Used Audi Q7 (4M) review

Exterior Issues

• Early models of the Q7 sometimes suffered from an unusual and frustrating defect where the front doors would refuse to close or latch, bouncing back as if resisting the closure attempt. This is an easily noticeable problem, and any affected vehicles should ideally have had this fixed by now—otherwise, a previous owner would have faced driving with the doors perpetually ajar. If you’re inspecting a Q7, close the doors lightly to ensure they shut and latch smoothly.
• It’s also worth checking the fuel cap door. Some owners report this component sticking or failing to lock correctly. While this might seem minor, it can be a nuisance, especially if it compromises the vehicle’s ability to properly seal the fuel tank.
• Next, the powered tailgate on early models, and occasionally later ones, can have operational issues. Problems here may stem from faulty wiring or failing struts. When the tailgate malfunctions, it may jam shut and refuse to open or, worse, fall unexpectedly. Some unfortunate owners have had the tailgate come crashing down, a hazard that could be attributed to faulty tailgate struts or electronic failure. If you’re purchasing a used model, it’s a good idea to thoroughly test the tailgate and inspect for any signs of malfunction.
• A significant issue that affects many Volkswagen and Audi models, including the Q7, is water leakage, especially for models fitted with the panoramic roof. This luxurious sunroof option unfortunately introduces potential problems with water ingress, mainly due to the drainage tubes that can easily clog. If these tubes get blocked, water can accumulate and seep into the vehicle. Worse yet, if the tubes break during cleaning or repair attempts, water may damage the sunroof motor, cables, or even cause the whole mechanism to seize. This water ingress can cause havoc on electronic systems, particularly the car’s infotainment (MMI) system and stereo. Owners often note that they rarely used the sunroof, unaware of the leaks until electronic issues became evident.
• In addition to electronic issues, water leaks can make the interior smell musty or even “like wet dog,” which can be a serious drawback in a luxury vehicle. Regular sunroof service is recommended to ensure the lubrication and drainage systems are well-maintained. Even then, keep in mind that water damage remains a possibility.
• Keyless entry malfunctions are another common complaint, even after owners replace the fob battery. If you’re eyeing a later or higher-spec model equipped with Matrix LED laser headlights, be aware that while the lighting is excellent, replacement costs are exorbitant. Replacement headlights can start at $4,000 and soar to over $10,000 AUD for near-new units.
• Moreover, keyless entry issues can sometimes trace back to faulty door handle mechanisms, which might need replacing across multiple handles to solve the problem fully. As seen with the headlights, Audi parts tend to be pricey.
• Being a large, heavy SUV, the Q7 is hard on brakes and tires. For safety and performance, premium tires are recommended—but these come at a premium cost. Lastly, Audi has issued numerous recalls for the Q7, addressing various known issues. While recalls indicate that Audi is proactive in resolving problems, make sure any Q7 you’re considering has been serviced for all relevant recalls.

Interior Concerns

• If you think that avoiding a Q7 with sunroof leakage will mean smooth sailing in terms of electronics, think again. The Q7, especially the post-2020 models with dual touchscreens, has a reputation for electronic glitches. While these models offer an array of features and controls—up to 400 different settings—the technology introduces a host of potential problems. Common complaints include sluggish operation, intermittent functionality, phone connection dropouts, and on some early models, screens that fail to rise from the dash or simply malfunction. Newer models sometimes experience total system crashes or reboots, requiring users to re-pair devices and reconfigure settings.
• While software updates may temporarily fix some of these issues, several owners report that the issues return shortly after, meaning regular service calls. The Bang & Olufsen sound system, while impressive in quality, is also highly complex and integrated into the car’s other systems. Repairs often need specific coding at an Audi dealership, which makes fixing these systems more challenging for independent shops or DIYers.
• Another common complaint is premature leather wear, especially on the front seat bolsters and bases. The front seats may also experience adjustment issues, which can stem from either motor failure or electrical glitches.
• Meanwhile, the glossy interior finishes, depending on the model, can scratch easily and quickly lose their premium look, leaving the interior looking worn.
• The post-update models with dual touchscreens are also a source of user frustration. While the haptic feedback is supposed to help users avoid taking their eyes off the road, many owners find it less intuitive than physical buttons, particularly when adjusting climate settings. This criticism is widespread, and Audi and Volkswagen have responded by reintroducing buttons for high-use controls on some newer models.
• The pre-2020 Q7 models, with more conventional controls, might actually be more user-friendly for some, as they retain physical dials for critical functions. That said, be aware that Apple CarPlay and Android Auto weren’t introduced until around 2017, so earlier models may need both hardware and software upgrades to support these popular systems.

