NHTSA Complaint #11683470 — 2021 AUDI Q7

On [XXX], I experienced multiple failures of core safety systems in my 2021 Audi Q7 that put my 17-month-old child at serious risk and exposed critical flaws in how the vehicle’s systems operate and record events. On [XXX], the pre sense automatic braking system suddenly engaged while I was driving approximately 35 mph on a clear, empty suburban road. There were no visible obstructions, no warning lights, and nothing recorded in the vehicle’s logs. This occurred less than 48 hours after the vehicle had received recall-related software updates and routine service at an Audi dealership. Prior to that service, the vehicle had no history of mechanical or safety issues. The following day, the keyless entry and anti-lockout system failed. I placed my toddler in his rear-facing car seat behind the front passenger seat and set our baby bag—with the key fob inside—on the rear seat. After closing the door and walking to the driver’s side, the car unexpectedly locked. The fob and my child were both inside. The outdoor temperature was over 90°F. I attempted to open the vehicle and then to break the window with tools, without success. After approximately seven minutes, I broke the driver’s side window with a sledgehammer and removed my child from the car. The car alarm eventually activated, but no lock-in event, key fob error, or warning was recorded. The vehicle was inspected by the dealership twice and Audi Corporate engineers once. Audi confirmed faults in the emergency call module, comfort system, rear lid sensor, and parking sensors. However, they could not reproduce or explain the braking event or lock-in failure. Audi confirmed that the vehicle should not be able to lock with the key inside, and they do not know why it did and are unable to guarantee the safety feature will work in the future. The vehicle has not been driven since. The failure of both safety function and system visibility placed my child in danger. I am requesting a safety investigation. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION