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VIN REPORT

WA1BFCFS2GR0116332016 AUDI Q3Premium Plus

Risk Score
62
HIGH RISK
out of 100
3 Found
3 campaigns
27
Reported to NHTSA
Not Tested
See iihs.org/ratings
10 yrs
Made in SPAIN
C-
Score: 71/100
Verdict & Risk Assessment
📄

Executive Summary

2016 AUDI Q3 was analyzed across NHTSA recalls, owner complaints, crash test data, and public auction records. There are 3 open recalls on record — verify these have been repaired before purchase. 27 owner complaints have been filed with NHTSA — review the complaint section for the most common failure patterns.

  • 3 open recalls — verify these have been repaired before purchase
  • 27 owner complaints filed with NHTSA — above average for this class
  • Complaint rate is accelerating — issues appear to be getting worse, not better
  • Electrical is flagged in both recalls and owner complaints — double-confirmed failure pattern
  • Engine or platform shared with models that have documented failure issues
  • Active or settled class action lawsuit on record for this model — VW/Audi TDI Dieselgate Emissions Defeat Device (2009–2016)
62/100
High Risk
5 risk factors detected. Review each carefully before committing to purchase.
LOWMODERATEHIGHCRITICAL
Contributing Risk Factors — 5 detected
Critical deferred maintenance — safety-critical components overdue
+20
Known manufacturer defect on record for this model
+19
3 model-wide recalls on record
+9
Active or settled class action lawsuit
+8
Accelerating complaint trend — problems increasing over time
+6
Critical Alerts

No auction records available. Title brand status could not be verified — request title history from seller or state DMV.

Vehicle
Make
AUDI
Model
Q3
Year
2016
Trim / Series
Premium Plus
Body Style
Sport Utility Vehicle (SUV)/Multi-Purpose Vehicle (MPV)
Vehicle Type
MULTIPURPOSE PASSENGER VEHICLE (MPV)
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Engine
4-cyl 2L 200 hp
Transmission
Automatic
Doors
4
Manufacturer
AUDI AG
Assembly
MARTORELL, SPAIN
GVWR
Class 1C: 4,001 - 5,000 lb (1,814 - 2,268 kg)
CQuality55/100
Standard📍 MARTORELL, SPAIN

No specific quality data available for this plant. No documented recall or complaint concentrations on record.

Safety
C-
Score: 71/100
Crash Test Rating20/40
Recall Safety21/30
Complaint History30/30
30/100Moderate
  • Brake system recall
2/100
Basic
1 of 20 safety features detected
Missing: Automatic Emergency Braking, Pedestrian AEB, Forward Collision Warning, Electronic Stability Control
Low
  • 1 complaint(s) involved a fire
Elevated
  • 3 recalls on same component: Electrical
  • Safety system appears in both official recalls and owner complaints

Lemon law eligibility depends on state law, number of repair attempts, and days out of service. Consult an attorney for actual eligibility.

The same components appear in both official NHTSA recalls and owner-filed complaints — a double-confirmed failure signal.

Electrical
3 recalls11 complaints

2.0L EA888 TSI: timing chain tensioner and water pump failures well-documented

Also affects: Golf, Jetta, Passat, Tiguan, A3, Q3
Forward Collision Warning?Unknown
Automatic Emergency Braking?Unknown
Pedestrian AEB?Unknown
Rear AEB?Unknown
Lane Departure Warning?Unknown
Lane Keep Assist?Unknown
Lane Centering Assist?Unknown
Blind Spot Monitoring?Unknown
Rear Cross Traffic Alert?Unknown
Adaptive Cruise Control?Unknown
Adaptive Headlights?Unknown
Auto High Beam?Unknown
Parking Assist?Unknown
Backup Camera?Unknown
Electronic Stability Control?Unknown
Tire Pressure Monitoring?Indirect
Event Data Recorder?Unknown
Crash Notification?Unknown
Dynamic Brake Support?Unknown
Keyless Ignition?Unknown
Recalls
100/100
Critical Deferred Risk
Critical deferred failure risk — 4 safety-critical or high-cost components are past their service interval. Without immediate attention, repair costs will compound significantly.
No odometer data on record. Mileage is estimated at ~120,000 mi based on average annual driving. Items marked EST. OVERDUE may already be due — verify service history with the seller. Items marked OVERDUE are confirmed past-due based on vehicle age alone.
EST. OVERDUECriticalTiming Chain Tensioner
Service interval: 10 yr · Vehicle age: 10 yr · Past due by age
Service Timing Chain Tensioner immediately — already past the 120,000 mi / 10 yr interval
Worn chain tensioners cause timing chain skip or snap — common on GM 5.3L/6.2L, Ford EcoBoost, VW/Audi EA888, BMW N47/N63. Listen for cold-start rattles.
EST. OVERDUECriticalWater Pump
Service interval: 8 yr · Vehicle age: 10 yr · Past due by age
Service Water Pump immediately — already past the 100,000 mi / 8 yr interval
Water pump failure causes rapid overheating. If the engine overheats even once, head gasket damage is likely — turning a $400 part into a $3,000+ repair.
EST. OVERDUEHighTransmission Fluid / Service
Service interval: 5 yr · Vehicle age: 10 yr · Past due by age
Service Transmission Fluid / Service immediately — already past the 60,000 mi / 5 yr interval
Degraded transmission fluid destroys clutch packs and solenoids. CVT transmissions are especially sensitive — neglected fluid can result in a $4,000–$8,000 replacement.
EST. OVERDUEHighCoolant Flush
Service interval: 5 yr · Vehicle age: 10 yr · Past due by age
Service Coolant Flush immediately — already past the 100,000 mi / 5 yr interval
Degraded coolant loses corrosion inhibitors and attacks aluminum engine components. Can cause head gasket failure and water pump corrosion.
EST. OVERDUEModerateSpark Plugs (iridium/platinum)
Service interval: 8 yr · Vehicle age: 10 yr · Past due by age
Service Spark Plugs (iridium/platinum) immediately — already past the 100,000 mi / 8 yr interval
Worn spark plugs cause misfires that can foul and crack catalytic converters. A $150 tune-up can prevent a $1,200 catalytic converter replacement.
EST. OVERDUEModerateFuel Injectors
Service interval: 10 yr · Vehicle age: 10 yr · Past due by age
Service Fuel Injectors immediately — already past the 120,000 mi / 10 yr interval
Dirty or failing injectors cause rough idle, reduced fuel economy, and increased emissions. Cleaning costs $100–$200; replacement $800–$1,600.
DEFECTCriticalKnown Model Defect
Failure timing unpredictable — defect may already be active
Volkswagen Dieselgate: TDI engines equipped with defeat device software to cheat EPA emissions tests
Documented systemic defect with class action or NHTSA investigation. These issues are often unrepaired at point of sale.
33 RECALLS

