Recall history
Audi A8 recall history: what has been recalled and why
Audi A8 recall history: which model years were affected, what was fixed, and how to check your own car.
Updated 4th September 2026 DVSA data: Across 10,012 recorded MOT tests, 9.6% failed.
The Audi A8 has experienced several recalls over the years, primarily due to issues related to safety and performance. Key recalls have addressed problems with airbags, fuel systems, and electrical components. Affected build years range from 1994 to the present, with most recalls being resolved and the current status indicating that the majority of vehicles have been rectified.
Airbag Issues
One of the most significant recalls for the Audi A8 involved the airbag system. In certain models, the airbags may not deploy correctly in the event of a collision, which poses a serious safety risk. This issue was identified in vehicles manufactured between 2003 and 2010.
Audi initiated the recall to inspect and, if necessary, replace the airbag control unit to ensure proper functionality. Owners were notified and advised to bring their vehicles to authorised dealers for inspection and repairs. As of now, the majority of affected vehicles have been addressed, but it is essential for owners to check if their vehicle is still under any outstanding recalls.
Fuel System Concerns
Another notable recall pertained to the fuel system in the Audi A8. Certain models produced between 2011 and 2015 were found to have potential fuel leaks, which could increase the risk of fire. This issue was serious enough to warrant immediate action from Audi.
The recall involved inspecting the fuel lines and, if necessary, replacing them to eliminate the risk of leaks. Audi worked closely with affected owners to ensure that repairs were completed swiftly. Current status reports indicate that most vehicles have been rectified, but owners should verify their vehicle’s recall status through official channels.
Electrical Component Failures
Electrical issues have also been a concern for the Audi A8, particularly in models manufactured from 2016 to 2019. Some vehicles exhibited problems with the electrical system, which could lead to malfunctions in critical components such as the braking system and infotainment features.
This proactive approach has helped to ensure the safety and reliability of the affected vehicles. As of now, many of these issues have been resolved, but owners are encouraged to stay informed about any potential recalls.
Steering Column Problems
In a recall affecting Audi A8 models produced between 2002 and 2005, issues were identified with the steering column. A potential defect could lead to a loss of steering control, which is a significant safety hazard.
Audi responded by recalling the affected vehicles to inspect the steering column and make any necessary adjustments or replacements. This recall was crucial in preventing accidents related to steering failure. Most vehicles have since been repaired, but it is advisable for owners to confirm their vehicle’s recall status.
Brake System Deficiencies
Brake system deficiencies have also prompted recalls for the Audi A8, particularly in models from 2008 to 2012. Some vehicles were found to have issues with the brake booster, which could affect braking performance and increase stopping distances.
This recall was vital for maintaining the safety standards expected of the Audi A8. Current reports suggest that most affected vehicles have been repaired, but owners should remain vigilant about their vehicle’s recall history.
Current Status and Importance of Checking Recalls
The current status of recalls for the Audi A8 indicates that many of the issues have been addressed, but it is crucial for owners to remain proactive. Regularly checking for recalls can help ensure that vehicles are safe and compliant with the latest safety standards.
Owners should consult these resources to stay informed about any potential recalls and ensure their vehicles are in optimal condition. Regular maintenance and prompt attention to recalls can significantly enhance the longevity and safety of the Audi A8.
Audi A8 recall record
24 recalls have been issued for the Audi A8, between 1996 and 2025.
Software update for battery control unit
R/2025/441Issued 10 October 2025
On affected vehicles there may be defective battery modules which may result in a fire hazard when charging the high-voltage battery.
Remedy:Update the software of the high-voltage battery to improve the self-diagnosis capabilities. Vehicle owners are advised to not charge the high-voltage battery using external charging sources and also not use the e-tron modes “Battery charge” and “Battery hold” until the update is applied.
Affects cars built Feb 2022 to Dec 2023
Replacing front suspension link
R/2024/310Issued 19 July 2024
A suspension link on the front axle that has invisible cracks may have been fitted to your vehicle. This possible damage means the service life of the suspension link can no longer be guaranteed and the component may fail. A failure particularly at higher speeds may result in vehicle behaviour that is difficult to control.
