Audi Sedans, SUVs, Wagons Recalled for Suspension Problem

Drivers could lose control of the vehicle if a part of the rear axle breaks

Keith Barry, Consumer Reports Senior Autos Reporter.

By Keith Barry
Senior Autos Reporter

Updated May 7, 2021

Audi is recalling over 40,000 vehicles to fix a faulty suspension component that could cause a loss of control while driving.

Many newer Audi vehicles are involved in the recall, including the 2021 Q7, Q8, Q5 Sportback, RS Q8, and SQ5 Sportback SUVs, 2021 RS6 Avant wagon and RS7 sedan; 2020 and 2021 A4, S4, A6, S6, A7, S7, A8, and S8 sedans, Q5 and SQ5 SUVs, A4 and A6 Allroad wagons, A5 and S5 coupes and convertibles; plus 2019 through 2021 RS5 coupes, and A5, S5, and RS5 Sportback sedans.

The Details

Vehicles Recalled

2021 Audi Q5 Sportback, Q7, Q8, SQ5 Sportback and RS Q8 SUVs
2021 Audi RS6 Avant wagon and Audi RS7 sedan
2020-2021 Audi S6 sedan
2020-2021 Audi Q5 and SQ5 SUVs
2020-2021 Audi A4, A6, A7, A8, S4, S6, S7, and S8 sedans
2020-2021 Audi A4 Allroad and A6 Allroad wagons
2020-2021 Audi A5 and S5 coupes and convertibles
2019-2021 Audi RS5 coupe
2019-2021 Audi A5 Sportback, S5 Sportback, and RS5 Sportback sedans

The problem: A faulty rear axle lock nut may break due to stress corrosion, which could lead to loss of vehicle control while driving.

The fix: Audi dealerships will replace the nuts and associated bolts, free of charge.

How to contact the manufacturer: Audi will contact owners of affected vehicles by First Class mail as soon as June 25, 2021. Owners may also call Audi at 800-253-2834.

NHTSA campaign number: 21V295

Check to see whether your vehicle has an open recall: NHTSA’s website will tell you whether your vehicle has any open recalls that need to be addressed.

If you plug your car’s 17-digit vehicle identification number (VIN) into NHTSA’s website and this recall doesn’t appear, it means your vehicle doesn’t currently have any open recalls. Because automakers issue recalls often, and for many older vehicles, we recommend checking back regularly to see whether your vehicle has had a recall issued.

Stay informed about recalls that might affect your vehicle using our Car Recall Tracker.

Create a free account now to become a CR member.

Keith Barry

Keith Barry has been an auto reporter at Consumer Reports since 2018. He focuses on safety, technology, and the environmental impact of cars. Previously, he led home and appliance coverage at Reviewed; reported on cars for USA Today, Wired, and Car & Driver; and wrote for other publications as well. Keith earned a master’s degree in public health from Tufts University. Follow him on BlueSky @itskeithbarry.bsky.social.