NHTSA VIN-specific recall lookup returned no data for this VIN. The 3 recalls below are model-wide and may or may not apply to this exact vehicle depending on production date. Verify at nhtsa.gov/recalls.

Estimated Repair Completion (Statistical)

Average repair completion across 3 recalls is ~67%. Always ask the seller for dealer service records confirming each repair.

67%
avg repaired

Statistical model based on recall age, component type, and manufacturer. Not a repair confirmation. Demand dealer service records.

AUDI Recall Completion Rate — Industry Context
84%Fair

AUDI completes recalls at a fair rate (84%). If this vehicle has open recalls, follow up with a dealer — average remedy time is ~22 months.

Avg time to remedy open recall: ~22 months · Source: NHTSA Recall Completion Rate Reports

Avg Fix Time
22mo
#19V385000
Invalid Date

EXTERIOR LIGHTING:TURN SIGNAL

SummaryVolkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Audi) is recalling certain 2016-2018 Audi Q3 vehicles equipped with LED headlights. An inoperable front turn signal may not illuminate an indicator, failing to alert the driver to the issue. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 108, "Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment."
Read full details...
ConsequenceWithout an indicator informing the driver of an inoperable turn signal, the driver may turn or change lanes without a signal, increasing the risk of crash.
Est. Repair Completion~69%

~31% chance this recall was never fixed

Moderate Risk

Source: NHTSA statistical model by recall age & component type

#17V400000
Invalid Date

EXTERIOR LIGHTING:BRAKE LIGHTS

SummaryVolkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2016-2017 Audi Q3 vehicles. If the parking brake is used during emergency braking, the brake lights on the vehicle will not activate. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 108, "Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment."
Read full details...
ConsequenceA vehicle approaching from behind may not have any warning that the vehicle is stopping, increasing the risk of a crash.
Est. Repair Completion~68%

~32% chance this recall was never fixed

Moderate Risk

Source: NHTSA statistical model by recall age & component type

#16V642000
Jun 2016

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:SOFTWARE

SummaryVolkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain model year 2016 TT roadster, A3 cabriolet, A3 sedan and A3 e-tron, 2016-2017 TT coupe, 2017 A4 sedan and Q7 and 2015-2017 Q3 vehicles. The affected vehicles may have been programmed with new software that inadvertently makes the side marker lights inoperative in conjunction with the parking lights or the headlights. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 108, "Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment."
Read full details...
ConsequenceIf the side marker lights do not illuminate, the vehicle may be less visible at night, increasing the risk of a crash.
Est. Repair Completion~64%

~36% chance this recall was never fixed

Moderate Risk

Source: NHTSA statistical model by recall age & component type

LONG-STANDING OPEN
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:SOFTWARE
9.9yr open

⚠ One or more recalls have been open for over 5 years — may never have been repaired on this vehicle.

06/09/2016
3 total campaigns
ElectricalBrakes
0
Part Replacements
3
Software/OTA Updates
0
Buyback/Refund
0
High-Effort Repairs
1 recall is over 2 years old — statistically less likely to have been completed. Verify repair status with any dealer using your VIN.
RECALL DIDN'T FIX IT

100% of complaints about "ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:SOFTWARE" were filed AFTER recall campaign 16V642000 (2016-06-09) — the recall remedy may not have fully resolved the issue.

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:SOFTWARE
100% post-recall
Recall: 2016-06-090 before · 13 after#16V642000

Continuing complaints after a recall may indicate an inadequate fix, a new failure mode, or that many vehicles never had the recall performed. Verify recall completion status directly with NHTSA.

Complaints
Electrical
1 crash11
Engine/Powertrain
5
Other
3
Suspension/Wheels
3
Safety Systems
2
Body/Structure
1
Visibility
1
Steering
1
2016
2
2017
4
2019
2
2020
2
2021
6
2022
1
2023
2
2024
3
2025
4
2026
1
2% trend in recent years (improving reliability)
Accelerating +167%
8
Last 24 months
3
Prior 24 months

⚠ Complaint rate is accelerating — issue may be getting worse

PEAKS FALL (SEP–NOV)

33% of complaints filed in Oct & Feb — may indicate temperature-sensitive or weather-related failures.

