The Audi Q8 spans 2019–2026 with 26 recorded NHTSA recalls and a 4.5/5 ForCar reliability score. The years to approach with caution are 2019, 2021, 2020 (most owner complaints); the cleanest are 2022, 2023, 2026. It delivers up to 87 mpg combined and 5-star NHTSA safety.
How we score: NHTSA crash-test safety (40%), recall frequency across all years (25%) and the share of owner complaints involving a crash, fire or injury (35%). Based on NHTSA & EPA data — not user reviews.
Overview
The Audi Q8 is one of the most popular vehicles in its class, produced from 2019 to 2026 across multiple generations.
How to read a Audi Q8 VIN — every digit explained
Every Audi Q8 carries a unique 17-character VIN stamped at the factory. Each position is a code — together they spell out where, when and how your car was built. Here's exactly what every digit means.
- WMI (1–3) — country & manufacturer. Tells you it's a Audi and the country it was built in (real Audi codes below).
- VDS (4–8) — model, body style, engine, trim & restraints. The 8th digit is the engine code.
- Check digit (9) — a math check that proves the VIN is genuine.
- Model year (10) — the year it was built (e.g. R = 2024, S = 2025).
- Plant (11) — which factory assembled this Q8.
- Serial (12–17) — the unique sequential production number.
- GermanyWA1 · WAU · WU1 · WUA
- HungaryTRU
Digits 4–17 — the engine code (8th), model-year letter (10th) and plant — follow the universal SAE standard, identical on every car. For the full year-code table (2001–2026), country codes and where the VIN is stamped on your Q8, see the complete guide to reading a VIN.
How many recalls does the Audi Q8 have?
The Audi Q8 has 26 recorded NHTSA recalls across 2019–2026. Pick a year below to see its recalls — then verify open recalls against your specific VIN.
2026 Audi Q8 recalls 1
Back Over Prevention: Sensing System: Camera
What's wrong. 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."
Risk. A rearview image that does not display reduces the driver's view behind the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
Fix. 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.
2025 Audi Q8 recalls 2
Back Over Prevention: Sensing System: Camera
What's wrong. 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."
Risk. A rearview image that does not display reduces the driver's view behind the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
Fix. 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.
Seat Belts:front:anchorage
What's wrong. Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2025 Audi RS Q8, Audi Q8, Audi Q7, and Audi SQ8 vehicles. The driver and front passenger seat belt buckles may be missing a rivet that secures the buckle to the seat belt stalk.
Risk. A seat belt that is missing a rivet may not properly restrain an occupant during a crash, increasing the risk of injury.
Fix. Dealers will replace both front seat belt buckles, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed December 3, 2025. Owners may contact Audi at 1-800-253-2834. Audi's number for this recall is 692K. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall became searchable on NHTSA.gov on November 14, 2025.
2024 Audi Q8 recalls 3
Back Over Prevention: Sensing System: Camera
What's wrong. 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."
Risk. A rearview image that does not display reduces the driver's view behind the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
Fix. 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.
Air Bags:sensor:occupant Classification:front Passenger
What's wrong. Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2023 Audi S5 Cabriolet, A4 Allroad, Q5 Sportback, A3 Sedan, S5 Sportback, SQ7, TT Coupe, TT Roadster, RS5 Sportback, 2024 A8, E-Tron Quattro, E-Tron Sportback Quattro, Q8, RSQ8, 2023-2024 Q3, Q5, and Q7 vehicles. An electrical connection in the front passenger seat for the occupant detection system (ODS) control module may loosen and deactivate the front passenger air bag.
Risk. A deactivated front passenger air bag will not deploy during a crash, increasing the risk of injury.
Fix. Dealers will replace the passenger seat occupant detection system control module, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on May 8, 2024. Owners may contact Audi customer service at 1-800-253-2834. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 69GU.
Air Bags:side/window
What's wrong. Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Audi) is recalling certain 2023-2024 SQ8, RSQ8, Q8, Q7, and 2024 SQ7 vehicles. The driver's seat side air bag may have been improperly mounted to the seatback frame. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 214, "Side Impact Protection."
Risk. An improperly mounted air bag may not restrain an occupant as intended, increasing the risk of injury during a crash.
Fix. Dealers will inspect and reinstall the air bag as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed January 17, 2024. Owners may contact Audi customer service at 1-800-253-2834. Audi's number for this recall is 69GA.
2023 Audi Q8 recalls 2
Back Over Prevention: Sensing System: Camera
What's wrong. 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."
Risk. A rearview image that does not display reduces the driver's view behind the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
Fix. 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.
