2023 Audi e-tron Problems: Recalls, Complaints & TSBs

The 2023 Audi e-tron, while offering advanced electric vehicle technology, has been subject to several notable issues that owners should be aware of. Key concerns include a critical recall for potential charging cable overheating, which poses a fire risk, and another for possible brake pedal detachment that could lead to a loss of braking function. Additionally, owners have lodged serious complaints regarding sudden unintended acceleration. This comprehensive reliability profile examines these and other 2023 Audi e-tron problems, including various manufacturer service bulletins, to help owners and prospective buyers understand potential risks and necessary actions.

At a glance

The 2023 Audi e-tron has been involved in 3 safety recalls, addressing critical components like the charging system, brake pedal, and rearview camera. Owner complaints, though few at 4, highlight severe safety concerns such as sudden unintended acceleration and electrical system failures. There are no open federal investigations into the 2023 Audi e-tron at this time, but Audi has issued 20 manufacturer service bulletins to assist technicians with diagnostics and repairs for a range of issues.

Recalls

Owners of the 2023 Audi e-tron should be aware of several important safety recalls issued by Audi and the NHTSA.

Charging System and Fire Risk

Audi has issued a recall, NHTSA ID 23V842000, concerning the 220V/240V compact charging cable. This recall affects certain 2019-2024 e-tron models, including the 2023 Audi e-tron, due to a risk of the charging cable or home outlet overheating, which can significantly increase the risk of fire. Owners are strongly advised to use 110V charging or public charging stations until the remedy is completed.

Brake System

A critical recall, NHTSA ID 26V240000 (Audi Recall 46P7), addresses a potential issue where the brake pedal may detach from the brake booster. This defect could lead to a sudden loss of brake function, increasing the risk of a crash. This recall impacts certain 2019-2024 E-Tron and 2020-2024 E-Tron Sportback vehicles, including the 2023 Audi e-tron.

Rearview Camera Display

Another recall, NHTSA ID 25V900000 (recall 90TV), identifies a software error that can prevent the rearview camera image from displaying. This issue affects various 2019-2026 Audi models, including the e-tron, and increases the risk of a crash due to reduced visibility when backing up. Dealers will update the software free of charge to resolve this problem.

Owner complaints

Despite the relatively low number of complaints for the 2023 Audi e-tron, several reports highlight serious safety concerns.

Sudden Unintended Acceleration

Multiple owners have reported instances of sudden unintended acceleration. One owner filed a complaint, NHTSA ID 11680439, detailing multiple occurrences, including one that resulted in a crash. Another complaint, NHTSA ID 11664743, also describes a collision caused by unintentional acceleration, noting that the vehicle's pre-sense system and airbags failed to deploy.

Electrical System Malfunctions

An owner reported a severe electrical system complaint, NHTSA ID 11605340, detailing a sudden vehicle malfunction, forceful braking, and an "emergency SOS warning" on the dashboard. This incident escalated during a software update, leading to a locked-up module and vehicle immobility.

Power Train Issues

One complaint, NHTSA ID 11570585, describes a power train issue where the 2023 Audi e-tron failed to accelerate from a stop. Despite the owner's experience, the dealer was unable to duplicate the problem, and no warning lights were illuminated.

Federal investigations

No federal investigations have been opened against the 2023 Audi e-tron.

Service bulletins

Audi has released numerous Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) to address various issues and provide diagnostic guidance for the 2023 Audi e-tron. These bulletins help technicians resolve common 2023 Audi e-tron problems.

AC/DC Charging Not Possible: TSB 2081154/1 provides information for owners experiencing issues with AC/DC charging, specifically highlighting problems linked to software version 00C6: 0093/3119, which can prevent the vehicle from charging.
MMI Software Update for Connectivity: TSB 2079133/4 addresses MMI connectivity issues and "Emergency call fault" messages in vehicles equipped with MIB3. A software update is available to ensure proper function of infotainment and safety systems.
12V Battery Discharged: TSB 2080517/2 (superseding TSB 2080517/1) outlines diagnostic procedures for a discharged or malfunctioning 12V starter battery, helping technicians differentiate between actual faults and other causes.
Steering Wheel Creaking Noise: TSB 2080117/2 (superseding TSB 2080117/1) addresses creaking noises from the steering wheel trim, providing a lubrication procedure to resolve the issue caused by a lack of lubricant from the factory.
Rear Lid Opens Unintentionally: TSB 2074727/2 explains instances where the rear lid (trunk or tailgate) opens or closes unintentionally, particularly during cleaning, due to the sensor-controlled luggage compartment unlocking system.
Audi Connect Services and SOS LED Not Working: TSB 2061028/9 addresses issues where Audi Connect services are unavailable and the SOS LED does not turn green after Pre-Delivery Inspection (PDI), outlining the complex SIM activation process.

Should you be worried?

For the 2023 Audi e-tron, the presence of multiple safety recalls, particularly those involving the charging system (fire risk) and brake pedal (loss of function), warrants serious attention. While owner complaints are few, the reports of sudden unintended acceleration are extremely concerning and highlight potential critical safety flaws. The numerous service bulletins indicate that Audi is actively addressing various technical and software-related 2023 Audi e-tron problems, but owners should remain vigilant regarding these known issues.

What 2023 Audi e-tron owners should do

Check for Recalls: Immediately check if your vehicle is affected by the charging cable overheat recall (23V842000) and the brake pedal recall (26V240000) using your VIN on the NHTSA website or Audi's recall checker. Ensure all open recalls, including the rearview camera software update (25V900000), are completed by an authorized dealer.
Follow Charging Advisories: If your vehicle is part of the charging cable recall, adhere to Audi's recommendation to use 110V charging or public charging stations only.
Report Sudden Acceleration: If you experience any instances of sudden unintended acceleration, document the event thoroughly and report it to both Audi and the NHTSA immediately.
Discuss TSBs with Dealer: If you encounter issues like charging problems, MMI malfunctions, 12V battery discharge, or steering noises, mention the relevant TSB numbers (e.g., TSB 2081154/1 for charging) to your Audi service center to ensure they apply the correct diagnostic and repair procedures.
Monitor for Electrical Warnings: Pay close attention to any dashboard warnings, especially "emergency SOS warning" or unexpected vehicle behavior, and seek professional diagnosis promptly.