Photo: https://www.youtube.com/@barturban / CC BY 4.0 / Wikimedia Commons
Every generation
Power
0–62 mph (0–100 km/h)
Top speed (210 km/h)
Combined, EPA 2026
What owners say
Our take, from owner reports
Mixed sentiment with a clear generational divide.
8 problems reported (1 very frequent, 7 recurrent) · medium confidence
Problems owners report
- Very frequentHigh maintenance and repair costs
- RecurrentExcessive oil consumption in later models (e.g
1 quart every 1,500 miles considered "normal" by manufacturer)
- RecurrentDrivetrain malfunctions and major engine failures (2021+ generation)
+ 5 more issuesShow fewer
- RecurrentPremature brake wear (pads and rotors)
- RecurrentWater pump failures
- RecurrentInfotainment/software glitches (CarPlay disconnections, camera system failures)
- RecurrentThird-row seat space is very limited and not suitable for adults
- RecurrentComplex technology leading to expensive diagnostics and repairs
The version owners recommend
For the 2015-2018 generation, the 3.0L supercharged V6 gasoline engine is highly recommended for its balance of power and reported reliability. The 3.0L TDI is also praised for its torque and efficiency. For the current generation (2021+), the higher-trim Prestige models are noted for offering a fully-featured luxury experience with premium leather, advanced tech, and ambient lighting, making them the best value for the cost. The SQ7's twin-turbo V8 is acknowledged as "insanely fun" but comes with isolated reports of more frequent repairs compared to the V6.
Competitors to consider
Owners compare it most often with the BMW X5, BMW X7, Mercedes-Benz GLE, Mercedes-Benz GLS and Volvo XC90.
Is the Q7 right for you?
Get an answer for your year, mileage and budget.
Full owner reportHide full owner report
Overall sentiment
Mixed sentiment with a clear generational divide. Long-term owners of the 2015-2018 generation (particularly with the 3.0L supercharged V6 or TDI engines) report high satisfaction, praising solid reliability, excellent performance and handling, and a high-quality, comfortable interior. This generation is frequently described as a "great car" and "infallible" with proper maintenance. In contrast, feedback on the 2021+ generation (post-facelift) is notably more negative, with several owners reporting catastrophic and expensive mechanical failures, including repeated drivetrain malfunctions, engine replacements, and persistent oil consumption. Across all years, the Q7 is consistently praised for its refined driving dynamics, quiet cabin, and premium interior feel when well-equipped. However, there is a universal, very frequent acknowledgment that maintenance and repair costs are high, and ownership requires a dedicated budget for upkeep.
Positioning vs competitors
Positioned as a spacious, technology-focused luxury three-row SUV with superior handling and interior refinement compared to mainstream offerings like the Honda Pilot or Toyota Highlander, but often seen as offering better value and more standard features than direct German rivals. Compared to the BMW X5, the Q7 is frequently noted for having a more usable third row and a better value proposition when similarly equipped, though the X5 is often perceived as sportier. Versus the Mercedes-Benz GLE, the Q7 is reported to feel more spacious in terms of width and legroom. The Volvo XC90 is a common cross-shop, with the Audi often favored for its driving dynamics but the Volvo noted for its safety and interior design. Consensus indicates it is considered a more reliable and less costly long-term proposition than a Range Rover, but still firmly in the high-maintenance German luxury category.
Recommended configurations
3.0L engine (V6) over the 2.0L four-cylinder for adequate power in a heavy vehicle. Quattro all-wheel drive is assumed and recommended. Prestige trim for maximum features and interior luxury. For pre-owned models, a Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) purchase is strongly advised to secure an extended warranty. An independent pre-purchase inspection (PPI) from a specialist European mechanic is considered essential. Owners recommend setting aside a dedicated savings fund for maintenance and repairs. Using the correct, manufacturer-specified 0W-20 oil (VW 508 00/509 00 spec) is critical for later models to avoid consumption issues.