J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
Engine stalling3
Fire/smoke3
Tire blowout2
Electrical failure2
Steering loss1
Conditions Reported
Highway/high-speed (5)Rain/wet (1)Startup (1)Parking/low-speed (1)
27HIGH VOLUME
1
Fire
1
Crash
ODI #11718686UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE

To Whom It May Concern: I am writing this communication to you per an attorney referral. I have an Audi that was included in the Turbo Class Action Lawsuit. See [XXX] My VIN was included in the lawsuit. The lawsuit was won on December 4th 2025. The class action lawsuit only covers and reimburses consumers who had paid out of pocket (prior to a certain date) expenses incurred fixing the Turbo. I have a letter from a Master Mechanic who is saying my engine problems are due to the turbo being bad however, I have not had the issue fixed. The class action lawsuit does not cover consumers who have not had the Turbo fixed or replaced. Please advise on what I should do or refer me to the appropriate person who can guide me through this process. My vehicle is not under warranty and although the class action lawsuit was won, there is no recall issued at this time. See attached. Thank you in advance for your cooperation. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

ODI #11703719FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

The vehicle emits a smell of fuel into the cabin of the car, and if the windows are up, this makes the driver sleepy and could cause a crash. It does not read fuel levels properly. The car has been taken to Butler, who said they could not find a problem. It was then taken to Audi Agusta (Gerald Jones), they replaced a fuel line that had to be correctly tigheted by another servicer Autobahn Automotive in Augusta Ga. That all happened in October and November of 2025. It is December 2025 with the same issue and no correction at this point.

ODI #11693736ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE

In 4/2024 car wouldn’t start. Took to Audi for new battery and was told Water pump failed so it was replaced with delays. In 3/2025 noticed no heat and car took a long time to warm up. Took back to dealership replaced thermostat. Still no heat so I was told ok to drive but need to flush heater core to fix heat issue for $3500. Started my car on 8/14/2025 had multiple lights come on dash (lights, brake, TPMs, epc, and brake fluid) so I turned off. Took to mechanic for inspection told something strange different codes instructed to take to dealer. On 10/8/2025 took back to Audi for evaluation and first they stated my fuse box panel was slightly melted couldn’t code read. Ordered part, 2 weeks, and would be $2,000 for repairs. On 10/15/2025 they state I have Coolant migration from over flow and it would be $35,000 for repairs which exceeds vehicle worth to buy another. Have not experienced any coolant loss since water pump failed and was replaced in 2024.

ODI #11655074STRUCTURE

Owned car for 4 years. Car has a panoramic sunroof in two sections. rear section is glass and does not move. Front section is glass and does actuate. On [XXX]. All was fine. Driving on smooth highway, [XXX (at XXX]. No other vehicles within site behind or in front around me). Sunroof was 100% closed the entire trip. Suddenly my front (moveable segment) of the sunroof literally exploded, raining glass all over me. I maintained control of the vehicle and arrived at work 20 min later. Was able to take photos when the sun came up. No apparent cause. I found no other debris in the car except the glass. No vehicles were around me at the time. Temperature was high 50s that morning. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

ODI #11640285ENGINE

Had pistons and rings replaced by Audi dealership. After repairs were completed my car was burning through excessive amounts of oil. The engine seized while I was driving on highway. A replacement engine was installed after that by Audi. Now have clusters lights on dash after picking up car from the dealership. My car was not listed in class action lawsuit. I want to know why? When all of the repairs were what was in the lawsuit.

ODI #11619127ENGINE

I was driving through Franconia Notch on [XXX] when my engine suddenly started to slow down my speed I was on a part of highway that had no pull off and was one lane divided highway. I was no longer able to able to maintain a speed over 40 mph and no where to pull off put me in a dangerous situation. I did eventually make it out of the notch but not after a few miles. I took it to an Audi verified dealer and was told (I have a video) that this was due to a spontaneous consumption of oil event which is a known problem and needs a new engine. I contacted Audi and they said my car year was not included in the class action lawsuit and would not cover my engine and should become included I would be notified by mail. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

ODI #11612175STEERING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,AIR BAGS

My Audi Q3 was in repair at Audi Spokane WA for an issue with the steering wheel, horn and airbag. I had it inspected at a shop in Moscow ID who diagnosed the damage as the Wheel Clock Spring. Lux Auto Hause advised that I contact Audi Dealership and stated the clock spring is under warranty. I made the next available appt with the dealership because Audi required my vehicle to be inspected at the dealership in Spokane WA before covering a warranty repair. The dealership is approximately 150 miles away and Audi stated in their letter that my Q3 had to meet qualifying factors for the warranty repair which were passenger airbag light that stays on and steering wheel controls not working. Audi covered the warranty repair and returned my Q3 with the steering wheel controls broken and Audi damaged my cruise control. I could hear plastic pieces in my vehicle steering wheel. I requested that they reinspect the supposed repair and waited for another 4 hours at the dealership. Audi did nothing about the damage and insisted it is damage from something else. Audi stated 2 times…we cleared the passenger airbag light which seemed to be their only concern. Audi left me with my vehicle seriously damaged, they did not repair the steering wheel or the hand controls and damaged my ability to drive my Audi with the cruise control. I filed a complaint with Audi in MI and they did not initiate a repair for the damage they caused my Audi Q3. When I attempted to provide the diagnostic from Lux Auto Hause that proved my cruise control did not have an error code prior to being at Audi- they ignored me. Lux Auto Hause is 1 of 2 Authorized European repairers in my area. I have had successful repairs completed there and can’t understand why Audi would be negligent when I can prove the damage didn’t exist prior to the clock spring breaking. My Audi Q3 steering, hand controls and after being at the dealer-my cruise control. Is this something the NHTSA can investigate?

