2024 Audi Q8 Owner Complaints

On [XXX] about [XXX], I was driving my 2024 Audi Q8 e-tron Premium Plus (VIN [XXX]) in a private parking garage while on the clock for work. I had just left a work meeting and was traveling back to my office. I was backing out of a parking space next to a concrete column when my passenger-side mirror contacted the column. The vehicle’s proximity sensors beeped, which appeared normal. I then pulled forward slowly to straighten the vehicle and assess the mirror. My foot was initially on the accelerator because I was attempting to move forward slowly. The vehicle suddenly jerked and accelerated extremely rapidly and unexpectedly. I immediately moved my foot completely from the accelerator to the brake. I am certain I was not touching the accelerator. The brake pedal felt normal, but the vehicle continued accelerating and would not stop. The vehicle struck a second concrete column approximately one parking space away with substantial force. The impact stopped the vehicle. The vehicle remained powered on after the collision. There was no apparent collision-assistance intervention. I did not observe a brake-system or collision-assistance warning immediately before the event. I was not yet wearing my seatbelt because I was still maneuvering out of the parking space. My head struck the rearview mirror during the collision, causing an avulsion wound to my forehead requiring stitches. I was treated in the ER, underwent CT imaging, and was kept overnight for observation. After the crash, I discovered that my exact VIN has an unrepaired NHTSA safety recall 26V240 / Audi 46P7, issued April 15, 2026. The recall concerns the brake pedal input rod/brake booster actuator rod connection, which may disconnect and result in loss of normal braking. I received the recall letter in April but had not yet had an opportunity to take the vehicle to Audi before the crash. letter did not instruct me not to drive the vehicle. I’m concerned the defect caused the acciden INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA),

NHTSA ID

11756593

Incident

Aug 5, 2026

2024 Audi Q8 e-tron, VIN [XXX], [XXX]. Vehicle has had four documented electrical/drive system malfunctions in 12 months, all tied to high heat. We regularly drive our [XXX] child in this vehicle and no longer feel safe doing so. XXX: Electrical system malfunction warning while driving. Taken to Audi dealer. XXX: Same malfunction recurred, taken to Audi dealer again. Both times dealer advised waiting for cooler temps rather than repairing the vehicle. Mid-XXX: Charging began degrading in extreme heat. Day before report: Charging stopped completely, leaving vehicle unusable. Day of report: Drive system malfunction error, vehicle would not shift into drive, had to be towed. A dealer service advisor confirmed Q8 e-tron batteries commonly degrade and fail in Arizona heat and described it as a known regional issue. Safety concern: this vehicle repeatedly loses drive function and charging capability without warning in extreme heat, creating a real risk of being stranded on the road, including with a young child in the car. This is not a comfort or convenience issue, it is a recurring safety failure that Audi has been made aware of multiple times without resolution. Documentation available: text correspondence with Audi, dealer service records, tow record. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

NHTSA ID

11754181

Incident

Aug 1, 2026

Opened passenger door, then closed it. Door would not latch and could not be closed or secured despite numerous attempts. Had to tie door shut via interior to safely get vehicle to repair shop. No warning or error lights came on besides door ajar warning. The handles and locking mechanism on this q8 etron have already failed and been replaced numerous times.

NHTSA ID

11750180

Incident

Jul 13, 2026

While operating my 2024 Audi Q8 e-tron at 30 mph, I attempted to slow the vehicle to make a turn. Upon pressing the brake pedal, the regenerative braking system failed to engage properly, and the expected deceleration did not occur. The brake pedal felt very soft and the vehicle continued to move forward with nearly no braking force, despite significant pressure being applied to the pedal. The failure appears to be a total malfunction of the 'brake blending' system—the critical handover between the electric regenerative system and the hydraulic friction brakes. Even as a secondary safety measure, the hydraulic brakes failed to provide adequate stopping power. This resulted in a significantly extended deceleration distance that nearly caused a collision. No warning lights appeared on the dashboard prior to this event, making the failure sudden and unpredictable. Please note that this happened shortly after driving 10 miles on a very hilly road and extensively using paddle shifters while driving downhill to force battery charging. The breaks continued to have issues for the next 2h of driving and didn't work as expected for about 60% of the time. The next day, I tried driving short distance and was not able reproduce the problem. This happened on March 21, 2026 between hours of 2 and 4pm.

