Key takeaways:
- Audi is recalling more than 44,000 vehicles in the U.S. due to a software issue that could cause the instrument panel display to fail.
- The affected models include several 2021 Audi models such as the A6, A7, A8, Q7, Q8, and various “S” and “RS” performance variants.
- Owners can take their vehicles to Audi or Volkswagen dealerships for a free software update to resolve the issue.
Detailed Analysis
Volkswagen Group of America has announced a significant recall involving thousands of Audi vehicles sold in the United States. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the recall affects 44,387 Audi models from the 2021 model year due to a software issue that could cause the instrument panel display to fail 1.
The problem is caused by an aging flex-foil cable, which may result in a software error that disables the instrument panel display. This means drivers could lose access to crucial information such as warning lights, speedometer readings, mileage, and gear indicators 1. While no injuries or crashes have been reported, Audi had received 2,285 customer complaints about the issue as of March 24, highlighting the potential safety risk 1.
The recall covers a wide range of 2021 Audi models, including the A6, A6 Allroad, A7, A8, Q7, Q8, RS 6 Avant, RS 7, RS Q8, S6, S7, S8, SQ7, and SQ8 1. These vehicles represent a significant portion of Audi’s lineup, featuring both luxury sedans and SUVs, as well as high-performance variants.
For investors in the automotive industry, this recall could have implications for Volkswagen Group’s financial performance and reputation. While the cost of a software update is likely minimal compared to a mechanical recall, the sheer number of vehicles involved could add up. Additionally, if the issue persists or leads to further complications, it could potentially impact customer satisfaction and brand loyalty.
Audi and Volkswagen have stated that owners of the affected vehicles can take their cars to Audi or Volkswagen dealerships for a free update to the instrument panel module software 1. Owner notifications are expected to be mailed on May 30, and customers can also contact Audi customer service at 1-800-253-2834 about recall number 90VC.
Conclusion
The recall of over 44,000 Audi vehicles due to a software issue affecting the instrument panel display is a significant development for both the brand and its parent company, Volkswagen Group. While the fix appears straightforward, the sheer scale of the recall could have financial and reputational implications for the automaker. Investors will likely be monitoring the situation closely to assess any potential impact on Volkswagen Group’s performance and customer satisfaction levels.
References
1 Mary Walrath-Holdridge (2025, April 9). “Volkswagen recalls more than 40,000 Audi cars due to software error. See impacted models”. USA TODAY. Retrieved April 14, 2025.
2 Audi and Porsche Recall Thousands of U.S. Vehicles Due to Software Issues. The Wall Street Journal. Retrieved April 14, 2025.
3 Volkswagen recalls over 62,000 vehicles due to software issues. CBT News. Retrieved April 14, 2025.
4 Audi and Porsche Recall Thousands of U.S. Vehicles Due to …. MarketScreener. Retrieved April 14, 2025.
5 WSJ Business News on X: “Audi and Porsche Recall Thousands of …”. Twitter. Retrieved April 14, 2025.
6 Audi recalls more than 44,000 vehicles due to software issue. WSAZ. Retrieved April 14, 2025.
7 Iconic carmaker recalls more than 44,000 motors over ‘sudden’ dashboard failure that increases risk of cra…. The Sun. Retrieved April 14, 2025.
8 Mary Walrath-Holdridge (2025, April 9). “Volkswagen recalls more than 40,000 Audi cars due to software error. See impacted models”. USA TODAY. Retrieved April 14, 2025.
9 Audi and Porsche recall 33,000 cars over issue that could see vehicles burst into flames – drivers must g…. The Sun. Retrieved April 14, 2025.
10 DailyKanban – Just-in-time auto industry news and analysis. DailyKanban. Retrieved April 14, 2025.