ODI #11593745SUSPENSION

Drivers rear wishbone control arm has a baseball seize hole corrosion. Passenger rear wishbone has surface cracks. Significant safety consern if driver rear wishbone failed while driving . Dealer recommended not to drive vehicle replacement of the component is required

ODI #11542990ENGINE

The Audi dealership in Tysons Corner VA is denying to repair a known flaw that has resulted in Failed emissions. This is a constant struggle with the VW brand, kindly help how to resolve. The following are attached a) The emissions failure report from DEQ with the CEL code P2015 b) Technical service bulletin that details that repair and how it should be covered c) The extended warranty d) EPA guidance on their website of coverage for this issue (pic attached) These dealerships are making a lot of money while not fixing emissions problems that they are causing global warming.

ODI #11519120VISIBILITY

The contact's wife owns a 2016 Audi Q3. The contact stated that while his wife was driving at an undisclosed speed, the rearview mirror detached. The vehicle was taken to a local dealer, where it was determined that the rearview mirror needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was 42,465.

ODI #11488316ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,AIR BAGS

My vehicle's Airbag clock spring control unit has failed and does not work. This happened in June 2022. This part controls my airbag, my horn, vehicle display unit and other functions like the radio controls along with navigation. I had this confirmed by my local car repair shop. There is currently an air bag warning light illuminated which has been on consistently since June 2022. My horn does not work and has not worked since June 2022. Just prior to this failure the steering wheel made a plastic like crinkling noise. The vehicle is available for inspection upon request. Audi Services has indicated in email and over the phone that this part is indefinitely on back order. Without this fixed the car will not pass my state's inspection requirements. I have also been informed that this clock spring control unit is the same part used in the recall that VW Tiguans currently have.

ODI #11439200ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING

My rear lights are not working properly. I had a malfunction warning and for the right rear light. Which is making all the lights not functioning. It almost had me rear ended.

ODI #11428252TIRES

255/40 R19 100H Rear driver side tire spontaneously blew while parked. Tire side wall shows about 1.5 inch linear mark with irregular border (not cut by a person but occurred naturally). Also has a near by person's dash cam video showing gun like "pop" sound when the tire blew spontaneously.

ODI #11427317FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

Failure of seal between injector and fuel rail caused fuel to be sprayed into engine compartment. I believe the injector seal was damaged during a prior service. Fuel sprayed onto the front of the engine and gasoline fumes filled cabin. Check engine light came on after engine died from lack of fuel. Safety issue is the accumulation of gasoline in the engine compartment & the car continues to pump fuel. No apparent safety measure to cut off fuel when excessive fuel is being delivered to engine. I repaired vehicle, but only replaced the bad o-ring and another o-ring that appeared to be damaged. I left the other 2 o-rings in place. I couldn't find a contact for Audi that could address my concern. My concern is the design. The seal between the fuel rail and the injector is a pressure fit seal. If the o-ring seal fails, fuel sprays out through the failure point into the engine compartment. Fumes in the engine compartment could be ignited by the sparks inside the starter or other electro-mechanical switching that generates sparks. Vehicle is available for inspection.

ODI #11425726SEAT BELTS

Passenger-side rear seat belt buckle (latch) no longer secures the seat belt tongue (latch plate). Repeated attempts were made to engage the tongue and reset the buckle with no success. Seat is currently unusable.

ODI #11415157AIR BAGS

MY AIR BAG LIGHT IS ON , SCAN SAYS THAT IGNITER IS SHORTING TOO GROUND, PASSANGER SIDE ISSUE Q3 'S ARE BUILT ON THE A3 PLATFORM AND SHOULD BE COVERED UNDER THE A3 AIRBAG RECALL 2015-2019

ODI #11399030WHEELS

DRIVING ON THE HIGHWAY AT APPROXIMATELY 60 MPH, ALL OF THE SUDDEN THE CAR LOSES CONTROL AND IS FISHTAILING. I WAS ABLE TO REGAIN CONTROL AND PULL OFF THE ROAD AT AN EXIT RAMP. THE PASSENGER SIDE REAR TIRE WAS COMPLETELY BLOWN OUT. I DO NOT RECALL RUNNING OVER ANYTHING OR HEARING A POP, THE TIRE SIMPLY EXPLODED. THE TIRES ARE CONTINENTAL CONTIPROCONTACT 255/40/19. THE TIRE PRESSURE SENSOR DID NOT INDICATE LOW PRESSURE BEFORE THE BLOWOUT OR FOLLOWING THE INCIDENT.