NHTSA ID

11726513

Incident

Mar 21, 2026

CHARGING SYSTEM DEFECT: The manufacturer-supplied portable charger (rated 9.6kW at 240V/40A) delivers only 7.4kW — a 23% shortfall. The authorized dealer confirmed this measurement in March 2026 but refused to repair, stating "no issues." The charging rate also degrades over time without manual reset. The vehicle also intermittently fails to charge at DC fast charging stations — it begins charging, then stops within minutes displaying "Malfunction of charging" error. Other EVs charge normally at the same stations. SAFETY RISK: Charging failures create a stranding hazard. The vehicle can fail to charge at public stations without warning, leaving the driver unable to complete trips. REPAIR HISTORY: 5+ visits to two authorized dealerships over 10 months (May 2025–March 2026), 16+ days out of service. No fix — returned each time as "no fault found" despite video evidence of failures shown to dealer at every visit. Manufacturer corporate support also failed to resolve. Dealer found DTCs for charger communication faults. A demand letter was sent to manufacturer — no response received. Vehicle and charger available for inspection.

NHTSA ID

11725412

Incident

Nov 8, 2025

Hello, I would like to bring the below serious safety concern to your attention which will likely require a recall to be performed: I brought my vehicle to an Audi dealership (Audi of North Austin, TX, USA) and physically demonstrated the issue, which is that the INTERIOR door handle (on all doors) will NOT unlatch unless the passenger pushes on the door while the door handle is pulled. This vehicle has an electronic door latching system and it will remain latched after the door handle is pulled open if the passenger does not also push on the door while pulling the handle. If the door is pushed a few seconds after the handle has been opened (and remains open) the door WILL NOT OPEN. Additionally, there is a safety direct cable connection to the latch that often does not work on the first try either and can experience the same issue. This poses a major safety concern because in the case of an emergency the passenger or driver may not be able to exit the vehicle promptly and could be stuck inside. Also, if the vehicle ends up on its side and the door must be opened upwards, it will NOT open even if the door handle is being pulled unless the passenger also pushes on the door at the same time as pulling the handle. For safety reasons, the door handle latch must remain open when the handle is in the open position however this is not the case, the handle being pulled only momentarily unlatches the door. I brought this issue to our AUDI technician and they confirmed that ALL similar models with the same door handle style had the exact same operation with this same issue. They confirmed that it is not unique to my vehicle, and they denied any safety concerns that I had. They have sent me home with the issue unprepared. I have the messages between the dealership and myself confirming that the issue is widespread. Heres a shared video on Google Drive explaining in detail: [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

NHTSA ID

11722548

Incident

Mar 6, 2026

Brake rotors warped around 33k miles under standard operating conditions. Manufacturer refused to replace under warranty. On an EV, this is completely unacceptable mileage to replace brakes (should last 70-100k or more). Research shows others with this model encountering similar issues. There must be a defect with these rotors.

NHTSA ID

11722250

Incident

Mar 5, 2026

Two years of break issues where the breaks shudder badly on and off - whole breaking system was replaced and problem still occurs to the point my wife won't drive the car because of the shuddering - audi deny the problem even though they replaced all the braking system - its a well known design fault - Audi has to take responsibility!

NHTSA ID

11720162

Incident

Dec 1, 2024

Owner: Jyima Ofori-Atta Vehicle: 2024 Audi Q8 E-Tron (55) VIN: WA15AAGEXRB031696 Current Mileage: Approximately 6,335 miles Dealer: Audi Van Nuys, Sherman Oaks, CA Lease Start Date: February 1, 2025 Car charging issue I recently received my vehicle back from service following an extended stay related to recurring charging system and software issues. While the vehicle has been returned to me, my primary concern is the likelihood that the same charging failure will occur again, as it has multiple times in the past. Due to the history of unresolved charging failures and the absence of a clearly communicated permanent fix, I am extremely concerned about the vehicle’s reliability moving forward. Since taking delivery of the vehicle, I have experienced multiple charging system failures that rendered the vehicle unable to charge and therefore inoperable. Charging failures occurred unpredictably and without warning. The issues were not limited to a single charger and occurred using both home and public charging stations. When the charging system fails, the vehicle cannot be driven once battery charge is depleted. These failures have resulted in repeated loss of use and extended service visits. Because this is an electric vehicle, reliable charging is essential to basic operation. Given the history of failures: I am fearful of relying on the vehicle for daily transportation. There is ongoing concern about being stranded if the charging system fails again. The unpredictability of the issue has created significant stress and hesitation in using the vehicle as intended. This concern is not hypothetical; it is based on repeated past incidents.

