2021 Audi Sq8 Safety Report
2021 Audi SQ8 Safety and Reliability Report
Safety Decision Cockpit for the 2021 Audi Sq8
This page is the hub for deciding what to inspect next on the 2021 Audi Sq8. It connects recall campaigns, owner complaint patterns, service bulletins, sibling model years, component issue hubs, and the model buying guide so a shopper or owner can move from a single report into the wider safety graph.
| Signal | Value | What to inspect next |
|---|---|---|
| Recall burden | High (6) | Review campaign numbers, affected components, and dealer remedies below. |
| Owner complaints | Low (3) | Scan complaint narratives for recurring symptoms, mileage, crashes, fires, injuries, and dates. |
| Crash and fire reports | 0 | Treat any crash, fire, injury, or fatality-linked pattern as a priority pre-purchase inspection item. |
| Primary component hub | Power Train,Electrical System | Compare power train,electrical system issues across vehicles. |
| Cleaner nearby model year | 2024 | Compare against the 2024 Audi Sq8 with 1 complaints and 2 recalls. |
Audi Sq8 Year-by-Year Comparison
The safest purchase decision usually comes from comparing neighboring model years, not reading a single page in isolation. The table below uses only validated Audi Sq8 years already present in the cleaned NHTSA dataset, so each comparison links to a real vehicle safety report rather than a generated combination.
| Model Year | Complaints | Recalls | Use case |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 Audi Sq8 | 1 | 2 | Compare as a potentially cleaner alternative. |
2021 Audi Sq8 Complaint Theme Map
Complaint counts become more useful when they are grouped into inspection themes. For the 2021 Audi Sq8, these are the component areas with the clearest NHTSA complaint signals. Use each link to jump from this single vehicle into broader component hubs and make-specific issue pages.
Power Train,Electrical System
1 owner complaint mention this component in the current safety profile.
All Power Train,Electrical System issues Audi onlyPower Train
1 owner complaint mention this component in the current safety profile.
All Power Train issues Audi onlySuspension
1 owner complaint mention this component in the current safety profile.
All Suspension issues Audi onlyAI Safety Analysis for the 2021 Audi Sq8
Reliability Score
The 2021 Audi Sq8 receives a reliability score of 87 out of 100 based on analysis of NHTSA complaint data, recall history, crash reports, and safety ratings. This indicates above-average reliability relative to comparable vehicles.
NHTSA Safety Ratings for the 2021 Audi Sq8
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) evaluates vehicles through controlled crash tests and assigns star ratings from 1 to 5, with 5 being the safest.
Known Issues for the 2021 Audi Sq8
The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2021 Audi Sq8:
| Issue | Severity | Frequency | Typical Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mmi System Failure The MMI system has experienced multiple sudden stoppages, especially when taking updates automatically. |
Medium | Common | 30k-60k miles |
| Engine Stop/Start Malfunction The automatic engine stop/start feature has been reported to malfunction, affecting fuel efficiency. |
Medium | Common | 30k-60k miles |
| Suspension Recall A recall has been issued for suspension issues, though the specific part is not yet clear. |
Low | Common | 30k-60k miles |
| Tire Recall Certain 2019-2021 Audi A5 Sportback and RS5 Coupe models have been recalled for tire issues. |
Low | Common | 30k-60k 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 Sq8:
Issues with the MMI system have been reported, affecting the overall user experience.
Automatic engine stop/start malfunctions have been noted, impacting fuel efficiency.
Suspension issues have been reported, though the specific part is still under investigation.
Tire recalls have been issued for certain models, though not specifically for the SQ8.
Recall Details for the 2021 Audi Sq8
The following 6 recalls have been issued for the 2021 Audi Sq8 by NHTSA:
Summary: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Audi) is recalling certain 2019-2026 vehicles. Please see the recall report for a complete list of models. A software error may prevent the rearview camera image from displaying as intended. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 111, "Rear Visibility."
Consequence: A rearview image that does not display reduces the driver's view behind the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Dealers will update the software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed January 14, 2026. Owners may contact Audi customer service at 1-800-253-2834. Audi's number for this recall is 90TV. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall became searchable on NHTSA.gov on December 23, 2025.
