models both rate better.

Top Issues to Watch

  • ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (12)
  • FUEL SYSTEM (4)
  • POWER TRAIN (3)

Generation & Refresh (US)

Post-Redesign (Year 3)

2021 is year 3 of the First generation (4M; 2019–present).

  • Redesigned for the 2019 model year.
  • Well-established in its generation — most early issues should be resolved.
  • A refresh arrives in 2024.
  • 1st generation Q8 (US).

What this means for buyers

Well into the generation cycle — most design and manufacturing issues should be resolved by now.

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

Generation start — new platform.

2021: This Model Year

2021 is year 3 of the First generation (4M; 2019–present).

2024: Mid-Cycle Refresh

Updated features and styling tweaks.

Should You Buy the 2021 Audi Q8?

Buy this one with caution. Its reliability standing is good, but it falls well below average among 2021 SUVs and is among the weaker of the eight scored Q8 model years. Owners filed 28 complaints, or 22.3 per 10,000 sold. The 2020 and 2022 models both rate better.

The main trouble is electrical. Owners describe the alternator failing without warning. A yellow warning appears, red ones follow, and the car loses power. Turn signals, stability control and steering assist can drop out at highway speed, and some cars stop in traffic and will not restart. Most are towed, and some owners waited weeks or months for a back-ordered alternator. Fuel system reports mostly describe dealers lacking a part, though one car stalled from a failed fuel pump. Federal recall records list 14 recalls, including electrical, fuel system, engine and seat belts.

Ask the seller for proof that every recall is complete, plus any alternator and fuel pump work. Test the rear camera in reverse.

Compared to the 2022 Audi Q8, which scored 5 points higher. See also the 2020 Audi Q8 for an earlier comparison.

Pros

  • +Acceptable reliability score
  • +5-star NHTSA crash rating
  • +Well-established generation
  • +Only 28 complaints reported

Cons

  • −Above-average recall count
  • −Above-average complaint rate for SUV
  • −ELECTRICAL SYSTEM: Alternator fails without warning while driving (12 complaints)

Compare 2021 Audi Q8 With

Common Problem Categories

Safety

LOW RISK
  • 14 manufacturer recalls issued

Other

HIGH RISK
  • ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (12)
  • FUEL SYSTEM (4)

See detailed breakdown by component ↓

Recall Overview

14

recalls on record

The 2021 Audi Q8 has 14 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

22.3

per 10,000 sold

Segment avg: 16.7

LowAvgHigh
Moderate

Safety Incidents

0

Crashes

0

Fires

0

Injuries

0

Deaths

★★★★★

NHTSA 5/5 Stars

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

2021 Audi Q8 Recall Details

14 recalls have been issued for the 2021 Audi Q8. All recall repairs are performed free of charge at authorized dealerships.

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.

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.

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 Q8? Check its history first

Electrical system problems lead owner complaints about the 2021 Audi Q8, and 14 recalls were issued for it. A VIN check shows whether this car's recall work was done, plus accident, title, and odometer history.

No VIN? Just hit “Check VIN” to look one up.

  • Accidents
  • Open Recalls
  • Title History
  • Odometer Rollback

2021 Audi Q8 NHTSA Safety Ratings

Overall Safety Rating

Overall safety rating: 5 out of 5
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 (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)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 Q8Repair Costs & Maintenance

Maintenance Rating

2.5Maintenance rating: 2.5 out of 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.

MPG & Annual Running Costs

Hybrid

20 MPG

Running cost: $4,600/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.

Hybrid trims
TrimDriveTrans.CityHwyCombFuel Cost
Q8 3.0L 6-cylAll-Wheel DriveAutomatic (S8)182320$3,450

Used Buying Checklist

Key things to inspect or verify before purchasing a 2021 Audi Q8.

  • Have an Audi dealer run the VIN for open recalls and confirm the needed parts are actually available.

  • Ask for service records showing whether the alternator and the 12-volt or 48-volt battery have been replaced.

  • Scan for stored electrical system and starting system fault codes before you buy.

  • On the test drive, watch for yellow electrical warnings, slow starts or a battery light.

  • Shift into reverse several times and confirm the rear camera shows a steady image with no blinking white screen.

  • Check the coolant level and look for leaks around the water pump, especially on cars near 50k miles.

  • Inspect the front brake wear sensors and harness for missing sensors or spliced-in wire.

  • Listen for knocking at startup, and feel for stutter or sliding during lane changes and curves.

