Used Car Checklists

2023 Audi Q3: What to check before buying

Only 1 owner complaint is on file with NHTSA for this car, so this sheet is short. Problems reported on other Q3 years with the same design are listed below the checklist.

Audi Q32023
Owner complaints
1
Recalls
1
Crashes reported
0
Reliability
Good
74/100 on Auto Reliability Index

Run the VIN before you go

A history report shows accidents, title brands, odometer readings, and open recalls for this 2023 Audi Q3. Ask the seller for the VIN; it is also on the dash at the base of the windshield.

Your inspection sheet

Tick items off on your phone at the car, or print it. Ticks stay on this device.

0/5 checked

1

Paperwork and questions

Before you go, or before you touch the car0/1

2

Walk-around and cabin

Engine off, key in hand0/1

3

Test drive

At least 20 minutes, with some highway0/3

These checks are specific to this model year. For tires, body panels, fluids, and the other basics every used car needs, use the general inspection guide.

Reported on other Q3 years with the same design

Few owners have reported problems with this year yet. These years share the 2023's design and most of its parts, so their problems are the ones to look for on this car too.

2022 Q3

28 owner complaints
  • Electrical 7
  • Fuel system 4
  • Backup camera 3

Worth adding to your 2023 checks

  • Shift into reverse several times and confirm the camera appears promptly with guide lines, not hidden behind another screen.
  • Play music from a phone, then pull toward an obstacle and confirm the parking chimes sound over the audio.
  • Run the VIN for open recalls and ask for dealer records showing camera and fuel system campaigns completed.
Open the 2022 checklist

2021 Q3

13 owner complaints
  • Electrical 3
  • Seat belts 2
  • Fuel system 2

Worth adding to your 2023 checks

  • Fill the tank completely at a station and confirm the nozzle does not keep shutting off before fuel goes in.
  • Track the fuel gauge against miles driven after filling up and watch for readings that stay high.
  • Ask for service records showing fuel tank or fuel sensor replacement and whether the problem came back.
Open the 2021 checklist

2020 Q3

62 owner complaints
  • Electrical 15
  • Steering 9
  • Transmission 6

Worth adding to your 2023 checks

  • Check the headliner, sunroof frame, and overhead light panel for water stains, dampness, or lights that switch on by themselves.
  • Run water over the sunroof, then look for drips at the overhead console, center console, and passenger footwell.
  • Ask an Audi dealer to confirm that all software updates for stalling and auto start/stop have been applied.
Open the 2020 checklist

Which Q3 is it?

EPA figures for each version of the 2023 Audi Q3. Use them to confirm you are looking at the version that was advertised, and as a yardstick on the test drive.

VersionDriveEPA rating
2.0L 4-cylAWD25 mpg
  • Reset the trip computer at the start of the drive. A Q3 that averages well under the EPA 25 mpg combined on a mixed route may have an engine or tire problem.

Where the 2023 fits in the Q3's history

Redesigns and mid-cycle updates change what can go wrong.

The 2023 is the fifth model year of the Q3's second generation (2019–2023).

Recalls to confirm (1)

Recall repairs are free at any Audi dealer, but the seller may never have had them done. Check each campaign number against the VIN.

  1. 24V251000AirbagsApr 2024

    Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2023 Audi S5 Cabriolet, A4 Allroad, Q5 Sportback, A3 Sedan, S5 Sportback, SQ7, TT Coupe, TT Roadster, RS5 Sportback, 2024 A8, E-Tron Quattro, E-Tron Sportback Quattro, Q8, RSQ8, 2023-2024 Q3, Q5, and Q7 vehicles. An electrical connection in the front passenger seat for the occupant detection system (ODS) control module may loosen and deactivate the front passenger air bag.

    Risk: A deactivated front passenger air bag will not deploy during a crash, increasing the risk of injury.

    Fix: Dealers will replace the passenger seat occupant detection system control module, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on May 8, 2024. Owners may contact Audi customer service at 1-800-253-2834. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 69GU.

Also looking at these instead of a Q3?

Cars shoppers compare with the Audi Q3, with their own 2023 checklists.

2023 owner complaints, side by side