VIN REPORT

WA1EFCFS9FR0107032015 AUDI Q3quattro Premium Plus

53of 100
High Risk
Buyer Risk Score
Recalls
2
2 campaigns found
Safety Grade
C+
77/100 composite
Complaints
22
NHTSA filed
Vehicle Age
11 yrs
Made in SPAIN
CAUTIONPurchase Verdict

2015 AUDI Q3 was analyzed across NHTSA recalls, owner complaints, crash test data, and public auction records. There are 2 open recalls on record — verify these have been repaired before purchase. 22 owner complaints inc...

23 MPG
Verdict & Risk Assessment
📄

Executive Summary

2015 AUDI Q3

2015 AUDI Q3 was analyzed across NHTSA recalls, owner complaints, crash test data, and public auction records. There are 2 open recalls on record — verify these have been repaired before purchase. 22 owner complaints include 1 reported injury, indicating real-world safety incidents beyond normal wear.

  • 2 open recalls — verify these have been repaired before purchase
  • 1 injury reported across 22 owner complaints
  • 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)
  • Manufacturer extended warranty program exists: VW Dieselgate settlement offered buybacks or extended emissions warranty. Most settlement programs have closed — verify status at vwcourtsetlement.com.
53
of 100
High Risk
4 risk factors detected. Review each carefully before committing to purchase.
LOWMODERATEHIGHCRITICAL
4 Contributing Risk Factors
Critical deferred maintenance — safety-critical components overdue
+20
Known manufacturer defect on record for this model
+19
Active or settled class action lawsuit
+8
2 model-wide recalls on record
+6
Critical Alerts

Title Brand Check

Mined from auction damage fields and listing titles — not a DMV title history pull

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

Vehicle

Vehicle Specifications

Decoded from NHTSA vPIC database

Make
AUDI
Model
Q3
Year
2015
Trim / Series
quattro Premium Plus
Body Style
Sport Utility Vehicle [SUV]/Multipurpose Vehicle [MPV]
Vehicle Type
MULTIPURPOSE PASSENGER VEHICLE (MPV)
Drive Type
AWD/All-Wheel Drive
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Engine
4-cyl 1.984000L 200 hp
Doors
4
Manufacturer
AUDI AG
Assembly
MARTORELL, SPAIN
GVWR
Class 1C: 4,001 - 5,000 lb (1,814 - 2,268 kg)

Assembly Plant Quality

Plant: MARTORELL, SPAIN

CQuality55/100
Standard📍 MARTORELL, SPAIN

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

Safety

Safety Intelligence

Composite analysis from NHTSA recall, complaint, and crash data

C+
Score: 77/100
Crash Test Rating20/40
Recall Safety27/30
Complaint History30/30
10/100Low

✓ No high-risk recall components found

2/100
Basic
1 of 20 safety features detected
Missing: Automatic Emergency Braking, Pedestrian AEB, Forward Collision Warning, Electronic Stability Control

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

Electrical
1 recall3 complaints
Visibility
1 recall2 complaints
Body/Structure
1 recall2 complaints

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

Also affects: Golf, Jetta, Passat, Tiguan, A3, Q3

Driver Assistance Features

ADAS equipment data from NHTSA vPIC database

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
Recalls2

Deferred Failure Risk

Components and defects approaching or past their known service milestones

100/100
Critical Deferred Risk
Critical deferred failure risk — 5 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 ~132,000 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: 11 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: 11 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: 11 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. OVERDUEHighDifferential / Transfer Case Fluid
Service interval: 4 yr · Vehicle age: 11 yr · Past due by age
Service Differential / Transfer Case Fluid immediately — already past the 50,000 mi / 4 yr interval
On 4WD/AWD vehicles, neglected differential or transfer case fluid causes metal-on-metal wear. Replacement costs $1,500–$4,000.
EST. OVERDUEHighCoolant Flush
Service interval: 5 yr · Vehicle age: 11 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: 11 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: 11 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.

NHTSA Safety Recalls

2 RECALLS
2found

NHTSA VIN-specific recall lookup returned no data for this VIN. The 2 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 2 recalls is ~64%. Always ask the seller for dealer service records confirming each repair.