2021 Audi Q8 Common Problems by Component

28 owner complaints grouped by vehicle system.

12
4
3
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (12)FUEL SYSTEM (4)POWER TRAIN (3)BACK OVER PREVENTION (2)STEERING (2)ENGINE (1)UNKNOWN OR OTHER (1)FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE (1)Other (2)

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

12 complaints

The alternator fails without warning while driving. A yellow "electrical system malfunction" warning appears, red warnings follow, and the car loses power. Turn signals, hazard lights, stability control and steering assist can all drop out at highway speed, and some cars stop in traffic and cannot restart. Most end up towed. Several owners wait weeks or months because the replacement alternator is on back order, and one dealer reports 17 other cars waiting for the same fix. Other reports include a car shifting into park while moving, a knocking sound at startup and a high beam assistant fault.

12 complaints total

FUEL SYSTEM

4 complaints

Few of these reports describe an actual failure. Most describe dealers who cannot complete a fuel system campaign repair because the part is unavailable, with owners told the wait could last several months. In one more serious case, the car stalls at various speeds and the instrument panel stops working. The dealer finds a failed fuel pump, but the owner does not have it repaired because of the cost.

4 complaints total

POWER TRAIN

3 complaints

The car suddenly loses power, sometimes at highway speed. One car shuts off at 70 mph after an electrical problem warning, at about 3,500 miles. Another loses acceleration while merging onto a busy highway after its water pump fails at around 50k miles, just past warranty. One owner also reports the car stuttering, shaking or feeling like it is sliding on ice during lane changes and gentle curves, even after new tires and an alignment. A power loss in moving traffic carries a real crash risk.

3 complaints total
BACK OVER PREVENTION (2 complaints)

BACK OVER PREVENTION

2 complaints

When the car is in reverse, the rear camera fails. The screen goes dark or blinks white, leaving no camera view and no parking warnings. The fault comes and goes, and dealers report they cannot reproduce it even when shown video, so cars go home unrepaired. In one case it fails again within hours of a dealer visit, at about 17,000 miles. Without the camera, backing up near people and other cars becomes riskier.

2 complaints total
STEERING (2 complaints)

STEERING

2 complaints

The car loses steering assist when the electrical system shuts down while driving. An electrical system malfunction warning comes up and the car loses power almost immediately, leaving little time to react. In one case the alternator fails at 35K miles and takes the steering, suspension and other electrical systems with it, which makes the car very hard to control. Repairs can include a new alternator and a new 12-volt or 48-volt battery. Affected cars have to be towed.

2 complaints total
ENGINE (1 complaints)

ENGINE

1 complaint
2025-12-30

The engine (internal mechanical failure) malfunctioned. The vehicle developed a persistent ticking/knocking noise from the engine bay, and the authorized Audi dealer diagnosed the issue as requiring a full engine replacement. The vehicle is currently available for inspection upon request. A catastrophic engine failure presents a risk of sudden loss of power, stalling, or engine seizure, which could occur while driving at speed or in traffic. This creates a potential risk of loss of vehicle control, inability to accelerate, or being stranded in unsafe conditions, endangering both the driver and other motorists. The problem was confirmed by an authorized Audi dealership, which diagnosed the vehicle and stated that a complete engine replacement is required. The estimated repair cost provided by the dealer is approximately $26,000 (so far in parts only). The vehicle has been inspected and diagnosed by an authorized Audi dealership. At this time, it has not been inspected by police or insurance representatives. Audi corporate has been contacted for review. The primary symptom was a persistent ticking noise from the engine bay, which began around late December 2025 / early January 2026. There were no immediate warning lights or dashboard messages at the onset of the noise. The noise progressively worsened, prompting dealer inspection and diagnosis.

UNKNOWN OR OTHER (1 complaints)

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

1 complaint
2025-08-05

Subject: Spontaneous Sunroof Shattering – 2021 Audi Q8 Summary: On 8/5/2025, while driving my 2021 Audi Q8 under normal conditions, the sunroof suddenly shattered without warning. There was a loud popping sound, followed by glass breaking and falling onto the closed sunroof shade. There were no visible signs of impact from external objects, and weather conditions were normal at the time of the incident. The vehicle was not involved in a collision and was being operated safely. This incident created a serious safety hazard, as the loud popping sound once the sunroof ruptured could have cause me to get into an accident. I am also lucky that the sun roof shade was closed or the pieces could have struck me inside my vehicle. I will be contacting insurance and Audi dealership regarding the damage. However, after researching online, I found similar complaints from other Audi owners, suggesting this may be a recurring issue with panoramic sunroofs across multiple models. I am reporting this to the NHTSA because I believe this could indicate a potential defect in the sunroof glass or its installation. I request an investigation into this matter to ensure the safety of other drivers who may be at risk.

FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE (1 complaints)

FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE

1 complaint
2024-03-01

The contact owns a 2021 Audi Q8. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed in the rain, the automatic braking system sensors engaged. There was an abnormal sputtering sound coming from the vehicle. The driver believed that the vehicle had struck an object. The vehicle was taken back to the local dealer, who was unable to repair the sensor, and the failure recurred. The manufacturer was contacted and filed a claim. The approximate failure mileage was 8,600.

LANE DEPARTURE (1 complaints)

LANE DEPARTURE

1 complaint
2024-02-11

Took Audi Q8 in Jan 29 2024 do to 2 indicates one was a low oil, and a week before a Addaptive Lighting Warning came on my vehicle 2x , the following day to Warning light did NOT appear but the Blind Spot/Lane Assist lights did not operate. They were unable to resolve the issue Fault B200FF - TBS 2067531/2 Cleared fault but still do not work.

SEAT BELTS (1 complaints)

SEAT BELTS

1 complaint
2021-04-19

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2021 AUDI Q8. THE CONTACT STATED WHILE STOPPED AT A RED LIGHT, HE LEANED FORWARD AND THE FRONT DRIVER'S SEAT BELT SHOULDER HARNESS TIGHTENED WHICH CAUSED HIM SHORTNESS OF BREATH AND CHEST PAIN. MEDICAL TREATMENT WAS LATER RECEIVED FOR HIS INJURIES. AUDI RANCHO MIRAGE (71265 CA-111, RANCHO MIRAGE, CA 92270) WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE AND INFORMED THE CONTACT THAT THE SEAT BELT SHOULDER HARNESS TIGHTENED AS A PART OF THE SAFETY FEATURE OF THE VEHICLE. THE DEALER STATED THAT THEY WOULD VERIFY WHETHER OR NOT THE SAFETY FEATURE COULD BE DISABLED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED NOR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 1,500.

Best & Worst Audi Q8 Years

Best Audi Q8 Years to Buy

Audi Q8 Years to Avoid

Audi Q8 Reliability Score Trend

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

Audi Q8 reliability scores by year
YearScoreRating
201953/100Mixed
202063/100Good
202160/100Good
202265/100Good
202367/100Good
202464/100Good
202567/100Good
202670/100Good

Audi Q8 Reliability Compared to Other Years

Reliability scores compared across model years
YearScorevs Prior YearRatingRecallsComplaints
202670/100+3Good00
202567/100+3Good21
202464/100-3Good816
202367/100+2Good32
202265/100+5Good75
2021(selected)60/100-3Good1428
202063/100+10Good425
201953/100—Mixed5103

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the 2021 Audi Q8 reliable?
It is mixed. Its reliability standing is good, but it sits well below average among 2021 SUVs and among the weaker of eight scored Q8 years. Alternator failures that cut power drive most of the complaints, and federal records show 14 recalls. The federal crash-test rating is 5 of 5 stars.
What are the most common problems with the 2021 Audi Q8?
Electrical problems lead, with 12 of 28 complaints. Owners report the alternator failing while driving, followed by warnings and power loss. Fuel system reports come next, mostly about unavailable repair parts. Power train complaints describe sudden power loss, and two owners report a failing rear camera in reverse.
Does the 2021 Audi Q8 have alternator problems?
Yes, it is the pattern owners report most. The alternator fails without warning, warning lights appear, and the car loses power. Turn signals and steering assist can drop out, and some cars stop in traffic. Most are towed. Several owners waited weeks or months because the replacement was on back order.
How many recalls does the 2021 Audi Q8 have?
Federal recall records list 14 recalls. They cover the electrical system, back over prevention (two), fuel system, tires and suspension, seat belts, suspension, and engine. Ask the seller for proof that each one has been completed before you buy.
Is the 2021 Audi Q8 better than the 2020 or 2022?
No. Both neighboring years rate better for reliability. The 2020 had 25 complaints and 4 recalls. The 2022 had 5 complaints and 7 recalls, though it has had less time on the road to collect complaints. Compare their records alongside this year's before choosing.

Don’t buy a 2021 Audi Q8 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 Q8

Of the four inputs behind this score, the 2021 Audi Q8 does best on how many systems draw complaints (81/100) 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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