Written By: Jessica Anvar Stotz
Legally Reviewed By: Jessica Anvar Stotz
Audi has issued a recall affecting more than 44,000 vehicles from the 2021 model year, citing a software-related malfunction that can cause the digital instrument panel—also known as the virtual cockpit—to go dark while driving.
This defect impacts a wide range of models, including the A6, A7, A8, Q7, Q8, and several high-performance “S” and “RS” variants.
The 2025 Audi Virtual Cockpit Recall issue was brought to light following 2,285 customer complaints, which helped prompt a full investigation into the malfunction.
Although this figure accounts for roughly 5% of the recalled population, the percentage of vehicles experiencing the display failure is believed to be closer to 2%.
Even so, the potential safety implications of losing speed, RPM, and other critical information mid-drive led Audi to initiate the recall out of an abundance of caution.
If your Audi falls within the affected range, you can bring your vehicle to an authorized dealership for a free software update that is intended to correct the issue.
The update ensures that the display remains active even when minor signal interruptions occur and will also activate warning lights to alert the driver if a problem is detected.
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What Causes the Audi Instrument Panel Display to Fail?
The failure of the instrument panel display in certain Audi models stems from a software issue that can cause the screen to shut off while driving.
When this occurs, the driver loses access to crucial information such as the speedometer, RPM gauge, and other important indicators.
In addition to the software malfunction, the problem is closely linked to deterioration of the flex-foil cable that powers the display.
As the vehicle ages, this cable may suffer damage that increases electrical resistance, which in turn can trigger the software to disable the instrument cluster.
Audi first became aware of the issue in April 2024, following an inquiry from a foreign agency regarding instances of drivers encountering blacked-out displays.
Between April and September 2024, the company launched an investigation into the field reports, analyzing the root cause, failure patterns, and overall customer experience.
A more detailed analysis conducted between September and October—alongside the supplier—confirmed that age-related wear in the flat cable used in the virtual cockpit could lead to this problem.
By November 2024, initial results from long-term testing supported these findings. It was also confirmed that 2022 model-year vehicles were not affected, due to a revised cable introduced through a supplier change.
Testing between December 2024 and February 2025 further confirmed that increased resistance due to cable degradation was at the heart of the failure.
Around this time, complaints from U.S. drivers of models such as the A6, A7, A8, Q7, and Q8 highlighted the issue’s presence in North America. Audi expanded its investigation to consider potential safety risks and regulatory obligations.
On March 24, 2025, the Audi Product Safety Committee officially decided to issue a recall. As of that date, the company had documented 2,285 customer complaints related to this issue.
However, no injuries, accidents, or fires had been reported in connection with the display failure.
Which Audi Vehicles Are Included in the Recall?
The recall impacts several 2021 Audi models equipped with a digital instrument cluster that may fail to display important information, including the speedometer and warning lights. The affected vehicles include:
- A6 Sedan
- A6 Allroad
- A7
- A8
- Q7
- Q8
- RS6 Avant
- RS7
- RSQ8
- S6 Sedan
- S7
- S8
- SQ7
- SQ8
If you own one of these vehicles, Audi will provide a complimentary software update at authorized dealerships to resolve the issue.
How Will Audi Fix the Instrument Panel Display Problems?
Audi will address the instrument panel display malfunction by performing a software update that allows the virtual cockpit to continue displaying essential information—such as speed and RPM—even if a damaged flat cable is detected.
The updated software is designed to be less sensitive to minor fluctuations in contact resistance, preventing the screen from going completely black during a malfunction.
Instead, it ensures that vital driving information remains visible and activates a warning light to notify the driver to seek service.
Because the affected vehicles are still under the Audi New Vehicle Limited Warranty, Audi will not be offering a reimbursement plan for prior repairs.
To correct this issue, the flat cable design was improved by switching to a different sub-supplier, with the updated component used in production starting in July 2021.
Authorized Audi dealers will install the software update at no cost to the customer. The process typically takes about an hour, though extra time may be needed to accommodate dealership scheduling and preparation. Owners are encouraged to contact their dealership promptly to schedule the update.
If the vehicle is leased and the recipient of the notice is not the current driver, the letter should be forwarded to the lessee within 10 days.
For further assistance, or if a dealer is unable to complete the repair within a reasonable time, Audi Customer Relations can be contacted at 1-800-822-2834, Monday through Friday from 8 AM to 8 PM EST, or through the “Contact Audi Canada” page at www.audi.ca.
