2020 Audi A7 Safety Report

2020 Audi A7: Low Complaints, High Recall Count for Critical Safety Systems

2Complaints
8Recalls
65/100Reliability Score
Most reported components: Electrical System (2)

AI Safety Analysis for the 2020 Audi A7

The 2020 Audi A7 presents a mixed safety picture. While it has a low number of reported NHTSA complaints (2 total, with no crashes, fires, injuries, or deaths), it has been subject to a significant 8 recalls. The NHTSA crash test ratings are incomplete, with only a 5-star rating for side impact and N/A for overall, frontal, and rollover, making a comprehensive assessment of its crashworthiness difficult. The two complaints filed both relate to the ELECTRICAL SYSTEM, with one specifically mentioning a 48V mild hybrid system generator/alternator failure and the other a charging pad overheating issue. This aligns with multiple recalls concerning the 'ELECTRICAL SYSTEM', including one where liquid spilled in the rear seat could cause a gateway control module shutdown, leading to a sudden reduction in engine power, and another for an inaccurate fuel level sender that could cause an engine stall. Other critical recalls address 'BACK OVER PREVENTION' due to rearview camera software errors, 'SERVICE BRAKES' for incorrectly labeled brake fluid caps, 'TIRES' and 'SUSPENSION' for rear axle misalignment, and two separate 'AIR BAGS' recalls for improper deployment or manufacturing defects. The high number of recalls, particularly those impacting critical safety systems like braking, steering, and airbags, suggests potential manufacturing or design flaws despite the low complaint volume.

Reliability Score

The 2020 Audi A7 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 2020 Audi A7

The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2020 Audi A7:

IssueSeverityFrequencyTypical Mileage
Electrical System Malfunction (48v Mild Hybrid)
Reported failures of the 48V generator/alternator leading to multiple system failures and sudden loss of engine power, increasing crash risk. Supported by a recall for gateway control module shutdown due to liquid spills.
High Occasional unknown miles
Rearview Camera Malfunction
A software error may prevent the rearview camera image from displaying, reducing the driver's view and increasing the risk of a crash. Subject to a recall.
Medium Occasional unknown miles
Incorrect Brake Fluid Cap Label
An incorrectly labeled brake fluid cap could lead to incorrect fluid being used, reducing braking ability and increasing crash risk. Subject to a recall.
High Occasional unknown miles
Inaccurate Fuel Level Reading
A faulty fuel level sender may provide inaccurate readings, potentially causing an engine stall due to lack of fuel and increasing crash risk. Subject to a recall.
High Occasional unknown miles
Rear Axle Misalignment
Issues with rear axle alignment, potentially due to a broken lock nut, can cause premature tire wear or loss of control, increasing crash risk. Subject to two recalls (Tires and Suspension).
High Occasional unknown miles
Airbag Deployment Issues
Manufacturing defects in the passenger airbag score line or tear seam may prevent proper deployment or cause plastic debris ejection, increasing injury risk. Subject to two recalls.
High 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 2020 Audi A7:

Electrical System 100% of complaints

Both reported complaints are related to the electrical system, specifically a 48V mild hybrid generator/alternator failure and a charging pad overheating issue. This is corroborated by multiple recalls concerning electrical system integrity and function.

Frequently Asked Questions About the 2020 Audi A7

Is the 2020 Audi A7 safe?

Based on NHTSA data, the 2020 Audi A7 has a low number of direct consumer complaints (2 total) with no reported crashes, injuries, or fatalities. However, it has been subject to 8 safety recalls addressing critical components like airbags, brakes, electrical systems, and suspension, which could impact safety if not rectified. Its NHTSA crash test ratings are incomplete, with only a 5-star side impact rating available.

What are common problems with the 2020 Audi A7?

The most reported issues in NHTSA complaints for the 2020 Audi A7 are related to the ELECTRICAL SYSTEM, accounting for 100% of the complaints. These include malfunctions of the 48V mild hybrid system and charging pad overheating. Additionally, numerous recalls point to potential issues with rearview cameras, brake fluid caps, fuel level senders, rear axle alignment, and airbag deployment.

How many recalls does the 2020 Audi A7 have?

The 2020 Audi A7 has 8 safety recalls issued by NHTSA. These recalls address a range of issues from rearview camera software to airbag deployment, brake fluid caps, electrical system malfunctions, fuel level accuracy, and rear axle alignment.

Are there any airbag issues with the 2020 Audi A7?

Yes, the 2020 Audi A7 has two recalls related to airbags. One recall addresses an incorrectly manufactured score line on the passenger airbag that may prevent proper deployment or eject plastic debris. The second recall concerns the passenger airbag not properly deploying through the instrument panel tear seam, potentially causing small plastic parts to enter the cabin.

What are the NHTSA crash test ratings for the 2020 Audi A7?

The NHTSA crash test ratings for the 2020 Audi A7 are incomplete. It received a 5-star rating for side impact, but the overall, frontal, and rollover ratings are not available (N/A).

Buyer Advice

Our recommendation: Given the low complaint volume but high number of critical safety recalls, ensure all 8 recalls have been addressed by a dealership before purchasing, and be aware of potential electrical system vulnerabilities.

NHTSA Data Summary for 2020 Audi A7

This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2020 Audi A7. The data includes 2 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 8 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, 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.