64%
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
#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

#15V200000
Mar 2015

VISIBILITY:SUN/MOON ROOF ASSEMBLY

SummaryVolkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain model year 2015 Audi Q3 vehicles manufactured April 4, 2014, to November 5, 2014. If the vehicle is turned off while the sunroof is closing, the sunroof may continue to close instead of stopping. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) 118, "Power-Operated Window, Partition, and Roof Panel Systems."
Read full details...
ConsequenceIf the sunroof is closing while the vehicle is shut off and a vehicle occupant is in its path, there is an increased risk of injury.
Est. Repair Completion~64%

~36% chance this recall was never fixed

Moderate Risk

Source: NHTSA statistical model by recall age & component type

Recall Intelligence

Detailed analysis of recall history and severity

LONG-STANDING OPEN
VISIBILITY:SUN/MOON ROOF ASSEMBLY
11.3yr open
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:SOFTWARE
10yr open

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

10 yrs ago
06/09/2016
03/04/2015
2 total campaigns
ElectricalVisibilityBody/Structure
0
Part Replacements
2
Software/OTA Updates
0
Buyback/Refund
0
High-Effort Repairs
2 recalls are over 2 years old — statistically less likely to have been completed. Verify repair status with any dealer using your VIN.

Recall Remedy Effectiveness — Complaints Continue After Fix

RECALL DIDN'T FIX IT

Owner complaints filed AFTER recall remedies were issued for the same components

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 · 7 after#16V642000
VISIBILITY:SUN/MOON ROOF ASSEMBLY
100% post-recall
Recall: 2015-03-040 before · 2 after#15V200000

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.

Complaints22

Complaint Intelligence

22 complaints analyzed across 8 system categories

Engine/Powertrain
7
Electrical
3
Suspension/Wheels
3
Safety Systems
2
Body/Structure
1 inj2
Other
2
Visibility
2
Steering
1
2015
1
2016
2
2019
1
2020
4
2021
3
2022
1
2023
4
2024
2
2025
1
2026
3
12% trend in recent years (improving reliability)
Stable 0%
5
Last 24 months
5
Prior 24 months
Engine stalling2
Electrical failure1
Conditions Reported
Highway/high-speed (5)Rain/wet (2)Parking/low-speed (1)

Owner Complaints

HIGH VOLUME

22 safety complaints filed with NHTSA

22found
1
Injury
ODI #11741103POWER TRAIN,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

Vehicle: 2015 Audi Q3 | Engine: 2.0L TFSI 4-Cylinder Turbo Component: Engine Complaint Description: While driving on the interstate at highway speed, the red oil pressure warning light illuminated suddenly and without prior warning. The standard low oil level warning light did NOT illuminate prior to the failure. Oil level was verified as correct and within specification at the time of failure. The vehicle suffered a complete and catastrophic engine failure due to oil starvation and rod knock, despite a verified proper oil level and oil pressure. The engine requires full replacement. This failure occurred at only 3,432 miles since the most recent oil change. The vehicle has a documented history dating back to 2021 of recurring engine oil consumption concerns, fuel contamination of engine oil, and high-pressure fuel pump failure — all serviced at authorized dealerships. A multipoint inspection performed approximately four months prior to this failure returned a fully satisfactory result with no engine concerns flagged. This is believed to be related to the known piston ring defect in Audi/Volkswagen 2.0L TFSI engines documented in federal class action litigation (Rieger v. Volkswagen Group of America, Case No. 1:21-cv-10546-NLH-EAP), which explicitly named the 2012–2017 Audi Q3 as an affected vehicle. The engine failure occurred without warning while at highway speed, posing a significant and immediate safety risk to the driver and other motorists.

ODI #11736168ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

I am reporting that authorized dealer Audi Knoxville (Harper Auto Square) is KNOWINGLY AND WILLINGLY attempting to force me to operate an unsafe vehicle. Following an intake manifold repair, the dealership’s service staff identified carbon buildup and fouled spark plugs as a necessary repair, while the manufacturer (Audi of America) has reclassified it as 'maintenance' to avoid coverage. Because this critical 'top-end' work remains incomplete, the vehicle is at high risk for catastrophic stalling at highway speeds. Despite this, the dealership refuses to sign a safety certification for the vehicle. Under threat of property auction and a 48-hour ultimatum to seize my loaner car, they are coercing me into taking possession of a vehicle they themselves will not certify as safe. This is a willful disregard for consumer safety and federal motor vehicle standards.

