Audi Q3 Complaints

72 consumer complaints on file.

#11687816September 17, 2025
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM, SEAT BELTS, UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Vehicle failed to start with many tries despite my own key fob. Initially displayed message with 'Theft' reference, then changed to "Checking remote access rights. Please wait..." on screen. Opening door triggered unexpected shocking alarm, which stopped after using fob to turn it off. Started to video record the situation after about a minute of failed start attempts. Vid lasts 41 secs until on.Two additional photos from myAudi app 'theft' & 'break-in', which was driver exiting vehicle triggering alarm. Prior issue with drivers seatbelt occurred with car in 'park' and ignition on, seat belt unexpectedly pulled occupant tight against seat. Seatbelt adjuster on seatbelt anchor point moved quickly up and down several times making whirring noises before abruptly stopping, releasing occupant after 10-15 seconds. As a 100% disabled veteran with severe neck damage this could paralyze me if happens while driving, and heart stopping shock. Vehicle in Brooklyn Service since 11th Sept. Mgr says today there are no faults in the system and no data to be collected. Even with video proof the service center lack resolution, and Mgr wanted me to pick up the car. I insisted they keep for further testing as it may need extended observation to replicate issue. I feel unsafe. My safety was put at risk due to the non-start incident happening late at night in a low lit area in Elizabeth/Newark not a good area potentially stranding me in an unsafe situation. A starting issue and an alarm malfunction, both of which are critical. This is the second safety issue in a brand new car, within 6 weeks of owning the car. There were no warning lamps, messages or other symptoms prior to failure. They first appeared after I unlocked with fob and sat inside. I caught a brief glimpse of a sentence containing the word "Theft", then unsuccessfully tried to start the car multiple times before I noticed the message telling me it was trying to check remote access rights.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11682906August 25, 2025
FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE: AUTOMATIC EMERGENCY BRAKING, UNKNOWN OR OTHER, ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Backup camera malfunctioned, and went black. It also didn’t stop me from backing into a car.
Crash:
Yes
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11681427August 18, 2025
ENGINE, UNKNOWN OR OTHER
I purchased a 2023 Audi Q3 and less than a year of owning the vehicle, I was driving when I lost power to the vehicle’s engine, with absolutely NO warning sign. Thankfully, I was able to pull over on the side of 95 and turn the car off, thinking maybe it was just overheating. I sat in the car for about 10-20 seconds before I saw a huge cloud of black smoke coming from the engine, that is when I got out of the car and called 911 immediately. As I was standing on the side of 95, with semi-trucks flying past me, I saw under the hood was pure flames. The 911 operator stressed I needed to walk away from the vehicle ASAP, and to not return for any of my belongings. About 2 minutes later, the entire car was engulfed in flames. Luckily, I was able to get my cell phone, to make the 911 call, but was not able to get any of my other belongings, purse, cards, laptop, ipad, etc. It took about 15-20 minutes for the police and fire department to come. They had to shut down 95 to control the fire, which took over an hour in total. The fire department came up to me 2 separate times asking if this was an electric vehicle because they were unable to contain the fire. I asked the sheriff what could have possibly caused this to happen, and that is when he stated it was most likely a manufacture defect since I had the car for less than a year and it had less than 50,000 miles on it. The police officer also stated that if I didn’t get out when I did, it was only a matter of seconds until I would have lost control of the vehicle entirely and burnt with it. I know this is a freak occurrence but to say I am traumatized and afraid to get behind the wheel, is an understatement. Especially knowing my guardian angels are the only reason why I am here and able to send this message.
