2021 Audi E Tron Problems

Good Record

The 2021 Audi E Tron has 35 NHTSA complaints and 9 recalls, with electrical faults dominating the issues. Based on 35 real NHTSA owner complaints, with Electrical Faults the most reported area.

20206 years2022

Before you buy

This 2021 Audi E Tron has 35 NHTSA complaints β€” top issue: Electrical Faults.

A model-year pattern isn't the car in front of you. Check this exact VIN for accidents, open recalls, odometer rollback, and salvage titles.

NMVTIS official data Instant results No signup for the preview

Free preview Β· Full report from $12.95.

35
Complaints
β€”
Crashes
1
Fires
β€”
Injuries
β€”
Fatalities
9
Recalls
Quick Answer

AUDI E TRON 2021 has 35 NHTSA complaints and 9 recalls, with electrical faults accounting for 23 complaints. Buyers should inspect the electrical system and verify recall completion. Source: NHTSA owner complaints and recall records.

2021 Audi E Tron β€” key reliability facts
Make
Audi
Model
E Tron
Model year
2021
NHTSA owner complaints
35
Crash-related complaints
0
Safety recall campaigns
9
Top reported component
Electrical Faults
Reliability signal
Good Record

Common problems

Most common 2021 Audi E Tron problems

Top owner-reported complaint areas and where they often appear.

#1
23
complaints

Electrical Faults

#2
10
complaints

Uncategorized Issues

Fires:1
#3
9
complaints

Transmission / Drivetrain

Complaint patterns center on Electrical Faults, Uncategorized Issues, Transmission / Drivetrain. Use these as a pre-purchase inspection guide, then verify recall and damage history on the specific VIN.

Buyer verdict

Should you buy a used 2021 Audi E Tron?

The 2021 Audi E Tron is a high-risk choice due to numerous electrical complaints and recalls. Only consider if you are prepared for possible repairs and have a warranty.

Electrical faults can lead to unexpected failures and costly repairs, affecting daily usability. Recalls indicate known issues that require attention.

May Suit

This year may suit buyers who want a luxury EV and are willing to accept higher maintenance risk for potential price savings.

May Want to Avoid

Buyers seeking maximum reliability and minimal service visits should avoid the 2021 Audi E Tron.

Pre-purchase

What to check before buying a used 2021 Audi E Tron

Inspection Focus

  • Inspect electrical system for fault codes and battery health.
  • Check transmission and drivetrain for unusual noises or behavior.
  • Verify all 9 recalls have been performed.

Before You Close the Deal

  • Have a mechanic inspect the electrical system thoroughly.
  • Verify all open recalls at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
  • Request service records for electrical and drivetrain repairs.
  • Consider an extended warranty for high-voltage components.

Check the exact car

Shortlist with model-year data. Decide with the exact VIN.

Before buying a used 2021 Audi E Tron, run a VIN history report to verify accidents, title brands, odometer records, theft checks, and open recalls for the exact vehicle.

AI verdict

What the complaint data suggests

Editorial interpretation of NHTSA public complaint data. Source: nhtsa.gov. Complaints are owner-submitted and do not confirm a defect. Methodology

Based on NHTSA complaint data, the 2021 Audi E Tron shows a high number of electrical faults (23 complaints) and 9 recalls, indicating potential reliability concerns. Buyers should prioritize checking electrical systems and recall status. Source: NHTSA owner complaints and recall records.

Year context: Compared to other model years, 2021 has the highest complaint count, but data for other years is limited.

Recall context: With 9 recalls, pre-purchase verification of recall completion is essential to ensure safety and compliance.

Key Findings
  • Electrical faults account for 23 of 35 total complaints.
  • 9 recalls were issued for the 2021 model year.
  • Transmission/drivetrain issues appear in 9 complaints.
Top Concerns
  • Electrical faults (23 complaints) are the most reported issue.
  • Uncategorized issues (10 complaints) suggest unresolved problems.
  • Transmission/drivetrain problems (9 complaints) may affect performance.
Data note: NHTSA complaints are consumer-submitted and do not confirm a manufacturing defect. Low confidence due to small sample size (35 complaints) and single model year.

Full breakdown

All 2021 Audi E Tron complaints by category

Every owner-reported complaint category filed with NHTSA for the 2021 Audi E Tron. Use this as a pre-purchase inspection checklist.

ComponentComplaintsCrashesFiresAvg MileageVolume
Electrical Faults23β€”β€”β€”
Uncategorized Issues10β€”1β€”
Transmission / Drivetrain9β€”β€”β€”
Engine Problems7β€”β€”β€”
Brake System3β€”β€”β€”
Structural Problems1β€”β€”β€”
Forward Collision Avoidance: AEB1β€”β€”β€”
Unintended Acceleration1β€”β€”β€”
Fuel/Propulsion System1β€”β€”β€”

Source: NHTSA Complaints Database. Complaint counts may exceed total complaints because one report can span multiple categories.

