2021 Audi Q7 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,SERVICE BRAKES,ENGINE

I am reporting a severe defect in my 2020 Audi Q7 involving “coolant migration” due to a faulty water pump, a known issue in Audi models (Q7, S4, A6, 2013–2022). This poses critical safety risks due to sudden failure with minimal warning. My out-of-warranty Q7 showed minor coolant fouling near a solenoid, with normal coolant levels and no fluid added. The dealer quoted ~$6,000 to replace the water pump and vacuum system. This defect is highly dangerous due to: Sudden Power Loss: Coolant in the vacuum system impairs solenoids and lines, disrupting engine/turbo function. This can cause abrupt power loss, risking loss of control in traffic or at high speeds, potentially leading to collisions. Catastrophic Overheating: A failing water pump may halt coolant circulation, causing rapid engine overheating without warning, risking sudden engine shutdown and stranding drivers in hazardous conditions like highways. Brake Assist Failure: The vacuum system powers the brake booster. Contamination can reduce braking effectiveness, increasing pedal effort and stopping distances, heightening collision risks in emergencies. Emissions Control Issues: Coolant fouling affects PCV and EVAP systems, causing misfires, stalling, or increased emissions, potentially triggering check engine lights and compromising engine stability. Undetectable Progression: The defect often shows no clear symptoms or warnings until severe damage occurs. My vehicle had only minor fouling that could only be detected by visual inspection, yet extensive repairs were needed, indicating the issue’s stealthy nature, which prevents timely driver intervention. Systemic Issue: Forums and a class-action lawsuit confirm this defect across Audi models, yet owners face high repair costs post-warranty. This defect endangers drivers and others by risking vehicle failure, impaired braking, and unstable performance. I urge NHTSA to investigate and mandate a recall or extended warranty.

While driving with my 4 year-old daughter a notification appeared on the driver display that there is an “Electrical Malfunction” and to call the service department. A few minutes later, while actively driving on the same busy road in my town, the vehicle completely turned off, including the power steering and ABS breaks. I was stuck in the middle of a busy intersection with no hazard lights and no ability to even shift the vehicle into neutral to move it. I was genuinely concerned for my safety and the safety of my daughter, as we were stranded in the middle of a busy intersection during rush hour. It was a harrowing experience to say the least. Eventually we had the vehicle towed. When I called Audi, they informed me that they suspected it was the “starter generator” and that they were aware of the issue, but this was the first I had heard of it. They subsequently confirmed that it was the starter generator and are less than accommodating.

While driving the vehicle, error messages began appearing on the in-panel dashboard display. At first, a yellow/orange battery icon appeared with the message "Electrical system: malfunction! Please contact Service". Within an hour, the car experienced another electrical system malfunction (red battery icon appeared with the message "Electrical system: malfunction! Safely stop vehicle") along with a host of other error messages (Brakes: malfunction, Steering: malfunction, Parking brake: malfunction, Vehicle lights: malfunction, Stabilization control (ESC/ABS): malfunction, Drive system: malfunction, Transmission: malfunction). The car was undrive-able at this point, coasted to a stop and could not be restarted while on an active roadway. The car had to be towed to the dealership, where it still remains today. * Components or systems malfunctioned: Electrical system, brakes, steering, parking brake, vehicle lights, stabilization control (ESC/ABS), drive system, transmission. It is available at the Audi dealership service location for inspection * My safety was put in significant danger due to the car shutting down on an active roadway with no control over the vehicle. * The problem has been confirmed by the dealer. * The vehicle has been inspected by the dealership service center but not by police or insurance representatives. * Many warning lamps and messages appeared within an hour of the car becoming inoperable.