Summary: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Audi) is recalling certain 2021 SQ8, A6 SEDAN, A7, A8, Q7, Q8, RS6 Avant, RS7, RSQ8, S6 SEDAN, S7, S8, A6 Allroad, and SQ7 vehicles. Due to a software error, the instrument panel display may fail.
Consequence: An instrument panel display that fails to show critical safety information, such as the speedometer or warning lights, increases the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Dealers will update the instrument panel module software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 24, 2025. Owners may contact Audi customer service at 1-800-253-2834. Audi's number for this recall is 90VC.
Summary: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2021 Audi A8, RS7, RS6 Avant, RS5 Sportback, RS5 Coupe, Q8, Q7, Q5 Sportback, S4 Sedan, Q5, A7, A6, A6 Allroad, A5 Sportback, A5 Coupe, A5 Cabrioleet, A4 Sedan, A4 Allroad, E-Tron Sportback Quattro, SQ7, S5 Cabriolet, E-Tron Quattro, SQ8, SQ5 Sportback, SQ5, S8, S7, S6 Sedan, S5 Sportback, S5 Coupe, 2022 E-Tron GT, and 2021-2022 RSQ8 vehicles. Due to a software issue, a blank or black screen may be displayed instead of the rear...
Consequence: A blank rearview camera display can reduce the driver's rear visibility, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Dealers will update the infotainment unit software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed October 25, 2022. Owners may contact Audi's customer service at 1-800-253-2834. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 91DZ.
Summary: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Audi) is recalling certain 2019-2021 Audi A5 Sportback, RS5 Coupe, RS5 Sportback, S5 Sportback, 2020-2021 A4 Allroad, A4 Sedan, A5 Cabriolet, A5 Coupe, A6 Allroad, A6 Sedan, A7, A8, Q5, S4 Sedan, S5 Coupe, S5 Cabriolet, S6 Sedan, S7, S8, SQ5, 2021 Q5 Sportback, Q7, Q8, RS6 Avant, RS7, RSQ8, SQ5 Sportback, SQ7, and SQ8 vehicles. The rear axle alignment may not have been inspected after the repairs for Recall 21V-295 (42L1) were performed.
Consequence: Rear axle misalignment may cause premature or uneven tire wear, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Dealers will inspect the rear axle, adjust the alignment as necessary, and replace any prematurely or unevenly worn tires, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed March 3, 2022. Owners may contact Audi customer service at 1-800-253-2834. Audi's number for this recall is 42L5.
Summary: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2021 Volkswagen ID4, Audi A4 Allroad, A4 Sedan, A5 Cabriolet, A5 Coupe, A5 Sportback, A6 Allroad, A6 Sedan, A7, A8, E-Tron Quattro, E-Tron Sportback Quattro, Q3, Q5, Q5 Sportback, Q7, Q8, RS5 Sportback, RS5 Coupe, RS6 Avant, RS7, RSQ8, S4 Sedan, S5 Cabriolet, S5 Coupe, S5 Sportback, S6 Sedan, S7, S8, SQ5, SQ5 Sportback, SQ7, SQ8, and 2021-2022 S3 Sedan vehicles. The rear seat belt automatic locking retractors may deactivate ear...
Consequence: An unsecured child restraint system can increase the risk of injury during a crash.
Remedy: Dealers will inspect, and replace as necessary, the middle-rear seat belt assemblies, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed August 27, 2021. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-893-5298 and Audi customer service at 1-800-253-2834. Volkswagen's numbers for this recall are 69CR (VW) and 69CS (Audi).
Summary: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Audi) is recalling certain 2021 Audi SQ7, RSQ8, RS7, RS6 AVANT, and SQ8 vehicles. Cracks may develop on the surface of the engine cylinder bore.
Consequence: Cracks may cause engine damage and a stall or an oil leak, increasing the risk of a crash or fire.
Remedy: Dealers will replace the engine, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed July 9, 2021. Owners may contact Audi customer service at 1-800-253-2834. Audi's number for this recall is 10G9.
NHTSA Complaint Summaries for the 2021 Audi Sq8
Below are complaint narratives filed by owners of the 2021 Audi Sq8 with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
MMI system stops working all of a sudden. This has happened multiple times and especially when it takes updates on its own. When called customer service they referred to the dealer stating they cannot do anything. Right after my call with them the car starts functioning back to normal. When I took it to the dealer for service and the problem, Dealer mentioned Audi has received complaints about the...