ODI #11731952ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

Vehicle experiences sudden, intermittent loss of motive power, severe engine hesitation, and stalling while operating at highway speeds. Diagnostic scans confirm fault codes P2015 and P0341, indicating a failure of the intake manifold position sensor and camshaft position correlation. These mechanical failures, combined with extreme carbon buildup on the valves, create a hazardous operating condition where the vehicle cannot maintain safe speeds in high-traffic environments. The manufacturer (Audi) has acknowledged the intake manifold failure—which is a known defect under an extended 120,000-mile warranty—but refuses to remediate the consequential engine damage (carbon buildup) caused by the faulty manifold and a previous oil overfill incident at a certified dealership (Chapman Audi of Tucson). Despite a 12-month documented history of seeking repairs for these safety symptoms, the dealership repeatedly failed to diagnose the manifold defect, instead clearing codes and returning the vehicle to the road. This systemic failure resulted in a hazardous operating condition that now puts the driver at immediate risk of rear-end collisions due to unpredictable engine stalling. By refusing to perform the necessary top-end cleaning required to restore the engine to a safe state, Audi is knowingly allowing an unsafe vehicle to remain in service. This represents a significant risk to public safety and a failure to address a documented powertrain defect that compromises vehicle control.

ODI #11687951STEERING,POWER TRAIN,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

My Audi Q3 2015 started with The TPMS on and the traction skid symbol also lit up on dashboard. I brought it to Audi of Warwick, Rhode Island and they did a diagnostic testing on it and found that it was the all-wheel-drive control module on a lot of 2015 Q3 is just like mine had recalls on that same part in my car only has 80,000 miles on it and at 49,000 miles or 50,000. The whole turbo went on that car and had to be replaced.. I feel that the all-wheel-drive control module [XXX] and went on a car with 80,000 miles on it. That’s only driven 15 to 30 miles a day or not even every day. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

ODI #11599198ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,AIR BAGS

The contact owns a 2015 Audi Q3. The contact stated that the horn became inoperable and additionally, the hand controls were not functioning as needed. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer, where it was diagnosed that the clock spring needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired, but the failure recurred. The contact stated that the air bag warning light was illuminated. The horn was also inoperable. The manufacturer was contacted and made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 80,000. The VIN was not available.

ODI #11574275ENGINE,AIR BAGS

The contact owns a 2015 Audi Q3. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the oil light remained illuminated. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a local mechanic who confirmed that the vehicle was experiencing an abnormal oil consumption. The mechanic performed an oil change however, the failure persisted. Additionally, the contact stated that the controls on the steering wheel were inoperable. The contact stated that the steering wheel air bag was inoperable due to the electrical shortage in the steering wheel. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 85,600.

ODI #11561616SUSPENSION

I have 2015 Audi Q3 is very unsafe suspension. The rear lower arm worn out & unsafe to drive & very dangerous, risk to Accident. Under 98,000 miles & the lower control get Rusty & almost to split in half. The Audi Dealership should have a Recall to this Vehicle & is Unsafe to drive it to all Consumers like me. I keep the Rear Suspension & incase u Guy's like to see it.

ODI #11551041SUSPENSION

The contact owns a 2015 Audi Q3. The contact stated that while driving at 55 MPH, the vehicle started shaking uncontrollably. The contact was able to pull to the side of the road. No warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was towed to a dealer to be diagnosed. The contact was informed that the failure was due to rusted rear trailing arms, bolts, shocks, and coil springs. The vehicle had not been repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 59,000. The VIN was not available.

ODI #11543256ENGINE

The contact owns a 2015 Audi Q3. The contact stated that the front driver’s side air bag was replaced under recall in November 2022. The contact stated that one month after the recall repair was completed, the check engine warning light illuminated. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or dealer. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure but provided no assistance. The failure mileage was approximately 50,000.

ODI #11516246SUSPENSION

I was driving and the car went out of control. I had the steering wheel straight, but the rear end started to fishtail in and out of the oncoming lane of traffic. As this happened I had to quickly jerk the steering wheel to get it out of the other lane of oncoming traffic. I had to slow down to 10 mph to get home with the flashers on, all the while it continued to swerve both left and right on it's own. We had the vehicle towed to the Audi dealership (Mohegan Lake Audi) and they said the rear control arms cracked. They say it rusted through causing it to crack. It has not been inspected by anyone else. No warning lights or other indication this would happen. It simply went from normal in-control driving to a car that drove uncontrolled. I have an open case with Audi USA on this matter as Peter (Service Operations) at the dealership said this happens often to the control arms and refused to assist us in any other manner.

