This page covers 4 recalls, 29 owner complaints and EPA fuel economy for the 2012 Audi Q7.
18–20 mpg combined
11.8–13.1 L/100km
Sport Utility Vehicle - 4WD
Fuel economy data from fueleconomy.gov (EPA / U.S. Dept. of Energy). Annual cost based on 15,000 mi/yr at 55% city driving and current fuel prices. MPG is U.S. gallons; L/100km converted. Ranges reflect the 2 tested variants for this model year.
The 2012 Audi Q7's complaint picture is led by fuel and propulsion system issues, which make up the largest share of reports, followed by engine-related complaints. On the fuel system side, owners frequently describe high-pressure fuel pump failures, abnormal fuel odors, and check engine lights that return repeatedly even after dealer diagnosis. Engine complaints center on excessive oil consumption, owners report needing to add oil every few days, noticing a burnt smell, and seeing low-oil warnings during normal driving. A smaller cluster of steering complaints describes heavy steering effort accompanied by loud grinding or buzzing when turning, with the problem appearing in some cases very shortly after purchase. The recurring check engine light theme cuts across both the fuel and engine categories, with owners noting that diagnostic findings often differ between visits.
29
Total Complaints
1
Crash-Related
By System
The 2012 Audi Q7 has 4 recalls, the most serious being two separate fuel leak risks that can result in a fire if fuel contacts an ignition source.
The fuel pump flange can crack and allow gasoline to escape from the tank area, and a second issue affects the fuel injection rail, where a leak can develop under pressure closer to the engine. These are distinct failure points, and both carry the same fire risk. It is also worth noting that an earlier repair attempt for the fuel pump flange issue, which used butyl tape as a temporary fix, may not fully seal the flange, meaning vehicles that received that interim repair remain at risk and are covered by a separate recall.
The remaining recall is a labeling issue: the certification label on certain Q7 vehicles lists an incorrect Gross Axle Weight Rating, which is the maximum load each axle is rated to carry. An inaccurate rating can lead owners or operators to load the vehicle beyond what its tires and suspension can safely handle, raising the risk of a loss of control.
At a glance
What can fail
The Gross Axle Weight Rating printed on the certification label is incorrect, which could allow the vehicle to be loaded beyond its safe weight capacity.
What the fix does
Dealers will apply an overlay label with the correct rear Gross Axle Weight Rating over the existing certification label at no cost.
We may earn a commission for purchases made through these links.
Complaints are owner-reported and reflect individual experiences, not confirmed defects. They are distinct from recalls. Data sourced from the national vehicle safety complaint database. See trending complaints →
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
The fuel pump flange may develop leaks. Earlier repairs used a temporary tape fix while permanent parts were being developed.
What the fix does
Dealers will replace the fuel pump flange and apply butyl tape as a permanent repair at no cost.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
The fuel pump flange may crack, causing fuel to leak from the fuel system.
What the fix does
Dealers will inspect the flange and replace it if cracked, or clean it and install a protective rubber band if intact.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
The fuel injection system's fuel rails and seals may develop a leak, allowing fuel to escape.
What the fix does
Dealers will replace the fuel rails and seals at no cost to you.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
