2023 Audi SQ8 Problems: 6 Issues Every Owner Should Know

2023 model year · 480+ owner reports · Updated April 2026

According to Au7o's analysis of 480+ owner reports, the 2023 Audi SQ8 has 6 documented known issues, with 5 rated critical. The most serious are Adaptive Air Suspension Strut and Compressor Wear ($1,200-$4,500 repair), Sport Differential Clutch Pack and Module Failure ($1,500-$4,500 repair), 4.0T Twin-Turbo Coolant System Degradation ($800-$2,500 repair), Driver's Seat Side Airbag Improperly Mounted (Recall) ($0-$0 repair) and Turbocharger Oil Supply Filter Clogging (4.0T TFSI) ($200-$15,000 repair). The most commonly reported issue is Adaptive Air Suspension Strut and Compressor Wear with 231 owner reports. Across all issues, repair costs range from $0 to $15,000. DIY maintenance guides at au7o.io.

All 6 Known Issues

Filter:

When Issues Typically Appear

Sport Differential Clutch Pack and Module Failure

20K-30K

4.0T Twin-Turbo Coolant System Degradation

40K-60K

Turbocharger Oil Supply Filter Clogging (4.0T TFSI)

40K-50K

025K50K75K100K mi

Community Reported

231 owners

On the 2020-2024 Audi SQ8, the SQ8 coupe-SUV with performance air suspension develops strut leaks and compressor wear similar to the SQ7. The sloped roofline design shifts weight distribution, affecting rear strut loading.

Common Symptoms

Vehicle dropping overnight
Suspension warning on dash
Compressor noise
Uneven ride height
Excessive body roll
Harsh ride at low speed

How to Fix

Replace air struts as they fail. Monitor compressor for overheating signs. Consider upgraded aftermarket components.

What Owners Are Using

Parts and tips from 231+ owners who fixed this issue

UpgradeAir Strut (Arnott #AS-3348)
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Typical repair cost:$1,200 - $4,500

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Community Reported

High Confidence231 reportsLast reported by owners Mar 2026Reviewed Mar 2026

On the 2020-2024 Audi SQ8 4.0T, the SQ8's sport-calibrated adaptive air suspension (4M chassis) develops the same failures as the SQ7: air spring leaks, compressor burnout, valve block faults, and height sensor failures. The SQ8's coupe-SUV styling results in a slightly lower center of gravity than the SQ7, but the same 5,400+ lb curb weight stresses the air system. Compressor lifespan is typically 80,000-100,000 km. Air spring leaks cause the compressor to overwork and eventually fail. Cost of full system repair is significant across all four corners.

This issue also affects: Audi A8, Audi RS6, Audi RS7

Common Symptoms

Vehicle sitting low on one or more corners after parking
Air suspension fault message on MMI display
Compressor running with engine off
Hissing from wheel well area (air leak)
Harsh ride quality replacing the normal comfort
Height adjustment disabled in drive select
Diagnostic codes 002F or 01772

How to Fix

Same diagnostic and repair approach as SQ7 (shared 4M platform). Isolate the failed component: air springs ($800-$1,500 per corner), compressor ($1,200-$2,500), valve block ($500-$1,000), or height sensor ($200-$400). Always check for air leaks before replacing the compressor. Aftermarket air suspension components from Arnott/Strutmasters offer 40-50% savings over OEM. Annual inspection of air springs for cracking recommended, especially in hot climates where UV and heat accelerate rubber degradation.

What Owners Are Using

Parts and tips from 0+ owners who fixed this issue

TipThe 4M platform air suspension is shared across Q7, Q8, SQ7, SQ8, Bentley Bentayga, and Lamborghini Urus. Aftermarket parts are widely available and significantly cheaper than OEM.
NoteIf the vehicle sits noticeably low on one corner after overnight parking, that air spring is leaking. Drive carefully to the shop - the compressor is overworking to compensate and will burn out if you delay.
UpgradeReplacement air spring to restore proper ride height and comfort (Arnott Air Spring Assembly)
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UpgradeAir-to-coil spring conversion kit as a permanent fix for air suspension failures (Strutmasters Air Suspension Conversion Kit)
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Typical repair cost:$800 - $3,500

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Community Reported

Medium Confidence0 reportsLast reported by owners Invalid DateReviewed Invalid Date

Community Reported

138 owners

On the 2020-2024 Audi SQ8, the SQ8 sport differential handles high torque and heavy weight, wearing clutch packs and stressing the electronic control module. Coupe-SUV driving dynamics put unique loads on the rear differential.

Common Symptoms

Differential noise
Torque vectoring loss
Warning light
Clunking during cornering
Rear-end vibration
Tire wear irregularity

How to Fix

Replace clutch packs and service fluid every 25,000 miles. Update differential control module software at dealer.

