Audi A7
Liftback · Gas · 29 versions · owner report
Ranked #3 of 13 used luxury midsize cars on owner data, price and fuel economy
Every generation
Power
0–62 mph (0–100 km/h)
Top speed (250 km/h)
Combined, EPA 2025
What owners say
Our take, from owner reports
Overwhelmingly positive sentiment regarding the driving experience, design, and long-term reliability of the 3.0-liter supercharged V6 gasoline engine (3.0T) and 3.0-liter TDI diesel powertrains.
9 problems reported (2 very frequent, 5 recurrent, 2 isolated) · high confidence
Problems owners report
- Very frequentHigher maintenance and repair costs compared to mainstream brands
Labor and part costs at dealerships are noted as expensive.
- Very frequentWater pump and PCV (Positive Crankcase Ventilation) valve failure
Common replacement items typically needed between 60,000-100,000 miles (97,000-161,000 km).
- RecurrentEmissions system complexity (TDI models)
The Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF), Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) system, EGR, and associated sensors are potential failure points with high replacement costs, especially beyond 100,000 miles (161,000 km).
+ 6 more issuesShow fewer
- RecurrentEngine mount wear
Requires replacement, contributing to a less refined feel over time.
- RecurrentCarbon buildup on intake valves (pre-2016 3.0T gasoline engines)
Can cause rough idle and performance loss, requiring cleaning.
- RecurrentSupercharger pulley clutch failure (3.0T CREC engines)
A known point of failure for the later supercharged engines.
- RecurrentOccasional electronic gremlins
Includes infotainment/CarPlay connectivity issues, random warning messages that clear after restart, and driver's seat memory function inconsistencies.
- IsolatedOil consumption (potential)
Some reports of increased oil consumption in higher-mileage 3.0T engines, potentially related to piston ring design.
- IsolatedRocker arm failure (potential, primarily in tuned variants)
Mentioned as a concern for heavily modified or S-model versions of the 3.0T, but less common in standard A7 applications.
The version owners recommend
The 2016-2018 model years with the 3.0T supercharged V6 gasoline engine (CREC version, 333 hp) are most frequently recommended. This iteration is noted for having design revisions that address earlier potential issues like carbon buildup (via dual port and direct injection) and updated chain tensioners. The Prestige trim is favored for its comprehensive feature set. For diesel buyers, the 3.0 TDI is highly regarded for its torque, efficiency, and reliability, though with significant caveats regarding the complexity and potential cost of the emissions system.
Competitors to consider
Owners compare it most often with the BMW 5 Series (and 6 Series Gran Turismo), Mercedes-Benz E-Class, Lexus LS, Tesla Model S and Porsche Panamera.
Is the A7 right for you?
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Full owner reportHide full owner report
Overall sentiment
Overwhelmingly positive sentiment regarding the driving experience, design, and long-term reliability of the 3.0-liter supercharged V6 gasoline engine (3.0T) and 3.0-liter TDI diesel powertrains. The A7 is consistently praised for its gorgeous, timeless design, exceptional comfort, refined handling with Quattro all-wheel drive, and practical hatchback body style. Owner feedback indicates high satisfaction with the vehicle's performance as a daily driver and long-distance cruiser, with specific acclaim for its quiet cabin, comfortable seats, and high-quality interior build. While maintenance costs are acknowledged to be higher than mainstream brands, the consensus among long-term owners is that with proper, proactive maintenance, the A7: particularly models from the C7/7.5 generation (approx. 2012-2018): proves to be a highly reliable and rewarding ownership proposition.
Positioning vs competitors
Positioned as a stylish, practical, and technologically advanced luxury liftback, offering a compelling blend of sportiness and comfort. It is frequently compared to the more traditional Audi A6 sedan, with owners noting the A7 provides superior cargo utility and a more distinctive, sporty profile, often at a price premium. Versus competitors like the BMW 5 Series and Mercedes E-Class, the A7 is often highlighted for its superior all-weather traction from Quattro, more timeless exterior design, and a more special, hatchback-oriented practicality. It is considered a more engaging and driver-focused alternative to the larger, more limousine-oriented Audi A8. Compared to electric rivals like the Tesla Model S, the A7 is praised for its vastly superior build quality, interior materials, and braking performance, though it lacks the EV's acceleration and tech features.