ODI #11459821AIR BAGS,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE

The Clock Spring is not functioning in our 2015 Audi Q3. The horn is non-functioning and we were told by the Audi dealership, after waiting for that part for three months, that there is a 50-50 chance that the driver air bag will not deploy and the cruise control is not working. I was alerted to this possible problem because my airbag light is on but was initially told it was only because of the horn. When we took it to the dealership initially to fix the horn, we were told it was on back order. I was not comfortable driving without a horn but was hoping it would be in soon. I continued to call every couple of weeks and was told not in yet. It was coming from overseas. Not until we went in and spoke with the Service Dept and kept asking more and more questions, did we find out that the Clock Spring is not coming any time soon. There seems to be a problem with the new Clock Spring being manufactured. Evidently it is the same part that VW uses, which was recalled, remanufactured and than problems still existed with the new part. I think it is not being manufactured. This is a huge concern because I commute to work which takes 3-4 hours a day of highway and city driving. It is a disappointment that Audi did not alert us to this manufacturing problem when we first took it in. Evidently it is impossible to find a used part and not recommended because no guarantee it will work either. They have offered to buy it back for less than what I paid and it is very hard to find another comparable used car that I can afford and won't have the same problem... I am very disappointed in the dealership not telling me about the possibility of the airbag not working and that the horn would not be coming any time soon since the problem has not been resolved with the replacement Clock Spring (Part #5K0-953-569-AL). I think this needs to be told to the consumers.

ODI #11427828LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES

The contact owns a 2015 Audi Q3. The contact stated that the front passenger’s side door locking mechanism intermittently failed, and the door could not be opened from the inside or outside of the vehicle. The contact indicated that when the failure occurred the door could not be unlocked manually or while using the key fob. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer who diagnosed that the door actuator was faulty and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not yet repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 77,000.

ODI #11420470ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

The contact owns a 2015 Audi Q3. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the horn was depressed however, no sound was heard. The contact also stated that all the buttons on the steering wheel failed to operate when engaged such as the radio and windshield wipers. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where the failure was diagnosed as an improper ground wire connected to the steering wheel. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 85,000.

ODI #11388913UNKNOWN OR OTHER

TIMING CHAIN JUMPED AS I WAS DRIVING ON THE FREEWAY

ODI #11378350STRUCTURE1 INJURY

ON THE PASSENGER DOOR, THE ALUMINUM WRAP THAT COVERS THE INTERIOR DOOR HANDLE USED BEGAN TO PEEL AT THE CREASE. WHEN I REACHED TO OPEN MY PASSENGER DOOR FROM THE INSIDE, THE ALUMINUM DEEPLY CUT MY FINGER. THE VEHICLE WAS PARKED AND TURNED OFF.

ODI #11329697ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

TIMING CHAIN FAILURE. *TR

ODI #11318290ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

MY 2015 Q3 IS HAVING THE SAME PROBLEM TIMING CHAIN FAILURE LINED IN THE 2019 RECALL FOR MODELS FROM 2008-2014. MY 2015 HAS ABOUT 51,000 MILES AND SHOULD NOT BE HAVING THIS ISSUE ACCORDING TO SEVERAL MECHANICS AND MY AUDI REPRESENTATIVE COULD NOT PROVIDE ME ANY INFORMATION OTHER THAN THAT MY VIN DIDN'T FALL IN THE CLASS ACTION EVEN IF I WAS HAVING THE SAME PROBLEM. I BELIEVE MY MODEL YEAR SHOULD AT LEAST BE REVIEWED IF THE PROBLEM WAS COMMON JUST A YEAR BEFORE.

ODI #11311673STEERING

CAR WAS PARKED OUTSIDE IN STOWE, VT WHEN TEMP DROPPED TO -13. ABLE TO BACK OUT OF HOTEL PARKING SPACE BUT NOTICED STEERING WAS STIFF. ONCE ONTO THE STREET, LOST POWER STEERING COMPLETELY! USING ALL MY STRENGTH, I COULD BARELY STEER THE CAR OVER TO THE SIDE OF THE STREET. STAYED IN THE CAR, RUNNING WITH THE HEAT ON, FOR ABOUT 15 MINUTES WHILE WE ARRANGED FOR A TOW. WHEN I TURNED THE CAR OFF AND THEN ON AGAIN (MY WIFE'S SUGGESTION) THE POWER STEERING CAME BACK! WE DROVE ALL THE WAY BACK TO MA WITHOUT A PROBLEM. THREE DAYS LATER, MY LOCAL AUDI DEALER CHECKED OUT THE CAR WITH THEIR COMPUTER AND ONLY FOUND THE RECORD OF THE INCIDENT BUT NO CAUSE AND EVERYTHING LOOKED GOOD OTHERWISE. IT HASN'T HAPPENED AGAIN, BUT IT HASN'T BEEN THAT COLD ON THE CAPE.

