2021 Audi A6 Allroad Safety Report
2021 Audi A6 Allroad: Excellent Crash Safety, but Plagued by Electrical System Recalls and Malfunctions
AI Safety Analysis for the 2021 Audi A6 Allroad
Reliability Score
The 2021 Audi A6 Allroad 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 A6 Allroad
The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2021 Audi A6 Allroad:
| Issue | Severity | Frequency | Typical Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Electrical System Malfunction Multiple complaints describe sudden electrical system failures, leading to instrument panel blackouts, loss of gauges, power steering failure, and vehicle stalling. This is directly addressed by several recalls, including one for liquid spills affecting the gateway control module. |
High | Common | 20000-30000 miles |
| Forward Collision Avoidance (Pre-Sense) Malfunction The Audi Pre-sense system has been reported to activate inappropriately, causing the car to come to a hard stop due to precipitation or during protected left turns, increasing crash risk. |
Medium | Occasional | unknown miles |
| Instrument Panel/Virtual Cockpit Failure The digital instrument panel (Virtual Cockpit) can spontaneously go black, reboot, and display error messages, leading to a loss of critical driving information like speed and warning lights. This is a subject of recall 21V827000. |
High | Common | unknown miles |
| Rearview Camera Malfunction Software errors can prevent the rearview camera image from displaying, reducing driver visibility and increasing the risk of a crash. This is covered by recall 25V201000 and 21V827000. |
Medium | Occasional | unknown miles |
| Inaccurate Fuel Gauge The fuel gauge has been reported to be inaccurate, showing a quarter tank when near empty, potentially leading to drivers being stranded. This is related to recall 22V742. |
Medium | Occasional | unknown 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 A6 Allroad:
The most frequent complaints are related to the electrical system, including instrument panel failures, complete system shutdowns, and various warning lights. This aligns with multiple recalls.
Issues with the 'pre-sense' system causing unintended braking or activation in non-hazardous situations are a recurring concern.
Complaints include issues like sunroof shattering and doors not closing properly without warning.
One complaint details a transmission completely disengaging at highway speeds, leading to loss of propulsion.
Inaccurate fuel gauge readings have been reported, with the gauge showing fuel when the tank is nearly empty.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2021 Audi A6 Allroad
Is the 2021 Audi A6 Allroad safe?
Based on NHTSA data, the 2021 Audi A6 Allroad has an excellent 5-star overall safety rating in crash tests, indicating strong occupant protection. However, it has a high number of recalls (8) and 20 complaints, primarily concerning electrical system malfunctions and forward collision avoidance issues, which can compromise operational safety.
What are common problems with the 2021 Audi A6 Allroad?
The most reported issues are electrical system malfunctions (9 complaints), including instrument panel failures and vehicle stalling, and forward collision avoidance system (pre-sense) malfunctions (3 complaints) causing unintended braking. Other problems include inaccurate fuel gauges and rearview camera failures, all of which are subjects of NHTSA recalls.
How many recalls does the 2021 Audi A6 Allroad have?
The 2021 Audi A6 Allroad has 8 NHTSA recalls. These address critical safety concerns such as rearview camera display issues, instrument panel malfunctions, incorrect brake fluid cap labels, potential engine power reduction due to liquid spills, tire misalignment, seat belt retractors, and passenger airbag deployment.
Are there any issues with the electrical system?
Yes, the electrical system is the most complained-about component, with 9 out of 20 total complaints. Issues range from instrument panel blackouts and loss of gauges to complete electrical system shutdowns leading to vehicle stalling and loss of power steering. Several recalls (e.g., 21V827000, 22V155000) directly address these electrical system vulnerabilities.
Does the 2021 Audi A6 Allroad have good crash test ratings?
Yes, the 2021 Audi A6 Allroad received excellent crash test ratings from NHTSA, achieving a 5-star overall safety rating. It scored 5 stars for side impact and rollover, and 4 stars for frontal impact, indicating strong performance in protecting occupants during a collision.
Buyer Advice
Our recommendation: While offering top-tier crash safety, potential buyers should be aware of the 2021 Audi A6 Allroad's significant recall history and common electrical system and sensor-related complaints; ensure all 8 recalls have been addressed before purchase.
NHTSA Data Summary for 2021 Audi A6 Allroad
This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2021 Audi A6 Allroad. The data includes 20 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 8 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, and safety rating assessments associated with this vehicle.
The NHTSA has assigned the 2021 Audi A6 Allroad 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.