General recommendations
Suitable for families needing a spacious, comfortable, and refined three-row SUV with engaging driving dynamics. Recommended for buyers who prioritize interior quality and technology and are financially prepared for above-average maintenance costs. Strongly recommended to purchase with a comprehensive warranty, either factory, CPO, or a reputable third-party plan. NOT recommended for buyers seeking low-cost, minimal-maintenance ownership. Potential buyers of used models (especially 2021+) must budget for significant repair risks and should thoroughly investigate vehicle history. Leasing is a commonly suggested option for new models to mitigate long-term reliability concerns and high depreciation.
Remarks
Owner experiences are heavily dependent on model year and maintenance history. The 2015-2018 generation, particularly the 3.0L supercharged V6, has a reputation for robust longevity with proper care, with one report of 276,000 km (171,000 miles) with typical repairs. The 2021+ generation is associated with more severe and costly issues, including multiple reports of drivetrain failures and engine replacements costing over $20,000, leading some owners to label them "defective." The consensus is that meticulous, on-schedule maintenance using correct fluids and parts is non-negotiable for reliability. The vehicle is in its final model years as of 2026, with a new generation expected, suggesting current models have matured from early production issues. Analysis based on owner discussions spanning over a decade of model years.
Generation by generation
Owner insights per generation and US complaint/recall records (NHTSA).
Q7 III (G8)20261 complaints · 1 recallslow confidenceRead report
Most-reported areas (NHTSA): power train (1) · engine (1)
Our take, from owner reports
Owner sentiment for this generation is mixed and heavily dependent on which engine is chosen.
13 problems reported (1 very frequent, 4 recurrent, 8 isolated) · low confidence
Problems owners report
- Very frequent2.0 four-cylinder feels sluggish and underpowered for the vehicle's size
- RecurrentBrake squeal, especially at low speeds and light braking, described as loud as a school bus
- RecurrentOver-sensitive predictive control and pre-sense auto braking triggering on speed signs and false obstacles
+ 10 more issuesShow fewer
- RecurrentWireless charger overheats phones, causing thermal shutdown and Bluetooth disconnection
- RecurrentMinimal interior storage and few cubbies compared to mainstream SUVs
- Isolated48V mild-hybrid starter generator failure triggering red electrical warning and requiring towing
- IsolatedPlug-in hybrid immobilized for months awaiting repair with no fix from Audi
- IsolatedMMI screen failure requiring replacement
- IsolatedOil consumption and coolant/oil mixing requiring major engine service
- IsolatedApple CarPlay wireless connectivity issues resolved by switching to wired
- IsolatedTPMS light activation from temperature-related pressure drops
- IsolatedDoor closing requires extra force due to cabin pressure
- IsolatedKeyless system intermittently failing
Is a 2026–2026 Q7 right for you?
Get an answer for your year, mileage and budget.
Q7 (Typ 4M)2015–2026730 complaints · 43 recallshigh confidenceRead report
Most-reported areas (NHTSA): exterior lighting (156) · engine (155) · electrical system (143)
Our take, from owner reports
Owner sentiment for this generation is mixed and heavily dependent on engine choice and model year.
14 problems reported (1 very frequent, 5 recurrent, 8 isolated) · high confidence
Problems owners report
- Very frequentPCV/oil separator failure and excessive oil consumption (including the CREC 3.0T)
- RecurrentWater pump failure and coolant intrusion into the vacuum system
- RecurrentControl arm bushing and engine mount wear reported around 40k-80k miles
+ 11 more issuesShow fewer
- RecurrentBrake squeal/noise on the heavy SUV
- RecurrentMMI/CarPlay connectivity and screen glitches requiring reboots or software updates
- RecurrentDriver-assist and Pre-Sense false warnings, often tied to camera obstruction or software faults
- IsolatedAdaptive headlamp/DRL failure requiring full headlight assembly replacement
- IsolatedTiming chain rattle on cold start
- IsolatedSunroof leaks causing footwell water and TCM wire corrosion
- IsolatedAir suspension/strut airbag failure around 100k miles
- IsolatedRear camera system failure
- IsolatedOverhead light and electrical harness faults
- IsolatedPre-Sense braking abruptly in reverse on inclines
- IsolatedSteering rack replacement
Is a 2015–2026 Q7 right for you?
