2019 Audi Q8 Safety Report

2019 Audi Q8: Excellent crash test ratings, but significant recalls and complaints for power train, electrical, and engine failures.

103Complaints
5Recalls
★★★★★Safety Rating
65/100Reliability Score
1Crash Reports
2Injuries
Most reported components: Power Train (23)Electrical System (17)Engine (6)Power Train,Engine (5)Unknown Or Other (4)Steering,Power Train,Electrical System (4)Engine,Fuel/Propulsion System (3)Electrical System,Engine (3)Power Train,Electrical System,Engine (3)Power Train,Vehicle Speed Control,Engine (3)

AI Safety Analysis for the 2019 Audi Q8

The 2019 Audi Q8 presents a mixed safety picture. While it boasts excellent crash test performance with 5-star overall, frontal, and side ratings from NHTSA, and a 4-star rollover rating, its complaint and recall history reveal several significant safety concerns. With 103 total complaints, including 1 crash and 2 injuries, there are patterns of serious mechanical and electrical failures. The vehicle has been subject to 5 recalls addressing critical components such as the fuel pump, steering, suspension, and rearview camera, indicating proactive but necessary interventions for known defects. Common complaint patterns highlight issues with the POWER TRAIN (23 complaints), ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (17 complaints), and ENGINE (6 complaints). Specific recurring problems include engine piston slap, fuel pump failures leading to engine stalls, and widespread electrical system malfunctions that can cause the vehicle to shut down unexpectedly, even at speed. Several complaints detail complete loss of power, inability to use hazard lights, and doors failing to unlock, posing immediate safety risks to occupants and other road users. The recall history directly correlates with some of the reported issues. For instance, the recall for fuel pump failure (2019-2021 Audi Q8) aligns with complaints of fuel pump noise and engine stalling. Similarly, the steering recall (2019 Audi Q8) addresses concerns about loose steering components. The presence of multiple recalls for fundamental safety systems like steering, suspension, and back-over prevention indicates that while Audi has taken steps to rectify these issues, they were present at the time of manufacturing. Despite strong crash test ratings, the operational reliability and potential for sudden component failure are notable concerns for this model year.

Reliability Score

The 2019 Audi Q8 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 2019 Audi Q8

The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2019 Audi Q8:

IssueSeverityFrequencyTypical Mileage
Engine Piston Slap/Failure
Owners report piston slap issues leading to engine failure, with Audi extending warranty coverage to 80k miles for this known defect.		 High Occasional 30000-80000 miles
Electrical System Malfunction/Shutdown
Multiple complaints of sudden electrical system malfunctions, leading to complete vehicle shutdown, loss of power, and inability to use safety features like hazard lights.		 High Common 35000-60000 miles
Fuel Pump Failure
A recall (2019-2021 Audi Q8) and several complaints describe fuel pump failure, causing engine stalls and potential fire risk due to fuel leaks.		 High Occasional 30000-60000 miles
Steering System Loosening/Failure
A recall (2019 Audi Q8) addresses a bolt connecting the steering shaft to the steering gear that may loosen, leading to a sudden loss of steering control.		 High Occasional Not specified miles
Suspension Shock Absorber Cracks
A recall (2019 Q7, Q8) indicates front shock absorber forks may develop cracks, allowing shock absorbers to loosen and impair steering.		 High Occasional Not specified miles
Rearview Camera Software Error
A recall (2019-2026 vehicles) for a software error that may prevent the rearview camera image from displaying, increasing crash risk.		 Medium Occasional Not specified miles
Dashboard Delamination
Reports of leather dashboard delamination, particularly near the passenger-side airbag, potentially interfering with airbag deployment.		 Medium Rare Not specified miles
Broken Coil Springs
Reports of rear coil springs breaking at relatively low mileage, impacting vehicle stability and ride quality.		 Medium Rare 30000-45000 miles

Common Problems Reported by Owners

Based on NHTSA complaint data, the following components account for the majority of reported issues with the 2019 Audi Q8:

Power Train 22% of complaints

Frequent issues related to the transmission, differential failure, and general power delivery problems, including engine stalls.

Electrical System 16% of complaints

Numerous complaints about electrical malfunctions, leading to complete vehicle shutdowns, loss of power, and failure of various systems.

Engine 5% of complaints

Reports of engine piston slap, misfires, and general engine failure, with some issues acknowledged by Audi through extended warranties.

Fuel System, Gasoline 2% of complaints

Concerns about fuel pump failure, fuel leaks, and associated engine performance issues, leading to recalls.

Steering 1% of complaints

Complaints of loose steering and a recall for a potentially loosening steering shaft bolt.

Suspension 1% of complaints

Issues including creaking sounds, broken coil springs, and a recall for cracking front shock absorber forks.

Frequently Asked Questions About the 2019 Audi Q8

Is the 2019 Audi Q8 safe?

Based on NHTSA data, the 2019 Audi Q8 received excellent crash test ratings (5-star overall, frontal, side; 4-star rollover). However, it has 103 complaints, 5 recalls, and reports of serious issues like sudden electrical shutdowns, engine failures, and fuel pump problems, which can compromise operational safety.

What are common problems with the 2019 Audi Q8?

The most reported issues for the 2019 Audi Q8 are related to the POWER TRAIN (23 complaints), ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (17 complaints), and ENGINE (6 complaints). Specific common problems include engine piston slap, sudden electrical system malfunctions leading to vehicle shutdown, and fuel pump failures.

Has the 2019 Audi Q8 had any recalls?

Yes, the 2019 Audi Q8 has had 5 recalls. These include issues with the lane departure warning system, rearview camera, fuel pump failure, steering shaft loosening, and front shock absorber cracks. These recalls address significant safety concerns.

Are there any known engine issues with the 2019 Audi Q8?

Yes, there are known engine issues, specifically 'piston slap' leading to engine failure. Audi has reportedly extended warranty coverage for this defect. Other engine-related complaints include misfires and general engine noise.

What should I look out for when buying a used 2019 Audi Q8?

When considering a used 2019 Audi Q8, pay close attention to the vehicle's service history for evidence of recall completion, especially for the fuel pump, steering, and suspension. Inquire about any past electrical system malfunctions or engine issues, particularly piston slap, and check for dashboard delamination.

Buyer Advice

Our recommendation: Despite strong crash test ratings, potential buyers should be aware of the 2019 Audi Q8's significant recall history and recurring complaints regarding electrical system failures, engine issues, and fuel pump problems. Thoroughly review service records for recall compliance and any repairs related to these known issues before purchase.

NHTSA Data Summary for 2019 Audi Q8

This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2019 Audi Q8. The data includes 103 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 5 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, 1 reported crashes, 2 reported injuries, and safety rating assessments associated with this vehicle.

The NHTSA has assigned the 2019 Audi Q8 an overall safety rating of 5 out of 5 stars, with a frontal crash rating of 5 stars, a side crash rating of 5 stars, and a rollover rating of 4 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.