IsItAGoodCar
Reliability Guide

Common Problems with the
2020 Audi Q7 Mk2 (4M)

By 2020 the Q7 4M was well established and most initial BSG and software issues had been resolved through recalls. This is generally the safest used 4M Q7 buy, though air suspension remains the key check.

What changed for 2020

  • •Updated engine range with improved efficiency
  • •Revised MMI software with improved stability
  • •Enhanced driver-assistance features
  • •Updated interior trim options

Common MOT watch-outs

  • !Air suspension strut leaks at 50k–110k miles
  • !DPF regeneration problems on town-driven diesels
  • !Electrical module and sensor faults on higher-mileage cars
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 Team

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 Team

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 Team

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 Team

Buying Tips for 2020 Audi Q7 Mk2 (4M)

  • ✓Ensure all software recalls and updates are completed
  • ✓Check air suspension health after overnight stand
  • ✓Prefer cars with documented main dealer or specialist service history
2017–20192021–2024
Check a 2020 Audi Q7 Mk2 (4M) by Registration