2020 AUDI S3

Recalls, Specs & Safety Report

1RecallsNHTSA Verified1ComplaintsNHTSA Data0InvestigationsNHTSA Data
Expert Verdict
βœ“Good Reliability

This 2020 model shows good reliability, primarily driven by a below-average recall rate for the AUDI brand.

Key Factor:below-average recall rate

πŸ“‹Why This Matters

Understanding recall history helps predict future ownership costs. Each unaddressed issue represents potential repair expenses.

Insurance companies review vehicle reliability data when setting premiums. Models with elevated recall rates often see adjusted pricing.

Focus Area:general reliability
πŸ“Š

Expert Analysis

The 2020 S3 analysis highlights key safety metrics.

Critical Component: Explode

Safety & Reliability Score

92/100
Excellent

Score Breakdown

Recall Impact-8
Complaint Impact-0.05
Investigation Impact-0

Technical Specifications

Key specifications for the 2020 AUDI S3

Model Year2020
MakeAUDI
ModelS3
Fuel TypeGasoline
Body ClassPassenger Vehicle

Safety History Timeline

Jan20
NEWProduction
Jan20
RECALLRecall Issued
Jun21
ISSUEFirst Report

Consumer Complaint Analysis

⚠️

Most Reported Issue

1 complaints (100% of total)
➑️

Complaint Trend

Stable
No trend data
βœ…

Safety Incidents

No critical incidents

Complaint Severity Distribution

Breakdown of 1 consumer complaints by severity level.

🟠High
1(100%)

πŸ› οΈ DIY Diagnosis Center

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

Primary Risk Areas

AIR BAGS

Official Safety Recalls (1)

Campaign: 21V198000

AIR BAGS:SENSOR:OCCUPANT CLASSIFICATION:FRONT PASSENGER

Summary

Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Audi) is recalling certain 2015-2020 Audi S3 Sedan, A3 Sedan, 2016-2018 A3 Etron, 2017-2020 RS3 Sedan, and 2015-2019 A3 Cabriolet vehicles. The passenger occupant detection system (PODS) may malfunction and switch off the passenger air bag even when the seat is occupied.

Consequence

A deactivated passenger air bag increases the risk of injury during a crash.

Remedy

Dealers will replace the PODS sensor mat and update the PODS control module, free of charge. Owners letters were mailed December 23, 2021. Owners may contact Audi customer service at 1-800-253-2834. Audi's number for this recall is 69BY.

Additional Notes

Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.

Manufacturer: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.

NHTSA Investigations

0 investigations
βœ“

No active investigations for this vehicle.

Consumer Complaints

1 total complaints

Consumer-reported issues submitted to NHTSA for 2020 S3.

Common Reported SymptomsAI Analysis

Explode100%
Other⚠️ High
UNKNOWN OR OTHER

1) Sunroof exploded while merging onto highway from a rest stop (I believe I was still on the on ramp at the time) - Vehicle in the process of being fixed so probably not available for inspection but the collision shop has pictures 2) Fortunate I didn't freak out and was able to process the situation and not get into a collision. 3) not sure 4) The collision shop is inspecting the sun roof, but probably just to figure out what needs to be fixed. 5) Nope, just an explosion. Luckily I had the Sun curtain closed so none of the glass rained down on me.

Jun 23, 2021Resolved

Frequently Asked Questions

Are there any recalls for the 2020 AUDI S3?

Yes, the 2020 AUDI S3 has 1 recorded recall from NHTSA. These recalls cover various components including AIR BAGS:SENSOR:OCCUPANT CLASSIFICATION:FRONT PASSENGER.

Is the 2020 AUDI S3 safe to drive?

The 2020 AUDI S3 has 1 recall. If you own this vehicle, check with your dealer to ensure all recall repairs have been completed. Most recalls have free remedies available.

Where can I check if my 2020 AUDI S3 has open recalls?

You can check for open recalls by visiting NHTSA.gov and entering your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), or by contacting your local AUDI dealer.

🎯Risk Areas & Recommended Actions

Based on recall data, these components require verification:

1

Air bags

Issue: increases crash or loss-of-control risk

βœ…

If you already own this vehicle: Contact your dealer immediately to confirm air bags recall is complete. Recall repairs are always free.

πŸ”

If you are evaluating a used example: Request VIN and verify all air bags recalls are completed before purchase.

Campaign:21V198000
πŸ’‘Visit NHTSA.gov or contact your AUDI dealer to verify recall completion status.

🧭What This Means for You

Families with young passengers, pregnant drivers, or those with frequent highway commutes should prioritize this information.

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

  • Verify all 1 recalls have been completed using your VIN at NHTSA.gov or through your AUDI dealer.
  • If any recalls are open, schedule service immediatelyβ€”recall repairs are always free.
  • Consider setting up VIN-specific alerts to receive notification of future recalls.
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If You're Buying Used

  • Request the VIN before purchase and verify recall status at NHTSA.gov.
  • This model year shows favorable reliability metrics compared to alternatives.
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Data sourced from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Last updated: January 10, 2026.