ODI #11291119UNKNOWN OR OTHER

AUDI Q3 WHEN IT RAINS WATER LEAKS SOMEWHERE IN THE BACK OF MY CAR MOST LIKELY THE SUNROOF AND IT'S NOT DRAINING PROPERLY SO THE SEATBELTS ARE ALL SOAKING WET. MY CAR SMELLS MUSTY AND MOLDY. I HAVE READ THAT THERE ARE SEVERAL PEOPLE WITH THE SAME ISSUE.

ODI #10850700VISIBILITY/WIPER

REARVIEW MIRROR OPENED UP AND FELL OFF WITH WIRES DANGLING, WHEN TRYING TO ADJUST HAPPENED TWICE,HAD TO TAKE TO DEALER , HE SAYS SAYS ONLY TO ME? BLOCKS FRONT VISION AS WELL AS REAR VIEW.

ODI #10822010VISIBILITY,ENGINE

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2015 AUDI Q3. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE SUN ROOF WOULD CONTINUE TO CLOSE EVEN WHEN THE VEHICLE WAS TURNED OFF. THE CONTACT WAS MADE AWARE OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 15V2000000 (VISIBILITY). THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER. THE TECHNICIAN VERIFIED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS NOT INCLUDED IN THE RECALL AND REFUSED TO PROVIDE ADDITIONAL ASSISTANCE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 8,000. UPDATED 03/09/16*LJ THE CONSUMER ALSO STATED THE VEHICLE BURNED 1/4 QUART OF OIL EVERY 5,000. UPDATED 03/10/16.*JB

ODI #10733408EXTERIOR LIGHTING

AFTER THE DEALER PERFORMED SCHEDULED MAINTENANCE ON MY VEHICLE, I DISCOVERED THAT MY TAIL LIGHTS NO LONGER WORKED, INCLUDING REAR BRAKE LIGHTS. I DECIDED TO DETERMINE WHAT CAUSED THE MALFUNCTION AND WAS ABLE TO REPLICATE THE ISSUE WITH THE FOLLOWING STEPS: 1. WHILE THE CAR IS OFF, OPEN THE LIFT GATE. 2. MANUALLY CLOSE THE LIFT GATE, BUT SOFTLY. CLOSE IT ALL THE WAY. 3. TURN ON THE VEHICLE. THE REAR BRAKE LIGHTS WILL NOT WORK, EVEN IF YOU TURN THE LIGHTS OFF AND ON. 4. OPEN AND CLOSE THE LIFT GATE FIRMLY TO RESTORE BRAKE LIGHT FUNCTIONALITY. I DID NOT DISCOVER THIS ISSUE UNTIL THREE DAYS AFTER MY SERVICE APPOINTMENT, AND HAVE NOT USED THE LIFT GATE OF MY VEHICLE. I CAN ONLY GUESS THAT THE DEALERSHIP PERFORMED THESE STEPS WHEN MY VEHICLE WAS IN FOR MAINTENANCE. I WAS DRIVING WITHOUT BRAKE LIGHTS FOR THREE DAYS! I COULD HAVE CAUSED AN ACCIDENT. I CAN PROVIDE VIDEO PROOF OF THIS IF NECESSARY.

Complaint & Reliability Timeline

Annual complaints (blue) vs. composite reliability score (amber) — recall years marked in red

Annual complaints and reliability score for AUDI Q3 — recall years marked in red
024050100201620152015201720192021202320252026Complaints/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 22 NHTSA complaints on file for the AUDI Q3 — a relatively low volume that spans from 2015 to 2026.

The amber reliability line is declining — recent years score around 86/100, lower than earlier in the vehicle's life. This pattern indicates issues are accumulating over time rather than being resolved, which is a concern for used buyers.

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

Details & Analysis
Financial

5-Year Ownership Cost Estimate

Based on EPA fuel data, standard depreciation, and US average insurance/maintenance costs

$3,350
Annual Fuel
EPA estimate
$1,800
Annual Insurance
US average
$2,400
Annual Maintenance
11-yr-old vehicle avg
$0
Annual Depreciation
Current period
Estimated 5-Year Total Cost
Fuel + Insurance + Maintenance + Depreciation
$37,750

Estimates use EPA fuel economy data, AAA 2024 national averages for insurance and maintenance, and a standard depreciation curve. Actual costs vary by location, driving habits, and vehicle condition.