What Owners Are Using

Parts and tips from 138+ owners who fixed this issue

UpgradeSport Diff Service Fluid (Genuine Audi #G052529A2)
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Typical repair cost:$1,500 - $4,500

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Community Reported

High Confidence138 reportsLast reported by owners Mar 2026Reviewed Mar 2026

Community Reported

111 owners

On the 2020-2024 Audi SQ8 4.0T, the SQ8 4.0T V8 turbo coolant lines suffer from the same heat-cycle degradation as other 4.0T Audi models. The SUV packaging increases underhood heat, accelerating line and connection failure.

This issue also affects: Audi A8, Audi RS6, Audi RS7

Common Symptoms

Coolant loss
Overheating during spirited driving
Sweet smell
Low coolant light
Steam from engine area
Turbo efficiency drop

How to Fix

Replace turbo coolant lines at 50,000 miles. Inspect all coolant connections during regular service intervals.

What Owners Are Using

Parts and tips from 111+ owners who fixed this issue

UpgradeTurbo Coolant Lines (Genuine Audi #4M8145735)
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Typical repair cost:$800 - $2,500

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Community Reported

High Confidence111 reportsLast reported by owners Mar 2026Reviewed Mar 2026

On the 2023-2024 Audi SQ8 4.0T, certain 2023-2024 Audi SQ8 vehicles were recalled because the driver's seat side airbag may be improperly mounted to the seatback frame. In a side-impact collision, an improperly mounted airbag may not deploy correctly, failing to protect the driver from head and torso injuries. This is a manufacturing assembly defect, not a design flaw. The recall also affects the Q7, SQ7, and Q8 on the same production line.

This issue also affects: Audi A8, Audi RS6, Audi RS7

Common Symptoms

No visible symptoms (manufacturing defect)
Airbag warning light may illuminate in some cases
Visual inspection may show loose airbag module mounting

How to Fix

Contact Audi dealer to check if your VIN is included in this recall. The dealer will inspect and re-secure the driver's seat side airbag mounting to the seatback frame, free of charge. This is a safety-critical repair that should not be delayed. There is no way for owners to self-inspect this issue as it requires removal of the seat cover to access the airbag mounting points.

What Owners Are Using

Parts and tips from 0+ owners who fixed this issue

NoteThis is a critical safety recall - an improperly mounted side airbag may not deploy in a crash. Schedule the inspection immediately even if no warning light is present.
UpgradeDorman clock spring — restores airbag and horn function (Dorman Clock Spring)
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TipCheck NHTSA.gov for active recalls — repairs are performed free at authorized dealers

Typical repair cost:$0 - $0

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Medium Confidence0 reportsLast reported by owners Invalid DateReviewed Invalid Date

On the 2020-2024 Audi SQ8 4.0T, the SQ8's 4.0T TFSI twin-turbo V8 shares the same turbo oil supply filter clogging issue as the SQ7 and other 4.0T applications. The original 30-micron mesh filters can clog with oil deposits as early as 40,000 miles, starving the turbochargers of lubrication. Audi revised the filter to 90-micron mesh (PN 079115175G) after recall 21H7 on earlier 4.0T models. Turbo bearing failure from oil starvation leads to seized turbochargers, engine stalling, and potential turbo housing rupture. Preventive filter replacement is critical.

This issue also affects: Audi A3, Audi A6, Audi A8

Common Symptoms

Unusual whining or whistling from turbo area
Reduced boost and noticeable power loss
Engine difficult to start or stalls
Check engine light with boost-related codes
Metal shavings found during oil change
Increased oil consumption
Turbocharger housing oil leak

How to Fix

PREVENTIVE: Replace turbo oil supply filters with revised PN 079115175G (90-micron mesh) at 40,000-50,000 miles. This $200-$400 service prevents $8,000-$15,000 in turbo replacement costs. Maintain strict 5,000-7,500 mile oil change intervals with VW 502.00 or 504.00 specification oil. If turbo whine or power loss is already present, diagnose immediately - continuing to drive with oil-starved turbos causes rapid bearing destruction. Reference Audi TSB 2044640 for the established repair procedure.

What Owners Are Using

Parts and tips from 0+ owners who fixed this issue

UpgradeRevised turbo oil strainer 079115175G (90-micron mesh) is the critical upgrade. Replace both left and right side filters preventively. (Genuine VW/Audi #079115175G)
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NoteDo NOT follow the 10,000-15,000 mile service interval on the 4.0T. Change oil at 5,000-7,500 miles maximum. Extended intervals are the primary cause of filter clogging.
TipIf buying a used SQ8, ask for service records showing oil change frequency and whether turbo oil filters have been replaced. No records = assume the worst and budget for immediate filter replacement.

Typical repair cost:$200 - $15,000

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Community Reported

Medium Confidence0 reportsLast reported by owners Invalid DateReviewed Invalid Date

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most common Audi SQ8 problems?

According to Au7o's analysis of 480+ owner reports, the 2023-2023 Audi SQ8 has 6 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: Adaptive Air Suspension Strut and Compressor Wear, Sport Differential Clutch Pack and Module Failure, 4.0T Twin-Turbo Coolant System Degradation. Of these, 5 are rated critical and should be addressed promptly.

