2018 Audi A7

Here’s a breakdown of common issues and complaints reported by owners of the 2018 Audi A7, categorized for clarity and consistency.

The 2018 Audi A7 is a luxury sedan known for its sleek design, refined interior, and engaging driving experience. In the US, it came standard with a supercharged 3.0-liter V6 engine producing 340 horsepower and 325 lb-ft of torque, paired with a seven-speed S tronic dual-clutch automatic transmission. Some owners appreciate the A7’s stylish design, comfortable ride, and advanced technology features. Common complaints include the cost of maintenance, some minor electrical glitches, and the sometimes-firm ride quality depending on the suspension setup.

Engine

3.0L Supercharged V6

• Coolant Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks, often detected by a low coolant warning light or visible coolant pooling under the vehicle. The leak can originate from various points in the cooling system, including the water pump, thermostat housing, or coolant hoses.
  • Solution: Diagnosis to pinpoint the leak’s source, followed by replacement of the faulty component (water pump, thermostat, hoses).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1200+ depending on the location and the shop hourly rate.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Visible oil leaks, often found around the valve cover gaskets, timing chain cover, or rear main seal. Symptoms may include a burning oil smell, low oil level warnings, or oil stains on the driveway.
  • Solution: Replacement of the leaking gasket or seal. More extensive repairs may be necessary if the leak is from a more critical engine component.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1500+ depending on the location and the shop hourly rate.
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

7-Speed S tronic Dual-Clutch Automatic

• Rough Shifting/Hesitation
  • Description/Symptoms: Jerky or harsh shifts, especially at lower speeds. Hesitation or delays when accelerating from a stop or when downshifting.
  • Solution: Software updates for the transmission control module (TCM) may resolve some shifting issues. In more severe cases, a transmission rebuild or replacement may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 (for software update) - $7,000+ (for rebuild/replacement).
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Air Suspension Issues (If Equipped)
  • Description/Symptoms: The Audi A7 offers an optional air suspension system. Issues with this system can include air leaks, causing the car to sit unevenly or drop overnight. A failing air compressor can also prevent the system from functioning correctly.
  • Solution: Replacement of the leaking air strut or air spring. Replacement of the air compressor. Diagnosis and repair of any associated sensors or wiring.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2500+ per strut/compressor, plus labor.
    • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Infotainment System Glitches
  • Description/Symptoms: Malfunctions of the MMI (Multi Media Interface) system. Symptoms include screen freezes, system crashes, Bluetooth connectivity issues, navigation errors, or loss of audio.
  • Solution: Software updates may resolve some issues. In other cases, replacement of the MMI control unit or other related components might be required.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 (for software update) - $2000+ for control unit replacement.
    • Recalls: None Found
• Sensor Failures
  • Description/Symptoms: Failing sensors on the vehicle could cause a number of different issues, for example: the mass airflow sensor could have issues, causing the engine to run poorly, and the car could stall. The wheel speed sensor could also have issues, causing the ABS or traction control system to have issues, and giving you an error message.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty sensor, and diagnose/repair the underlying condition, if applicable.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150- $500
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof may become stuck, fail to open or close properly, or leak.
  • Solution: Diagnosis and repair of the sunroof mechanism, including cleaning and lubrication of the tracks. Replacement of damaged components, such as the motor or seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1500+ depending on the complexity of the repair.
    • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Power Seat Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: Power seats may fail to adjust properly, or may become stuck in one position.
  • Solution: Diagnosis and repair of the seat motor, wiring, or switch. Replacement of faulty components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ depending on the part.
    • Recalls: None Found
• Door Lock Actuator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The door does not lock/unlock with the remote, or does not lock/unlock at all.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ depending on the shop hourly rate and the door in question.
    • Recalls: None Found

Summary:

The 2018 Audi A7, while appreciated for its design and performance, can experience a range of issues. Engine and transmission problems, such as coolant/oil leaks and rough shifting, can lead to moderate to significant repair costs. Electrical glitches, particularly with the infotainment system, and air suspension issues (if equipped) are also notable concerns. The severity of these issues ranges from minor inconveniences to potentially costly repairs. Buyers should have these potential problems inspected before purchase and budget for regular maintenance to mitigate risks.