Crash:
No
Fire:
Yes
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11681240August 18, 2025
BACK OVER PREVENTION
The contact owns a 2024 Audi Q3. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V082000 (Back Over Prevention). The contact stated that the camera was inoperable. The camera viewing distance was incorrect, and the camera image was flickering. There were no warning lights illuminated. The contact called the local dealer and was informed that parts were not yet available. The contact called several other local dealers, Audi Tysons Corner Service and Parts (8598 Leesburg Pike, Vienna, VA 22182), Audi Silver Spring (3151 Automobile Blvd, Silver Spring, MD 20904), Audi Arlington Service (3200 Columbia Pike, Arlington, VA 22204), and Audi Bethesda (5206 River Rd, Bethesda, MD 20816) and was provided the same information about parts availability. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 5,000.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11680371August 13, 2025
SEAT BELTS, ENGINE
The seatbelts on the rear passenger seats no longer recoil. The seats were hardly ever used which may be a reason even those it is a 2024 model. So right now the one behind the driver is 70% out and does not go in and the other side it goes in partially but it will never lock when it should be. The auto start stop has a failure The hydraulic hinges in the back stoped working and the trunk slams now. Since it now slambs it caused a failure of a hinge.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11674730July 19, 2025
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
The electrical system in the car had failed producing multiple warnings ranging from: speed control system: currently unavailable. See owner's manual Audi pre sense: currently limited. See owner's manual Audi pre sense: malfunction! Please contact service Tire pressure: malfunction! Please see owner's manual Steering: malfunction! You can continue driving Parking aid: malfunction! Obstacles cannot be detected Vehicle starting system: malfunction! Please contact service
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11673402July 14, 2025
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Audi has made it impossible for owners to disable the automatic unlocking of all doors when the vehicle is shifted into Park. This behavior creates a significant personal safety risk in several common situations—such as stopping to refuel, entering parking garages, transporting children, or when elderly or disabled passengers are inside. By automatically unlocking the vehicle in any location when shifted into Park, Audi eliminates the driver’s or passenger’s control over door security. This compromises safety, particularly in high-risk or unfamiliar areas. No option exists in the vehicle’s settings to disable this feature, and dealership personnel confirm that Audi offers no software or MMI control to adjust or disable this. Only third-party tools (e.g., OBDeleven, not endorsed by Audi) appear to allow any override for previous model years however nothing for 2024 or newer. This lack of control over vehicle security should be classified as a safety defect, especially given the increased risk of carjacking, unwanted entry, or harm to vulnerable passengers.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11673333July 14, 2025
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM, UNKNOWN OR OTHER
The air conditioning system is faulty. At random times, the back unit will stop working and at the same time, a vent in the front will begin to blow warm air with a burning smell.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11669274June 25, 2025
UNKNOWN OR OTHER, ELECTRICAL SYSTEM, POWER TRAIN
We are submitting this formal complaint regarding a recurring and unresolved issue with the HVAC (air conditioning) system in our 2024 Audi Q3 Quattro S Line. Since February 2024, we have consistently experienced failures in the climate control system, particularly after exposure to rainy conditions. Specifically: 1. The front air vents begin blowing warm air at random intervals, even when set to cool. 2. The rear vents completely shut off airflow during these instances. 3. This occurs most frequently during or after rain but now occurs in dry weather as well. We believe this issue compromises the safety and comfort of the vehicle's cabin environment. The manufacturer, Audi (Volkswagen Group of America), asserts this behavior is normal per FMVSS 103 regulations and the "cabin capacity requirements" of the Q3. Specifically stated in Audi Corp. email from March 6, 2025: “From the NHTSA homepage using the search bar>search FMVSS>Select NHTSA Statutes, Regulations, Authorities and FMVSS>Select FVMSS under Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards>Scroll down or utilize the table of contents to locate 571.103. Dimensions for the interior cargo space in your 2024 Audi Q3. - Headroom (Front/Rear): 39.6/37.6 in., Legroom (Front/Rear) 40/36.1 in., Cargo volume behind first row: 48 cu.-ft., Cargo volume behind second row: 23.7 cu.-ft” However, a review of FMVSS 103 (Windshield Defrosting and Defogging Systems) reveals no explicit requirement that mandates the rear vents be disabled during humidity control. Additionally, no documentation has been provided by Audi to substantiate this claim. This issue potentially violates FMVSS 103's intent, which is to ensure adequate visibility and cabin comfort. With passengers, especially children, experiencing unacceptable conditions in the rear seat, we urge the NHTSA to investigate whether: The behavior described is part of a broader defect pattern, 2. Audi's HVAC system logic conflicts with FMVSS standards or consumer safety expectations.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11664032May 30, 2025
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