Is the Audi SQ8 reliable?

The 2023-2023 Audi SQ8 has 6 known issues documented across 480+ owner reports. 5 issues are rated critical: Adaptive Air Suspension Strut and Compressor Wear and Sport Differential Clutch Pack and Module Failure and 4.0T Twin-Turbo Coolant System Degradation and Driver's Seat Side Airbag Improperly Mounted (Recall) and Turbocharger Oil Supply Filter Clogging (4.0T TFSI). Prospective buyers should inspect for these issues and factor potential repair costs into their purchase decision. Regular maintenance following the manufacturer's schedule helps prevent many common problems.

How much does it cost to fix common Audi SQ8 problems?

Repair costs for known Audi SQ8 issues range from $0 to $15,000, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. The most critical issue, Adaptive Air Suspension Strut and Compressor Wear, typically costs $1,200-$4,500 to repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.

What is the 2020-2024 Audi SQ8 Adaptive Air Suspension Strut and Compressor Wear?

The SQ8 coupe-SUV with performance air suspension develops strut leaks and compressor wear similar to the SQ7. The sloped roofline design shifts weight distribution, affecting rear strut loading. Repairs typically run $1,200-$4,500. Severity: high.

What is the 2020-2024 Audi SQ8 Sport Differential Clutch Pack and Module Failure?

The SQ8 sport differential handles high torque and heavy weight, wearing clutch packs and stressing the electronic control module. Coupe-SUV driving dynamics put unique loads on the rear differential. Repairs typically run $1,500-$4,500. Severity: high.

What is the 2020-2024 Audi SQ8 4.0T Twin-Turbo Coolant System Degradation?

The SQ8 4.0T V8 turbo coolant lines suffer from the same heat-cycle degradation as other 4.0T Audi models. The SUV packaging increases underhood heat, accelerating line and connection failure. Repairs typically run $800-$2,500. Severity: high.

What is the 2023-2024 Audi SQ8 Driver's Seat Side Airbag Improperly Mounted (Recall)?

Certain 2023-2024 Audi SQ8 vehicles were recalled because the driver's seat side airbag may be improperly mounted to the seatback frame. In a side-impact collision, an improperly mounted airbag may not deploy correctly, failing to protect the driver from head and torso injuries. Repairs typically run $0-$0. Severity: high.

What is the 2020-2024 Audi SQ8 Turbocharger Oil Supply Filter Clogging (4.0T TFSI)?

The SQ8's 4.0T TFSI twin-turbo V8 shares the same turbo oil supply filter clogging issue as the SQ7 and other 4.0T applications. The original 30-micron mesh filters can clog with oil deposits as early as 40,000 miles, starving the turbochargers of lubrication. Audi revised the fi… Repairs typically run $200-$15,000. Severity: high.

What is the 2020-2024 Audi SQ8 Adaptive Air Suspension Compressor and Air Spring Failures?

The SQ8's sport-calibrated adaptive air suspension (4M chassis) develops the same failures as the SQ7: air spring leaks, compressor burnout, valve block faults, and height sensor failures. The SQ8's coupe-SUV styling results in a slightly lower center of gravity than the SQ7, but… Repairs typically run $800-$3,500. Severity: medium.

All 6 Known Issues

When Issues Typically Appear

2020-2024 Audi SQ8: Adaptive Air Suspension Strut and Compressor Wear#

Common Symptoms

How to Fix

What Owners Are Using

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2020-2024 Audi SQ8: Adaptive Air Suspension Compressor and Air Spring Failures#

Common Symptoms

How to Fix

What Owners Are Using

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2020-2024 Audi SQ8: Sport Differential Clutch Pack and Module Failure#

Common Symptoms

How to Fix

What Owners Are Using

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2020-2024 Audi SQ8: 4.0T Twin-Turbo Coolant System Degradation#

Common Symptoms

How to Fix

What Owners Are Using

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2023-2024 Audi SQ8: Driver's Seat Side Airbag Improperly Mounted (Recall)#

Common Symptoms

How to Fix

What Owners Are Using

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2020-2024 Audi SQ8: Turbocharger Oil Supply Filter Clogging (4.0T TFSI)#

Common Symptoms

How to Fix

What Owners Are Using

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Other Audi Models

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most common Audi SQ8 problems?

Is the Audi SQ8 reliable?

How much does it cost to fix common Audi SQ8 problems?

What is the 2020-2024 Audi SQ8 Adaptive Air Suspension Strut and Compressor Wear?

What is the 2020-2024 Audi SQ8 Sport Differential Clutch Pack and Module Failure?

What is the 2020-2024 Audi SQ8 4.0T Twin-Turbo Coolant System Degradation?

What is the 2023-2024 Audi SQ8 Driver's Seat Side Airbag Improperly Mounted (Recall)?

What is the 2020-2024 Audi SQ8 Turbocharger Oil Supply Filter Clogging (4.0T TFSI)?

What is the 2020-2024 Audi SQ8 Adaptive Air Suspension Compressor and Air Spring Failures?