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2013 Audi Q7: common problems and reliability
· 2005-2015One of the weaker Q7 years.
43 owner complaints, most about fuel/propulsion system. 3 recalls.
Should I buy a 2013 Q7?The 2013 Audi Q7 has 43 owner-filed NHTSA complaints and 3 recalls on record. The most-reported areas are fuel/propulsion system and engine. Owners most often flag timing 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.
Safety record for the 2013 model year
Source: NHTSA complaints and recalls filed for 2013 Audi Q7 vehicles (US, public record).
The Year Score compares this year with other Q7 years only. How we score it
Is 2013 a good year for the Q7?
Across the 20 Q7 model years we track, complaint volume runs from 2 (2016) to 320 (2017). With 43 complaints, the 2013 Q7 sits above the model's median of 29.
These are raw NHTSA complaint totals, not adjusted for how many cars sold or how long each model year has been on the road. Older and higher-selling years accumulate more complaints.
Where owners report problems
Recalls affecting the 2013 Q7
fuel system, gasoline:delivery:fuel pump
Campaign 17V298000Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain model year 2013-2017 Audi Q5 and 2013-2017 Audi Q7 vehicles. These gasoline-powered vehicles have a fuel pump flange that may crack, allowing fuel to leak.
engine and engine cooling
Campaign 14V516000Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain model year 2013 Audi Q7 vehicles manufactured June 5, 2012, to November 29, 2012 and equipped with a 3.0L TDI engine. In the affected vehicles, a check valve in the engine may become contaminated with plastic debris and allow engine oil to leak into the brake booster.
equipment:other:labels
Campaign 23V086000Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Audi) is recalling certain 2009-2015 Q7 vehicles. The Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR) listed on the certification label is incorrect, which can allow the vehicle to be overloaded. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 110, "Tire Selection and Rims," and Part 567, "Certification."
What owners report on the 2005-2015 Q7
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.
- 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.
- 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.
Owner insights for the 2005-2015 Q7. Read the full 2005-2015 owner report.
Typical used price
Used Q7 listings typically run $16,459–$30,582.
Other Q7 model years
Compare every Q7 year side by side to see how 2013 ranks against the rest.
Compare the Q7 against its rivals
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