IsItAGoodCar

Common Problems with the
2018–2023 Audi Q8 (4M8)

We've identified 4 known issues that can affect the 2018–2023 Audi Q8 (4M8). 3 of these are serious faults that could be expensive to repair.

4
Known Issues
3
Serious
1
Moderate
0
Minor

The 2018–2023 period has 3 more issues than the Audi Q8 (4M8) average across all year periods.

All Known Issues

48V Alternator / Generator Failure

SeriousElectrics & Electronics

The 48V mild-hybrid system can fail due to a faulty belt alternator starter, leaving the car stranded when the 12V system drains.

Most affected: 50 TDI, 55 TFSI

Estimated cost: £1,000–£2,500Affects: 2018–2023

Typical symptoms

  • •"Electrical System: Fault!" message in red
  • •Start-stop inactive
  • •Total loss of electrical power while driving

What to inspect before you buy

  • ✓Check for evidence of a recent alternator replacement
  • ✓Scan the car for stored voltage faults

Adaptive Air Suspension Leaks

SeriousSuspension & Chassis

The air springs can develop leaks causing uneven ride height, and the compressor burns out trying to compensate.

Most affected: All models with air suspension

Estimated cost: £800–£2,500Affects: 2018–2024Often appears around: 40k-80k miles

Typical symptoms

  • •One corner sitting low after parking
  • •Compressor running constantly
  • •Air suspension warning light
  • •Bouncy ride

What to inspect before you buy

  • ✓Inspect ride height after standing overnight
  • ✓Cycle suspension through height settings
  • ✓Listen for compressor strain or hissing from wheels

48V Mild Hybrid System Faults

SeriousElectrics & Electronics

The belt-starter-generator can fail, disabling start-stop and energy recuperation, and potentially stranding the car when both batteries drain.

Most affected: 50 TDI, 55 TFSI

Estimated cost: £0 (recall) – £1,500Affects: 2018–2024Often appears around: 20k-60k miles

Typical symptoms

  • •Electrical system malfunction warning
  • •Start-stop inactive
  • •Rough engine restarts

What to inspect before you buy

  • ✓Check for completed recall or service campaign work
  • ✓Scan for 48V system fault codes
  • ✓Verify battery health

Infotainment and MMI Freezing

ModerateElectrics & Electronics

The dual-touchscreen MMI system can freeze, go black, or reboot spontaneously, affecting climate and vehicle controls.

Most affected: All models

Estimated cost: £0–£900Affects: 2018–2024Often appears around: Age-related

Typical symptoms

  • •Frozen or black screens
  • •Climate controls unresponsive
  • •Navigation or media dropouts

What to inspect before you buy

  • ✓Test both touchscreens extensively
  • ✓Check software version and update history
  • ✓Verify no persistent error messages

Buying Tips for the 2018 Audi Q8 (4M8)

  • ✓Check the massive frameless doors for wind noise at motorway speeds
  • ✓Verify the 48V mild-hybrid system is healthy, as alternator failures are a known VW Group wide issue
  • ✓Inspect the large 21- or 22-inch alloy wheels for kerb damage, as replacements and premium tyres are extremely costly
2024 Audi Q8 (4M8)

Browse 2018–2023 Audi Q8 (4M8) in our Directory

View MOT history, registration data, and reliability scores for 2018–2023 Audi Q8 (4M8) vehicles.

View 2018–2023 Directory

Other Audi Q8 (4M8) Year Periods

2018–202320242025

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