2021 Audi Sq8 Safety Report

2021 Audi SQ8: Low Complaints, High Recall Volume, Limited Crash Test Data

3Complaints
6Recalls
65/100Reliability Score
Most reported components: Power Train,Electrical System (1)Power Train (1)Suspension (1)

AI Safety Analysis for the 2021 Audi Sq8

The 2021 Audi SQ8 presents a mixed safety picture. While it has a low number of reported complaints to NHTSA (3 total, with 0 crashes, fires, injuries, or deaths), it has been subject to a significant number of recalls, totaling 6. The NHTSA crash test ratings are largely unavailable, with only a 4-star rollover rating provided. This lack of comprehensive crash test data makes it difficult to fully assess its occupant protection performance. The common complaint patterns, though few, point to issues with the POWER TRAIN, ELECTRICAL SYSTEM, and SUSPENSION, each with one complaint. These align with some of the recall issues, such as the 'ENGINE' recall for cylinder bore cracks and the 'ELECTRICAL SYSTEM: INSTRUMENT CLUSTER/PANEL' recall. The low complaint volume suggests that these issues may not be widespread among the entire vehicle population, but the recalls indicate potential design or manufacturing flaws that could affect a larger number of vehicles. The recall history is a notable concern. Six recalls address critical safety components, including 'BACK OVER PREVENTION' for rearview camera display issues (two separate recalls), 'ELECTRICAL SYSTEM: INSTRUMENT CLUSTER/PANEL' for critical information display failure, 'TIRES' for rear axle misalignment leading to tire wear, 'SEAT BELTS:REAR/OTHER:RETRACTOR' for child restraint security, and a severe 'ENGINE' recall for cylinder bore cracks that could lead to engine damage, stall, or fire. The engine recall (NHTSA Campaign Number: 21V295000) is particularly concerning due to its potential for serious consequences. Owners should ensure all recall repairs have been completed. In summary, while direct consumer complaints are low, the extensive recall list highlights several significant safety vulnerabilities that Audi has identified and is addressing. The absence of full NHTSA crash test ratings means a complete safety assessment based on government testing is not possible, but the 4-star rollover rating is a positive indicator for that specific aspect.

Reliability Score

The 2021 Audi Sq8 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 Sq8

The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2021 Audi Sq8:

IssueSeverityFrequencyTypical 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 (NHTSA Recall 21V295000).		 High Occasional N/A miles
Rearview Camera Display Failure
Software errors may prevent the rearview camera image from displaying, reducing rear visibility and increasing crash risk (NHTSA Recalls 21V295000, 21V295000).		 High Occasional N/A miles
Instrument Panel Display Failure
A software error may cause the instrument panel display to fail, preventing critical safety information (speedometer, warning lights) from showing, increasing crash risk (NHTSA Recall 21V295000).		 High Occasional N/A miles
Rear Axle Misalignment
Misalignment of the rear axle may cause premature or uneven tire wear, increasing the risk of a crash (NHTSA Recall 21V295000).		 Medium Occasional N/A miles
Rear Seat Belt Retractor Malfunction
Rear seat belt retractors may not properly secure child restraint systems, increasing injury risk during a crash (NHTSA Recall 21V295000).		 High Occasional N/A 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:

Power Train 33% of complaints

One complaint related to the automatic engine stop/start feature turning off the engine prematurely, and a recall for engine cylinder bore cracks.

Electrical System 33% of complaints

One complaint about the MMI system stopping, and a recall for instrument cluster display failure.

Suspension 33% of complaints

One complaint regarding an unaddressed recall for suspension, likely related to the rear axle misalignment recall.

Frequently Asked Questions About the 2021 Audi Sq8

Is the 2021 Audi SQ8 safe?

Based on NHTSA data, the 2021 Audi SQ8 has a low number of direct consumer complaints (3 total) but has been subject to 6 safety recalls addressing significant issues like engine cracks, rearview camera failures, and instrument panel display malfunctions. Comprehensive crash test ratings are not available, except for a 4-star rollover rating. Owners should ensure all recall repairs are completed to mitigate known risks.

What are common problems with the 2021 Audi SQ8?

The most reported issues, based on the limited complaint data, involve the POWER TRAIN, ELECTRICAL SYSTEM, and SUSPENSION, each with one complaint. However, the numerous recalls highlight potential widespread problems including engine cylinder bore cracks, rearview camera display failures, instrument panel display malfunctions, rear axle misalignment, and rear seat belt retractor issues.

Are there any recalls for the 2021 Audi SQ8?

Yes, the 2021 Audi SQ8 has 6 recalls. These include issues with the rearview camera system (NHTSA Recalls 21V295000, 21V295000), electrical system/instrument cluster (NHTSA Recall 21V295000), tires/rear axle alignment (NHTSA Recall 21V295000), rear seat belts (NHTSA Recall 21V295000), and a critical engine recall for cylinder bore cracks (NHTSA Recall 21V295000).

How does the 2021 Audi SQ8 perform in crash tests?

NHTSA has not provided overall, frontal, or side crash test ratings for the 2021 Audi SQ8. It has received a 4-star rating for rollover resistance. The absence of comprehensive crash test data makes a full assessment of its crashworthiness difficult.

What is the most serious safety concern for the 2021 Audi SQ8?

The most serious safety concern for the 2021 Audi SQ8 is the engine recall (NHTSA Campaign Number: 21V295000) concerning cracks that may develop on the engine cylinder bore surface. This issue could lead to engine damage, a stall, or an oil leak, significantly increasing the risk of a crash or fire.

Buyer Advice

Our recommendation: Given the low complaint volume but high number of significant recalls, prospective buyers should prioritize verifying that all 6 recalls, especially the engine and camera-related ones, have been completed by an authorized Audi dealer.

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.