Air Bags:side/window
What's wrong. Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Audi) is recalling certain 2023-2024 SQ8, RSQ8, Q8, Q7, and 2024 SQ7 vehicles. The driver's seat side air bag may have been improperly mounted to the seatback frame. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 214, "Side Impact Protection."
Risk. An improperly mounted air bag may not restrain an occupant as intended, increasing the risk of injury during a crash.
Fix. Dealers will inspect and reinstall the air bag as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed January 17, 2024. Owners may contact Audi customer service at 1-800-253-2834. Audi's number for this recall is 69GA.
2022 Audi Q8 recalls 3
Back Over Prevention: Sensing System: Camera
What's wrong. 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."
Risk. A rearview image that does not display reduces the driver's view behind the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
Fix. 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.
Equipment:electrical:infotainment:video (touch)screen/monitor/unit
What's wrong. Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Audi) is recalling certain 2021-2022 AUDI A8, A6 Allroad, E-TRON Quattro, 2022 S3, RSQ8, RS7, RS6 Avant, Q8, Q7, Q3, E-TRON Sportback Quattro, S5 Cabriolet, E-TRON GT, S5 Sportback, A7, A6, A5 Sportback, A5 Cabriolet, A4, A4 Allroad, A3, S8, SQ7, SQ8, S6, and S4 vehicles. The infotainment main unit may become damaged internally when the vehicle is shut off, resulting in an inoperative rearview camera display the next time the vehicle is started. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 111, "Rear Visibility."
Risk. An inoperative rearview camera display reduces the driver's rear visibility, increasing the risk of a crash.
Fix. Dealers will replace the infotainment main unit, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed June 6, 2022. Owners may contact Audi's customer service at 1-800-253-2834. Audi's number for this recall is 91Ei.
Back Over Prevention: Sensing System: Camera
What's wrong. Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Audi) is recalling certain 2021 Audi A8 and S8, 2022 Audi A5 Sportback, A4 Sedan, E-Tron GT, Q3, Q5, RS6 Avant, A3 Sedan, S5 Sportback, Q5 Sportback, Q7, Q8, RSQ8, SQ7, SQ8, and S3 Sedan vehicles. A software error may prevent the rear-view image from initially displaying when the vehicle begins to reverse. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 111, "Rear Visibility."
Risk. A rear-view camera that does not display an image reduces the driver's rear view, increasing the risk of a crash.
Fix. Dealers will update the infotainment unit parameters, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed November 9, 2021. Owners may contact Audi customer service at 1-800-253-2834. Audi's number for this recall is 91CR.
2021 Audi Q8 recalls 7
Back Over Prevention: Sensing System: Camera
What's wrong. 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."
Risk. A rearview image that does not display reduces the driver's view behind the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
Fix. 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.
Electrical System: Instrument Cluster/panel
What's wrong. 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.
Risk. An instrument panel display that fails to show critical safety information, such as the speedometer or warning lights, increases the risk of a crash.
Fix. 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.
Back Over Prevention:display Function
What's wrong. 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 rearview camera image when the vehicle is placed in reverse gear. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 111, "Rear Visibility."
Risk. A blank rearview camera display can reduce the driver's rear visibility, increasing the risk of a crash.
Fix. 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.
Fuel System, Gasoline:delivery:fuel Pump
What's wrong. 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.
Risk. Fuel pump failure can cause an engine stall, increasing the risk of a crash.
Fix. 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.
Suspension:rear:axle:non-powered Axle Assembly
What's wrong. Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Audi) is recalling certain 2021 Q7, Q8, Q5 Sportback, SQ5 Sportback, RS6 Avant, RS7, RS Q8, 2020-2021 Audi S6 sedan, Q5, A8, S8, A7, A6 Allroad, A5 Cabriolet, A4 sedan, A4 Allroad, SQ5, S7, A6 sedan, S5 coupe, S4 sedan, S5 Cabriolet, A5 coupe, 2019-2021 RS5 coupe, A5 Sportback, S5 Sportback, RS5 Sportback vehicles. The lock nut on the trailing arm of the rear axle may break due to stress corrosion.
Risk. A broken lock nut may misalign the rear axle, causing a loss of control and increasing the risk of a crash.
Fix. Dealers will replace the lock nuts and, if necessary, the associated bolts, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed June 4, 2021. Owners may contact Audi customer service at 1-800-253-2834. Audi's number for this recall is 42L1.
Tires
What's wrong. 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.
Risk. Rear axle misalignment may cause premature or uneven tire wear, increasing the risk of a crash.
Fix. 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.
Seat Belts:rear/other:retractor
What's wrong. 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 early, which can prevent the child restraint system from securing properly. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 208, "Occupant Crash Protection."