ODI #11349635ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,SEATS,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)

CONTINUE TO MALFUNCTION WHILE DRIVING. LIGHT,BRAKE, SEAT LIGHT,SYSTEM LIGHT,TIRE PRESSURE LIGHT, STEERING LIGHT, EVERYTHING IS MALFUNCTION INCLUDING THE BATTERY LIFHT,LIGHT, UT WOULDN'T START,HAD THE BATTERY REPLACE AND ALL THE LIGHTS STILL ON ON THE VEHICLE. AFAID TO DRIVE IT THAT IT COULD CATCH ON FIRE WITH THE ELECTRICAL SYSTEM MALFUNCTION. WOULD NOT START SITTING HAD TO JUMP IT TO GET HOME.

ODI #11324847EXTERIOR LIGHTING

OCCASIONAL SHORTAGE IN TURN SIGNAL AND BREAK LIGHTS.

ODI #11270088ELECTRICAL SYSTEMFIRE

I WAS DRIVING AND SMELLED FIRE/SMOKE FROM THE DASHBOARD. THERE WAS THE START OF A FIRE AND SMOKE STARTED COMING OUT FROM BEHIND THE MMI SCREEN. THE CONNECTION FOR PHONE GOT CHOPPY BUT DID NOT GO OUT COMPLETELY.

ODI #11184933ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2016 AUDI Q3. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE WOULD NOT START PROPERLY AND WOULD CONSTANTLY DECELERATE WHILE IN THE MIDDLE OF TRAFFIC. THE CONTACT EXPERIENCED THE FAILURES OFTEN. ALSO, THE CHECK ENGINE INDICATOR ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO AUDI DOMINION (21105 I-10, SAN ANTONIO, TX 78257, (888) 478-2089) WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT A NEW FUEL SENSOR NEEDED TO BE INSTALLED. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED, BUT THE FAILURES RECURRED. THE CONTACT TOOK THE VEHICLE BACK TO THE DEALER AND HAD IT REPAIRED AGAIN, BUT THE FAILURES RECURRED. DURING THE THIRD REPAIR, THE DEALER BROKE ONE OF THE HEADLIGHTS. SINCE THEN, THE FAILURES RECURRED MULTIPLE TIMES. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED AND DID NOT ASSIST. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 49,500.

ODI #11042813ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

THE RADIO TO THE VEHICLE BECOMES NON-OPERATIONAL INTERMITTENTLY, I.E. THIS HAS TAKEN PLACE IN THE PAST TWO CONSECUTIVE DAYS. START THE CAR IN THE MORNING, AND NOTICED NO RADIO, AND LOSS OF VOLUME CONTROL. AFTER A PERIOD OF TIME, THE RADIO BECOMES FUNCTIONAL, AND THE VOLUME CONTROL IS ENABLED. THIS HAS NOT TAKEN PLACE WHEN I BOUGHT THE CAR NEW FROM THE DEALERSHIP, HOWEVER RECENTLY IT HAS BECOME AN ANNOYANCE, AND DISTRACTING. THE VEHICLE IN QUESTION IS PARKED NIGHTLY IN A GARAGE, AND THIS OCCURS WHEN STARTING THE CAR IN A STATIONARY POSITION, AND CONTINUES DURING BACKUP OUT OF THE DRIVEWAY, AND MOVING FORWARD ONTO THE STREET.

ODI #11041341ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

THE ELECTRICAL SYSTEM HAS FAILED TWICE WITH NO WARNING. THE CAR HAD TO TOWED TO THE DEALERSHIP THE FIRST TIME TO HAVE THE BATTERY REPLACED. THE SECOND TIME WE COULD JUMP IT AND DRIVE IT THERE AND THEY REPLACED THE BATTERY AGAIN. THE DEALERSHIP ADVISED THAT THERE IS A KNOWN ELECTRICAL SHORT OR CURRENT LEAKAGE AFFECTING Q3S. I BROUGHT MY CONCERN TO AUDI BUT THEY REFUSED TO DO ANYTHING ABOUT IT. THE FIRST TIME IT HAPPENED IT HAD BEEN PARKED OVERNIGHT IN MY GARAGE AND WOULD NOT START. THE SECOND TIME IT HAPPENED AFTER IT HAD BEEN DRIVEN DURING THE DAY. BOTH INCIDENTS WERE IN ATLANTA, GEORGIA. THE CAR IS 2 YEARS AND 2 MONTHS OLD.