In their words

Real owner complaints

Read what owners actually reported to NHTSA for the 2021 Audi E Tron. Type a keyword (e.g. β€œtransmission”, β€œstalling”, β€œbrakes”) to filter.

Showing 35 most recent complaints

Transmission / DrivetrainMay 15, 2026

Moisture build-up in the high-voltage electrical system through a faulty seal on the charging socket, which can cause a short circuit and significantly increase the risk of a vehicle fire. If you get a warning light saying "electrical system: fault," you should stop driving immed…

Electrical FaultsApr 16, 2026

What component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is it available for inspection upon request? - While on highway the vehicle loosed all Power indicating Electrical Malfunction How was your safety or the safety of others put at risk? It happened on I-35 Freeway twice putting…

Electrical FaultsMar 31, 2026

Audi dealership charged fee for a repair that they the,selves acknowledged is under a technical service bulletin and despite my having extended warranty that is supposed to cover such repairs. This is for the main media interface going blank repeatedly every ~5 minutes or so whil…

Electrical FaultsFeb 17, 2026

Tied with NHTSA Recall 25V900 - Review Camera Software. Dealer was unable to complete the recall due to internal malfunction of USB Interface on vehicle. Dealer quoted a non itemized Repair Estimate of $1,045.50 to replace the interface in order to be able to complete the open r…

Electrical FaultsDec 1, 2025

The vehicle's central locking system does not properly communicate with the keyfob resulting in the doors not unlocking as intended. I have had my child in the car seat in the back and if i accidentantly touch the handle the wrong way the doors will lock and I am unable to use th…

Electrical FaultsSep 25, 2025

The contact owns a 2021 Audi E-Tron. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V867000 (Electrical System). The part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where it was diagnosed, and determined that the battery mod…

Uncategorized IssuesApr 27, 2025

I was driving on the highway and my sunroof spontaneously exploded. Nothing hit it, but there was a loud noise like a gunshot and the roof exploded outwards. Shards of glass landed in front of the car behind me who swerved to avoid them.

Brake SystemJan 31, 2025

On five separate occasions across two separate drivers, we have experienced a partial brake failure in this vehicle. We strongly believe this to be a software defect and not a mechanical fault. On the e-Tron, the first portion of the brake pedal swing typically activates the rege…

Electrical FaultsNov 26, 2024

The contact owns a 2021 Audi E-Tron. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V867000 (Electrical System); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for t…

Electrical FaultsNov 16, 2024

My Audi E-tron has a consistant problem with the MMI (Multi Media Interface, the main computer for the car). When I am driving, all the screens will go blank, I cannot see my speed, I have no HVAC controls, I am basically driving blind. To fix the issue, I have to pull over, tu…

Electrical FaultsAug 5, 2024

The vehicle's charging system keeps failing and turning off the charger. The rear doors do not open from the inside of the vehicle (intermittently).

Electrical FaultsApr 12, 2024

See attached document for complaint

Electrical FaultsMar 8, 2024

Charger overheats Charger trips breaker Charging damaged burned wall outlet Charging damaged breaker

Electrical FaultsFeb 15, 2024

The contact owns a 2021 Audi E-Tron. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, a message displayed reading "Electrical System Malfunction: Safely Stop the Vehicle," after which the vehicle lost motive power. The contact was able to coast to the shoulder of th…

Electrical FaultsFeb 13, 2024

There are 2 active/open recalls for my 2021 Audi etron vehicle. The recalls were initiated by the manufacturer 2 months ago and there currently are no repairs available for either recall. Both recalls present a severe safety risk to consumers and present risks to their homes. …

Electrical FaultsFeb 1, 2024

This issue occurred with my Audi a year after purchasing it and the vehicle had 19,282 miles on it at the time. I received an "Electrical System Malfunction - Please contact service" error message (in yellow) on my 2021 Audi etron vehicle display. The message was displayed for …

Electrical FaultsJan 23, 2024

The contact owns a 2021 Audi E-Tron. The contact received notifications of NHTSA Campaign Numbers: 23V867000 (Electrical System) and 23V842000 (Electrical System) however, the parts to do the recall repairs were not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer exceeded…

Transmission / DrivetrainSep 14, 2023

Twice in the span of 3 months my 2021 Audi eTron with less than 25K miles shutdown while driving with an error message "Electrical system: malfunction! Safely stop vehicle." At this point the drive train is completely disengaged and all that can be done is coast to a stop with l…

Forward Collision Avoidance: AEBAug 30, 2023

The contact owns a 2021 Audi E-Tron. The contact stated that while driving approximately 5 MPH, the vehicle experienced phantom braking and came to a complete stop. The Forward Collision Avoidance warning light was illuminated. The vehicle stalled and was able to restart after 10…

Electrical FaultsJul 22, 2023

Electrical malfunction system and car can stop while driving without warning

Page 1 of 2

Source: NHTSA Complaints Database. Real owner reports for the 2021 Audi E Tron.