5-Year Total Cost of Ownership

Estimated based on EPA fuel data, risk-adjusted maintenance, and depreciation

$58,364
~$973/mo over 5 yrs
$0.4/mi
cost per mile
Fuel
$16,750
Insurance (est.)
$7,500
Maintenance
$23,000
Repair Risk Buffer
$6,000
Depreciation
$5,114

Estimated 5-year cost of ownership: $58,364 (~$973/mo). Repair risk buffer is standard due to vehicle risk profile.

Negotiation Ammunition

Use these data-backed findings to negotiate the price down

2 open recalls (unverified repair status)−$1,000
Active or settled class action lawsuit for this model−$1,800
2 recalls over 2 years old — likely uncompleted−$800
Total recommended deduction−$3,600

Pre-Purchase Inspection Checklist

Tailored for the 2015 AUDI Q3 — specific failure modes your mechanic must check, not a generic list

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 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
HIGH
Verify recall VISIBILITY:SUN/MOON ROOF ASSEMBLY has been repaired
Recall on record for: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain model year 2015 Audi Q3 vehicles manufactured April
MEDIUM
Test drive and inspect: POWER TRAIN,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
Multiple owner complaints filed for this component — verify it functions correctly during test drive.
MEDIUM
Test drive and inspect: ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
Multiple owner complaints filed for this component — verify it functions correctly during test drive.
MEDIUM
Test drive and inspect: STEERING,POWER TRAIN,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
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.

Recall Probability Forecast

Estimated likelihood of a new recall in the next 18 months based on NHTSA signals

17%
18-month
31%
2-year
Low Probability
Cumulative 2-year risk: 31%

17% baseline recall probability — no strong indicators of an imminent recall.

  • Active class action lawsuit — legal pressure often accelerates recalls

Maintenance Schedule

OEM-specified service intervals for this vehicle

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

Auction History

Public sale records from Copart, IAAI, and auction aggregators

Searching Public Auction Records

Checking Copart, IAAI, BidFax, and other sources for WA1EFCFS9FR010703. Results appear automatically when found.

Insurance Cost Estimate

Estimated annual premiums based on vehicle profile, theft data, and NHTSA safety ratings

Full Coverage
$1,450–$1,850/yr
~$121–$154/mo
Liability Only
$560–$710/yr
~$47–$59/mo
Category: Standard Vehicle
11-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.

Safer Alternatives to Consider

Based on the risk level of this 2015 AUDI Q3, these Similar Vehicle Class alternatives have significantly better safety records

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

State-Specific Legal Protections

What consumer laws apply to this vehicle purchase in your state

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

Complete Data Table

All decoded fields in a single flattened view

Vehicle Identity

VINWA1EFCFS9FR010703
Model Year2015
MakeAUDI
ModelQ3
Trimquattro Premium Plus
Vehicle TypeMULTIPURPOSE PASSENGER VEHICLE (MPV)

Body & Configuration

Body StyleSport Utility Vehicle [SUV]/Multipurpose Vehicle [MPV]
Doors4
Drive TypeAWD/All-Wheel Drive
Fuel TypeGasoline

Engine

Engine Cylinders4
Displacement (L)1.984000
Horsepower200

Manufacturer

ManufacturerAUDI AG
Assembly CityMARTORELL
Assembly CountrySPAIN

VIN Structure

WMI (Chars 1–3)WA1
Check Digit (Char 9)9
Model Year Code (Char 10)F
Plant Code (Char 11)R
Sequence (Chars 12–17)010703

Safety Data

NHTSA Recall Count2
NHTSA Complaint Count22

VIN Structure Decode

ISO 3779 character-by-character breakdown of this Vehicle Identification Number

W
1
A
2
1
3
E
4
F
5
C
6
F
7
S
8
9
9
F
10
R
11
0
12
1
13
0
14
7
15
0
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
EFCFS
Vehicle Descriptor Section (VDS)
Body style, engine type, restraint system
Position 4–8
9
Check Digit
Mathematical validation character
Position 9
F
Model Year
Year of manufacture
Position 10
R
Assembly Plant
Where the vehicle was assembled
Position 11
010703
Production Sequence
Unique serial number for this vehicle
Position 12–17
Country of Manufacture
Germany
From VIN position 1 (W)
Model Year Character
"F" → 2015
Could also be 1985
Check Digit (Pos 9)
✓ Valid
ISO 3779 weighted-sum algorithm
Research This Model

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: 6/13/2026, 3:58:38 AM.