VehicleVerdict

Audi A8 years to avoid

The Audi A8 years to avoid are 2013, 2015, 2004 — each drew complaint volumes well above the model's norm or has an open safety investigation. The 2026 is the cleanest year on record.

362

Total complaints

31

Recall campaigns

1995–2026

Years covered

3

Years to avoid

Complaints by model year

A8 years to avoid

YearWhyComplaints
2013High complaint rate67
2015High complaint rate46
2004High complaint rate31

Every A8 year

YearComplaintsRecalls
202601
202501
202402
202302
202203
2021710
202055
2019223
201802
2017123
2016174
2015avoid465
2014275
2013avoid676
2012171
2011231
201011
200961
2008101
200742
2006102
2005111
2004avoid311
200331
200211
200182
200042
1999134
199843
1997122
199612
199501

Common questions

What are the worst Audi A8 years?

Based on NHTSA complaint rates and open investigations, the A8 years to avoid are 2013, 2015, 2004. The cleanest year on record is 2026.

What is the best year for the Audi A8?

By complaint volume, 2026 has the cleanest NHTSA record among A8 years with enough data to compare.

How many recalls does the Audi A8 have?

Across all model years, the A8 has 31 distinct NHTSA recall campaigns and 362 consumer complaints on file.

Based on NHTSA ODI data through June 2026. Complaints are consumer-reported and unverified. Updated July 5, 2026.

Compiled by Sharon Ben-Moshe, Founder.