Recommended configurations
3.0T supercharged V6 gasoline engine paired with the ZF 8-speed automatic transmission, widely cited as Audi's most reliable powertrain combination. Quattro all-wheel drive is strongly recommended for all-weather capability and resale value. Prestige trim for maximum features, with specific praise for options like dual-pane acoustic glass and massaging seats. For pre-2016 gasoline models, a thorough inspection of the timing chain tensioner is advised. For TDI models, a comprehensive pre-purchase inspection focusing on the entire emissions system (DPF, SCR, EGR, NOx sensors) is considered essential.
General recommendations
Highly recommended for buyers seeking a stylish, comfortable, and practical luxury vehicle with proven mechanicals. Essential steps include: obtaining a full service history; conducting a pre-purchase inspection at a specialist European or Audi-specific independent shop; verifying functionality of infotainment (CarPlay) and climate control; and planning for higher-than-average maintenance costs. Owners strongly advise budgeting a repair reserve of $4,000-$6,000 USD. Maintenance should be proactive: oil changes at 5,000-mile (8,000 km) intervals instead of the manufacturer's 10,000-mile recommendation, and transmission fluid changes at 40,000-50,000 miles (64,000-80,000 km) despite Audi's "lifetime fill" claim. Purchase is best justified with significant depreciation, making a 3-5 year old, well-maintained example an excellent value proposition.
Remarks
Owner feedback is heavily skewed toward the C7/7.5 generation (2012-2018), which is perceived as a peak for the model's design and the reliability of its supercharged V6 powertrain. The subsequent C8 generation (2019+) receives less detailed commentary in the provided data, with one owner noting a perceived slight downgrade in exterior design versus the prior generation. The 3.0 TDI is praised for its drivability and efficiency but comes with a significant ownership caveat: the health and maintenance history of its complex emissions equipment is paramount, and repair costs can be extremely high. The consensus is clear: a well-maintained A7, particularly from the 2016-2018 period, offers an outstanding blend of luxury, performance, and practicality, but ownership requires financial preparedness for its maintenance schedule and potential repairs. Analysis based on approximately 40 substantive owner discussions and inquiries.
Generation by generation
Owner insights per generation and US complaint/recall records (NHTSA).
A7L2021–202614 complaints · 11 recallsmoderate confidenceRead report
Most-reported areas (NHTSA): engine (8) · electrical system (5) · back over prevention (2)
Our take, from owner reports
Owners of the 2021-2026 A7 describe it as a comfortable, smooth-riding, and visually striking car that is a pleasure to drive, with the 3.0L engine widely regarded as well-sorted and reliable when maintenance is kept up.
8 problems reported (1 recurrent, 7 isolated) · medium confidence
Problems owners report
- Recurrent48V alternator failure and related build/order delays
- IsolatedSpoiler occasionally stuck in the up or down position
Usually clearing on its own and linked to dirt.
- IsolatedInfotainment and display blackouts where screens go dark for a few minutes and systems stop working
+ 5 more issuesShow fewer
- IsolatedBluetooth disconnecting intermittently
- IsolatedDoor locking mechanism issue
- IsolatedAirbag warning triggered after PPF work, suspected disconnected bumper sensor
- IsolatedStarter failure leading to a lemon buyback
- IsolatedValve cover gasket and water pump wear around 80,000-100,000 miles
Is a 2021–2026 A7 right for you?
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A7 (C8)2017–202564 complaints · 31 recallshigh confidenceRead report
Most-reported areas (NHTSA): electrical system (35) · engine (18) · power train (8)
Our take, from owner reports
Owners of the C8 A7 largely describe it as a beautiful, comfortable, and enjoyable car to own and drive, with many calling it the best car they have owned and praising its interior, ride quality, and road presence.
