Audi A7
V6 biturbo diesel with 230 kW. Twin-turbocharged six-cylinder for maximum pulling power. Complex design leads to higher maintenance costs.
BiTurbo diesel with V8 punch
313 hp BiTurbo TDI with brutal torque. In a class of its own on the motorway.
Engine Weaknesses 6
The inner lining of the air-gap-insulated exhaust manifold detaches over time. Metal particles enter the turbine wheel of the small high-pressure turbocharger and destroy it. Both parts must be replaced.
Symptoms: Loud whistling or metallic rattling from the turbo, significant power loss especially below 2,000 rpm, delayed boost pressure buildup
Like all EA897 third-generation engines, CGQB units are susceptible to camshaft breaks from material defects. Mainly affects vehicles from production period 2014–2017.
Symptoms: Loud, unusual knocking or ticking from the engine bay; sound differs from normal diesel combustion noise
The EA111 1.2 TFSI (CGQB) suffers from severe timing chain problems from as early as 30,000–40,000 km. Defective tensioners and worn guide rails lead to chain jump and total engine loss.
Symptoms: Clattering rattle on cold start, engine warning light, in worst case sudden engine shutdown.
On the 1.2 TFSI EA111 (CGQB), turbochargers fail from oil coking in the supply line and inadequate bearing lubrication. Whistling and blue smoke are typical symptoms.
Symptoms: Whistling or squeaking noise under load, blue smoke from the exhaust, significant power loss.
With the 8-speed automatic in combination with the bi-turbo, drivers report slipping during gear changes under load and delayed torque lockup. Often a gearbox oil quality issue or TCU fault.
Symptoms: Rev rise without corresponding acceleration during shifts, delayed torque transfer especially on kickdown
The 3.0 TDI tends to leaks at the upper oil pan and various seals at higher mileages. Full disassembly required to seal properly.
Symptoms: Oil spots under the vehicle, oil smell after parking, dropping oil level between service intervals
Vehicle Weaknesses 6
The optional air suspension on the A7 4G is prone to compressor failure and leaking air bellows. Leaking bellows cause the compressor to run continuously until it overheats.
3.0 TDI models produced March–Dec. 2012: oil can enter the brake servo via vacuum lines and damage its membrane.
The S-Tronic DL501 dual-clutch gearbox suffers from premature clutch wear in frequent stop-start traffic. Regular gearbox oil changes every 60,000 km are necessary.
TÜV reports note increasing axle and strut deficiencies with mileage. Rubber bushes and control arms wear, especially at the front axle.
The 12V vehicle battery is a primary issue on the A7 4G. The complex electrical system drains the battery quickly, especially on short runs and in winter.
Door panels and B/C-pillar trim develop creaking and rattling over time. Known issue on the A6/A7 4G.
Reports & Tests
81 owner complaints filed with NHTSA (2010–2018). Most reported: Airbags (17), Steering (15), Electrical (15).