SuspensionHigh
Air suspension leaks leaving the car sitting low overnight
- Typically appears
- 70,000+ miles
- What to inspect
- Leave it parked overnight and check ride height in the morning
2011–2018 Audi A7 · common problems & known faults
A big executive hatch that depreciates fast, so buyers see tempting prices on cars with expensive air and drivetrain wear ahead.
Compiled & reviewed by the VehicleFaults Research Team · last reviewed August 2026
Quick answer
The most commonly reported faults on the 2011–2018 Audi A7 are Air suspension leaks leaving the car sitting low overnight, Timing chain tensioner rattle on early V6 petrol units and S tronic clutch pack judder in slow traffic. 3 of the documented issues are rated high severity · inspect these first. Full inspection points, onset mileage and what to check are listed below.
Reliability snapshot
Based on the documented faults on this page for the Audi A7.
6.1/ 10
- Critical
- 0
- High
- 3
- Medium
- 1
- Low
- 0
Guidance only · reflects reported patterns, not a specific car's condition.
Known faults to check
EngineHigh
Timing chain tensioner rattle on early V6 petrol units
- Typically appears
- 80,000+ miles
- What to inspect
- Cold start and listen for a two second rattle
TransmissionHigh
S tronic clutch pack judder in slow traffic
- Typically appears
- 70,000+ miles
- What to inspect
- Crawl in traffic and feel for shudder pulling away
ElectricalMedium
MMI and infotainment module faults
- Typically appears
- Age-related
- What to inspect
- Cycle every screen and check reversing camera works
Inspecting a Audi A7?
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Check this exact carFrequently asked questions
Is a used A7 expensive to run?
Yes if you buy without history. Air suspension and chain work dwarf the purchase saving.
What is the single best check?
An overnight parked ride height check plus a stone cold start.
Which engine is safest?
Later 3.0 TDI examples with full Audi history are the most predictable.
Sources & further reading
Faults are compiled from documented recalls, technical bulletins, owner reports and mechanic sources, then reviewed for accuracy. This is guidance only · not a substitute for a professional inspection.