IsItAGoodCar
Reliability Guide

Common Problems with the
2016 Audi Q7 Mk2 (4M)

The launch year brought a lighter, more efficient Q7 with the 48V mild-hybrid system. Early cars carry the highest risk of BSG failures and AdBlue system faults, making recall and service history essential.

What changed for 2016

  • •Launch with 3.0 TDI and 3.0 TFSI engines
  • •Standard 48V mild-hybrid on selected models
  • •Reduced weight by 300kg over 4L predecessor
  • •New MLB Evo platform

Common MOT watch-outs

  • !48V BSG failure at 20k–60k miles
  • !NOx sensor and AdBlue faults on diesels
  • !Air suspension strut leaks
4
Known Issues
2
Serious
2
Moderate
0
Minor

All Known Issues

Air Suspension Strut / Compressor Failure

SeriousSuspension & Chassis

The 4M rides beautifully on air, but leaking struts or tired compressors can leave the car sagging and trigger costly chassis warnings.

Est. Repair Cost: £700–£2,000
Warning Signs:

Uneven ride height after parking, Compressor running loudly or for too long, Level-control system warning

What to Inspect:
  • Inspect ride height after the car has stood overnight
  • Cycle the suspension through its height settings
  • Check whether any struts or the compressor have already been replaced
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research TeamUpdated

48V Mild Hybrid BSG Failure

SeriousElectrics & Electronics

The belt-starter-generator (BSG) in the 48V mild hybrid system can fail, disabling start-stop and eventually draining both batteries, leaving the car stranded.

Est. Repair Cost: £0 (recall) – £1,500
Warning Signs:

Electrical system malfunction warning, Start-stop inactive, Total loss of electrical power

What to Inspect:
  • Check Audi recall database for 48V BSG campaign
  • Verify no electrical warnings on test drive
  • Check if car has had the updated BSG unit fitted
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research TeamUpdated

NOx Sensor / AdBlue System Faults

ModerateExhaust & Emissions

Diesel SCR faults are the most common high-value annoyance on the 4M, often causing AdBlue warnings and eventual no-start countdowns even when the tank has been topped up.

Est. Repair Cost: £250–£1,500
Warning Signs:

AdBlue warning or no-start countdown, Engine light with emissions faults, Warnings returning soon after topping up AdBlue

What to Inspect:
  • Scan for NOx, SCR, and AdBlue injector faults
  • Ask for evidence of sensor, injector, or software replacements
  • Be cautious of cars with a recent reset but no repair invoice
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research TeamUpdated

MMI / Electrical Module Glitches

ModerateElectrics & Electronics

Owners commonly report frozen MMI screens, camera faults, battery drain, and keyless-entry glitches - usually software or module related, but expensive if neglected outside warranty.

Est. Repair Cost: £0–£1,200
Warning Signs:

Blank or rebooting MMI screen, Camera unavailable or parking-sensor errors, Flat battery after standing or poor key recognition

What to Inspect:
  • Use navigation, media, cameras, and phone pairing together on a long drive
  • Check software campaign history and whether the car has had unexplained battery replacements
  • Test both keys, tailgate operation, and all lighting functions
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research TeamUpdated

Buying Tips for 2016 Audi Q7 Mk2 (4M)

  • Check Audi recall database for 48V BSG campaign before viewing
  • Verify AdBlue and NOx-sensor history on diesel models
  • Test the MMI, digital dash, and cameras thoroughly
20152017–2019
Check a 2016 Audi Q7 Mk2 (4M) by Registration