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Audi · Known Issues

2016 Audi Q7 Problems: 2 Known Issues

2016 model year · 850+ owner reports · Updated September 2026

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Issue summary

According to Au7o's analysis of 850+ owner reports, the 2016 Audi Q7 has 2 documented known issues. None of the listed issues is rated critical; this is not a complete reliability assessment. 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.

In This Article

  • Q7 Transmission1
  • Q7 Emissions1
  • Recalls12
  • FAQ
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In This Article

  • Transmission1
  • Emissions1
  • Recalls12
  • FAQ

All 2 Known Issues

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ALL YEARS2019201820172016201520142013201220112010200920082007
Community reported
850 owners

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.

This issue also affects: Audi A5, Audi S5, Audi SQ5

Common Symptoms

  • 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.

Typical repair cost:$300 - $3,500

Research This Issue

Based on 850 owner reports

GoogleRedditYouTubeNHTSA
Community Reported
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.

This issue also affects: Audi S4, Audi A8, Volkswagen Jetta

Common Symptoms

  • Malfunction indicator lamp on

How to Fix

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.

Research This Issue

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Manually Verified
High ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Jul 2026
NHTSA Recalls12 recalls

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:FUEL INJECTION SYSTEM:FUEL RAIL

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.

Campaign #19V03500016/01/2019

SEATS:MID/REAR ASSEMBLY

Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain model year 2017 Audi Q7 vehicles manufactured August 30, 2015, to July 10, 2016. In the affected vehicles, the third row seat back may move forward under load, such as in a frontal collision. As such, the vehicles do not conform to Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 207, "Seating Systems."

Campaign #16V64100006/09/2016

SEAT BELTS:PRETENSIONER

Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain model year 2017 Audi A7, A4, A6, Volkswagen Golf and Tiguan vehicles and 2016 Volkswagen e-Golf vehicles for driver frontal air bags, passenger frontal air bags or head air bags that may not deploy properly. Additionally, certain 2017 Audi Q7, A4 Sedan, A4 Allroad, and 2018 Audi Q5 vehicles are being recalled because the seat belt pretensioners may not activate properly.

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Other Audi Models

Audi R830Audi Q329Audi A427Audi A623Audi S722Audi S419

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most common Audi Q7 problems?

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. None of the matching records is rated critical; this is not a complete reliability assessment. 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.

Data sourced from 850+ owner reports, NHTSA recalls, TSBs, and automotive forums.

Campaign #16V95500029/12/2016

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP

Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain model year 2013-2017 Audi Q5 and 2013-2017 Audi Q7 vehicles. These gasoline-powered vehicles have a fuel pump flange that may crack, allowing fuel to leak.

Campaign #17V29800003/05/2017

STEERING:ELECTRIC POWER ASSIST SYSTEM

Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain model year 2017 Audi Q7 vehicles manufactured November 11, 2015, to November 23, 2015. In the affected vehicles, the electric power steering assist control unit may short circuit resulting in a loss of power steering assist.

Campaign #16V64800008/09/2016

+ 7 more recalls. Check all on NHTSA.gov

Enter your VIN at NHTSA.gov to check recalls specific to your vehicle.