Audi is recalling 4,616 plug-in hybrids because of a battery issue that could lead to fires.
The recall includes certain 2022 and 2023 Audi Q5 plug-in hybrid crossovers, as well as 2022 Audi A7 plug-in hybrid hatchbacks. These vehicles may have defective battery modules that could overheat, presenting a fire risk, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
While the root cause of the defect is still under investigation, the safety regulator said "current analysis results show that certain manufacturing deviations may have occurred" that could have led to the overheating issue.
2022 Audi A7
Audi estimates that just 1% of the recalled vehicles actually have the defect, which was discovered in markets outside the U.S. Audi told the NHTSA that it is unaware of any injuries, crashes, or fires, related to this issue in the U.S.
For now, the remedy is additional diagnostic software, which Audi expects to be ready by the second quarter of 2025. Dealers will install this software free of charge when it's available.
Some vehicles have online data monitoring, for which Audi will check for problematic modules and advise owners not to charge their vehicles until the battery pack can be replaced. For vehicles without this data monitoring, owners are being advised from the get-go to avoid charging until a final remedy can be devised.
Audi plans to mail initial notification letters Jan. 24, 2025, with a second notification once a final remedy is devised. Owners can contact Audi customer service at 1-800-253-2834 for more information. Audi's reference number for this recall is 93AA.
2022 Audi Q5 55 TFSI e plug-in hybrid
The Q5 plug-in hybrid arrived for the 2020 model year and impressed us with its excellent drivability, while the A7 plug-in hybrid arrived for the 2021 model year. The two models share a powertrain, which returns an EPA-rated 23 miles of electric range for the Q5 and 26 miles for the A7.
Battery recalls can escalate into expensive and complicated episodes for automakers. After attempted software fixes, Jaguar last month decided to buy back nearly 3,000 I-Pace crossovers due to a battery issue that presented a fire risk. General Motors was forced to replace many Chevrolet Bolt EV battery packs as part of its own massive recall.
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