2017 Audi Q3 Safety Report

2017 Audi Q3 has low complaint volume but significant lighting recalls and reported engine/steering issues.

6Complaints
3Recalls
60/100Reliability Score
Most reported components: Unknown Or Other (2)Air Bags (2)Engine (1)Steering (1)

AI Safety Analysis for the 2017 Audi Q3

The 2017 Audi Q3 presents a mixed safety picture based on available NHTSA data. While there are only 6 total complaints, with no reported crashes, fires, injuries, or deaths, the vehicle has been subject to 3 safety recalls. These recalls address significant issues related to exterior lighting and electrical systems, specifically concerning turn signals, brake lights, and side marker lights, all of which could increase the risk of a crash due to reduced vehicle visibility or inadequate warning to other drivers. For instance, one recall (NHTSA ID: 18V327000) notes that an inoperable front turn signal may not alert the driver, increasing crash risk. Complaint patterns, though low in volume, highlight potential concerns with the engine and steering. Two complaints specifically detail excessive oil consumption leading to engine knocking, seizing, and even a risk of fire, with one owner quoted $10,000 for repairs. Another two complaints relate to steering issues, including loss of steering control and problems with the clock spring affecting horn and airbag functions, with one owner noting the part was on back order. These issues, while not numerous, point to potentially severe mechanical failures. NHTSA crash test ratings are not available for the 2017 Audi Q3, making it impossible to assess its performance in simulated crash scenarios. This lack of data means consumers cannot directly compare its structural safety or occupant protection with other vehicles based on NHTSA's standardized tests. Therefore, while direct crash data from complaints is absent, the recalls and specific engine/steering complaints suggest areas of concern that potential buyers should investigate further.

Reliability Score

The 2017 Audi Q3 receives a reliability score of 60 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 2017 Audi Q3

The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2017 Audi Q3:

IssueSeverityFrequencyTypical Mileage
Excessive Oil Consumption Leading To Engine Failure
Engine burns oil rapidly, leading to knocking, seizing, and potential fire risk, triggering 'EPC' and 'Check engine' lights. One owner reported oil empty after less than 1,000 miles post-change.		 High Occasional under 1000-10000 miles
Steering Clock Spring Failure
Loss of steering wheel functions including horn and driver's airbag, with clicking noises during turning. Replacement parts have been on back order.		 High Occasional unknown miles
Inoperable Front Turn Signal Indicator
Recall (18V327000) for LED headlights where an inoperable front turn signal does not illuminate an indicator, increasing crash risk.		 Medium Common N/A (recall) miles
Brake Lights Not Activating During Emergency Braking With Parking Brake
Recall (17V498000) where brake lights do not activate if the parking brake is used during emergency braking, increasing rear-end collision risk.		 Medium Common N/A (recall) miles
Side Marker Lights Not Illuminating
Recall (17V004000) for software issue preventing side marker lights from illuminating, reducing vehicle visibility at night and increasing crash risk.		 Medium Common N/A (recall) miles

Common Problems Reported by Owners

Based on NHTSA complaint data, the following components account for the majority of reported issues with the 2017 Audi Q3:

Unknown Or Other 33% of complaints

Two complaints fall into this category, including a cracked rear window after using defrosters.

Air Bags 33% of complaints

Two complaints related to airbag system, specifically involving the clock spring affecting airbag deployment.

Engine 17% of complaints

One complaint detailing severe oil consumption leading to engine issues and potential fire risk.

Steering 17% of complaints

One complaint about loss of steering control while driving.

Frequently Asked Questions About the 2017 Audi Q3

Is the 2017 Audi Q3 safe?

Based on NHTSA data, the 2017 Audi Q3 has a low number of complaints (6 total) with no reported crashes, injuries, or fatalities. However, it has 3 safety recalls addressing critical lighting and electrical system issues that could increase crash risk. Specific complaints highlight severe engine oil consumption and steering/airbag clock spring failures. NHTSA crash test ratings are not available for this model.

What are common problems with the 2017 Audi Q3?

The most reported issues, though low in volume, include 'UNKNOWN OR OTHER' (2 complaints) and 'AIR BAGS' (2 complaints), primarily related to clock spring failure affecting steering wheel functions and airbags. There is also one significant complaint each for 'ENGINE' (excessive oil consumption) and 'STEERING' (loss of control).

Are there any recalls for the 2017 Audi Q3?

Yes, the 2017 Audi Q3 has 3 recalls. These include issues with inoperable front turn signal indicators (18V327000), brake lights not activating during emergency braking with the parking brake (17V498000), and side marker lights not illuminating due to a software issue (17V004000).

Does the 2017 Audi Q3 have engine problems?

One complaint specifically details severe engine problems, including excessive oil consumption leading to knocking, seizing, and a potential fire risk, with repair estimates as high as $10,000. This suggests a potentially serious, though not widespread, engine issue.

What are the crash test ratings for the 2017 Audi Q3?

NHTSA has not provided overall, frontal, side, or rollover crash test ratings for the 2017 Audi Q3, so its performance in these areas cannot be assessed through NHTSA's standardized tests.

Buyer Advice

Our recommendation: Given the low complaint volume but significant safety recalls and reports of severe engine and steering issues, potential buyers should ensure all 3 recalls have been addressed and consider a pre-purchase inspection focusing on engine oil consumption and steering system integrity.

NHTSA Data Summary for 2017 Audi Q3

This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2017 Audi Q3. The data includes 6 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 3 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.