2016 Audi A7 Safety Report
2016 Audi A7 faces critical airbag deployment recalls and steering failure complaints, lacks NHTSA crash test ratings.
AI Safety Analysis for the 2016 Audi A7
Reliability Score
The 2016 Audi A7 receives a reliability score of 55 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 2016 Audi A7
The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2016 Audi A7:
| Issue | Severity | Frequency | Typical Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Airbag Malfunction (Passenger Occupant Classification System) Passenger airbag intermittently turns on/off or fails to deploy due to a faulty Occupant Classification System (PODS) module, increasing injury risk in a crash. Subject of recall 17V293000. |
High | Common | unknown miles |
| Head Curtain Airbag Non-Deployment Head curtain airbags may not deploy properly in a crash, increasing injury risk for unbelted passengers. Subject of recall 17V293000. |
High | Common | unknown miles |
| Fuel Rail Leak Left and right fuel rails may leak fuel, increasing the risk of fire. Subject of recall 16V660000. One complaint mentions a gas smell while idling. |
High | Occasional | unknown miles |
| Sudden Engine Shutdown Engine control unit failure causing unexpected engine shutdown while driving, including at highway speeds, posing severe safety risks. |
High | Rare | unknown miles |
| Steering System Failure Steering wheel stops operating with a 'Do Not Drive Vehicle, Steering Defective' message, occurring at speeds up to 35 MPH and in extreme cold. |
High | Rare | unknown miles |
| Windshield Chipping/Cracking Frequent windshield damage (4 times in 5 years) suggesting susceptibility to breakage, leading to expensive replacements and potential visibility issues. |
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 2016 Audi A7:
Multiple complaints and two recalls (17V293000) relate to airbag malfunctions, including passenger airbag intermittent operation, non-deployment of head curtain airbags, and complete failure to deploy in a crash.
One recall (16V660000) for leaking fuel rails and a complaint about a gas smell while idling indicate potential fuel system issues.
Complaints describe complete steering failure with a 'Do Not Drive Vehicle, Steering Defective' message, sometimes linked to extreme cold.
One complaint details an engine control unit failure leading to sudden engine shutdown while driving at high speeds.
One complaint highlights frequent windshield chipping and cracking, suggesting a design susceptibility.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2016 Audi A7
Is the 2016 Audi A7 safe?
Based on NHTSA data, the 2016 Audi A7 has significant safety concerns primarily due to three recalls, two of which are critical airbag-related issues (17V293000) that can prevent proper deployment in a crash. There are also reports of sudden engine shutdowns and steering failures. NHTSA has not provided crash test ratings for this specific model year, making a full assessment of its structural safety difficult. It's crucial to ensure all recalls have been completed.
What are common problems with the 2016 Audi A7?
The most reported issues for the 2016 Audi A7, based on NHTSA complaints, are related to AIR BAGS (33% of complaints), including passenger airbag malfunctions and non-deployment of head curtain airbags, which are also subject to recalls. Other notable problems include FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM issues (13%), such as fuel rail leaks (recall 16V660000) and gas smells, and STEERING system failures (13%) where the steering can stop operating.
Are there any recalls for the 2016 Audi A7?
Yes, the 2016 Audi A7 has three recalls. These include recall 16V660000 for leaking fuel rails, and two separate recalls under 17V293000 concerning airbag issues: one for the occupant classification system that may prevent proper front passenger airbag deployment, and another for head curtain airbags that may not deploy correctly.
How does the 2016 Audi A7 perform in crash tests?
NHTSA has not provided specific overall, frontal, side, or rollover safety ratings for the 2016 Audi A7. Therefore, its crash test performance cannot be directly assessed using NHTSA's rating system.
What should I check before buying a used 2016 Audi A7?
Before buying a used 2016 Audi A7, it is critical to verify that all three open recalls (16V660000 and 17V293000) have been completed by an authorized Audi dealer. Additionally, inquire about any history of airbag warning lights, steering issues, or unusual fuel odors, and consider a pre-purchase inspection by a trusted mechanic.
Buyer Advice
Our recommendation: Given the critical airbag recalls and reports of steering and engine failures, ensure all recalls are addressed and conduct a thorough pre-purchase inspection before considering a 2016 Audi A7.
NHTSA Data Summary for 2016 Audi A7
This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2016 Audi A7. The data includes 15 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 3 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, 1 reported crashes, 3 reported injuries, and safety rating assessments associated with this vehicle.
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.