Audi Q4
Permanent magnet synchronous motor (PSM) with 89 kW at the rear axle — APP550 unit from the VW Group. Electric motors of this design are considered low-maintenance and long-lived. Charging flap and heat pump climate control show occasional defects in early models. Check for software updates early.
Worry engine — costly weakness looms
121 hp rear electric motor with a known issue: MMI infotainment freezes or restarts. The risk of costly repairs overshadows any driving pleasure.
Engine Weaknesses 5
Software fault in the brake control unit can under certain conditions cause failure of the electric parking brake. Approx. 110,000 vehicles worldwide affected (built 2020–2023). KBA number 14877R, manufacturer code 454R.
Symptoms: Red parking brake warning light not constant, vehicle can roll away. Two damage cases documented, no injuries.
The MIB3 infotainment freezes particularly often at temperatures below approx. 3.5 °C. Black screen or complete reboot during driving. Audi confirmed the fault as a defect in a control unit and had no solution for a long time.
Symptoms: Black centre screen during driving, navigation disruption, no sound. Reboot by pressing the volume knob for a long time needed.
The 12V electrical system deep-discharges during extended standstill (from around 3–4 weeks) as the DC/DC converter system does not reliably keep the vehicle awake. The vehicle then no longer starts and must be recovered.
Symptoms: Vehicle completely unresponsive after standing, no response to key fob, parking brake remains applied. Jump start needed.
The electrical system reports faults that restrict numerous functions: auxiliary heater, lights and comfort systems shut down. Occurs in some cases within the first year of operation and requires workshop visits.
Symptoms: Warning message "electrical system restricted", no auxiliary heater, restricted lighting. Control unit replacement or software update needed.
Charging stops without an error message or with "fault in the charging infrastructure". CCS plug occasionally locks in the charging port in exceptional cases. Problem occurs at various stations, not infrastructure-specific.
Symptoms: Charging station shows fault, vehicle aborts charging. Error message "charging system fault" on display. CCS plug cannot be unlocked.
Vehicle Weaknesses 4
Software fault in the brake control unit can cause the parking brake to not engage correctly. 109,684 vehicles worldwide affected.
Infotainment freezes or restarts, temporarily disabling safety systems. Improved by software update 3.2.
The myAudi app regularly loses its vehicle connection. Remote preheating and charge monitoring work unreliably.
Drum brakes rust quickly during standstill periods as the vehicle primarily brakes via the electric motor and the mechanical brakes are rarely used.