The 2021 Audi A8 has 12 recalls, the most serious involving a rear axle lock nut that can break and misalign the rear axle, causing loss of vehicle control, and a separate issue where moisture entering the engine control module can cause the engine to stall.
Several recalls address rear visibility. Multiple software errors can prevent the rearview camera from displaying an image when reversing, or cause it to appear with a delay. A related issue involves the infotainment screen failing to turn on at all, which also leaves the driver without a rearview image when backing up. A software fault can also cause the instrument panel to go blank, taking the speedometer and warning lights with it. On the charging side, the onboard charging cable can overheat and create a fire risk. There is also a seatbelt concern where a child restraint system may not be properly secured, raising the risk of injury in a crash. The rear axle misalignment issue noted above can additionally cause uneven or premature tire wear over time.
At a glance
What can fail
A software error may prevent the rearview camera image from displaying on the screen as intended.
What the fix does
Dealers will update the vehicle software at no cost to restore rearview camera display function.
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Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
A software error in the instrument panel module may cause the dashboard display to stop working.
What the fix does
Dealers will update the instrument panel module software at no cost to you.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
When charging at 100% using the 220V/240V portable charging cable, some home outlets lack sufficient capacity, causing the outlet or cable to overheat.
What the fix does
Dealers will replace the 220V/240V charging cable with a new one equipped with a temperature sensor at no cost. Use only 110V charging or public stations until replacement.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
The infotainment unit in the center console may fail, preventing the display screen from turning on at startup and stopping the rearview camera image from appearing when backing up.
What the fix does
Audi will mail you instructions to visit a dealership, where technicians will replace the infotainment unit.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
The infotainment system can suffer internal damage when the vehicle shuts off, causing the rearview camera display to stop working when you restart the vehicle.
What the fix does
Dealers will replace the infotainment main unit at no cost to you.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
A software issue may cause the rearview camera display to show a blank or black screen instead of the camera image when reverse gear is engaged.
What the fix does
Dealers will update the infotainment unit software at no cost to restore rearview camera display functionality.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
The rear axle alignment was not inspected after previous recall repairs were completed, which could result in improper wheel positioning and uneven tire wear.
What the fix does
Dealers will inspect rear axle alignment, adjust if needed, and replace any prematurely or unevenly worn tires at no cost.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
A software error may prevent the rear-view camera image from displaying initially when you shift into reverse.
What the fix does
Dealers will update the infotainment unit software parameters at no cost to restore rear-view display function.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
A software issue may delay the rearview camera image from displaying when you shift into reverse, potentially exceeding the 2-second regulatory requirement.
What the fix does
Audi will mail you instructions to visit a dealer, who will update your vehicle's infotainment unit parameters.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
The rear middle seat belt's automatic locking mechanism may stop working too early, preventing child car seats from being secured properly.
What the fix does
Dealers will inspect and replace the middle-rear seat belt assemblies at no cost to you.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
The lock nut securing the trailing arm on the rear axle can break due to stress corrosion, potentially affecting rear suspension stability.
What the fix does
Dealers will replace the lock nuts and associated bolts if needed at no cost to you.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
A sealing pin may be missing from the engine control module connector, allowing moisture to enter and potentially causing the control module to malfunction.
What the fix does
Dealers will inspect the connector for a missing sealing pin and install it if needed. The connector will also be checked for corrosion and replaced if necessary.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
