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2021 Audi A7 Report

Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.

Updated Jun 2, 2026·Daniel Wilson·5 Critical Recalls
2021 Audi A7 Report

Overall Score

6.5/ 10
Our Verdict
Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

  • Significant recall activity, especially for safety systems like airbags and brakes, necessitates verification of completed repairs.
  • While consumer complaints are absent, the high number of recalls indicates a need for diligent pre-purchase inspection.
  • The 3.0L V6 engine paired with AWD provides confident performance, but potential electrical system issues should be checked.
  • Fuel economy is respectable for its class, achieving a combined 24 MPG, but premium fuel is required.
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OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2021 Audi A7

The 2021 Audi A7 is a luxury sedan that blends striking design with potent performance. For the used car shopper, it offers a compelling package, but the extensive recall history, particularly concerning critical safety components, cannot be overlooked. Despite a lack of consumer complaints, the sheer volume of recalls suggests potential manufacturing or early-life issues that buyers must verify have been addressed.

Critical Failure Risk

Recalls and TSBs indicate potential issues with the gateway control module, instrument cluster, and charging cables. These can lead to system-wide electronic failures or overheating risks.

Early detection can help you avoid a $500-$2,500 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls58
Service Bulletins0
Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

0

No primary complaint themes found.

Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Fuel Efficiency
Combined
24
MPG
City
22
MPG
Highway
29
MPG
Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

6.9/ 10

Practicality

4.4/ 10

The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption.

Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Discerning buyers prioritizing style and performance over long-term, trouble-free ownership.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Buyers seeking a low-maintenance, budget-friendly vehicle.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2021 Audi A7 Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2021 Audi A7.

  • Recall TimelineOfficial safety notices
  • Owner ComplaintsReal driver reports
  • Failure AnalysisKnown part defects
Specs

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type
Premium
Seating Capacity
5
Transmission
Automatic
Drivetrain
AWD/All-Wheel Drive
Body Style
Hatchback
EPA Combined MPG
24

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Unlock the complete checklist, maintenance outlook, and buyer verdict in one place.

Most Common Issues

1. Electrical System Malfunctions

Most reported

Usage data observed

2. Rear Suspension Component Failure

Usage data observed

See all common issues in the maintenance guide

First Service Interval

- Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Brake System Inspection

Est. shop cost: $150 - $250

10,000 mi

Unlock the full maintenance guide for every scheduled service interval and cost forecast.

Full pre-purchase inspection checklist
Complete maintenance schedule (5 service intervals)
Repair forecasts with mileage and cost context
Full buyer-fit guidance and who should avoid it
Full specs and trim-level context
58 recall campaign details & remedy notes
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FAQ

FAQ

Is the 2021 Audi A7 reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2021 Audi A7 is 6.9/10. Reliability score is 6.9/10. NHTSA recalls: 58. Owner complaints: 0.

How practical is the 2021 Audi A7 for daily use?▾

Practicality score is 4.4/10. The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption. EPA combined economy is 24 MPG. Seating capacity is 5.

What is the overall score for the 2021 Audi A7?▾

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2021 Audi A7 is 6.5/10. Overall score is 6.5/10 (Good). Confidence 55%. Maintenance 9.0/10. Practicality 4.4/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2021 Audi A7?▾

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Brake System Inspection at 10,000 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $600 - $1,000. Repair prediction highlight: Electrical System Module (typical at 50,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $500 • Max: $2,500).

What is the MSRP range for the 2021 Audi A7?▾

Base MSRP is $69,200.

What engine is in the 2021 Audi A7?▾

Engine specs list 6 • 3.0.

What transmission does the 2021 Audi A7 use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 Audi A7, transmission is Automatic. The paired drivetrain is AWD/All-Wheel Drive.

Does the 2021 A7 require Premium gas?▾

Manufacturer fuel recommendation: Premium.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2021 Audi A7?▾

EPA combined estimate is 24 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2021 Audi A7?▾

12 standard and 2 optional driver assistance features. Key features include Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control.

How many people fit in a 2021 Audi A7?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 Audi A7, seating capacity is 5.

What body style is the 2021 Audi A7?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 Audi A7, body style is hatchback.

What drivetrain does the 2021 Audi A7 use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 Audi A7, drivetrain is AWD/All-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic.

What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2021 Audi A7?▾

NHTSA ratings: Side 5/5.

Are there open safety recalls on the 2021 Audi A7?▾

This model year has 58 official safety campaigns listed.

Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2021 Audi A7?▾

Alternatives listed in this guide: 2021 Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class and 2021 Porsche Panamera.

Start Here

Maintenance guide

Costs + intervals

Recall report

Campaigns + remedy notes

Owner complaints

Issue volume + categories

In this guide

  1. 01Overview
  2. 02Who This Car Is For
  3. 03Reliability & Problems
  4. 04Vehicle Specs
  5. 05Unlock Full Report
  6. 06FAQ

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