Used Audi Q8

What to know before buying: Audi Q8

From 4 video reviews · updated 23/09/2026

What the reviews say

• The Q8 stands out for its striking design, quality materials and luxurious, well-finished cabin.[1][3]
• The cabin is comfortable and spacious even in the rear, while the boot is large and well shaped.[1][3]
• On the road the Q8 is quiet, refined and feels more agile than its size suggests, though its width is obvious when parking.[1]one source
• Technology is abundant, but the touchscreen controls can distract; the updated Q8 retained essentially the same interior.[1][4]

Typical faults

• Alternator failure can cause unstable voltage, numerous electronic faults and 48V mild-hybrid problems; reports place its onset around 50,000–80,000 km.[1]one source

  50 000–80 000 km

• The panoramic roof may rattle, squeak or grind; blocked drains or premature seal failure can allow water into the cabin.[1]one source
• Owners report freezing, rebooting or blank MMI, digital-cluster and climate screens, plus unreliable Bluetooth and CarPlay/Android Auto connections.[1][3]
• One or more 360-degree cameras may fail intermittently, and the sporadic nature of the fault can make it difficult for a workshop to reproduce.[1]one source
• A water-pump failure is reported on the 3.0-litre 55 engine, with coolant blocking vacuum lines and fuel entering the oil.[2]one source

  3.0 55

• Some cars fail to engage drive or reverse, or return to neutral; possible causes include the gearbox module, software or alternator faults.[1]one source

Which engine and version to take

• The 286 hp 3.0 TDI 50 TDI is recommended by the source as a popular choice balancing performance and economy.[3]one source

What to avoid

• The source advises against this generation's 3.0-litre 55 engine because of water-pump and alternator problems.[2]one source

What to check at the inspection

• Test every button and function, including seat massage, lights, rain sensor, windows, locks, powered tailgate, cameras and every display.[1]one source
• Open and close the panoramic roof, listen for rattles or grinding, and inspect around the roof, doors, dashboard and door cards for moisture.[1]one source
• Verify the complete service history and all electronic systems; during diagnostics, pay particular attention to the battery, alternator and voltage faults.[1][3]
• During the test drive, select drive and reverse repeatedly and watch for delays or a return to neutral; a lane-assist fault may be an early warning.[1]one source
• On the 3.0-litre 55 engine, inspect the cooling system, water pump and vacuum lines, and check the oil for signs of fuel contamination.[2]one source

Verdict

Sources

1. [1]ReDriven — What goes WRONG with a USED Audi Q8? Detailed used car review · ▶ video
2. [2]Shep’s Garage — Our Audi Q8 Needed $8,000 in Repairs... · ▶ video
3. [3]AUTO MOTO FREAK — AUDI Q8 REVIEW, BUYERS GUIDE, PROBLEMS, RELIABILITY, FAILURES, ENGINES, FUEL ECONOMY? · ▶ video
4. [4]What Car? — NEW Audi Q8 review – better than a Porsche Cayenne? | What Car? · ▶ video

Spotted an error? Tell us