According to Au7o's analysis of 850+ owner reports, the 2016 Audi Q7 has 2 documented known issues. No issues are rated critical, indicating generally reliable ownership. The most commonly reported issue is Transfer Case Fluid Leak and Failure with 850 owner reports. Across all issues with published estimates, repair costs range from $300 to $3,500. DIY maintenance guides at au7o.io.
On the 2007-2019 Audi Q7, the Q7 Torsen-based quattro transfer case develops seal leaks and internal wear, particularly at higher mileages. The transfer case output shaft seals are the most common leak point. If fluid level drops too low, the transfer case bearings and gears can be damaged, leading to grinding noises and eventual failure. The 4L Q7 is more susceptible due to its heavier curb weight.
Fluid leak from center of vehicle under transfer case
Grinding or whining noise from undercarriage
Vibration at highway speeds that changes with speed
Clunking when shifting from reverse to drive
AWD malfunction warning
Differential fluid on garage floor
Difficulty engaging low range (if equipped)
How to Fix
Replace leaking seals and refill with correct fluid (75W-90 GL-5 or Audi specification). If grinding is present, the transfer case may need rebuild or replacement. Regular fluid changes every 60,000 miles can prevent internal damage. Check for leaks at every oil change.
High Confidence850 owner reportsLast reported by owners Jun 2023Reviewed Mar 2026
On the 2011-2016 Audi Q7 3.0 TFSI, audi TSB 2033001/18 applies to 2011-2016 Q7 3.0 TFSI vehicles with more than 15,000 miles when the malfunction indicator lamp is on and P0491 and P0492 are stored together. Audi identifies carbon restriction in the cylinder-head secondary-air ports. This is not an intake-valve diagnosis and the bulletin does not establish universal valve damage, a walnut-blasting maintenance interval or a need for engine replacement.
Have an Audi-trained technician confirm that P0491 and P0492 are present together, test the secondary-air pump and hose routing, and measure secondary-air flow using the bulletin procedure. If the measured flow and checks match the bulletin, the cylinder-head secondary-air ports are cleaned with Audi tools and training. Do not buy a PCV assembly, catch can or intake-cleaning product from this card.
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Audi) is recalling certain 2019 Q7, Q8, S5 Cabriolet, and S5 Sportback vehicles. The front shock absorber forks may develop cracks allowing the shock absorbers to loosen.
Campaign #19V11400020/02/2019
STRUCTURE:BODY:ROOF AND PILLARS
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Audi) is recalling certain 2018-2020 Audi Q7 vehicles. The padding on the vehicle's C-pillar may not absorb enough impact in the event of a crash.
Campaign #20V65800027/10/2020
STEERING
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2019 Audi Q8 and 2017-2019 Audi Q7 vehicles. The bolt connecting the steering shaft to the steering gear may loosen, possibly resulting in a loss of steering control.
Campaign #20V14900016/03/2020
AIR BAGS:SIDE/WINDOW
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2019 Audi Q7 vehicles. In the event of a crash, the side curtain air bags may not properly inflate.
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Audi) is recalling certain 2016-2018 Q7, A6 and A7 vehicles, and 2015-2018 Audi A8 vehicles. The left and right fuel rails may leak fuel.
According to Au7o's analysis of 850+ owner reports, the 2016 Audi Q7 has 2 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: Transfer Case Fluid Leak and Failure, 2011-2016 Q7 3.0 TFSI Secondary-Air Carbon Restriction - P0491/P0492. None are rated critical, but regular maintenance is recommended.
Is the Audi Q7 reliable?
The 2016 Audi Q7 has 2 known issues documented across 850+ owner reports. No issues are rated critical, suggesting generally good reliability. Regular maintenance following the manufacturer's schedule helps prevent many common problems.
How much does it cost to fix common Audi Q7 problems?
Repair costs for known Audi Q7 issues range from $300 to $3,500, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.
What is the 2007-2019 Audi Q7 Transfer Case Fluid Leak and Failure?
The Q7 Torsen-based quattro transfer case develops seal leaks and internal wear, particularly at higher mileages. The transfer case output shaft seals are the most common leak point. If fluid level drops too low, the transfer case bearings and gears can be damaged, leading to gri… Repairs typically run $300-$3,500. Severity: medium.
What is the 2011-2016 Audi Q7 2011-2016 Q7 3.0 TFSI Secondary-Air Carbon Restriction - P0491/P0492?
Audi TSB 2033001/18 applies to 2011-2016 Q7 3.0 TFSI vehicles with more than 15,000 miles when the malfunction indicator lamp is on and P0491 and P0492 are stored together. Audi identifies carbon restriction in the cylinder-head secondary-air ports. This is not an intake-valve di… Severity: medium.
Content on this page was compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, owner reports, and public automotive data. While we strive for accuracy, this information may contain errors. Always verify repair procedures and specifications with your vehicle's service manual or a qualified mechanic.