Risk. An unsecured child restraint system can increase the risk of injury during a crash.
Fix. 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).
2020 Audi Q8 recalls 3
Back Over Prevention: Sensing System: Camera
What's wrong. 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."
Risk. A rearview image that does not display reduces the driver's view behind the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
Fix. 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, Gasoline:delivery:fuel Pump
What's wrong. 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.
Risk. Fuel pump failure can cause an engine stall, increasing the risk of a crash.
Fix. 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.
Power Train:automatic Transmission:cooling Unit And Lines
What's wrong. Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2020 Audi Q8 vehicles. An insufficient weld on a transmission oil pipe may cause the vehicle to leak automatic transmission fluid (ATF).
Risk. If transmission fluid leaks while driving, the road surface may become slippery, increasing the risk of a crash.
Fix. Volkswagen will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the transmission oil pipe and replace it if necessary, free of charge. The recall began June 12, 2020. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-253-2834. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 38C7.
2019 Audi Q8 recalls 5
Lane Departure:software
What's wrong. 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.
Risk. 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.
Fix. Dealers will update the software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed March 13, 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 Prevention: Sensing System: Camera
What's wrong. 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."
Risk. A rearview image that does not display reduces the driver's view behind the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
Fix. 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, Gasoline:delivery:fuel Pump
What's wrong. 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.
Risk. Fuel pump failure can cause an engine stall, increasing the risk of a crash.
Fix. 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.
Suspension:front:shock Absorber
What's wrong. 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.
Risk. Loose shock absorbers may impair vehicle steering, increasing the risk of crash.
Fix. 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.
Steering
What's wrong. 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.
Risk. A sudden loss of loss of steering control may increase the risk of a crash.
Fix. 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.
Best and worst years for the Audi Q8
Based on NHTSA owner-complaint volume across 8 tracked years, the worst years are 2019, 2021, 2020 and the best (fewest complaints) are 2022, 2023, 2026.
ForCar aggregate — our own analysis of complaint volume, not published by NHTSA.
| Year | Owner complaints | Top issue | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2019 Q8 | Electrical System | Avoid | |
| 2020 Q8 | Engine | Avoid | |
| 2021 Q8 | Electrical System | Avoid | |
| 2022 Q8 | — | Best | |
| 2023 Q8 | — | Best | |
| 2024 Q8 | Service Brakes | Average | |
| 2025 Q8 | Air Bags | Average | |
| 2026 Q8 | — | Best |
What are the most common Audi Q8 problems?
The most-reported Audi Q8 problems are Seats (1 reports), Engine (46 reports) and Air Bags (2 reports) — out of 181 owner complaints NHTSA holds for the model. Here's how they break down:
Most-reported components — tap a category to read what owners actually experienced:
Source: NHTSA owner complaints, all model years. Bar = share of total complaints. Full reports searchable on NHTSA.gov.
Audi Q8 specifications & dimensions
The 2019–2023 Audi Q8 measures 196″ long on a 118″ wheelbase, with a curb weight near 4,729 lb. Full dimensions below — engine, horsepower and trim decode from your VIN. For the original factory build — MSRP, trim and standard equipment — rebuild the Audi Q8 window sticker.
| Years | Length | Width | Height | Wheelbase | Curb weight |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2019–2023 | 196″ | 79″ | 67″ | 118″ | 4,729 lb |
Source: NHTSA vPIC / Transport Canada vehicle specifications. Metric values converted to imperial; generation ranges approximate.
Audi Q8 cargo space, seating & interior room
How much the Q8 holds — passengers and cargo. EPA measures its interior at 103 cu ft of passenger volume and 28 cu ft of cargo. Seating capacity and legroom vary by trim.
Exact seating capacity, third-row availability, legroom and headroom decode from your VIN or vary by trim — the original factory equipment & options list shows what each trim included.
Passenger & cargo volume from EPA fueleconomy.gov (largest configuration). Seats, legroom and headroom from NHTSA vPIC on VIN decode.
Audi Q8 tire size, oil type & owner specs
The fitment owners look up most — tires, wheels, oil and batteries. Exact wheel and tire sizes decode from your VIN or the driver's door-jamb placard; the universal items are listed below.
Exact tire, wheel, oil grade, capacity and battery group are added per trim and model year — decode your VIN above for the factory fitment. Universal items shown as-is.
What MPG does the Audi Q8 get?
