2009 Audi A8 Reliability Report
NHTSA data as of Oct 15, 2026Published Oct 19, 2026
scored
Not enough data to score. Too few were made for a reliable rate.
- Owner complaints
- 7
- Per 10,000 cars
- 34.4
- 2,037 made for the U.S.
- Vs the average car
- –
- Serious outcomes
- 3
- crash, fire, injury, stall or tow
- Recalls
- 1
- NHTSA crash rating
- –
Should You Buy the 2009 Audi A8?
We do not score the 2009 Audi A8. Too few were made for a reliable rate, so we show the facts only.
The 2007 A8, from the same generation, scored 81 and rated Excellent. That is a useful guide, not a guarantee.
The most reported problem is the sunroof or shade, mostly parts breaking or coming apart (3 of 7 complaints). 3 of the 7 complaints describe a serious outcome, such as a crash, a fire, an injury or stalling while driving.
It has 1 recall.
Before you buy, check that the recalls were done and get an independent inspection. The full checklist is at the end of this page.
Pros
- No do-not-drive or park-outside recalls
Cons
- Sunroof: parts breaking or coming apart3 complaints
What Owners Report
We read all 7 complaints filed with NHTSA for the 2009 Audi A8, one by one, and grouped them by the problem they describe. The most reported problems come first. A complaint that describes more than one problem is counted under each, so the counts add up to more than 7.
Sunroof: parts breaking or coming apart
3 complaints (43%)
Parts breaking or coming apart. 2 of these 3 complaints describe a serious outcome.
Reported Once (7)
Show the 7 problems reported once
- Door latches: stopped working
- Engine: vibration or shudder
- Engine air intake: sticking or stiffness
- Steering: loss of steering control
- Taillights or brake lights: stopped working
- Transmission: harsh or delayed shifts
- Wiring, fuses or body control module: rust or corrosion
How the 2009 Audi A8 Compares With Other Years
The other A8 years of the 2nd generation (D3), 2004 to 2010, and the years just before and after it.
| Year | Rating | Score | Vs average | Per 10k cars | Recalls | Most reported problem |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2011 | Good | 74 | 0.83× | 29.5 | 1 | Cooling system: a leak |
| 2010 | Not scored | – | – | 15.4 | 1 | – |
| 2009 This year | Not scored | – | – | 34.4 | 1 | Sunroof: parts breaking or coming apart |
| 2008 | Not scored | – | – | 43.7 | 1 | Sunroof: parts breaking or coming apart |
| 2007 | Excellent | 81 | 0.40× | 13.7 | 2 | Sunroof: parts breaking or coming apart |
| 2006 | Excellent | 81 | 0.43× | 11.1 | 2 | Floor mat retention: sticking or stiffness |
| 2005 | Good | 79 | 0.51× | 11.2 | 1 | – |
| 2004 | Good | 74 | 0.82× | 26.1 | 1 | Unintended acceleration (cause not stated) |
| 2003 | Not scored | – | – | 21.2 | 1 | – |
2009 Audi A8 Recalls
One recall covers the 2009 Audi A8. It was issued in June 2016: “Sunroof Glass May Detach from Vehicle.” A VIN check at NHTSA shows whether it is still open on a given car.
Sunroof Glass May Detach from Vehicle
If the glass detaches from the sunroof frame it could be come a road hazard, increasing the risk of a crash.
NHTSA 16V415000Recall report (PDF)Owner letter (PDF)Issued Jun 9, 2016. By the fourth quarter of 2017, 42% of the cars in this recall had been fixed.
Check Before You Buy
A checklist for the 2009 A8, from its recall and the problems owners report most.
Confirm the Recalls Were Done
Ask the seller for proof that each of these recalls was repaired.
- Sunroof Glass May Detach from Vehicle NHTSA 16V415000
On the Test Drive
- Look for water stains or damp carpet, and test the sunroof.
Ask the Seller
Ask whether any of these were ever repaired, and ask to see the receipts.
- Sunroof or shade
- Also ask for the service records, especially oil changes.
Before You Pay
- Get an independent pre-purchase inspection from a mechanic you choose.
- Decode the VIN to confirm the model year, engine and trim.
- Check the title for salvage, flood or rebuilt branding.
What to do next