Mechanical Issues

• While internationally a variety of engines have been available, Australian Q7s mostly feature the 3.0 TDI diesel engine, which, though improved over previous generations, still has several issues.
• For example, excessive oil consumption is common, and the cooling system—made up largely of plastic components—suffers from the effects of repeated heat cycles over time. The plastic coolant fittings and outlets in the engine valley are especially prone to failure, usually around the 10-year mark.
• Carbon build-up, a notorious issue in Audi and Volkswagen diesels, can impact power output and fuel economy over time, clogging everything downstream of the EGR outlet. This buildup problem isn’t unique to the Q7, but it can become quite severe if not properly managed. While newer engines have better injector seals, leaks can still occur, particularly on earlier models.
• Engine mounts, too, are known to fail, leading to costly repairs thanks to complex repair requirements.
• The Q7’s variable oil pressure system, while innovative and efficient when working correctly, can result in oil pressure problems as the vehicle ages. Combined with extended service intervals or missed maintenance, low oil pressure can accelerate wear on timing chain components, including the guides and tensioners.
• It’s important to recognise that there’s significant pressure on the timing chain tensioner, and over time, it can start to fail. As the tensioner weakens, the timing chain can begin to “slap” around, causing the timing chain guides to break down and fall apart. Another common issue due to low oil pressure is that the transfer gears in the cylinder heads do not receive adequate lubrication, leading to premature wear. Unfortunately, these gears are integrated into the camshaft, meaning you can’t simply replace the gear—if it’s damaged, the entire camshaft will need replacement.
• Addressing these problems, including repairs to the timing chains, hydraulic lifters, camshafts, and associated gears, can easily exceed $10,000 AUD. To mitigate these risks, some tuning shops can remap the oil pressure setup for higher pressure at low revs, which may help reduce wear on the timing chains and related components.
• Due to these complexities, it’s essential to follow a strict oil change regimen, ideally every 10,000 km.
• The mild hybrid system in the Q7 has shown relative reliability. However, as something of a retrofit hybrid setup (it was added into a traditional ICE powertrain), it introduces additional complexity and potential repair costs. Software issues related to the hybrid system, if left unaddressed, can exacerbate other mechanical issues, potentially negating any savings gained from hybrid efficiency.
• The transmission is a ZF 8-speed automatic (ZF 8HP), widely used across many brands and generally reliable. As long as it’s serviced every 40,000 to 50,000 km, transmission issues should be minimal.
• However, air suspension issues are common, affecting struts, compressors, and sensors. If you’re aiming for long-term ownership, you might want to avoid air suspension-equipped models, as repair costs can be substantial.

Driving Experience

• Audi Q7 owners frequently mention brake squeal with the OEM rotors and pads, which can worsen over time to the point of making the car nearly un-driveable. Switching to high-quality aftermarket parts is one possible fix, as OEM replacements may eventually develop the same squeak.
• Early models have also reported occasional cruise control malfunctions. In rare instances, the Q7 may begin accelerating unexpectedly until the brakes are tapped to disengage the system.
• Owners further report that certain active safety features, such as the pre-sense braking system, are overly sensitive. For example, when following a vehicle that turns off, the Q7 can misinterpret the situation and slam on the brakes, potentially causing a jarring experience for occupants.
• Additionally, software issues can lead to limp mode, or worse, cause the car to shut down entirely. In some cases, restarting resolves the issue, but other times, a tow may be necessary to reset the system.

Ownership Costs and Depreciation

• Owning a Q7 can be an expensive endeavour. Audi parts and labor come at a high premium, especially since many components are shared with Volkswagen models, making the cost seem hard to justify.
• Depreciation is also a factor to consider, as Q7s lose value faster than some competitors. For instance, a 2021 Q7 50 TDI originally priced at around $120,000 AUD can now be found for approximately $85,000 AUD, representing a 30% depreciation in just three years. By contrast, a similarly equipped 2021 Toyota Kluger (Highlander), which cost about $75,000 new, has only depreciated by around 7%, with an average resale price of $70,000 AUD. To make matters worse, Toyota and other Japanese or Korean models often outperform the Slovakian built Q7 in build quality and reliability.