2023 Audi e-tron Sportback

The 2023 Audi e-tron Sportback is an all-electric SUV coupe, praised for its luxurious interior, comfortable ride, and impressive technology. The e-tron Sportback comes with a dual-motor all-wheel-drive system. The standard output is 355 horsepower and 414 lb-ft of torque, with a boost mode that temporarily increases output to 402 horsepower and 490 lb-ft of torque. While owners generally appreciate the smooth and quiet operation, advanced features, and distinctive styling, common complaints revolve around the range not meeting expectations, infotainment system glitches, and the high cost of repairs.

Electric Motor

Dual Motor Electric

• Battery Degradation
  • Description/Symptoms: Reduced range over time, less energy output. Owners report some degradation within the first year, particularly in extreme temperatures or with frequent fast charging.
  • Solution: Limited warranty coverage for battery degradation, but only if it falls below a certain threshold (typically around 70% capacity within a specified timeframe). Replacement of individual modules or the entire battery pack.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Battery pack replacement can be very expensive. If it’s not covered under warranty, it could cost $10,000 - $20,000+.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Charging Port Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty connecting or disconnecting charging cables, error messages during charging, slow charging speeds, or failure to charge. Could be related to the charge port hardware or software.
  • Solution: Diagnose the issue using diagnostic tools. Software updates, or replacement of the charging port assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,500+ depending on the source of the issue.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical System

• Infotainment System Freezing/Glitching
  • Description/Symptoms: MMI system freezes, unresponsive touchscreen, Bluetooth connectivity problems, navigation errors, and distorted audio.
  • Solution: Software updates from Audi, system resets, or replacement of the MMI control unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Software updates are usually free at the dealership. MMI control unit replacement: $800 - $2,000+.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Driver Assistance System Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: Issues with adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, automatic emergency braking, or parking sensors. False alarms, system disengagements, or complete failure of the system.
  • Solution: Calibration of sensors, software updates, or replacement of faulty sensors (e.g., radar, cameras).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Sensor recalibration $200 - $500. Sensor replacement $500 - $2,000+ depending on the sensor type.
  • Recalls: None Found
• 12V Battery Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The 12V battery, responsible for powering auxiliary systems, can drain quickly, especially if the car is left unattended for extended periods. This can lead to starting problems, especially in cold weather, and malfunctions in other electronic systems.
  • Solution: Jump-starting the car, replacing the 12V battery with an AGM battery with a higher CCA rating, and ensuring the car is properly shut down to minimize parasitic drain.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500 for a new battery and installation.
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Tail Light Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: LED tail light failure. Sections of the tail light may flicker or go out completely.
  • Solution: Replacement of the entire tail light assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,200+.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Parking Sensor Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: False alarms or failure of the parking sensors.
  • Solution: Replacement of faulty sensors, recalibrating sensors, or updating software.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sunroof Rattling/Creaking
  • Description/Symptoms: Rattling or creaking noises coming from the sunroof area, especially when driving over uneven surfaces.
  • Solution: Lubrication of the sunroof seals and mechanisms. In some cases, adjustment or replacement of sunroof components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Lubrication and minor adjustments $100 - $300. Component replacement: $500 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Seat Motor Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Malfunctions in the seat motors, leading to difficulty adjusting the seats. Grinding noises, slow movement, or complete failure.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty seat motor(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ per motor.
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Air Suspension Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: Uneven ride height, sagging suspension, failure to adjust ride height, error messages on the dashboard.
  • Solution: Diagnosis of the air suspension system, replacement of air struts, air compressor, or ride height sensors.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Air strut replacement $800 - $2,000+ per strut. Air compressor replacement: $500 - $1,500.
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2023 Audi e-tron Sportback, while a luxurious and technologically advanced vehicle, does exhibit some common issues. The severity and cost of these issues vary. Battery degradation and electrical system glitches can be frustrating and potentially expensive to fix. The air suspension issues and other component failures can lead to higher repair bills. Potential buyers should be aware of these potential issues and factor them into their purchasing decision, particularly if buying used without a warranty.