2021 Audi Rs Q8 Safety Report
2021 Audi RS Q8: Low Complaints, High Recall Count with Critical Safety Issues
AI Safety Analysis for the 2021 Audi Rs Q8
Reliability Score
The 2021 Audi Rs 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 2021 Audi Rs Q8
The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2021 Audi Rs Q8:
| Issue | Severity | Frequency | Typical Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine Cylinder Bore Cracks Cracks may develop on the engine cylinder bore surface, potentially causing engine damage, a stall, or an oil leak, increasing the risk of a crash or fire. This was addressed by a recall. |
High | Occasional | unknown miles |
| Rearview Camera Display Malfunction Software errors may prevent the rearview camera image from displaying or cause a blank display, reducing the driver's view and increasing crash risk. Two separate recalls address this. |
High | Common | unknown miles |
| Instrument Panel Display Failure A software error may cause the instrument panel display to fail, obscuring critical safety information like the speedometer or warning lights, increasing crash risk. This was addressed by a recall. |
High | Occasional | unknown miles |
| Rear Axle Misalignment/Lock Nut Failure A broken lock nut may misalign the rear axle, causing a loss of control and increasing the risk of a crash. Additionally, general rear axle misalignment can cause premature tire wear. Both addressed by recalls. |
High | Occasional | unknown miles |
| Electrical System Malfunction Leading To Loss Of Steering One complaint describes an electrical system malfunction leading to a complete shutdown and loss of steering capabilities, requiring a tow. This is a severe safety concern. |
High | Rare | under 10000 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 Rs Q8:
One of the two complaints explicitly mentions an 'Electrical System Malfunction' leading to vehicle shutdown and loss of steering. Another complaint also mentions 'electrical error' and loss of steering. This aligns with recalls for instrument panel and rearview camera software errors.
One complaint directly states 'I lost steering capabilities' due to an electrical error. This is a critical safety concern, even if only one complaint explicitly mentions it.
While no direct complaints are filed, a significant recall exists for engine cylinder bore cracks, which could lead to engine damage, stalls, or fire.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2021 Audi Rs Q8
Is the 2021 Audi RS Q8 safe?
Based on NHTSA data, the 2021 Audi RS Q8 has a very low number of direct complaints (2 total), with no reported crashes, injuries, or deaths. However, it has been subject to 7 safety recalls addressing critical issues such as engine cylinder bore cracks, rearview camera malfunctions, instrument panel failures, and rear axle problems. While direct incident reports are low, the breadth and severity of the recalls suggest potential safety vulnerabilities that have been proactively addressed by the manufacturer.
What are common problems with the 2021 Audi RS Q8?
The most reported issues in the limited NHTSA complaint data for the 2021 Audi RS Q8 involve the ELECTRICAL SYSTEM and STEERING, with one complaint detailing an 'Electrical System Malfunction' leading to a complete shutdown and loss of steering. Beyond complaints, the vehicle has several recalls for critical components including engine cylinder bore cracks, rearview camera display issues, instrument panel failures, and rear axle misalignment.
How many recalls does the 2021 Audi RS Q8 have?
The 2021 Audi RS Q8 has 7 safety recalls issued by NHTSA. These recalls cover issues such as engine cylinder bore cracks, rearview camera display malfunctions (two separate recalls), instrument panel display failure, rear axle misalignment, and seat belt retractor issues.
What is the rollover rating for the 2021 Audi RS Q8?
The 2021 Audi RS Q8 received a 4-star rollover rating from NHTSA. Other crash test ratings (Overall, Frontal, Side) are not available.
Buyer Advice
Our recommendation: Given the low complaint count but numerous critical safety recalls, potential buyers should ensure all 7 recalls have been completed by checking the VIN with Audi or NHTSA, and be aware of potential electrical and engine-related issues.
NHTSA Data Summary for 2021 Audi Rs Q8
This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2021 Audi Rs Q8. The data includes 2 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 7 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.