2021 AUDI RS 6 Avant

Recalls, Specs & Safety Report

1RecallsNHTSA Verified4ComplaintsNHTSA Data0InvestigationsNHTSA Data
Expert Verdict
⚠️Elevated Concerns

The 2021 Audi RS 6 Avant displays a concerning reliability trend, primarily attributed to electrical system issues highlighted by one recall and multiple TSBs. The potential for instrument panel failure poses a risk, especially in the early mileage range.

Key Factor:Electrical system vulnerabilities

πŸ“‹Why This Matters

The presence of a recall for the electrical system, specifically related to the instrument cluster display, is significant as it may impair critical vehicle functions and driver awareness. In a high-performance vehicle like the RS 6 Avant, where precision and performance are paramount, any failure in instrumentation can lead to serious driving consequences. Furthermore, the reported TSBs indicate ongoing concerns with electrical components that could disrupt overall vehicle functionality.

Focus Area:Safety Profile
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Expert Analysis

Compared to other vehicles within its class, the reliability profile of the 2021 Audi RS 6 Avant is trending worse than expected due to its singular recall and multiple electrical-related TSBs. Such patterns suggest areas needing closer scrutiny from both current owners and prospective buyers regarding future reliability.

Critical Component: Warning

Safety & Reliability Score

92/100
Excellent

Score Breakdown

Recall Impact-8
Complaint Impact-0.2
Investigation Impact-0

Technical Specifications

Key specifications for the 2021 AUDI RS 6 Avant

Model Year2021
MakeAUDI
ModelRS 6 Avant
Fuel TypeGasoline
Body ClassPassenger Vehicle

Safety History Timeline

Jan21
NEWProduction
Jan21
RECALLRecall Issued
Jul22
ISSUEFirst Report

Consumer Complaint Analysis

⚠️

Most Reported Issue

2 complaints (50% of total)
➑️

Complaint Trend

Stable
No trend data
βœ…

Safety Incidents

No critical incidents

Complaint Severity Distribution

Breakdown of 4 consumer complaints by severity level.

🟑Medium
1(25%)
🟒Low
3(75%)
βœ…Good News: No critical or high-severity complaints reported for this vehicle.

πŸ› οΈ DIY Diagnosis Center

Experiencing an issue? Select a symptom to find official manufacturer solutions (TSBs).

Primary Risk Areas

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

🎯Risk Areas & Recommended Actions

Based on recall data, these components require verification:

1

Electrical System

Issue: Instrument panel display may fail due to software error.

βœ…

Monitor instrument panel functionality closely; report any issues immediately.

πŸ”

Inquire about software updates or repairs performed on the instrument cluster.

Campaign:21V456000
πŸ’‘Visit NHTSA.gov or contact your AUDI dealer to verify recall completion status.

Official Safety Recalls (1)

Campaign: 25V201000

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM: INSTRUMENT CLUSTER/PANEL

Summary

Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Audi) is recalling certain 2021 SQ8, A6 SEDAN, A7, A8, Q7, Q8, RS6 Avant, RS7, RSQ8, S6 SEDAN, S7, S8, A6 Allroad, and SQ7 vehicles. Due to a software error, the instrument panel display may fail.

Consequence

An instrument panel display that fails to show critical safety information, such as the speedometer or warning lights, increases the risk of a crash.

Remedy

Dealers will update the instrument panel module software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 24, 2025. Owners may contact Audi customer service at 1-800-253-2834. Audi's number for this recall is 90VC.

Additional Notes

Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 888-327-4236 (TTY 888-275-9171) or go to nhtsa.gov.

Manufacturer: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.

NHTSA Investigations

0 investigations
βœ“

No active investigations for this vehicle.

Consumer Complaints

4 total complaints

Consumer-reported issues submitted to NHTSA for 2021 RS 6 Avant.

Common Reported SymptomsAI Analysis

Warning50%
Check Engine Light25%
Safety SystemsπŸ”Ά Medium
VISIBILITY/WIPER,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE

The rear camera on the car repeatedly does not work. The car has been to the dealership for replacement parts several times with the problem recurring. The rear camera does not work most days. In addition, the other cameras have failed repeatedly resulting in safety systems such as automatic collision sensors working and not-working randomly when driving the vehicle.

Jan 17, 2025Under Review
Engine/PowertrainπŸ”΅ Low
STEERING,POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Loss of electrical power while cruising on the interstate at 65 mph. There was a series of warning messages, YELLOW colored malfunctions such as "Sport differential malfunction", "electric system malfunction". Then RED colored warning message "Electric system: Malfunction! Safely stop vehicle." At this point, engine was running but was no longer connected to the transmission, Power steering failed. All I could do was coast to the shoulder and stop. Car would not restart. Appeared to be a complete electrical failure, e.g., could not raise or lower windows.

Nov 13, 2023Resolved
ElectricalπŸ”΅ Low
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

The generator cut off and the car coasted to a stop. The generator on these vehicles is failing on almost every single one.

✨ AI Insight

This complaint matches keywords from official recalls:

Recall #25V201000

*correlation estimated by AI, not an official NHTSA link.

Jan 4, 2023Resolved
ElectricalπŸ”΅ Low
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

The last few times I've started my car, the instrument cluster takes multiple minutes before it turns on, while the yellow check engine and red warning lights flash repeatedly.

✨ AI Insight

This complaint matches keywords from official recalls:

Recall #25V201000

*correlation estimated by AI, not an official NHTSA link.

Jul 6, 2022Resolved

Frequently Asked Questions

What are common issues reported for the 2021 Audi RS 6 Avant?

Common issues for the 2021 Audi RS 6 Avant predominantly relate to its electrical system, particularly failures associated with the instrument panel display. These concerns have resulted in one official recall alongside several Technical Service Bulletins addressing various electrical functionalities.

How does the reliability of the Audi RS 6 Avant compare to competitors?

While high-performance vehicles like the Audi RS 6 Avant generally boast impressive engineering quality, its current reliability profile raises concerns compared to competitors who may have less frequent defects or recalls. It's essential for potential buyers to consider these aspects when evaluating their options.

🧭What This Means for You

Both current owners and prospective buyers benefit from reviewing this safety analysis before making decisions.

If you're unsure, we recommend starting with a VIN check or consulting a certified mechanic.

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If You Own This Vehicle

  • Immediate Action: If any recalls are listed as 'incomplete', contact a certified AUDI service centerβ€”repairs are performed at no cost to you.
  • Unaddressed recalls pose real-world risks. Prioritize scheduling any pending repairs to maintain vehicle integrity.
  • Proactive tip: Enroll in AUDI's owner notification program for real-time safety updates.
πŸ›’

If You're Buying Used

  • Request the VIN from the seller and verify the 'Clean' recall status via NHTSA.
  • This specific RS 6 Avant year is noted for its strong reliability foundations.
βš–οΈ

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Data sourced from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Last updated: February 23, 2026.