NHTSA ID

11712760

Incident

Jan 3, 2026

Whenever the physical brakes are engaged during daily "brake cleaning" during the first mile of driving, or whenever the regenerative brakes do not engage, or when the physical brakes are engaged under heaving braking where the regenerative braking system's braking capacity is exceeded, the vehicle shudders as the brakes grip and slip. When inspected by Audi of Mendham, the service technician noted the rotors were "warped" and had "debris build-up". Despite the vehicle performing daily "brake cleaning", the build-up has remained. Despite normal use of the vehicle over the past 22,000 miles over two years, the rotor have warped causing inconsistent brake pressure to be applied. Under heavy braking where the regenerative system is exceeded, this could cause the vehicle to swerve due to uneven brake pressure being applied across the four wheels.

NHTSA ID

11703951

Incident

Dec 2, 2025

1. Failed/Malfunctioned Component: March 2025 - Air Conditioning (A/C) control valve, May 2025 - A/C line and seals. 2. Safety Risk: I heard an explosion underneath the vehicle shortly after parking the vehicle in a shopping center. Upon quick inspection, I did not initially observe any obvious broken parts, components, nor any warning lamps, messages or symptoms. The following day while charging the vehicle in my garage, I noticed a fluid leak emitting from under the vehicle. The fluid was identified as R1234YF refrigerant, which is flammable. The risk of that fluid igniting is even greater while the vehicle is charging. 3. The problem was reproduced by the dealer under both incidents (A/C control valve failure & A/C lines and seals explosion) and confirmed as a manufacturer defect. 4. The vehicle was inspected, serviced, and repaired at an authorized dealership on two occasions. 5. Warning lamps, messages, or other symptoms? Symptom in first instance was failure to blow cold air. Symptoms in second incident - fluid leak was detected, shortly after turning on the vehicle A/C failed to blow old air.

NHTSA ID

11700974

Incident

May 23, 2025

Front passenger door doesn’t always open when using the inside door handle. When you pull the door handle the door partially unlatches not allowing the door to open. You must then release the door handle and then repull the handle for the door totally unlatch and open. I was told by the dealership that these electric door latch’s are poorly designed. Cars been in the dealership 6 times for this in the past 2 months and it’s still not fixed.

NHTSA ID

11694279

Incident

Oct 2, 2025

I have experienced a persistent brake vibration issue since I first acquired my 2024 Audi Q8 e-tron in December 2023. The vehicle has required two full brake rotor and pad replacements within 12,000 miles, which is highly abnormal and suggests a fundamental defect in the braking system. Audi North Miami acknowledged the issue and replaced the rotors and pads under warranty in October 2024. However, just four months later (February 2025), the exact same issue reoccurred, and now Audi is refusing to cover the repairs, claiming it is normal wear and tear. Brakes are a critical safety component, and the fact that a luxury SUV requires two full brake replacements in such a short period raises serious concerns about engineering defects or improper installation. This defect increases stopping distances and affects braking performance, putting the driver, passengers, and others at risk. I urge NHTSA to investigate whether the Audi Q8 e-tron braking system is defective and if other consumers have reported similar failures. This is a serious safety issue that should not be ignored."

NHTSA ID

11643025

Incident

Jan 15, 2024

I was approaching an intersection with my left hand turn signal on and there were no cars oncoming and none behind me. As I went to turn the car slammed to a stop and I couldn't turn. I thought someone slammed into the back of me. The cars that were on the sides of the car at the traffic lights were alarmed as well. I had to back up and wait at the light. It was so dangerous, if the other cars weren't paying attention someone would have t-boned me and who knows what would have happened. My back and neck especially hurt for a few days. I immediately called the dealer and they said they never heard of that happening. I went through the car system and was able to turn off the pre sense, assuming that is what it is. It then happened AGAIN to my husband driving the car in the middle of an intersection making a left hand turn a week later. Someone almost hit him. This is a terribly unsafe program in the car. It is going to cause a bad accident. I don't know if there is a malfunction in my car or what but I don't feel safe driving this new car and I just signed a lease.

