Summary
The Audi Q7 has 22 recalls spanning the 2007–2021 model years, with the most serious recent concern being a steering shaft bolt on 2017–2019 models that can loosen and detach completely, leaving the driver with no steering control.
On the 2020–2021 models, the front passenger airbag control module can fire the second stage of the airbag too quickly when a child is in the front passenger seat, raising the risk of injury in a crash. The 2020 model also has a windshield-mounted front camera heating element that can overheat due to a software compatibility issue, creating a fire risk. On 2018–2020 models, the C-pillar padding may not absorb enough impact energy in a crash, increasing head injury risk for an unbelted occupant. The 2019 model has a separate airbag concern where side curtain airbags may fail to inflate in a crash. Also on 2019 models, front shock absorber forks can crack, allowing the shock absorber to work loose until the tire contacts the wheel housing and steering control is compromised.
The 2017 model year carries a heavy recall load. Beyond the steering bolt issue shared with 2017–2019, some 2017 vehicles have frontal airbags that can deploy with excessive force in certain crashes, and others may have airbag or seatbelt pretensioner igniters that fail to fire properly, leaving occupants without full restraint protection in a crash. The 2017 third-row seat back can also fold forward under crash loads, failing to restrain rear occupants. A narrow group of 2017 vehicles has an electric power steering assist unit that can short-circuit, requiring significantly more steering effort particularly at low speeds.
Going back further, 2013 models with the 3.0L diesel engine have a check valve that can become contaminated and allow engine oil to migrate into the brake booster, eventually rupturing the booster diaphragm and reducing braking power. The 2013 model also shares a fuel pump flange cracking issue with broader early-generation production. On 2007–2012 models, the fuel pump flange can crack and leak fuel, and on 2011 models there is a separate fuel injection system leak under certain driving conditions; both create fire risk near ignition sources. The 2009–2015 model years have an incorrect rear axle weight rating on the compliance label that can lead to overloading the vehicle.
