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Audi loose trim, pillar padding and glove box recalls explained
These four Audi structure recalls are all about trim and padding rather than anything that changes how the car drives, and no two share a model. The 2018-2020 Q7 is recalled because the padding on the C-pillar may not absorb enough impact in a crash, which matters most for occupants who are not belted. On the 2021 e-tron and e-tron Sportback, the right glove box hinge pin may not be properly secured, letting the lid trim interfere with the knee airbag during deployment. The 2017-2018 A4 Sedan and A4 Allroad and 2018 A5 Sportback have aluminum door speaker trim that can work loose and expose sharp edges. On 2018-2020 Q5 and 2018-2019 SQ5 models, the rear wheel arch trim can detach entirely.
Warning signs to watch for
- Aluminum trim around the front or rear door speakers is loose or has a sharp exposed edge
- Rear wheel arch trim rattles, sits proud of the body, or has already come off
- Glove box lid on the e-tron feels loose or does not sit squarely in its opening
- The Q7 C-pillar padding gives no outward sign at all; you cannot see or feel it from inside
Is it safe to keep driving?
All four are safe to keep driving. None carries a stop-driving order and none asks you to park outside. The Q7 C-pillar padding and the e-tron glove box hinge pin only matter in a crash, so drive normally and make sure everyone is belted in. With the A4 and A5 speaker trim, the exposed aluminum edge is a cut-and-scrape hazard, so keep children and passengers away from any loose piece. A detached Q5 wheel arch cover is mainly a debris risk for drivers behind you.
What the free repair involves
Every repair is free and done at an Audi dealer. On the Q7, dealers replace the deformation element on the C-pillars. On the e-tron, they inspect the glove box and secure the hinge pin as needed. On the A4 and A5, they replace the aluminum speaker cover trim. On the Q5 and SQ5, they replace the four clips holding the forward part of the rear wheel arch trim. No software is involved.
Severity at a glance
| Severity | Recalls |
|---|---|
| medium | 2 |
| low | 2 |
Models affected most
Every recall in this group
| Date | Recall | Severity |
|---|---|---|
| 2021-08-02 | Audi e-tron glove box may block knee airbag | medium |
| 2020-10-27 | Audi Q7 roof pillar padding may not absorb impact | medium |
| 2019-10-16 | Audi Q5 and SQ5 rear wheel trim can fall off | low |
| 2017-10-25 | Audi A4, A5 door speaker trim leaves sharp edges | low |
Common questions
My Q5 wheel arch trim already fell off. Is it still covered?
Yes. The recall remedy, replacing the four clips that secure the forward part of the rear wheel arch trim, is free of charge. Bring your VIN to an Audi dealer, or reach Audi customer service at 1-800-253-2834 to confirm your vehicle is included.
Does the Q7 C-pillar recall have anything to do with airbags?
No. It covers padding, specifically the deformation element on the C-pillars, which may not absorb enough impact in a crash. The notice says the risk falls mainly on people who are not belted in, so buckle up until the parts are replaced.
Can I keep using the glove box in my 2021 e-tron?
The notice puts no restriction on using it. The concern is that an unsecured right hinge pin allows the glove box lid trim to interfere with the knee airbag when it deploys. Dealers inspect the glove box and secure the pin free of charge.
A recall applies only to specific vehicles. Check your 17-character VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.