NHTSA ID

11640208

Incident

Jan 21, 2025

On 3 separate occasions the vehicle has abruptly stopped while making a left turn endangering our lives. The pre-sense automatic braking malfunctions and stops the vehicle as we begin a left turn. The turn signal is engaged and the car incorrectly determines it needs to perform an emergency braking action. The only oncoming traffic is 200 yards or more away. In addition the lane keeping assistance on the vehicle in many cases also malfunctions abruptly steering the car into a left hand turn lane. We reported the issues to Audi service and they took no action other than informing us of some update coming in 2025.

NHTSA ID

11638317

Incident

Jan 23, 2025

Complaint Regarding Brake Safety Issue – 2024 Audi e-tron Q8 Launch Edition Under Warranty While driving my 2024 Audi e-tron Q8 Launch Edition, I encountered an accident ahead and had to brake hard. As I applied the brakes, the entire car began to shake violently, nearly causing me to lose control. Prior to this incident, I had already experienced pulsating braking at lower speeds, which made the vehicle feel unsafe. After the incident, I noticed that the car no longer brakes evenly, even at low speeds. I brought the vehicle to Rusnak Audi Service Department, where Service Advisor Jorge Canul initially stated that the issue was "normal" and attributed it to the front motor. When I expressed concerns about safety and requested further investigation, I was later informed that the issue was related to the rotors. Despite the fact that my vehicle is under the Audi factory warranty and Audi-paid maintenance program, I was told that Audi does not cover rotor replacements, even though the rotors show minimal wear and the original brake pads still have 95% remaining life. Additionally, my own research online revealed that numerous other owners of the 2024 Audi e-tron Q8 Launch Edition have reported similar braking issues, raising further concerns about a potential widespread defect. I am submitting this complaint because I believe the braking issue poses a serious safety risk and should be addressed under warranty, as it affects the vehicle's ability to operate safely under emergency braking conditions. Thank you for your attention to this critical matter.

NHTSA ID

11638315

Incident

Nov 12, 2024

Our Audiu Q8 has had a host of safety issues since purchased in December 2023 and we have been denied or delayed on a buyback twice. The vehicle has been unable to be moved 3 times due to battery (12V and relay) issues that left my wife and [XXX] stranded at home. On one occasion the vehicle could not be moved by the tow service whatsoever. The charging system cable (known to cause fire hazard by Audi with open safety bulletins) created a fire in our 240 outlet box and also melted the plug and connected cable. The vehicle also continues to read road signs on exit ramps and hard brake check almost causing accidents while driving on the highway with cruise control. The feature for traffic sign recognition is tuned off but the vehicle continues to do this hard and sudden brake checking. Audi continues to drag their feet on repairs and still has not reimbursed us for electrical expenses from the fire damage over 6 weeks later. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

NHTSA ID

11624364

Incident

Oct 1, 2024

Driving at 70 mph car lost power to wheels and coasted to stop. No response from accelerator. Battery was charged about 60%

NHTSA ID

11603254

Incident

Jul 3, 2024

I have two Q8 Etron, and this q8 is also having the same issue as my other q8. When the windows are open half way, and the driver is trying to close the window because the car is moving faster speed, the window automatically retracts and opens the window even lower. this is really distracting to the driver especially when there is a safety hazard on the road or the weather. please address this issue to improve safety of the vehicle

NHTSA ID

11592043

Incident

May 31, 2024

From the first day I purchase the vehicle, even when the sales person was walking me through the vehicle, the vehicle window was constantly retracting itself lower when i tried to close it. When the window is half way open, and the driver is trying to close the window, the window automatically retracts and lowers the window. causing distraction for the driver and safety hazards from the road and environmental conditions.

NHTSA ID

11592042

Incident

Jun 1, 2024

The contact owns a 2024 Audi Q8. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V842000 (Electrical System) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was not contacted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. Parts distribution disconnect.

NHTSA ID

11574529

Incident

Feb 28, 2024