The Audi Q8 returns up to 87 combined MPG (EPA), which works out to roughly $900/yr in fuel. Pick an engine to see MPG, annual running cost and CO₂ by year:
The 2026 Audi Q8 (3L 6-cyl Hybrid) gets 19 mpg combined and costs about $4,050/yr to fuel, emitting 459 g/mi CO₂ (GHG 4/10) — about $9,250 more than the average new vehicle over 5 years.
| Year | City | Hwy | Comb | Fuel/yr | CO₂ g/mi | Smog | Engine |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 Q8 | 17 | 23 | $4,050 | 459 | — | 3L 6-cyl Hybrid | |
| 2025 Q8 | 17 | 23 | $4,050 | 459 | 4/10 | 3L 6-cyl Hybrid | |
| 2024 Q8 | 17 | 23 | $4,050 | 459 | 5/10 | 3L 6-cyl Hybrid | |
| 2023 Q8 | 18 | 23 | $3,850 | 439 | 5/10 | 3L 6-cyl Hybrid | |
| 2022 Q8 | 18 | 23 | $3,850 | 440 | 5/10 | 3L 6-cyl Hybrid | |
| 2021 Q8 | 18 | 23 | $3,850 | 453 | 5/10 | 3L 6-cyl Hybrid | |
| 2020 Q8 | 17 | 21 | $4,300 | 479 | 3/10 | 3L 6-cyl Hybrid | |
| 2019 Q8 | 17 | 22 | $4,050 | 474 | 3/10 | 3L 6-cyl Hybrid |
The 2025 Audi Q8 gets 78 MPGe and costs about $950/yr to fuel — that's about $6,250 saved over 5 years versus the average new vehicle.
| Year | City | Hwy | Comb | Fuel/yr | CO₂ g/mi | Smog | Engine |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 Q8 | 77 | 80 | $950 | — | 10/10 | Electric | |
| 2024 Q8 | 84 | 90 | $900 | — | 10/10 | Electric |
Source: EPA fuel-economy database (ForCar-hosted, 1986–2027) — best combined rating per engine & year, with EPA annual fuel cost and tailpipe CO₂. Trim & drivetrain vary slightly; decode your VIN for the exact figure.
See how the Q8 stacks up against the most fuel-efficient SUVs, or calculate this Q8's real yearly fuel cost.
What engines does the Audi Q8 have? Power & range
The Audi Q8 is offered with 2 powertrains — 3L 6-cyl Hybrid, Electric. Here's the lineup by engine, transmission and drivetrain.
| Engine | Displacement | Transmission | Drive | Fuel |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hybrid | 3.0L · 6-cyl | Automatic (S8) | AWD | Premium |
| Electric | Electric motor | Single-speed | AWD | Electricity |
Horsepower, torque and fuel-tank size decode from your VIN — exact figures vary by engine and trim.
Source: EPA fueleconomy.gov (engines, drivetrain, range, charge time). Horsepower & torque from NHTSA vPIC on VIN decode.
Can a Audi Q8 tow? Towing & payload
As an SUV, the Audi Q8 is built to tow and haul. The exact maximum towing capacity and payload depend on the engine, drivetrain and whether it has the factory tow package.
What sets your Q8's tow & payload rating:
- Engine — a larger or turbocharged engine tows more than the base unit.
- Drivetrain & axle — 4WD/AWD and the axle ratio shift the rating.
- Tow package — the factory towing package (hitch, wiring, transmission cooler) raises the max.
- Payload & GVWR — GVWR caps the combined load; more passengers and cargo lower how much you can tow.
Exact towing capacity, payload and GVWR are added per engine, drivetrain and trim — decode your VIN above, or check the driver's door-jamb and hitch labels. Curb weight from vehicle specifications.
How much does a Audi Q8 cost to own?
A used Audi Q8 sells for a median of about $47,800 for a 2024 — most listed between $43,790 and $50,990, from 35 real US listings we track. That real market price is what depreciation eats into, so it's the true anchor of the cost to own:
| Year | Typical price | Market range | Listings |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 Q8 | $43,790–$50,990 | 3 | |
| 2023 Q8 | $44,997–$52,500 | 6 | |
| 2022 Q8 | $45,490–$45,490 | 3 | |
| 2021 Q8 | $31,977–$39,999 | 6 | |
| 2020 Q8 | $25,999–$32,788 | 3 | |
| 2019 Q8 | $23,999–$33,750 | 14 |
For every model year mileage-adjusted, trade-in vs private-party vs dealer pricing and a good-deal check, see what a Q8 is worth today, or browse used-market prices for SUVs.
