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Jul 18, 2023

Audi Recalls Fixed Vehicles Again to Address Axle Problem

A misaligned rear axle might cause rear tires to wear unevenly, which could increase the risk of a crash Audi is recalling over 31,000 vehicles that were already recalled for a suspension issue last

A misaligned rear axle might cause rear tires to wear unevenly, which could increase the risk of a crash

Audi is recalling over 31,000 vehicles that were already recalled for a suspension issue last May because the fix may have caused the rear tires to wear unevenly.

The recalled vehicles are the 2021 Q7, Q8, Q5 Sportback, RS Q8, and SQ5 Sportback SUVs; 2021 RS6 Avant wagon and RS7 sedan; 2020 and 2021 A4, S4, A6, S6, A7, S7, A8, and S8 sedans; Q5 and SQ5 SUVs; A4 and A6 Allroad wagons; A5 and S5 coupes and convertibles; plus 2019 through 2021 RS5 coupes, and A5, S5, and RS5 Sportback sedans.

The original problem was due to a faulty nut in the rear axle assembly. As part of the repair, dealerships should have inspected the alignment of the rear axle, but the repair instructions provided by Audi didn’t tell them to do so. As a result, the rear axle may be misaligned and the rear tires could wear prematurely. Drivers may also notice that the steering wheel is misaligned and/or the vehicle pulls to one side while braking or accelerating.

Audi dealers will inspect the rear axle and adjust the alignment. They will also inspect and replace any prematurely worn tires free of charge.

Vehicles Recalled• 2019-2021 Audi A5 Sportback, S5 Sportback, and RS5 Sportback sedans• 2019-2021 Audi RS5 coupes• 2020-2021 Audi A4, A6, A7, A8, S4, S6, S7, and S8 sedans• 2020-2021 Audi A4 Allroad and A6 Allroad wagons• 2020-2021 Audi A5 and S5 coupes and convertibles• 2020-2021 Audi Q5 and SQ5 SUVs• 2020-2021 Audi S6 sedans• 2021 Audi Q5 Sportback, Q7, Q8, SQ5 Sportback and RS Q8 SUVs• 2021 Audi RS6 Avant wagons and Audi RS7 sedans

The problem: Audi’s initial repair instructions to dealerships didn’t include checking the vehicle’s alignment. This was added to the instructions on Nov. 20, 2021, so vehicles repaired after that date aren’t included in the recall.

The fix: Audi dealers will inspect the rear axle and adjust the alignment. They will also inspect and replace any prematurely worn tires free of charge. Audi will reimburse owners whose vehicles are included in this recall who already paid for any related repairs.

How to contact the manufacturer: Audi will notify owners by mail starting March 25, 2022. Owners may also contact Audi at 800-253-2834.

NHTSA campaign number: 22V034. Audi’s number for this recall is 42L5.

Check to see whether your vehicle has an open recall: NHTSA’s website will tell you whether your vehicle has any recalls that need to be addressed.

If you plug your car’s 17-digit vehicle identification number (VIN) into NHTSA’s website and a recall doesn’t appear, it means your vehicle doesn’t currently have one. Because automakers issue recalls often, and for many older vehicles, we recommend checking back regularly.

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Keith Barry

Keith Barry has been an auto reporter at Consumer Reports since 2018. He focuses on safety, technology, and the environmental impact of cars. Previously, he led home and appliance coverage at Reviewed; reported on cars for USA Today, Wired, and Car & Driver; and wrote for other publications as well. Keith earned a master’s degree in public health from Tufts University. Follow him on Twitter @itskeithbarry.