I am reporting a recurring fuel system defect affecting my Audi Q3, consistent with Safety Recall 20YF – Suction Jet Pump. The problem began as difficulty refueling and now mirrors an identical issue I experienced with a previous Audi A3, which ultimately leaked fuel severely both while driving and when parked. That incident put me and my passengers in danger and caused breathing difficulties from fumes. The Q3 now shows the same early signs — gas pump shutoff, failed refueling attempts, and multiple $200 credit card holds at stations without fuel entering the tank. Audi replaced the tank in 2024, but the issue returned. This is not an ordinary maintenance issue — it is a serious safety hazard. Audi’s solution has been to keep replacing the part, while denying a vehicle replacement or compensation. They redirected me to BBB, but I felt it was necessary to report this publicly. If the gas leak recurs, it could lead to fire or poisoning. The fuel system should not fail like this, and I want to ensure no one else faces this danger. If anything happens to me as a result, I will pursue further legal action.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11663688May 29, 2025
UNKNOWN OR OTHER, ELECTRICAL SYSTEM, EXTERIOR LIGHTING
By the dome light, it leaks water when it is pouring rain very heavily. It also drips water by the passenger side shade visor. The dome lights will dim and get brighter consistently as it is dripping. the driver side headlight also gets foggy when it rains, which causes the one side of the vehicle not being able to see out from. The rain in the inside goes near the electrical outlets and sometimes gets into it, if i dont wipe the water away. At night time it is dangerous, with the lights dimming & getting brighter , while also leaking from the top as I have to dry it, try to turn the lights off and drive at the same time. No specific date this has occured, it has happened for approximately 3 months now.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11658803May 4, 2025
UNKNOWN OR OTHER, STRUCTURE:BODY, ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Water constantly leak from ceiling light in vehicle. Sunroof seal either need replaced. Leaking roof pose a serious risk of meeting in accident for it tamper with vision and electrical components. Passenger side rear door also making unseen sound
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11646861March 6, 2025
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
The car stalled while driving. There were no warning lights or indicators before the failure. The car was unable to be restarted so it was towed to a mechanic. It was discovered the car was out of gas however the gauge read there was still a lot of gas in the tank. We then took the car to an Audi service center and they informed us it was one of the gas tank sensors that was faulty. They replaced the first sensor and charged us $1k and that didn’t fix the problem so they contacted Audi and were told it was a faulty second sensor inside the gas tank and the only fix is to replace the whole tank. We opted not to replace the tank at this time. After further research I found that the sensor we had replaced is recalled on other Audi models of the same year recall #22V155 I believe more investigation and recall is needed to include the Q series Audis as well as further investigation into the gas tanks internal sensor that requires a replacement of the whole system.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11642776February 14, 2025
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM, ENGINE, FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE: AUTOMATIC EMERGENCY BRAKING
My 2021 Audi Q3 SUV had been very dangerous to drive stalling, stopping on the highway and shuttering for about two weeks. While I was going about 70 miles an hour my vehicle stalled. It lead to me almost being killed and rear ended. My vehicle had been displaying a stop start malfunction code and check engine light. I contacted Audi USA Roadside Assistance. Paloma R. Said they would help and towed me to Audi of Jacksonville on Atlantic. I was told the diagnosis was $300 and it would go towards fixing the vehicle. However, my vehicle was not fixed properly with them charging me $300 separate from the repair. My total came to $855, they are a scam. Alex told me over the phone that the $300 would apply to the balance. This is extremely deceptive and I feel they should be investigated. I’m still out of a vehicle with no safe way to get around. As soon as I left the dealership the check engine light was back on. It began to steer, and stop turning. Audi know the diagnosis will not solve the real issue. They also included a part on the repair list that was part of a known recall. The National Highway of Safety has flagged Audi Q3 for coolant leaks and issues. They quoted $657 for a part that would have been covered under a recall. I have a service bulletin. The real issue is listed as a turbo charge replacement which is $3,300. That will not fix my vehicle’s issue and they know it. It’s extremely predatory, after further investigation and research Audi doesn’t have a remedy for the stop start malfunction. Which cause engine failure and a dangerous driving hazard. Audi Of America knows the service will not fix the main problem of the stop/start malfunction. Even after $6,500 worth of repairs its false claims and most importantly a waste of money.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11642214February 12, 2025
SERVICE BRAKES, STEERING