18 problems reported (5 recurrent, 13 isolated) · high confidence
Problems owners report
- RecurrentAlternator failure
Reported as a common fault on earlier model years, expensive to replace, and sometimes covered under warranty.
- RecurrentRear spoiler sticking in the up or down position
Reported to clear on its own, often linked to dirt, and worsened by manual operation.
- RecurrentVolume knob malfunction requiring removal and contact cleaner
Described as an extremely common problem, with one owner reporting a dealer repair cost of around 1,300.
+ 15 more issuesShow fewer
- RecurrentCooling system leaks, including water pump and hose connector O-ring failures
Reported with crusty residue evidence, dealer disputes over whether a leak exists, and advice to use dealer parts.
- RecurrentBrake and tire running costs
Owners repeatedly note expensive tires, discs, and dealer brake jobs.
- IsolatedDrive start generator campaign
Reported as a campaign to replace units, with warranty extended beyond standard coverage.
- IsolatedFuel gauge sensor open recall
Reported as preventing CPO certification of 2019 models at the time.
- IsolatedCoolant temperature fluctuation within normal operating range
Reported as normal behavior by other owners.
- IsolatedSuspension and engine mount failures
One owner reported cracked suspension and engine mount vibrations costing around 5,000.
- IsolatedOil and cooler leaks requiring engine block removal
One owner reported roughly 5,000 in repair costs.
- IsolatedDoor lock faults, including a driver's door sticking in warm weather
One owner reported Audi quoting around 1,500 to replace.
- IsolatedSensor warnings for parking brake, gearbox, and adaptive cruise control clearing after restart
Attributed by the owner to system complexity.
- IsolatedParking sensor fault disabling parking assist
Reported as a persistent flagged fault.
- IsolatedBoot strut failure on the power tailgate
Noted as expensive to replace.
- IsolatedElectrical faults including multiple error codes, limp mode, and fuel gauge issues
One owner reported around 30 errors shortly after purchase, with suspicion of water ingress or a bad ground.
- IsolatedVirtual cockpit and infotainment freeze requiring restart
Reported to resolve after a restart or MMI reset.
- IsolatedHeadlight error messages when turning lights off
Reported as a minor persistent annoyance.
- IsolatedOil consumption
Mentioned as a general concern for older German luxury cars in this context.
Is a 2017–2025 A7 right for you?
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A7 (C7)2010–201881 complaints · 24 recallshigh confidenceRead report
Most-reported areas (NHTSA): air bags (15) · steering (15) · engine (14)
Our take, from owner reports
Owners overwhelmingly describe the 3.0T supercharged V6 as one of the most reliable engines Audi has built, with multiple reports of trouble-free operation well past 100k miles and one at 208k.
20 problems reported (7 recurrent, 13 isolated) · high confidence
Problems owners report
- RecurrentTiming chain tensioner wear requiring replacement (typically 75k-120k+ miles)
- RecurrentPCV valve failure
- RecurrentWater pump and thermostat housing leaks
+ 17 more issuesShow fewer
- RecurrentCarbon buildup on direct injection engines
- RecurrentMotor mounts leaking
- RecurrentCatalytic converter failure around 100k-120k miles (expensive, $7-9k for both)
- RecurrentS-tronic transmission mechatronic failure and leaking valve dripping on wiring loom (early models)
- IsolatedSunroof failure to open
- IsolatedWarped brake rotors
- IsolatedWheel bearing failure
- IsolatedFuel cap cover actuator failure
- IsolatedValve cover gasket leak
- IsolatedIgnition coil failure
- IsolatedACC camera module circuit board solder failure due to heat
- IsolatedACC false positives (detecting leaves, truck sensors as obstacles)
- IsolatedOil burning attributed to carbon buildup at high mileage
- IsolatedSecondary air injection code at high mileage
- IsolatedRear parking sensor corrosion in bumper wiring harness
- IsolatedExhaust cracking/rust (in salt-belt climates)
- IsolatedDiff mount ripped from subframe under hard driving (tuned car)
Is a 2010–2018 A7 right for you?
