Audi Recalls Sedans for a Stalling Pr After an Investigation

Some A8, RS7, S6, S7, and S8 vehicles with specific twin-turbocharged engines are included in the recall

Audi is recalling some A8, RS7, S6, S7, and S8 sedans from the 2013-2017 model years to fix a problem with the turbocharger. The recall follows a yearlong investigation by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) into reports that these vehicles could stall without warning while in motion. Only those with 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged engines are included in the recall.

Audi has received 1,889 warranty claims and 47 field reports related to this problem since April 2017, according to documents provided by NHTSA. In February the automaker also extended the warranty period for the turbocharger to 10 years or 120,000 miles. (Learn how to report a safety complaint to NHTSA.)

The problem is due to a poorly designed oil strainer that allows oil and/or carbon deposits to build up, blocking oil from reaching the turbocharger bearings. If the turbocharger isn’t lubricated, it could fail. In addition to stalling, owners may also notice that the oil, Electronic Power Control (EPC), or check engine warning lights are displayed on the dashboard. The engine may take longer to turn over when starting, have a rough idle when the vehicle is stopped, or feel like it’s losing power when the car is in motion.

Audi dealerships will replace the oil strainer, change the oil, and check the turbocharger’s performance, free of charge. The automaker will also reimburse owners if they previously paid to have this service done.

Photo: Audi Photo: Audi

Vehicles Recalled• Audi A8, S7, and S8 sedans manufactured between June 27, 2012, and March 30, 2017.• Audi S6 sedans manufactured between June 25, 2012, and March 30, 2017.• Audi RS7 sedans manufactured between July 25, 2013, and March 30, 2017.

The problem: An oil strainer with a mesh filter that’s too narrow could get blocked with oil and/or carbon deposits. If this happens, oil might not reach the turbocharger, and it could fail. If that happens, the engine could suddenly stall or lose power when the vehicle is in motion, which could cause a crash.

The fix: Audi dealerships will replace the oil strainer. The replacement will have a slightly larger mesh in order to prevent buildup. In addition, dealerships will change the vehicle’s oil and check the turbocharger’s performance. This service will be free of charge.

How to contact the manufacturer: Audi will contact owners of affected vehicles by mail starting on May 20, 2022. Owners may also call Audi at 800-253-2834.

NHTSA campaign number: 22V178. Audi’s own number for this recall is 21H7.

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