I am reporting a serious braking system defect in my 2024 Audi Q3, which has persisted despite six separate repair attempts at an authorized Audi dealership. The defect causes severe vibration and pulsation in the steering wheel, brake pedal, and vehicle floor while braking at highway speeds, excessive brake noise coming from the rear brakes causes severe vibration, and the vehicle pulling to one side when braking, increasing the risk of loss of control and crash. These issues compromise braking performance and overall vehicle safety, making the vehicle hazardous to operate. Despite multiple repair attempts, including replacing the front brakes, the issue persists, indicating an unresolved defect in the rear braking system or a systemic problem with the braking components whereby an underlying issue. Audi’s technical support was involved in diagnosing the issue but failed to resolve the problem. Given that similar brake-related defects have led to numerous NHTSA recalls in other Audi models, I am concerned that this could be part of a larger pattern. This defect poses a serious safety risk to the driver, passengers, and other road users. I have documented my case with video evidence, repair orders confirming the ongoing complaints, email correspondence with the dealership, and an independent inspection report validating that the braking system is not functioning properly. Despite all this, Audi has been unable to remedy the defect. I urge NHTSA to investigate whether other 2024 Audi Q3 owners are experiencing similar braking issues, determine if this defect is related to previously issued Audi brake recalls, and assess whether this issue warrants a recall to prevent potential accidents. Given that this braking defect has not been resolved despite repeated repair attempts, further investigation is necessary before this defect leads to a serious accident. This issue has remained unresolved, and I request that NHTSA take immediate action to ensure consumer safety.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11632611December 27, 2024
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
The fuel pump is what the issues is with my 2022 Audi Q3 it has been replaced twice in three years of me having the vehicle the first time was in November 2022 a year after I got it came out of the store, and it would not start. The second time I was in a fast-food restaurant line, and it just cut off in line, so I had to try and get it started and out of the line before it cut off again got it tow into the dealership, and it was replaced again in November 2024.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11624785November 12, 2024
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES:DOORS:LATCH
The contact owns a 2024 Audi Q3. The contact stated that the doors automatically locked after exceeding 8 MPH. The contact was unable to unlock the doors from inside the vehicle. The contract stated that the doors could not be unlocked from outside the vehicle. The contact stated that it was impossible to unlock the doors after exceeding 8 MPH. The contact unlocked the doors; however, the doors relocked automatically. The contact was concerned about being locked inside the vehicle and not being able for anyone outside the vehicle to unlock the doors. There were no warning lights illuminated. The local dealer was contacted, but the vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was contacted and confirmed that the factory settings could not be changed. The failure mileage was unknown.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11613189September 7, 2024
BACK OVER PREVENTION: WARNINGS
Two issues: The rear view camera is not reliable. It sometimes fails to engage or becomes covered up by another graphics layer such as the user authentication screen. In some cases it comes late or the steering angles lines are rendered very late or missing. Second, the forward ultrasound park assist chimes often do not chime. The audio is ducked under other audio sources such as Spotify. This is quite serious and has almost caused some issues. Yet, if the alternate audio source is stopped, the adas chimes immediately become audible without moving the vehicle further. This issue has been reported to Audi for 3 years and despite best efforts, they have never applied a software fix citing none available. No dealership offers no remedy or escalation since it's hard to reproduce on demand. I have videos available upon request.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11609729August 20, 2024
TIRES
Tire Size p235/50r19 Bought car used with new tires on [XXX] is now 08/20 have driven car for roughly 2500miles and tires began losing air irregularly took into tire shop to find both fronts with severe separation damage and wear patterns on both front tires. Rear tires also experienced separation damage as well. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11604872July 27, 2024
SERVICE BRAKES
The brakes are making a loud grinding noise, especially when the car is first used from a cold start. I have taken it to Audi 2 times and been told it is multiple reasons that are causing it and they say there is no fixing it. First, I was told it had been sitting for a while and after they drove it the sound disappeared and would not come back. Second I was told it is because I live near the ocean, even if the car has only been in the are for a few weeks. Also, I was told keeping it in the garage won’t help. Third I was told it is a known problem by Audi and some of their cars make this horrible noise. Forth, I was told that since I bought the car in Nashville it most likely sat on the lot for a long period of time and the snow or water caused the problem. The report says the rotors had rust, and the pads were sticking to the rotors. I do not feel the car is safe to drive, and have little confidence that the brakes are safe. I have contacted Audi corporate, Audi Brentwood (who told me the car was fixed before I bought it) and Audi North in Sanford Florida who gave me all the other excuses and stated repeatedly that this noise is a normal problem with Audi. Please help!
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0

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