Remedy:For safety reasons it is necessary to replace the front upper left suspension link
Affects cars built May 2024 to Jun 2024
THE MESH SIZE OF THE OIL STRAINER IN THE OIL SUPPLY FOR BOTH TURBOCHARGERS IS TOO SMALL
R/2022/132Issued 4 May 2022
The mesh size of the oil strainer in the oil supply for both turbochargers is too small.
Remedy:The oil strainer will be replaced with a revised version with a larger mesh size.
Affects cars built May 2012 to Mar 2017
FOLLOWING A PREVIOUS CAMPAIGN THE TOE AND/OR CAMBER VALUES ON THE REAR AXLE MAY IN CERTAIN CIRCUMSTANCES INCORRECTLY BE CHANGED WITHOUT THIS BEING NOTICED
R/2022/036Issued 14 February 2022
Following a previous campaign the toe and/or camber values on the rear axle may in certain circumstances incorrectly be changed without this being noticed.
Remedy:The wheel alignment must be checked and if necessary the suspension must be serviced on the affected vehicles.
Affects cars built Nov 2019 to Feb 2021
FUNCTION OF THE DRIVER AIRBAG MIGHT BE RESTRICTED DUE TO ITS AGE
R/2021/330Issued 22 September 2021
On vehicles with 3-spoke steering wheel manufactured within a specific period the function of the driver airbag may be restricted due to its age.
Remedy:The gas generator in the driver airbag must be replaced on the affected vehicles.
Affects cars built Jan 2000 to Aug 2001
THE DEPLOYMENT OF THE TAKATA AIRBAG MAY BE DELAYED OR INSUFFICIENTLY POWERFUL DUE TO A POTENTIAL REDUCTION IN THE PERFORMANCE OF THE GAS GENERATOR
R/2021/234Issued 22 September 2021
On vehicles with TAKATA driver airbag and NADI gas generator manufactured within a specific period it is possible that the function of the driver airbag may be restricted due to its age.
Remedy:The driver airbag unit must be checked on the vehicles affected and the gas generator must be replaced if necessary
Affects cars built Apr 1997 to Dec 1999
REAR AXLE SUSPENSION LINKS NUTS DO NOT MEET SPECIFICATIONS
R/2021/236Issued 25 June 2021
One or more nuts which do not meet the specifications may have been fitted on the rear axle suspension links.
Remedy:The affected nuts on the rear axle will be replaced on affected vehicles.
Affects cars built Nov 2019 to Feb 2021
THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT SEAL MAY BECOME DEFORMED AND LOOSE
R/2020/287Issued 9 October 2020
The engine compartment seal may become deformed and come loose in unfavourable circumstances
Remedy:A retaining plate will be fitted on the affected vehicles to prevent the engine compartment seal from coming loose.
Affects cars built May 2012 to Jul 2017
GEAR OIL MAY ESCAPE DUE TO A FAULTY WELDED JOINT ON THE GEARBOX OIL LINE
R/2020/135Issued 19 May 2020
It is possible that gear oil may escape due to a faulty welded joint on the gearbox oil line.
Remedy:The production date of the gear oil line must be checked first on the vehicles affected and the gear oil line must be replaced if necessary.
Affects cars built Sept 2019 to Dec 2019
THE RIGIDITY OF THE REAR SHOCK ABSORBER FORKS MAY BE IMPAIRED
R/2020/032Issued 10 February 2020
The rigidity of the rear shock absorber forks may be impaired
Remedy:Replace the rear shock absorber forks on affected vehicles
Affects cars built Oct 2019 to Oct 2019
FLUID MAY LEAK OUT OF THE RETURN HOSE FOR THE HYDRAULIC POWER STEERING
R/2020/114Issued 24 January 2020
Fluid may leak out of the return hose for the hydraulic power steering.
Remedy:The return hose for the hydraulic power steering must be replaced on the affected vehicles.
Affects cars built Apr 2010 to Sept 2013
A COMPONENT SECURING SEAT RAIL FOR FRONT PASSENGER SEAT MAY BE IMPAIRED
R/2019/229Issued 1 July 2019
The rigidity of a component securing the seat rail for the front passenger seat may be impaired
Remedy:Both guide rails for the front passenger seat must be replaced on the vehicles affected
Affects cars built Jan 2019 to Mar 2019
12 older recalls not shown.