Get an answer for your year, mileage and budget.
Complaints and recalls by model yearWorst year: 2019. Years to avoid: 2021, 2019, 2013, 2012Source: NHTSA (US)Show table
Each year graded against the model's other years: Year Score. See all Audi A7 years to avoid
| Year | Complaints | Recalls | Most-reported area |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 14 | 11 | engine |
| 2020 | 6 | 8 | electrical system |
| 2019 | 43 | 6 | electrical system |
| 2018 | 0 | 2 | — |
| 2017 | 1 | 4 | service brakes |
| 2016 | 15 | 3 | air bags |
| 2015 | 5 | 3 | service brakes |
| 2014 | 11 | 2 | fuel/propulsion system |
| 2013 | 19 | 5 | electrical system |
| 2012 | 30 | 5 | air bags |
Complaint counts come from owner reports filed with the US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Higher-selling years naturally accumulate more complaints.
Recall notices49 on record · Source: NHTSA (US)Show recalls
2021 · seat belts:rear/other:retractorcampaign 21V606000
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2021 Volkswagen ID4, Audi A4 Allroad, A4 Sedan, A5 Cabriolet, A5 Coupe, A5 Sportback, A6 Allroad, A6 Sedan, A7, A8, E-Tron Quattro, E-Tron Sportback Quattro, Q3, Q5, Q5 Sportback, Q7, Q8, RS5 Sportback, RS5 Coupe, RS6 Avant, RS7, RSQ8, S4 Sedan, S5 Cabriolet, S5 Coupe, S5 Sportback, S6 Sedan, S7, S8, SQ5, SQ5 Sportback, SQ7, SQ8, and 2021-2022 S3 Sedan vehicles. The rear seat belt automatic locking retractors may deactivate early, which can prevent the child restraint system from securing properly. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 208, "Occupant Crash Protection."
2021 · tirescampaign 22V034000
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Audi) is recalling certain 2019-2021 Audi A5 Sportback, RS5 Coupe, RS5 Sportback, S5 Sportback, 2020-2021 A4 Allroad, A4 Sedan, A5 Cabriolet, A5 Coupe, A6 Allroad, A6 Sedan, A7, A8, Q5, S4 Sedan, S5 Coupe, S5 Cabriolet, S6 Sedan, S7, S8, SQ5, 2021 Q5 Sportback, Q7, Q8, RS6 Avant, RS7, RSQ8, SQ5 Sportback, SQ7, and SQ8 vehicles. The rear axle alignment may not have been inspected after the repairs for Recall 21V-295 (42L1) were performed.
2021 · air bagscampaign 21V159000
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Audi) is recalling certain 2021 Audi RS6 Avant, RS7, 2020-2021 A6 Allroad, S6 Sedan, S7, 2019-2021 A6 Sedan, and A7 vehicles. The score line on the passenger air bag may not have been manufactured correctly.
2021 · suspension:rear:axle:non-powered axle assemblycampaign 21V295000
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Audi) is recalling certain 2021 Q7, Q8, Q5 Sportback, SQ5 Sportback, RS6 Avant, RS7, RS Q8, 2020-2021 Audi S6 sedan, Q5, A8, S8, A7, A6 Allroad, A5 Cabriolet, A4 sedan, A4 Allroad, SQ5, S7, A6 sedan, S5 coupe, S4 sedan, S5 Cabriolet, A5 coupe, 2019-2021 RS5 coupe, A5 Sportback, S5 Sportback, RS5 Sportback vehicles. The lock nut on the trailing arm of the rear axle may break due to stress corrosion.