ODI #10995511STEERING

POWER STEERING FAILURE ON AUDI Q3 2016 MY CAR HAS FAILED ON ME TWICE. THE PROBLEM IS THAT THE STEERING WHEEL STOPS WORKING DURING LONG COMMUTES. IT HAS HAPPENED TWICE THAT DURING A 100 MILE JOURNEY, I STOP THE ENGINE AND START IT AGAIN AND THE STEERING WHEEL IS STIFF. THE FIRST TIME I CALLED ROAD SIDE ASSISTANCE BUT JUST BEFORE THEY DISPATCHED A TOWING TRUCK I STARTED THE CAR AGAIN AND THE PROBLEM WASN'T THERE ANYMORE. THIS HAPPENED ON MAY 19, 2017. THE SECOND TIME IT HAPPENED THE SAME WAY. AFTER A 100 MILE DRIVE I STOP AND START AGAIN AND THE STEERING WHEEL WAS STIFF AGAIN. THE SECOND TIME WAS JUNE 3, 2017. ON JUNE 8, 2017 I TOOK THE CAR TO AUDI ARLINGTON FOR REPAIRS. ON JUNE 9, I RECEIVED THE DIAGNOSIS FROM MY SERVICE CONSULTANT. HE EXPLAINED THE COMPUTER FOUND A PROBLEM WITH THE POWER STEERING MODULE, ITS FAULTY AND IT HAS TO BE REPLACED, THE SERVICE CONSULTANT EXPLAINED THAT THEY HAVE TO REACH OUT TO AUDI TO CLAIM WARRANTY. ONE WEEK LATER (JUNE 16, 2017) THE SERVICE CONSULTANT EXPLAINED THAT AUDI IS NOT GOING TO FIX THE PROBLEM BECAUSE THEY WANT THE STEERING STIFFNESS TO OCCUR AGAIN BEFORE THEY ARE WILLING TO REPLACE THE FAULTY MODULE. THE SERVICE CONSULTANT SAID THAT THEY HAVE TO RELEASE THE CAR BACK TO ME AND EXPLAINED THAT WHEN IT HAPPENS AGAIN TO TAKE IT BACK TO THEM. MY AUDI Q3 2016 IS UNDER WARRANTY WITH 5800 MILES ON IT AND ITS ALREADY BREAKING. THE STEERING IS FUNDAMENTAL FOR OPERATING A MOTOR VEHICLE. FOR ALL I KNOW I COULD BE DRIVING ON THE HIGHWAY AND THE STEERING STOPS WORKING. I WOULD PUT MY FAMILY AND THE LIFE OF OTHER DRIVERS IN DANGER. ALL THIS BECAUSE AUDI WANTS TO SAVE MONEY. ITS UNETHICAL AND IRRESPONSIBLE. IT MAKES ME WONDER IF THERE'S ANYTHING ELSE WRONG WITH MY CAR AND THEY ARE NOT SAYING ANYTHING, I'M SERIOUSLY DOUBTING THEIR INTEGRITY AT THIS POINT. PLEASE ADVICE KIND REGARDS, [XXX] [XXX]@HOTMAIL.COM (?PARTS OF THIS DOCUMENT HAVE BEEN REDACTED TO PROTECT PERSONALLY IDENTIFIABLE INFORMATION PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6).?)*JB

ODI #10950322ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

TODAY WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 8, 2017, AT APPROXIMATELY 11:00 HRS. I HIT THE BUTTON TO POWER DOWN THE DRIVER SIDE WINDOW. THE WINDOW RECESSED INTO THE DRIVER SIDE PANELS, HOWEVER THE WINDOW RESET ITSELF TO THE TOP OF THE WINDOW ELECTRONICALLY MOVING UP AND DOWN WITHOUT ANY PROMPTING ON MY PART. I TESTED ALL THE OTHER WINDOWS THAT FUNCTION CORRECTLY. HOWEVER, THE DRIVER SIDE WINDOW CONTINUED TO OPERATE INDEPENDENTLY ON ITS OWN WITHOUT ANY PROMPTING FROM ME. THIS ISSUE CONTINUED FOR OVER 2 MIN. I HAD TO LITERALLY, PULL OVER OFF THE ROAD AND PLACE THE VEHICLE IN PARK AND TURN OFF THE ENGINE. AFTER A FEW MINUTES I ENGAGED THE VEHICLES START BUTTON. I AGAIN ROLLED UP THE WINDOW, THIS TIME WITHOUT ANY MALFUNCTIONS.

ODI #10938916ELECTRICAL SYSTEMCRASH

BACKUP CAMERA AND ALARM SYSTEM FAILED TO ACTIVATE RESULTING IN BACK-UP COLLISION WITH ANOTHER CAR, NO PERSONAL INJURIES. OWNER WAS NOT WARNED ABOUT DELAYS IN CAMERA/ALARM ACTIVATION AT DEALER ORIENTATION. OWNERS MANUAL PROVIDES NO SUCH WARNINGS. P 87 OF MANUAL, LAST ITEM UNDER "INFOTAINMENT SYSTEM" MENTIONS POSSIBLE DELAY IN CAMERA ACTIVATION. NO WARNING AT ALL ABOUT DELAY IN BACKUP ALARM ACTIVATION. VEHICLE WAS STATIONARY AT PARKING LOT EXIT GATE. DRIVER LOOKED OVER SHOULDER AND IN MIRRORS, SAW NOTHING, ENGAGED REVERSE, SAW BLANK SCREEN, NO WARNING ALARM, BACKED INTO ANOTHER CAR WHICH WAS BELOW VISIBILITY BUT DIRECTLY IN RANGE OF BACKUP CAMERA AND ALARM, WHICH ACTIVATED ON IMPACT. DEALER REPAIRED MY CAR AS COURTESY. AUDI CORP CLAIMED NO PRODUCT DEFECT DESPITE FACTS AS ABOVE, SUPPORTED BY DOCUMENTATION INCLUDING STATEMENT BY DRIVER MY CAR AND OTHER CAR. ACTUAL DEFECTS AS ESTABLISHED ARE : DELAYS IN ACTIVATION OF BACK UP CAMERA AND ALARM SYSTEM, AND FAILURE TO WARN OWNER/DRIVER BY DEALER AND OWNERS MANUAL. DEALER WAS RESPONSIVE. AUDI CORP REACTION WAS SIMILAR TO THAT OF PARENT VW OF NA WITH EMISSION CONTROL ISSUE, DENYING DEFECT UTIL CONFRONTED WITH CONCLUSIVE PROOF. DANGERS TO CARS OR CHILDREN BEHIND BACKING VEHICLE ARE OBVIOUS GIVEN REASONABLE RELIANACE ON BACKUP CAMERA/ALARM. DRIVER WAS USED TO A VW JETTA (SAME CORP PRODUCT) FOR WHICH CAMERA AND ALARM SYSTEMS ACTIVATE IMMEDIATELY WHEN CAR PLACED IN REVERSE.

