The 2019 Audi Q8 has mixed reliability. There are 5 recalls and 103 owner complaints on file for the 2019 Audi Q8. Severity signals include 1 crash-related complaint. The most commonly reported problem areas are: Power Train (38), Electrical System (29), Steering (11).
Q8 reliability snapshot
53/100
Latest model-year reliability score
2.5/5
RepairPal rating (medium)
$1,127
Avg annual repair cost
Data sourced from Auto Reliability Index, aggregating NHTSA recalls, owner complaints, and RepairPal repair-cost records.
Used-car research
Research the Audi Q8 before checking the VIN
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Owner-reported problem categories from NHTSA complaint filings. Counts reflect complaints per category for the most-recent model year on file.
Power Train38
Electrical System29
Steering11
Engine9
Unknown Or Other4
Seat Belts2
Pre-purchase inspection checklist for the 2019 Audi Q8
Hands-on checks distilled from real NHTSA complaint patterns and recall histories. Bring this list to a test drive or mechanic inspection.
☐Inspect alternator and electrical system for malfunctions
☐Check for engine noise indicating piston slap or skirt defects
☐Test steering responsiveness and check for any electrical system warnings
☐Verify rear suspension coil springs for damage or breakage
☐Ensure all seat belts retract and function properly without twisting
☐Confirm fuel system recall repairs are completed
What owners reported
2019 Audi Q8 owner complaints in detail
Owners have reported 1 crash and 2 injuries to NHTSA for the 2019 Audi Q8. These are unverified owner reports, not confirmed defect rates.
Owner complaints38
POWER TRAIN
Owners of the 2019 Audi Q8 frequently report issues with throttle lag and inconsistent acceleration, particularly when accelerating from a stop or low speed. Many describe a delay of 2-3 seconds before the vehicle responds to the gas pedal, followed by a sudden surge in acceleration, which is especially concerning during maneuvers like left-hand turns. Complaints often mention this issue in conjunction with the vehicle's auto start/stop system, with some owners noting that the problem persists even when the system is deactivated. Additionally, a few reports highlight failures in the electrical system, leading to the vehicle shutting off unexpectedly while driving. These issues are often noted at various mileage ranges, from as low as 18,500 miles to over 65,000 miles, and are associated with significant safety implications due to potential loss of control in traffic situations.
Owner complaints29
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Owners report frequent electrical system failures in the 2019 Audi Q8, particularly involving the alternator or generator. Complaints consistently mention warning lights such as "electrical system malfunction" and "start/stop system failure," often followed by a complete loss of vehicle power. These issues are typically documented around 9,800 to 55,910 miles. Safety implications are significant, with multiple reports of vehicles losing power while driving, including incidents where occupants were unable to exit due to door lock failures. The availability of replacement parts is a concern, with several owners noting extended wait times due to part shortages.
Owners of the 2019 Audi Q8 frequently report issues related to steering, often linked with electrical system malfunctions. Common symptoms include a loss of power steering, making it difficult to navigate the vehicle, especially when electrical failures occur, leading to the vehicle becoming inoperable. Complaints often describe the steering wheel feeling loose or unresponsive, sometimes accompanied by warning lights on the dashboard. These issues can lead to dangerous situations, such as being unable to steer off the road in traffic. Several reports mention these problems occurring during normal driving conditions, with no specific mileage indicated, but they do highlight significant delays in obtaining necessary replacement parts.
Owner complaints9
ENGINE
Owners of the 2019 Audi Q8 frequently report issues related to engine problems, particularly piston slap and piston skirt defects, which are associated with engine noise and potential engine failure. Complaints often mention these issues occurring around or after 80,000 miles, with some owners experiencing denial of warranty coverage due to exceeding this mileage. Additionally, engine misfire and knocking noises are reported, sometimes linked to metal shavings found in the oil filter. Safety implications are noted, as some owners describe the vehicle shutting down unexpectedly in traffic due to alternator or water pump failures, posing a risk of accidents. These patterns suggest potential reliability concerns for prospective buyers, especially those considering vehicles near or above the 80,000-mile mark.
Owner complaints4
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Owners report several issues with the 2019 Audi Q8, primarily involving technological and mechanical failures. Multiple complaints describe technology sensor malfunctions during rain, affecting systems like blind spot detection and lane change assist, with no recorded diagnostic errors despite video evidence. Additionally, some owners experience air conditioning failures, specifically evaporator issues, not covered by extended warranties. Mechanical problems include faulty water pumps leading to coolant leaks into vacuum lines, resulting in power loss and requiring extensive repairs. Electrical malfunctions from alternator issues are also noted. These problems do not specify mileage but have implications for vehicle safety and functionality, particularly concerning sensor and power failures.
Owner complaints2
SEAT BELTS
Owners of the 2019 Audi Q8 report issues with the seat belts, specifically the driver's side seatbelt twisting and retracting in a twisted state into the B pillar. This problem is documented to have recurred multiple times, even after dealership repairs, suggesting a persistent issue. One owner notes that the twisting occurs after a particular driver uses the vehicle, but the exact cause remains unclear. In a separate incident, a seatbelt apparatus and seat detachment occurred during a rear-end crash, resulting in an injury. These reports imply potential safety risks associated with the seat belt system in this model.