This 2021 Audi SQ8 vehicle was purchased new. The vehicle features an automatic engine stop/start feature which is intended to enhance vehicle fuel economy. The incident(s) include: (1) multiple instances when slowing to a stop and the stop/start feature turned off the vehicle engine before the vehicle has come to a stop, leaving the vehicle to "coast" to a complete stop but without the aid of p...
The contact owns a 2021 Audi SQ8. The contact received a recall notification for NHTSA Campaign Number: 21V295000 (Suspension) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was notified of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. Parts distributi...
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2021 Audi Sq8
Has the 2021 AUDI SQ8 been recalled?
Yes, the 2021 AUDI SQ8 has 6 recalls on record with NHTSA. Each recall addresses a specific safety defect identified by the manufacturer or NHTSA.
How many complaints does the 2021 AUDI SQ8 have?
The 2021 AUDI SQ8 has 3 complaints filed with NHTSA. None of the complaints involved crashes. No injuries or deaths have been reported.
What is the safety rating for the 2021 AUDI SQ8?
The 2021 AUDI SQ8 does not have an NHTSA safety rating on file. This can happen for newer model years, specialty vehicles, or models that have not been crash-tested.
What are the most common problems with the 2021 AUDI SQ8?
The most commonly reported problems with the 2021 AUDI SQ8 involve power train,electrical system (1 complaints), power train (1 complaints), suspension (1 complaints).
How many crash reports does the 2021 AUDI SQ8 have?
There are no crash reports associated with the 2021 AUDI SQ8 in the NHTSA database.
How many fire reports does the 2021 AUDI SQ8 have?
There are no fire reports for the 2021 AUDI SQ8 in the NHTSA database.
Are there any deaths reported for the 2021 AUDI SQ8?
No deaths have been reported in NHTSA complaints for the 2021 AUDI SQ8.
How many injuries are reported for the 2021 AUDI SQ8?
No injuries have been reported in NHTSA complaints for the 2021 AUDI SQ8.
Should I buy a 2021 AUDI SQ8?
Based on NHTSA data, the 2021 AUDI SQ8 is research thoroughly before purchasing. It has 3 complaints, 6 recalls. Always have a pre-purchase inspection done by a qualified mechanic.
What components fail most on the 2021 AUDI SQ8?
The components with the most failures on the 2021 AUDI SQ8 are: 1. POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (1 complaints), 2. POWER TRAIN (1 complaints), 3. SUSPENSION (1 complaints). POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM is the single most-reported problem area with 1 complaints.
What should I know before buying a 2021 AUDI SQ8?
Be aware of potential issues with the MMI system and engine stop/start feature, and stay informed about recalls. The 2021 AUDI SQ8 has 3 NHTSA complaints and 6 recalls on record.
How reliable is the 2021 AUDI SQ8?
The 2021 AUDI SQ8 receives a reliability score of 87/100, indicating above-average reliability. This is based on 3 owner complaints, 6 recalls, and 0 crash/fire reports in the NHTSA database. Key known issues include MMI System Failure and Engine Stop/Start Malfunction.
What are the known issues with the 2021 AUDI SQ8?
Known issues with the 2021 AUDI SQ8 include: MMI System Failure, Engine Stop/Start Malfunction, Suspension Recall, Tire Recall. These are based on patterns found across 3 NHTSA complaints. 6 of these patterns resulted in formal recalls.
What are the most common issues with the 2021 Audi SQ8?
Common issues include sudden stoppages of the MMI system and engine stop/start malfunctions.
Are there any recalls for the 2021 Audi SQ8?
Yes, recalls have been issued for suspension and tire issues, though not specifically for the SQ8.
What should I do if I experience issues with my 2021 Audi SQ8?
Contact Audi customer service to report the issue and check for any applicable recalls.
Buyer Advice
Our recommendation: Be aware of potential issues with the MMI system and engine stop/start feature, and stay informed about recalls.
NHTSA Data Summary for 2021 Audi Sq8
This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2021 Audi Sq8. The data includes 3 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 6 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.
Disclaimer: This analysis is AI-generated from NHTSA public data and does not constitute professional automotive or safety advice. Always verify recall status at NHTSA.gov and consult a qualified mechanic.
Analysis last updated: 2026-05-13