ODI #10919711UNKNOWN OR OTHER

ON MULTIPLE OCCASIONS (8/26/16, 9/23/16, 9/26/16, 10/2/16, 10/27/16) THE VEHICLE WILL NOT START AS IT IS NOT RECOGNIZING THE KEYS. THE COMPUTER SYSTEM SAYS "NO KEY IDENTIFIED." AFTER MORE THAN ONE TRY TO START THE VEHICLE, THE BRAKE LOCKS. THE CAR HAS BEEN TO AUDI ON 3 OCCASIONS TO TROUBLESHOOT THIS ISSUE. THE FIRST OCCASION (9/23/16) A SYSTEM UPDATE WAS PERFORMED ON THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS PICKED UP ON 9/24/16. ON 9/26/16 THE CAR WOULD NOT IDENTIFY THE KEYS AGAIN UPON TRYING TO START THE VEHICLE. ON THIS SECOND OCCASION, THE CAR WAS BROUGHT BACK TO THE DEALER (9/26/16) AND KEY BATTERIES WERE TESTED, THE GATEWAY MODULE WAS REMOVED REWRAPPED IN NASHUA FOIL TAPE AND REINSTALLED AND TESTED AGAIN. ON 10/2/16 "NO KEYS WERE IDENTIFIED" OCCURRED AGAIN. 10/3/16 THE CAR WAS BROUGHT TO AUDI DEALER FOR A THIRD TIME. BOTH KEYS WERE REPLACED BY THE DEALER AND PROGRAMMED TO THE CAR. ON 10/27/16 THE CAR WAS LEFT UNLOCKED, OFF AND IN PARK. AS I TRIED TO START THE CAR, I RECEIVED THE MESSAGE "NO KEY IDENTIFIED". IMMEDIATELY AFTER THE MESSAGE DISAPPEARED (3-4SECONDS), THE CAR ALARM BEGAN GOING OFF. I HIT THE UNLOCK BUTTON ON THE KEYS FROM INSIDE. NEXT, I OPENED THE DOOR, SHUT IT AND ATTEMPTED TO START THE CAR AGAIN. I RECEIVED THE SAME MESSAGE ON THE DASHBOARD. AT THIS POINT I DEEMED THE VEHICLE UNSAFE TO DRIVE AND CALLED ROADSIDE ASSISTANCE. ON ALL OCCASIONS "NO KEY IDENTIFIED" APPEARED, THE ALARM OF THE CAR HAS GONE OFF, THE CAR HAS UNLOCKED AND LOCKED ITSELF WITHOUT PRESSING ANY BUTTONS, AND AN IMAGE OF AN ORANGE STEERING WHEEL WITH AN EXCLAMATION POINT HAS APPEARED ON THE DASH WHEN TRYING TO START THE CAR. IN ALL INSTANCES, IT TOOK ME MULTIPLE TRIES TO GET THE VEHICLE TO START. IT IS IMPORTANT TO RECOGNIZE THAT WHILE THIS IS OCCURRING THE CAR IS OFF IN PARK. FURTHERMORE, THE DEALER HAS BEEN UNABLE TO DUPLICATE MY CONCERNS IN THE TIME FRAMES THEY HAVE HAD THE VEHICLE.

Annual complaints and reliability score for AUDI Q3 — recall years marked in red
0360501002016201620182020202220242026Complaints/yrReliability (0–100)
Annual complaints (left axis)
Reliability score 0–100 (right axis, higher = safer)
Crash-involved complaints that year
Recall issued
Chart Analysis

The blue line shows 27 total NHTSA complaints filed over 10 years, with the worst year being 2021 (6 complaints).

The amber reliability line averaged 84/100 across the vehicle's life — relatively stable, with the lowest point of 64/100 in 2021.

The recall (red dashed line) were issued in the same year or before complaints peaked, suggesting the manufacturer identified and acted on the defect relatively quickly.

Red dots on the amber line flag 2016, a year when complaints included crash events — these are the highest-severity incidents in the dataset.

Details & Analysis
Financial
$51,614
~$860/mo over 5 yrs
$0.4/mi
cost per mile
Fuel
$10,000
Insurance (est.)
$7,500
Maintenance
$18,000
Repair Risk Buffer
$11,000
Depreciation
$5,114

Estimated 5-year cost of ownership: $51,614 (~$860/mo). Repair risk buffer is elevated due to vehicle risk profile.