A Audi Q8 tends to depreciate faster than average. A typical example keeps roughly 37% of its value after five years — losing about 63% to depreciation. Fuel, maintenance and insurance add to the total cost to own.
| Age | Value retained | Est. resale value | Lost to depreciation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Year 1 | 75% | $22,500 | −$7,500 |
| Year 2 | 63% | $18,900 | −$11,100 |
| Year 3 | 53% | $15,900 | −$14,100 |
| Year 4 | 44% | $13,200 | −$16,800 |
| Year 5 | 37% | $11,100 | −$18,900 |
What goes into the five-year cost to own:
- Depreciation — the biggest cost: this Q8 loses about 63% of its value over five years. See the full depreciation curve by age.
- Fuel — ≈ $4,500 over five years at roughly 15,000 miles a year.
- Maintenance & repairs — routine service, tires and wear items as the Q8 ages.
- Insurance — varies by driver, state and trim; get a quote for your exact figure.
Resale & depreciation are ForCar estimates from typical segment value-retention curves — not a live market quote. Fuel from EPA fueleconomy.gov at ~15k mi/yr.
How much is a Audi Q8 to insure?
A Audi Q8 costs about $1,956 a year to insure for a typical driver on full coverage — roughly 36% above the average car. That's from its real HLDI insurance-loss index (136, where 100 = average car); your own rate moves with state, age, record and coverage.
Estimate = US-average premium × the Q8's HLDI loss index. See Audi insurance cost by model, cost by state, or compare any car.
Is the Audi Q8 safe?
The Audi Q8 earns up to 5-star NHTSA overall safety — real government crash-test data. Ratings by year:
| Year | Overall | Frontal | Side | Rollover |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 Q8 | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★☆ |
| 2025 Q8 | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★☆ |
| 2024 Q8 | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★☆ |
| 2021 Q8 | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★☆ |
| 2020 Q8 | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★☆ |
| 2019 Q8 | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★☆ |
Source: NHTSA 5-Star Safety Ratings (NCAP), tested model years.
Want the safest pick? Compare crash-test scores across the safest cars and SUVs.
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How many miles does a Audi Q8 last?
A well-maintained Audi Q8 typically lasts 250,000–300,000+ miles. It's exceptionally durable — with routine maintenance many owners report 250k+ on the original powertrain. Its ForCar Reliability Score is 4.5/5.
Check your Audi Q8’s VIN — history, recalls & specs
Title records, open recalls, build details and paint code — straight from the VIN. Free.
Check this Q8’s VIN free →All Audi Q8 model years
A year-by-year snapshot of the Audi Q8 — recalls, best EPA fuel economy and NHTSA safety. Tap a year for full details.
| Year | Recalls | Best MPG | Safety |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 Q8 | 1 recall | ★★★★★ | |
| 2025 Q8 | 2 recalls | ★★★★★ | |
| 2024 Q8 | 3 recalls | ★★★★★ | |
| 2023 Q8 | 2 recalls | — | |
| 2022 Q8 | 3 recalls | — | |
| 2021 Q8 | 7 recalls | ★★★★★ | |
| 2020 Q8 | 3 recalls | ★★★★★ | |
| 2019 Q8 | 5 recalls | ★★★★★ |
Recalls = NHTSA campaigns that year · MPG = best EPA combined · Safety = NHTSA overall stars (tested years).
Frequently asked questions
What are the worst years for the Q8?
By owner-complaint volume, 2019, 2021, 2020 drew the most reports. 2022, 2023, 2026 have the cleanest records.
How many recalls does the Q8 have?
26 recorded NHTSA recalls across 2019–2026. Always check open recalls by your VIN. See all Audi recalls and reliability across every model.
What MPG does the Q8 get?
Up to 87 combined MPG (EPA), depending on engine — from the base 4-cylinder to the hybrid.
Is the Q8 safe?
The Q8 earns up to 5-star NHTSA overall crash-test safety; ratings vary by model year.
How many miles does a Q8 last?
A well-maintained Q8 typically reaches 200,000–300,000 miles with regular maintenance.
Is the Q8 reliable?
Our ForCar Reliability Score for the Q8 is 4.5/5, based on NHTSA safety, recall history and complaint severity.
What's the Audi Q8 warranty?
New Audi models carry a 4 years / 50,000 miles basic (bumper-to-bumper) warranty and a 4 years / 50,000 miles powertrain warranty. Coverage can vary by model year and market — confirm with a Audi dealer.
Where is the Audi Q8 made?
The assembly plant is encoded in the VIN — the 11th character. Decode your Q8's VIN above to see exactly where it was built; Audi may build it at more than one plant depending on the year.
How much ground clearance does the Q8 have?
Ground clearance varies by trim and drivetrain — AWD/4WD versions often sit higher. Decode your VIN or check the specific trim for the exact figure.