Owners of the 2019 Audi Q8 report issues related to a recall on the fuel system, specifically citing delays in the availability of parts needed for the repair. Complaints frequently mention that while some owners have not experienced any failures, others report stalling incidents when the vehicle is stopped, such as at traffic lights. One owner describes this stalling issue occurring at approximately 36,700 miles. There are no reports of crashes, fires, or loss of control associated with these complaints. Buyers should be aware of the ongoing recall and the potential for stalling, especially if the repair has not yet been completed.
2019 Q8 recalls (5)
Every NHTSA safety recall logged against the 2019 Q8. A VIN check confirms whether any recall remains unrepaired on a specific vehicle.
LANE DEPARTURENHTSA 26V125000Mar 4, 2026
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Audi) is recalling certain 2019 Audi Q8, Audi A7, and Audi A6 vehicles previously repaired under recall number 25V900. Due to a software error, the lane departure warning system may be deactivated.
Consequence: The driver may be unaware that the lane departure warning system is deactivated and rely on a system that is not functional, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will update the software, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed May 1, 2026. Owners may contact Audi customer service at 1-800-253-2834. Audi's number for this recall is 90TW. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall became searchable on NHTSA.gov on March 6, 2026.
BACK OVER PREVENTIONNHTSA 25V900000Dec 19, 2025
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.
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINENHTSA 22V516000Jul 20, 2022
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2019-2021 Audi Q8, and 2020-2021 Audi Q7 vehicles. A component inside the fuel pump may break, causing the fuel pump to fail.
Consequence: Fuel pump failure can cause an engine stall, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will replace the fuel pump, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed December 22, 2022. Owners may contact Audi's customer service at 1-800-253-2834. Audi's number for this recall is 20DR.
STEERINGNHTSA 20V149000Mar 16, 2020
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2019 Audi Q8 and 2017-2019 Audi Q7 vehicles. The bolt connecting the steering shaft to the steering gear may loosen, possibly resulting in a loss of steering control.
Consequence: A sudden loss of loss of steering control may increase the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Volkswagen will notify owners, and Audi dealers will inspect and, if necessary, replace the steering shaft bolt, as necessary, free of charge. The recall began March 31, 2020. Owners may contact Audi customer service at 1-800-253-2834. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 36A1.
SUSPENSIONNHTSA 19V114000Feb 20, 2019
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Audi) is recalling certain 2019 Q7, Q8, S5 Cabriolet, and S5 Sportback vehicles. The front shock absorber forks may develop cracks allowing the shock absorbers to loosen.
Consequence: Loose shock absorbers may impair vehicle steering, increasing the risk of crash.
Remedy
Audi has notified owners, and dealers will replace the shock absorber forks, free of charge. The recall began March 18, 2019. Owners may contact Audi customer service at 1-800-253-2834. Audi's number for this recall is 40O4.
2019 Audi Q8 on the road
14,256 2019 Audi Q8 units were sold new in the US — a key signal for the size of today's used-market inventory.
How the 2019 Audi Q8 stacks up against rivals
The most-shopped alternatives in the same segment. Each link opens a side-by-side reliability and cost comparison.
The 2019 Audi Q8 exhibits an elevated reliability risk, with a score significantly below the segment average. Complaints are primarily concentrated in the power train and electrical system, indicating potential vulnerabilities in these critical areas. The first-year status of this generation often correlates with teething issues, which appears reflected in the data.
The recall count is elevated, suggesting more frequent interventions to address safety or compliance issues than typically expected. While steering and engine concerns are less prevalent, they still contribute to the overall reliability picture. The distribution of complaints across several categories highlights a broad spectrum of potential problems.
In summary, the 2019 Audi Q8 carries a higher risk profile, suggesting caution for buyers prioritizing reliability.
What you get in a 2019 Audi Q8 report
✓Available title brand history
✓Odometer readings & rollback detection
✓Accident & damage records
✓Auction sales with photos
✓Open safety recalls
✓Theft & stolen vehicle check
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2019 Audi Q8 — Frequently asked questions
Is the 2019 Audi Q8 reliable?
The 2019 Audi Q8 exhibits an elevated reliability risk, with a score significantly below the segment average. Complaints are primarily concentrated in the power train and electrical system, indicating potential vulnerabilities in these critical areas. The first-year status of this generation often correlates with teething issues, which appears reflected in the data.
How many recalls does the 2019 Audi Q8 have?
5 NHTSA safety recalls have been issued for the 2019 Audi Q8. A VIN check confirms whether any remain unrepaired on a specific vehicle.
What are the most common 2019 Audi Q8 problems?
The most-reported 2019 Audi Q8 problem areas are: Power Train (38), Electrical System (29), Steering (11).
Should I run a VIN check on a 2019 Audi Q8?
Yes. A VIN report verifies title brands, odometer history, accident records, and recall completion on a specific 2019 Audi Q8, complementing the model-year reliability data on this page.