3 open recalls (unverified repair status)−$1,500
Active or settled class action lawsuit for this model−$1,800
1 recall over 2 years old — likely uncompleted−$400
Total recommended deduction−$3,700
1 critical inspection item must be resolved before purchase. Do not skip these checks.
CRITICAL
Verify this vehicle has received the EPA-approved emissions fix or was bought back
VW TDI Dieselgate vehicles without the EPA fix may fail emissions in California, NY, and other CARB states. Confirm modification was performed at a VW dealer and obtain written documentation.
HIGH
Have a specialist inspect: Volkswagen Dieselgate
Volkswagen Dieselgate: TDI engines equipped with defeat device software to cheat EPA emissions tests
HIGH
Have a specialist inspect: VW settled with US owners for $14.7 billion — one of the largest auto class action settlements in history
VW settled with US owners for $14.7 billion — one of the largest auto class action settlements in history
HIGH
Have a specialist inspect: Affected owners received buyback offers and extended emissions warranty
Affected owners received buyback offers and extended emissions warranty
HIGH
Verify recall EXTERIOR LIGHTING:TURN SIGNAL has been repaired
Recall on record for: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Audi) is recalling certain 2016-2018 Audi Q3 vehicles equipped with LED headlights.
HIGH
Verify recall EXTERIOR LIGHTING:BRAKE LIGHTS has been repaired
Recall on record for: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2016-2017 Audi Q3 vehicles. If the parking brake is
HIGH
Verify recall ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:SOFTWARE has been repaired
Recall on record for: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain model year 2016 TT roadster, A3 cabriolet, A3 sedan
MEDIUM
Test drive and inspect: UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE
Multiple owner complaints filed for this component — verify it functions correctly during test drive.
MEDIUM
Test drive and inspect: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
Multiple owner complaints filed for this component — verify it functions correctly during test drive.
MEDIUM
Test drive and inspect: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE
Multiple owner complaints filed for this component — verify it functions correctly during test drive.
MEDIUM
Get an independent pre-purchase inspection from a trusted mechanic
For any used vehicle with a risk score above Low, a $100–$150 independent inspection is always worth it.
MEDIUM
Run a VIN check on NHTSA.gov to confirm all recalls are closed
Free at nhtsa.gov/vehicle-safety/recalls — enter the VIN and confirm all campaigns show as completed.
MEDIUM
Verify title is clean and check for salvage/rebuilt brands at your state DMV
Title washing across state lines is common — confirm with your state DMV before finalizing purchase.
32%
18-month
54%
2-year
Moderate Probability
Cumulative 2-year risk: 54%

32% estimated recall probability — some indicators present but not alarming.

  • Accelerating complaint rate — increasing pressure on NHTSA to act
  • Active class action lawsuit — legal pressure often accelerates recalls

Maintenance intervals vary significantly by make, model, year, engine, and driving conditions. Always follow the manufacturer's official schedule — not generic industry estimates.

Tip: Request the seller's service records and compare against the manufacturer schedule. Missing intervals are a negotiation point.

History & Auctions
Full Coverage
$1,450–$1,850/yr
~$121–$154/mo
Liability Only
$560–$710/yr
~$47–$59/mo
Category: Standard Vehicle
10-year-old vehicle: −18% (depreciated ACV lowers full-coverage cost)

Based on 2024 national avg ($2,011/yr full coverage). Individual rates vary by driver, location & insurer. Always compare 3+ quotes.

2017–2022 Toyota equivalent classNO CLASS ACTIONS

Toyota models consistently rank in the bottom quartile for NHTSA complaint density across all segments

2018–2022 Honda equivalent classNO CLASS ACTIONS

Honda models have below-average recall rates and no known systemic powertrain defects in recent years

2016–2022 Mazda equivalent classNO CLASS ACTIONS

Mazda has the industry's lowest complaint-per-vehicle rate in multiple consecutive NHTSA reporting years

Select your state to see what consumer protection laws, lemon law coverage, and title disclosure requirements apply to this vehicle purchase.

Vehicle Identity

VINWA1BFCFS2GR011633
Model Year2016
MakeAUDI
ModelQ3
TrimPremium Plus
Vehicle TypeMULTIPURPOSE PASSENGER VEHICLE (MPV)

Body & Configuration

Body StyleSport Utility Vehicle (SUV)/Multi-Purpose Vehicle (MPV)
Doors4
Fuel TypeGasoline
TransmissionAutomatic

Engine

Engine Cylinders4
Displacement (L)2
Horsepower200

Manufacturer

ManufacturerAUDI AG
Assembly CityMARTORELL
Assembly CountrySPAIN

VIN Structure

WMI (Chars 1–3)WA1
Check Digit (Char 9)2
Model Year Code (Char 10)G
Plant Code (Char 11)R
Sequence (Chars 12–17)011633

Safety Data

NHTSA Recall Count3
NHTSA Complaint Count27
W
1
A
2
1
3
B
4
F
5
C
6
F
7
S
8
2
9
G
10
R
11
0
12
1
13
1
14
6
15
3
16
3
17
WMI (1–3)
VDS (4–8)
Check Digit (9)
Model Year (10)
Serial (11–17)
W
World Manufacturer
Country & region of manufacture
Position 1
A
Manufacturer
Specific manufacturer identifier
Position 2
1
Vehicle Type
Division or vehicle type
Position 3
BFCFS
Vehicle Descriptor Section (VDS)
Body style, engine type, restraint system
Position 4–8
2
Check Digit
Mathematical validation character
Position 9
G
Model Year
Year of manufacture
Position 10
R
Assembly Plant
Where the vehicle was assembled
Position 11
011633
Production Sequence
Unique serial number for this vehicle
Position 12–17
Country of Manufacture
Germany
From VIN position 1 (W)
Model Year Character
"G" → 2016
Could also be 1986
Check Digit (Pos 9)
✓ Valid
ISO 3779 weighted-sum algorithm

Disclaimer: Data sourced from NHTSA public APIs and scraped auction listings. For informational purposes only. Not a substitute for a paid vehicle history report. Retrieved: 5/3/2026, 7:55:36 PM.