Safety recalls

2021 Audi E Tron recalls

9 campaigns

NHTSA recall campaigns for the 2021 Audi E Tron. With 9 recalls, pre-purchase verification of recall completion is essential to ensure safety and compliance. Recalls are free to fix at authorized dealers, but completion status must be verified on the exact VIN.

Safety recall

SEAT BELTS:REAR/OTHER:RETRACTOR

#21V606000SEAT BELTS:REAR/OTHER:RETRACTORMay 8, 2021
Safety recall

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC

#21V707000SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC13/09/2021
Safety recall

STRUCTURE:INTERIOR PANELS:DASHBOARD

#21V595000STRUCTURE:INTERIOR PANELS:DASHBOARDFeb 8, 2021
Safety recall

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC

#21V569000SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC26/07/2021
Safety recall

BACK OVER PREVENTION:DISPLAY FUNCTION

#22V742000BACK OVER PREVENTION:DISPLAY FUNCTIONMay 10, 2022
Safety recall

EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL:INFOTAINMENT:VIDEO (TOUCH)SCREEN/MONITOR/UNIT

#22V806000EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL:INFOTAINMENT:VIDEO (TOUCH)SCREEN/MONITOR/UNIT26/10/2022
Safety recall

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:PROPULSION SYSTEM:CHARGING:CABLE/CORD:ONBOARD

#23V842000ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:PROPULSION SYSTEM:CHARGING:CABLE/CORD:ONBOARD13/12/2023
Safety recall

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:PROPULSION SYSTEM:TRACTION BATTERY THERMAL:MANAGEMENT:SOFTWARE

#23V867000ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:PROPULSION SYSTEM:TRACTION BATTERY THERMAL:MANAGEMENT:SOFTWARE20/12/2023
Safety recall

BACK OVER PREVENTION: SENSING SYSTEM: CAMERA

#25V900000BACK OVER PREVENTION: SENSING SYSTEM: CAMERA19/12/2025

Across model years

Compare Audi E Tron model years

Compared to other model years, 2021 has the highest complaint count, but data for other years is limited.

Research more

Keep researching before you buy

Compare brands and categories, then check the exact car's history by VIN.

Questions

2021 Audi E Tron buying FAQ

Buyer-focused answers based on real NHTSA complaint and recall data for this model year.

Is the 2021 Audi E Tron reliable?β–Ύ

Good Record. NHTSA currently shows 35 owner complaints, 0 crash-related complaints, and 9 recall campaigns for this model year. The 2021 Audi E Tron is a high-risk choice due to numerous electrical complaints and recalls. Only consider if you are prepared for possible repairs and have a warranty. Treat this as a model-year signal, then verify the exact vehicle's condition and history before purchase.

What are the most common problems with the 2021 Audi E Tron?β–Ύ

#1: Electrical Faults (23 complaints). #2: Uncategorized Issues (10 complaints). #3: Transmission / Drivetrain (9 complaints)

At what mileage do problems start on the 2021 Audi E Tron?β–Ύ

Mileage data is not available or insufficient for this model year.

How safe is the 2021 Audi E Tron?β–Ύ

Complaint data is not the same as crash-test scoring, but it does highlight possible risk patterns. For the 2021 Audi E Tron, NHTSA complaints include 0 crash-related reports and 1 fire reports out of 35 total complaints. For controlled crash-test ratings, check nhtsa.gov/ratings.

Does the 2021 Audi E Tron have any recalls?β–Ύ

Yes. 9 NHTSA recall campaigns affect the 2021 Audi E Tron. A major recall area is SEAT BELTS:REAR/OTHER:RETRACTOR. With 9 recalls, pre-purchase verification of recall completion is essential to ensure safety and compliance. Always verify open recalls by VIN because completion status varies by vehicle.

Should I buy a 2021 Audi E Tron?β–Ύ

The 2021 Audi E Tron is a high-risk choice due to numerous electrical complaints and recalls. Only consider if you are prepared for possible repairs and have a warranty. Electrical faults can lead to unexpected failures and costly repairs, affecting daily usability. Recalls indicate known issues that require attention. Pay extra attention to Electrical Faults during inspection. Before committing, run a VIN history report to verify accidents, title brands, odometer records, and recall completion for the exact car.

Source: NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) complaint and recall databases, aggregated by VinSpector AI.

Wider context: See the full Audi E Tron reliability report with year-by-year comparison.

Owner Reliability Rating

Rate the 2021 Audi E Tron based on your ownership experience.

Add your rating:

Ratings are based on owner experience and are separate from NHTSA data shown above.

Before you buy

Check the exact vehicle history before you buy

Model-year complaints and recalls reveal patterns. A VIN report confirms whether the exact car has accident history, title brands, mileage issues, or open recalls.