2021 Audi A4 Safety Report
2021 Audi A4: Strong Crash Ratings, But Multiple Recalls and Unintended Acceleration Complaints Raise Concerns
AI Safety Analysis for the 2021 Audi A4
Reliability Score
The 2021 Audi A4 receives a reliability score of 65 out of 100 based on analysis of NHTSA complaint data, recall history, crash reports, and safety ratings. This indicates average reliability — some notable concerns exist that prospective buyers should be aware of.
Known Issues for the 2021 Audi A4
The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2021 Audi A4:
| Issue | Severity | Frequency | Typical Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Instrument Cluster Failure Instrument cluster stops working, displaying blank screens or crashing, leading to loss of speedometer, RPMs, and other critical vehicle information. Similar to recall 90VC for other Audi models. |
High | Occasional | unknown miles |
| Unintended Acceleration Vehicle independently accelerates at low speeds, with brake pedal locking, leading to crashes. Two complaints reported this issue. |
High | Rare | low mileage miles |
| Rearview Camera Malfunction Rearview camera display turns white or is blank, reducing rear visibility and increasing crash risk. Subject to recall. |
Medium | Rare | unknown miles |
| Rear Axle Misalignment/Suspension Issues Misalignment of the rear axle due to a broken lock nut or other issues, causing premature tire wear, loss of control, and vibrations. Subject to recall 21V295000. |
High | Occasional | 13000-19000 miles |
| Tire Degradation/Belt Shifts Premature or uneven tire wear with belt shifts and hopping, potentially due to rear axle misalignment. Subject to recall. |
Medium | Rare | 19000 miles |
Common Problems Reported by Owners
Based on NHTSA complaint data, the following components account for the majority of reported issues with the 2021 Audi A4:
Issues with the instrument cluster failing or displaying blank screens, impacting critical driver information.
Vibrations, humming, shuddering at slow speeds, and jerking on acceleration, along with high RPMs and abnormal engine noises.
Rear axle misalignment and issues related to a broken lock nut, potentially causing loss of control and tire wear.
Premature and uneven tire wear, including belt shifts, potentially linked to rear axle misalignment.
Unintended acceleration events at low speeds, leading to loss of control and crashes.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2021 Audi A4
Is the 2021 Audi A4 safe?
Based on NHTSA data, the 2021 Audi A4 has excellent crash test ratings (5-star Overall), but it has 4 recalls addressing significant safety concerns like rearview camera failure, rear axle misalignment, and seat belt retractors. There are also concerning complaints of unintended acceleration and instrument cluster failures not covered by the A4's specific recalls.
What are common problems with the 2021 Audi A4?
The most reported issues include electrical system problems, specifically instrument cluster failures, and power train issues like vibrations and jerking. There are also complaints related to suspension and tires, some of which are linked to recalls for rear axle misalignment. Unintended acceleration is a severe, though less frequent, reported problem.
Are there any recalls for the 2021 Audi A4?
Yes, the 2021 Audi A4 has 4 recalls. These include issues with the rearview camera display, rear axle misalignment causing tire wear, rear seat belt retractors, and a broken lock nut in the rear suspension that could lead to loss of control.
How does the 2021 Audi A4 perform in crash tests?
The 2021 Audi A4 performed very well in NHTSA crash tests, receiving an Overall 5-star safety rating. It achieved 5 stars in both Side and Rollover tests, and 4 stars in the Frontal crash test.
What should I do if my 2021 Audi A4 has an instrument cluster failure?
While the 2021 A4 was not explicitly included in recall 90VC for instrument cluster failures, several owners have reported identical issues. You should report this to NHTSA and contact your Audi dealership, referencing the similar recall and the complaints from other A4 owners, to seek a remedy.
Buyer Advice
Our recommendation: While the 2021 Audi A4 boasts strong crash test ratings, potential buyers should be aware of the 4 active recalls and concerning complaints regarding unintended acceleration and instrument cluster failures; ensure all recall repairs are completed and thoroughly test drive for any unusual vibrations or electrical glitches.
NHTSA Data Summary for 2021 Audi A4
This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2021 Audi A4. The data includes 11 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 4 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, 3 reported crashes, 1 reported injuries, and safety rating assessments associated with this vehicle.
The NHTSA has assigned the 2021 Audi A4 an overall safety rating of 5 out of 5 stars, with a frontal crash rating of 4 stars, a side crash rating of 5 stars, and a rollover rating of 5 stars. These ratings are determined through controlled crash testing conducted by the NHTSA.
All data presented in this report is sourced from public NHTSA databases. Our AI analysis identifies patterns across complaint narratives, correlates them with recall history, and produces the safety assessment above. This analysis is updated as new complaints and recalls are filed with the NHTSA.
Consumers are encouraged to report vehicle safety problems to the NHTSA at nhtsa.gov. If your vehicle is subject to a recall, contact your dealer to schedule the free repair.