A recall applies to a build range, not to every car of this model. Check a registration to see whether one specific vehicle has an outstanding recall.
Audi A8 MOT record
From 10,012 recorded MOT tests, 9.6% failed.
| Registered | Tests | Failed | Median mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 246 | 2.4% | 43,930 mi |
| 2020 | 387 | 6.7% | 48,655 mi |
| 2019 | 714 | 5.3% | 55,294 mi |
| 2018 | 948 | 7.2% | 62,937 mi |
| 2017 | 652 | 6.1% | 71,460 mi |
| 2016 | 879 | 8.0% | 78,459 mi |
| 2015 | 918 | 6.2% | 91,050 mi |
| 2014 | 841 | 7.6% | 101,544 mi |
Most common reasons for failure
- A suspension pin, bush or joint excessively worn34.0%
- Tyre tread depth not in accordance with the requirements30.1%
- A tyre seriously damaged17.7%
- Brake disc or drum excessively weakened, insecure or fractured10.1%
- a brake lining or pad worn below 1.5mm8.1%
Figures cover every Audi A8 tested in the DVSA dataset, not this specific car. Check a registration for the actual history of one vehicle.
Audi A8 official figures
Median across 4 variants on sale, diesel electric, petrol electric.
- Combined economy
- 33.9 mpg
- WLTP median across variants
- CO2 emissions
- 204 g/km
- Sets the first-year tax rate
Official figures for new cars. Real economy varies with driving, load and conditions.
Frequently asked questions
What is the recall history of the Audi A8?
Recalls are issued against individual vehicles rather than a model as a whole, so a model-level yes or no would be guesswork. Enter the registration on Honest Car Check and we check the DVSA record for that specific car. Where DVSA holds no status, confirm it with a franchised dealer using the VIN.
How can I find out if my Audi A8 has been recalled?
Recalls are issued against individual vehicles rather than a model as a whole, so a model-level yes or no would be guesswork. Enter the registration on Honest Car Check and we check the DVSA record for that specific car. Where DVSA holds no status, confirm it with a franchised dealer using the VIN.
What should I do if my Audi A8 is recalled?
Recalls are issued against individual vehicles rather than a model as a whole, so a model-level yes or no would be guesswork. Enter the registration on Honest Car Check and we check the DVSA record for that specific car. Where DVSA holds no status, confirm it with a franchised dealer using the VIN.
Are recalls common for the Audi A8?
Recalls are issued against individual vehicles rather than a model as a whole, so a model-level yes or no would be guesswork. Enter the registration on Honest Car Check and we check the DVSA record for that specific car. Where DVSA holds no status, confirm it with a franchised dealer using the VIN.
Will a recall affect the resale value of my Audi A8?
Recalls are issued against individual vehicles rather than a model as a whole, so a model-level yes or no would be guesswork. Enter the registration on Honest Car Check and we check the DVSA record for that specific car. Where DVSA holds no status, confirm it with a franchised dealer using the VIN.
How do I know if a recall has been resolved on my Audi A8?
Recalls are issued against individual vehicles rather than a model as a whole, so a model-level yes or no would be guesswork. Enter the registration on Honest Car Check and we check the DVSA record for that specific car. Where DVSA holds no status, confirm it with a franchised dealer using the VIN.
What types of issues have led to recalls for the Audi A8?
Recalls are issued against individual vehicles rather than a model as a whole, so a model-level yes or no would be guesswork. Enter the registration on Honest Car Check and we check the DVSA record for that specific car. Where DVSA holds no status, confirm it with a franchised dealer using the VIN.
Is there a time limit for getting a recall fixed on my Audi A8?
Recalls are issued against individual vehicles rather than a model as a whole, so a model-level yes or no would be guesswork. Enter the registration on Honest Car Check and we check the DVSA record for that specific car. Where DVSA holds no status, confirm it with a franchised dealer using the VIN.
Sources
- DVSA anonymised MOT tests and results (Open Government Licence v3.0)
- VCA new car fuel consumption and emissions data (Open Government Licence v3.0)
- DVSA vehicle safety recalls (Open Government Licence v3.0)