Get an answer for your year, mileage and budget.
Q7 II (Typ 4M)2015–2026730 complaints · 43 recallshigh confidenceRead report
Most-reported areas (NHTSA): exterior lighting (156) · engine (155) · electrical system (143)
Our take, from owner reports
Owners of the 2015-2026 Q7 broadly love how it drives, praising its handling for its size, its comfort and quietness on the highway, its real-world safety systems, and its overall blend of old-school solidity with modern tech.
18 problems reported (1 very frequent, 6 recurrent, 11 isolated) · high confidence
Problems owners report
- Very frequentBrake noise and squealing, often described as inherent to the aggressive factory brake setup
- RecurrentOil consumption requiring top-offs between changes, particularly on the 3.0T/CREC engine
- RecurrentPCV valve / oil separator failure, sometimes recurring after replacement
+ 15 more issuesShow fewer
- RecurrentWater pump failure, including coolant intrusion into the vacuum system
- RecurrentMMI / infotainment glitches including CarPlay connection failures and reboots, often improved by software updates
- RecurrentDriver assistance and Pre-Sense warning errors
Sometimes triggered by obstructed cameras or requiring a software update.
- RecurrentControl arm bushing and engine mount wear reported at relatively low mileage
- IsolatedAdaptive cruise control behavior described as aggressive, adjustable through driver assist settings
- IsolatedDoor closing difficulty requiring extra force
- IsolatedPre-Sense braking abruptly in reverse when sensors detect objects
With sensitivity not adjustable on later cars.
- IsolatedLane keeping assist described as overly aggressive
- IsolatedDRL failure requiring full headlight assembly replacement
- IsolatedRear camera or camera system failure
- IsolatedSunroof leaks causing footwell water and TCM issues
- IsolatedTiming chain rattle on startup
- IsolatedOil leaks from valve covers, oil filter housing, and timing covers
- IsolatedTPMS light requiring pressure storage reset
- IsolatedADAS recalibration needed after windshield replacement
Is a 2015–2026 Q7 right for you?
Get an answer for your year, mileage and budget.
Q7 (Typ 4L)2005–2015363 complaints · 27 recallshigh confidenceRead report
Most-reported areas (NHTSA): fuel/propulsion system (104) · engine (65) · electrical system (54)
Our take, from owner reports
Owners of the 2005-2015 Q7 describe a large, comfortable SUV with strong diesel torque, good highway fuel economy, and a design many still consider the best the model ever had.
21 problems reported (1 very frequent, 5 recurrent, 15 isolated) · high confidence
Problems owners report
- Very frequentTiming chain and guide wear requiring engine-out service
Reported across 3.6, 4.2, and 3.0T engines, typically around the 100k mark, with the chain at the back of the engine.
- RecurrentOil cooler failure
Described as a common issue and a pricey fix, around $1,400 at an independent shop.
- RecurrentPCV breather failure built into the valve cover, requiring full valve cover replacement
Reported on 3.6 and 4.2 cars, with repair quotes reaching $1,700.
+ 18 more issuesShow fewer
- RecurrentSunroof leaks causing water in the footwells and TCM or MMI damage from wire corrosion
Owners note the issue was reportedly addressed from late 2008 onward.
- RecurrentDEF system faults (injector, pump, tank heater) and NOx sensor failures on TDI models
Owners describe these as the biggest problem items on the 3.0 TDI.
- RecurrentBrakes and tires wearing quickly due to vehicle weight
Owners cite tire replacement every two years and brakes every three, with some reporting brakes every 20,000-30,000 miles.
- IsolatedAir suspension strut airbag failure around 100k miles
Parts alone cited around $1,000, with $2,000-$3,000 installed.
- IsolatedPaint bubbling around door handles and door edges
Described as common by the reporting owner, with warranty coverage pursued.
