Audi is currently facing a new class action lawsuit due to alleged defects in the electrical systems of certain vehicles in their model years ranging from 2018 – 2023. The lawsuit alleges that owners and lessees of certain Audi vehicles have experienced issues with their alternators and starter generators, resulting in various warning messages appearing on their dashboards.
These warning messages are indications of potential problems with the car’s battery or charging system and have resulted in extensive repairs for consumers.
However, the most significant issue arising from these electrical system malfunctions is the potential safety hazards they pose to drivers. A malfunctioning alternator or starter generator can cause the vehicle to stall unexpectedly, resulting in a sudden stop while driving or a complete breakdown of the car. Such occurrences can be extremely dangerous and lead to serious accidents on the road.
As a response to these reported malfunctions, a group of affected owners has filed a class action lawsuit against Audi. The lawsuit seeks compensation for the damages incurred by owners, including the cost of repairs and any related expenses.
Overview of the Audi Electrical System Malfunction Lawsuit
The two plaintiffs who filed the class action lawsuit against Audi argue that the Audi Electrical System malfunctions frequently in certain vehicles, making them unsafe to drive.
The lawsuit alleges that these malfunctions can cause vehicles to enter “limp mode,” resulting in sudden deceleration and loss of speed, posing a significant safety risk to drivers.
Additionally, the plaintiffs also claim that Audi has not provided enough information about the electric system malfunctions, but they believe the defects are caused by failures in the starter generator and/or alternator in the affected Audi vehicles.
This lack of transparency and failure to address the issues promptly has led to significant financial burdens for owners, who have been left with the responsibility of covering the expensive repairs.
What causes the Electrical System Malfunction?
According to the lawsuit filed in May, alternator and starter generator defects can cause warning lights and other issues in the electrical system of certain Audi vehicles.
Which Audi Warning Lights illuminate due to this defect?
Drivers may see several different types of Audi dashboard warning lights messages on the dashboard when the Audi electrical system malfunctions, these warnings typically
- “Electrical system: malfunction! Safely stop vehicle”
- “Electrical system: malfunction! Please contact Service”
- “Parking aid: malfunction!”
- “Transmission: malfunction!”
- “Rear spoiler: malfunction!”
- “Drive system: malfunction! Stop vehicle safely”
- “Traction control: malfunction!”
- “Tire pressure monitoring system: malfunction!”
- “Parking brake: malfunction!”
- “Automatic start/stop system: malfunction!”
- “Start/stop system: malfunction!”
Audi drivers often notice a start stop system malfunction, a drive system malfunction, a transmission malfunction, a tire pressure system malfunction and a parking brake malfunction, various different messages appear to be possible in defective vehicles.
Which vehicles are prone to the Audi vehicle lights malfunction?
The following Audi vehicles may have defects in their electrical systems, resulting in warning light illumination:
- 2018-2023 Audi A6 / A7 / A8
- 2018-2023 Audi Q7
- 2018 and 2020-2023 Audi S6 / S7 / S8
- 2018 and 2020-2023 Audi R8
- 2018 and 2021-2023 Audi RS 7
- 2019-2023 Audi Q8
- 2020-2023 Audi A6 allroad
- 2020-2023 Audi SQ7 / SQ8
- 2020-2023 Audi RS Q8
- 2021-2023 Audi A7 e quattro
- 2020-2021 Audi A8 e quattro
Are there any recalls for the Audi electrical system problems owners experience?
As of now, there are no official recalls for the problem of Audi’s start-stop system malfunction. However, a class action lawsuit filed against Audi has brought attention to technical service bulletins (TSBs) that the automaker has sent out to its dealerships pertaining to electrical system malfunctions in their vehicles. These TSBs act as official notifications to dealerships to address identified issues in the vehicles that they sell.
One specific TSB, numbered 272245 2058831/5 and released in September 2022, instructed dealerships to perform a software update and/or replace the alternator to address the issue.
Another TSB, numbered 10228815 and released in December 2022, mandated that Audi provide reimbursement for alternator failures. The reimbursement was specifically for loaner vehicles provided to customers who experienced long wait times due to backordered parts.
What should I do if my Audi dashboard warning lights are on?
If you notice that your Audi’s dashboard warning lights are on, it is essential to address the issue promptly to avoid potential safety risks and costly repairs. Here are a few steps you can follow:
- Refer to your owner’s manual: Your Audi owner’s manual should contain information on the various warning lights and their meanings. Refer to the manual to identify the specific issue indicated by the warning light.
- Check the severity of the warning: Some warning lights may require immediate attention, while others may indicate a less severe problem. Check the severity of the warning and determine if it is safe to continue driving your vehicle.
- Schedule an appointment with your dealer or mechanic: If you are unsure about the severity of the warning or if it requires immediate attention, contact your Audi dealership or a qualified mechanic for assistance. They will be able to diagnose the problem and recommend the necessary repairs.
- Address the issue promptly: Ignoring dashboard warning lights can lead to more severe problems and costly repairs. Address the issue promptly to ensure your Audi’s safety and prevent further damage.
Considering the ongoing class action lawsuit against Audi for electrical system defects, it is especially important to take any warning lights seriously and seek professional assistance as soon as possible.
Call the Audi Lemon Law Experts Today!
If you are experiencing electrical problems with your Audi car, you may be facing significant safety concerns and expensive repairs. As we’ve discussed, Audi is currently facing a class action lawsuit due to reported malfunctions in their electrical systems, which have led to various warning messages and even vehicle breakdowns.
If you are among the affected Audi owners, it can be challenging to navigate the legal and financial implications of the situation on your own. That’s why it may be in your best interest to consider contacting a lemon law firm with expertise in handling similar cases.
It may be tempting to join a class action lawsuit against Audi if your electrical system is malfunctioning. While class action lawsuits can be an effective method to pool resources and share legal costs, they are not always the best option for each individual case.
If you want personalized attention and tailored legal advice specific to your situation, it’s worth considering consulting a lemon law lawyer instead and pursuing an individual lemon law claim.
If you purchased or leased your vehicle in California, the Lemon Law Experts can help. We are recognized as one of the top lemon law firms in California and have a proven track record of successfully representing clients in similar cases.
Our team of skilled and knowledgeable attorneys has a deep understanding of the intricacies of state and federal lemon law, and we specialize in advocating for consumers who have purchased defective vehicles.
At the Lemon Law Experts, we work tirelessly to ensure that our clients receive both the compensation and justice they deserve. We understand the complexities of navigating legal proceedings and dealing with auto manufacturers, and we strive to make the process as stress-free as possible for our clients.
Our attorneys will work closely with you to understand the specifics of your case and provide personalized legal guidance and representation. Contact us to take the first step towards resolving your Audi electrical system malfunction case, at no cost or obligation today.
