Models · Audi
Audi A7 Sportback 4K buying guide
The second A7 Sportback arrived in 2018 on the same platform as the C8 A6, with four-cylinder and V6 petrol and diesel engines, all with mild-hybrid assistance. Mechanical complaints are few, and the main checks are electrical faults and recall work.
The versions
- Petrol: 40 TFSI (2.0, 190PS), 45 TFSI (2.0, 252PS) and 55 TFSI quattro (3.0 V6 turbo, 340PS)
- Diesel: 40 TDI (2.0, 204PS), 45 TDI quattro (3.0 V6, 231PS) and 50 TDI quattro (3.0 V6, 286PS)
- 48V mild hybrid with a belt-driven starter-alternator on every engine
- 7-speed S tronic dual-clutch or 8-speed tiptronic automatic; front-wheel drive on some four-cylinder versions, quattro on the rest
- A 55 TFSI e plug-in hybrid was also sold but isn't covered here
What to check on a 4K A7
3 model-specific things to look at when you view one. They're a starting point, not the full inspection.
Starter-alternator recall
What to look for: Ask an Audi dealer, with the chassis number, whether the recall for the belt-driven starter-alternator applies and has been done. With the engine running, look for warning messages about the electrical system.
Why it matters: Moisture could get into the belt-driven starter-alternator that runs the mild-hybrid system, and in Australia the recall covered cars built before March 2020, where it could overheat. Completed work is recorded against the car.
Rear axle nuts and rear tyre wear
What to look for: Look at the rear tyres across their full width, particularly the inner edges, for uneven or fast wear. Ask a dealer whether the rear axle recalls apply.
Why it matters: In Australia, rear axle nuts on some 2019 to 2021 cars were replaced under a recall because they could break, and a follow-up recall dealt with rear axles knocked out of alignment during that work, which could wear the rear tyres quickly. A UK dealer can confirm from the chassis number whether either applies. Even tyre wear is the good result.
The touchscreens and electrics
What to look for: Use both touchscreens for a few minutes and check they respond quickly and don't freeze. Try the driver assistance features and note any warning lights that appear.
Why it matters: Owners report intermittent electrical faults, including central screen and driver assistance problems and unexplained warning lights. Slow or frozen screens may need a software update at an Audi workshop.
Also in the full guide
- The module under the rear seat
- Fuel gauge and airbag recalls
- The water pump (55 TFSI)
- The cold start, test drive and paperwork checks for the exact version you're viewing
The full guide to the 4K A7
The CrankSight guide walks you round the car on your phone at the viewing, with every check for the exact version you're looking at: what to look for, where to find it, and what anything you find is likely to cost. As you go it builds an assessment of that car, and if you view more than one, it lines them up side by side.
£29 for the model, used on as many cars as you like, delivered within 72 hours or your money back.
Other generations
General points for the model, last checked October 2026. Every car is different, so treat this as a guide to what to look at, not a verdict on any car. CrankSight is independent and has no connection with Audi.