- IsolatedControl arm bushing wear
- IsolatedWiper arm failure, with the passenger arm detaching
Described as a common first-generation problem that eventually affects all examples.
- IsolatedFlex pipe failure
- IsolatedStarter motor replacement
- IsolatedTransmission slipping between 2nd and 3rd when cold
- IsolatedBattery located under the driver's seat requiring serial number coding at replacement
- IsolatedIntermittent starting issues traced to battery terminals
- IsolatedCoolant system air pockets and overheating after PCV work
- IsolatedUpper engine oil leak on the 3.0 TDI around 150,000 km
- IsolatedInjector failure on the 3.0 TDI, with one owner replacing six injectors at 120,000 km
- IsolatedEGR valve failure
- IsolatedInterior plastic failures such as seat backs, and cupholders described as poorly designed
- IsolatedHeadlight DRL failure requiring full headlight assembly replacement
Is a 2005–2015 Q7 right for you?
Get an answer for your year, mileage and budget.
Q7 I (Typ 4L)2005–2015363 complaints · 27 recallshigh confidenceRead report
Most-reported areas (NHTSA): fuel/propulsion system (104) · engine (65) · electrical system (54)
Our take, from owner reports
Owners of the 2005-2015 Q7 describe a vehicle that is genuinely enjoyable to drive and own when it has been properly maintained, praising its torque, highway fuel economy, ride quality, and durable 3.0 TDI and 3.0T powertrains.
24 problems reported (2 very frequent, 6 recurrent, 16 isolated) · high confidence
Problems owners report
- Very frequentBrakes and tires wearing quickly due to vehicle weight
- Very frequentHigh overall maintenance and repair costs
- RecurrentOil cooler failure
+ 21 more issuesShow fewer
- RecurrentTiming chain guide and tensioner wear requiring engine-out service
- RecurrentSunroof leaks causing water intrusion into footwells and near battery/MMI, leading to electrical and TCM issues
- RecurrentPCV breather failure requiring full valve cover replacement
- RecurrentDEF system and NOx sensor faults on TDI models
- RecurrentTiming chain rattle on cold start as a warning sign
- IsolatedPaint bubbling around door handles and door edges
- IsolatedControl arm bushing wear
- IsolatedAir suspension strut airbag failure around 100k miles
- IsolatedWiper arm failure on passenger side
- IsolatedBattery located under driver's seat requiring coding for replacement
- IsolatedCoolant system air pockets and overheating after PCV work
- IsolatedIntake valve cracking at high mileage
- IsolatedCylinder valley leaks requiring major reseal
- IsolatedIntermittent starting issues traced to battery terminals
- IsolatedFlex pipe failure
- IsolatedOil leaks from multiple seals at high mileage
- IsolatedTransmission slipping between 2nd and 3rd when cold on a high-mileage TDI
- IsolatedStarter motor replacement
- IsolatedWindow switch failure on driver's door
- IsolatedSeat back plastic failure
- IsolatedHeadlight DRL failure requiring full assembly replacement
Is a 2005–2015 Q7 right for you?
Get an answer for your year, mileage and budget.
Complaints and recalls by model yearWorst year: 2017. Years to avoid: 2021, 2019, 2018, 2017Source: NHTSA (US)Show table
Each year graded against the model's other years: Year Score. See all Audi Q7 years to avoid
| Year | Complaints | Recalls | Most-reported area |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 | 1 | 1 | power train |
| 2025 | 16 | 2 | unknown or other |
| 2024 | 2 | 3 | unknown or other |
| 2023 | 16 | 3 | electrical system |
| 2022 | 20 | 3 | engine |
| 2021 | 75 | 9 | electrical system |
| 2020 | 28 | 5 | electrical system |
| 2019 | 62 | 4 | steering |
| 2018 | 143 | 3 | engine |
| 2017 | 320 | 7 | exterior lighting |
| 2016 | 2 | 1 | seat belts |
| 2015 | 45 | 2 | engine |
| 2014 | 45 | 2 | fuel/propulsion system |
| 2013 | 43 | 3 | fuel/propulsion system |
Complaint counts come from owner reports filed with the US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Higher-selling years naturally accumulate more complaints.