The required update will be downloaded onto a USB drive using the SD Creator program or Flash Media Center. Service personnel should refer to ODIS communication AOS-25-14 for guidance on using Flash Media Center with the D3 Edgebox.
The USB drive must be between 4GB and 32GB in capacity, as drives larger than 32GB may not be compatible with the vehicle’s update system. Additional details can be found in the latest version of TSB 2047812 (USA), which outlines use of the SD Creator program.
What Should I Do if I Experience These Issues?
If you’re experiencing instrument panel display issues in your 2021 Audi, we recommend taking immediate action. Start by contacting your nearest authorized Audi dealership to report the issue and schedule a service appointment.
Inform them that your vehicle may be subject to an active recall involving the digital instrument cluster. The dealership will perform a free software update designed to correct the malfunction and restore full display functionality.
After the update, continue to monitor your vehicle’s display to ensure the problem has been resolved. If you notice the issue reoccurring or new symptoms develop, you’re encouraged to reach out to Audi customer service for further assistance.
In some cases, escalating the matter through customer support can lead to additional help or guidance.
If the issue persists even after the software fix, consider seeking a second opinion from another authorized Audi service center.
Persistent display malfunctions may indicate a deeper electrical or hardware-related issue that should be investigated.
In situations where repeated repairs fail to correct the problem, you may have legal options available.
Lemon laws in certain states may offer protection if your vehicle continues to exhibit safety-related defects that impair its use or value.
Depending on your circumstances, you could be entitled to compensation, a vehicle replacement, or even a refund.
If your Audi is affected by the instrument panel recall and continues to experience unresolved display issues, you may be eligible for compensation under state or federal consumer protection laws.
While outcomes vary based on the specifics of each case, below is a general range of estimated settlement values for some of the impacted 2021 Audi models:
| Affected Vehicle | Average Lemon Law Settlement |
| 2021 A6 Sedan | $102,657 |
| 2021 A6 Allroad | $118,051 |
| 2021 A7 | $123,068 |
| 2021 A8 | $165,933 |
| 2021 Q7 | $103,606 |
| 2021 Q8 | $122,078 |
| 2021 RS6 Avant | $195,110 |
| 2021 RS7 | $203,060 |
| 2021 RSQ8 | $204,955 |
| 2021 S6 Sedan | $133,576 |
| 2021 S7 | $156,327 |
| 2021 S8 | $232,041 |
| 2021 SQ7 | $152,150 |
| 2021 SQ8 | $159,469 |
*Please note, the figures presented in the chart are approximations based on past case results and should not be interpreted as a prediction or guarantee. Each case is unique and requires personalized legal guidance.
Give the Lemon Law Experts a Call Now!
If your Audi continues to experience instrument panel display failures—even after receiving the software update—you don’t have to face the situation alone.
The Lemon Law Experts have been helping consumers since 2009 and have recovered millions of dollars for vehicle owners dealing with ongoing manufacturer defects.
Our experienced team understands how frustrating it can be to lose critical driving information like speed or RPM while on the road, and we’re here to help you explore your legal options.
Whether you drive an A6, Q7, or another affected model, you may be entitled to compensation under state lemon laws if the issue remains unresolved.
We’re committed to helping Audi owners pursue the resolution they deserve, offering personalized support and expert guidance throughout the entire process.
To learn whether your situation qualifies, complete a free case evaluation on our website today.
Citations
National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Part 573 Safety Recall Report 25V-201. U.S. Department of Transportation, 2025. https://static.nhtsa.gov/odi/rcl/2025/RCLRPT-25V201-1226.PDF
National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Recall Acknowledgement Letter 25V-201. U.S. Department of Transportation, 2025. https://static.nhtsa.gov/odi/rcl/2025/RCMN-25V201-5114.pdf
Gauthier, Michael. “Over 44,000 Audis Recalled For Digital Cluster Failures In The US.” Carscoops, 10 Apr. 2025. https://www.carscoops.com/2025/04/over-44000-audis-recalled-for-digital-cluster-failures-in-the-us/
National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Remedy Instructions and TSB for 25V-201. U.S. Department of Transportation, 2025. https://static.nhtsa.gov/odi/rcl/2025/RCRIT-25V201-7642.pdf