2021 · electrical system:instrument panel:fuel gauge:fuel level float/sensor/sending unitcampaign 22V155000
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Audi) is recalling certain 2021-2022 RS6 Avant and RS7, 2020-2022 A6 Allroad, S6 Sedan, and S7, and 2019-2022 A6 Sedan and A7 vehicles. The fuel level sender may stick, causing an inaccurate fuel level reading to be displayed on the instrument cluster.
2021 · back over prevention:display functioncampaign 22V742000
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."
2021 · electrical systemcampaign 22V861000
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Audi) is recalling certain 2020-2022 Audi S7, S6 Sedan, A6 Allroad, 2021-2022 RS7, RS6 Avant, 2019-2022 A7, and A6 Sedan vehicles. Liquid spilled in the rear seat may penetrate and cause the gateway control module to shut down.
2021 · service brakes, hydraulic:fluidcampaign 23V601000
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Audi) is recalling certain 2021 Audi S7, S6 Sedan, RS7, RS6 Avant, A6 Allroad, 2019-2021 A7, and A6 Sedan vehicles. An incorrectly labeled brake fluid cap may have been installed, which can result in the use of the wrong type of brake fluid.
2021 · electrical system:propulsion system:charging:cable/cord:onboardcampaign 23V842000
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Audi) is recalling certain 2022-2024 RS e-tron GT, e-tron GT, Q4 e-tron Sportback, Q4 e-tron, 2020-2021 Audi A8, 2019-2024 e-tron Quattro, 2020-2024 e-tron Sportback Quattro, Q5, and 2021-2022 A7 vehicles. When using the industrial 220V/240V plug at the 100% charge setting, some home power outlets may be incapable of handling the electrical current required to utilize the compact charging system, causing the outlet or charging cable to overheat.
2021 · electrical system: instrument cluster/panelcampaign 25V201000
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.
2021 · back over prevention: sensing system: cameracampaign 25V900000
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."
2020 · tirescampaign 22V034000
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Audi) is recalling certain 2019-2021 Audi A5 Sportback, RS5 Coupe, RS5 Sportback, S5 Sportback, 2020-2021 A4 Allroad, A4 Sedan, A5 Cabriolet, A5 Coupe, A6 Allroad, A6 Sedan, A7, A8, Q5, S4 Sedan, S5 Coupe, S5 Cabriolet, S6 Sedan, S7, S8, SQ5, 2021 Q5 Sportback, Q7, Q8, RS6 Avant, RS7, RSQ8, SQ5 Sportback, SQ7, and SQ8 vehicles. The rear axle alignment may not have been inspected after the repairs for Recall 21V-295 (42L1) were performed.
2020 · air bagscampaign 21V159000
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Audi) is recalling certain 2021 Audi RS6 Avant, RS7, 2020-2021 A6 Allroad, S6 Sedan, S7, 2019-2021 A6 Sedan, and A7 vehicles. The score line on the passenger air bag may not have been manufactured correctly.
2020 · suspension:rear:axle:non-powered axle assemblycampaign 21V295000
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Audi) is recalling certain 2021 Q7, Q8, Q5 Sportback, SQ5 Sportback, RS6 Avant, RS7, RS Q8, 2020-2021 Audi S6 sedan, Q5, A8, S8, A7, A6 Allroad, A5 Cabriolet, A4 sedan, A4 Allroad, SQ5, S7, A6 sedan, S5 coupe, S4 sedan, S5 Cabriolet, A5 coupe, 2019-2021 RS5 coupe, A5 Sportback, S5 Sportback, RS5 Sportback vehicles. The lock nut on the trailing arm of the rear axle may break due to stress corrosion.
2020 · air bags:frontal:passenger side:inflator modulecampaign 20V274000
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2020 Audi A6, A6 Allroad and A7 vehicles. The passenger air bag may not properly deploy through the instrument panel tear seam.
34 older recalls not shown. Check nhtsa.gov with your VIN for the full history.
Specifications
55 TFSI V6 Mild Hybrid quattro
3.0L 6-cylinder · 340 hp · AWD · automatic
Built 2021–2026