Recall notices68 on record · Source: NHTSA (US)Show recalls
2026 · 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."
2025 · seat belts:front:anchoragecampaign 25V777000
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2025 Audi RS Q8, Audi Q8, Audi Q7, and Audi SQ8 vehicles. The driver and front passenger seat belt buckles may be missing a rivet that secures the buckle to the seat belt stalk.
2025 · 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."
2024 · air bags:side/windowcampaign 23V868000
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Audi) is recalling certain 2023-2024 SQ8, RSQ8, Q8, Q7, and 2024 SQ7 vehicles. The driver's seat side air bag may have been improperly mounted to the seatback frame. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 214, "Side Impact Protection."
2024 · air bags:sensor:occupant classification:front passengercampaign 24V251000
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2023 Audi S5 Cabriolet, A4 Allroad, Q5 Sportback, A3 Sedan, S5 Sportback, SQ7, TT Coupe, TT Roadster, RS5 Sportback, 2024 A8, E-Tron Quattro, E-Tron Sportback Quattro, Q8, RSQ8, 2023-2024 Q3, Q5, and Q7 vehicles. An electrical connection in the front passenger seat for the occupant detection system (ODS) control module may loosen and deactivate the front passenger air bag.
2024 · 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."
2023 · air bags:side/windowcampaign 23V868000
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Audi) is recalling certain 2023-2024 SQ8, RSQ8, Q8, Q7, and 2024 SQ7 vehicles. The driver's seat side air bag may have been improperly mounted to the seatback frame. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 214, "Side Impact Protection."
2023 · air bags:sensor:occupant classification:front passengercampaign 24V251000
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2023 Audi S5 Cabriolet, A4 Allroad, Q5 Sportback, A3 Sedan, S5 Sportback, SQ7, TT Coupe, TT Roadster, RS5 Sportback, 2024 A8, E-Tron Quattro, E-Tron Sportback Quattro, Q8, RSQ8, 2023-2024 Q3, Q5, and Q7 vehicles. An electrical connection in the front passenger seat for the occupant detection system (ODS) control module may loosen and deactivate the front passenger air bag.
2023 · 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."
2022 · back over prevention: sensing system: cameracampaign 21V825000
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Audi) is recalling certain 2021 Audi A8 and S8, 2022 Audi A5 Sportback, A4 Sedan, E-Tron GT, Q3, Q5, RS6 Avant, A3 Sedan, S5 Sportback, Q5 Sportback, Q7, Q8, RSQ8, SQ7, SQ8, and S3 Sedan vehicles. A software error may prevent the rear-view image from initially displaying when the vehicle begins to reverse. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 111, "Rear Visibility."
2022 · equipment:electrical:infotainment:video (touch)screen/monitor/unitcampaign 22V806000
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Audi) is recalling certain 2021-2022 AUDI A8, A6 Allroad, E-TRON Quattro, 2022 S3, RSQ8, RS7, RS6 Avant, Q8, Q7, Q3, E-TRON Sportback Quattro, S5 Cabriolet, E-TRON GT, S5 Sportback, A7, A6, A5 Sportback, A5 Cabriolet, A4, A4 Allroad, A3, S8, SQ7, SQ8, S6, and S4 vehicles. The infotainment main unit may become damaged internally when the vehicle is shut off, resulting in an inoperative rearview camera display the next time the vehicle is started. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 111, "Rear Visibility."
2022 · 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."
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 · electrical systemcampaign 20V749000
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Audi) is recalling certain 2021 Audi A6 Allroad, Q7, RS6 and RS7 vehicles. The electrical connector can detach from the door crash sensor in either of the front doors.
53 older recalls not shown. Check nhtsa.gov with your VIN for the full history.
Specifications
Enthusiast code: G8
2.9 TFSI V6 quattro 7 seats
2.9L 6-cylinder · 429 hp · AWD · automatic
Built 2026