NHTSA // CRASH-TESTED
2021 Audi A4
Federal crash-test performance, recalls, and complaints, scored into one NHTSA Safety Index.
The Audi A4 is a compact luxury sedan that has anchored the entry-level premium segment for decades, competing against the BMW 3 Series and Mercedes-Benz C-Class. Aimed at professional buyers who want a refined, driver-focused daily vehicle with genuine prestige, the 2019 to 2025 A4 generation brings German engineering sensibility to a segment where safety expectations run high.
The 2021 Audi A4 earns an NHTSA Safety Index of 89 out of 100, an strong result driven by its federal crash-test stars and its recall record. Its 5-star rollover rating stands out for families and child-seat buyers. It has 4 recalls on record, reflected in the score.
- families prioritizing rollover safety
- new and teen drivers who want standard crash-avoidance tech
- urban drivers exposed to side-impact risk
Reviewers generally praise the A4 for its polished, composed driving character and upscale interior quality, positioning it as one of the more refined and driver-satisfying options in the compact luxury sedan segment. Most find it a well-rounded choice, though some note that rivals have closed the gap in technology features and interior space in recent years.
NCAP // CRASH TESTCrash-test breakdown
Source: NHTSA NCAP, VehicleId 15586
Index breakdown
NCAP // CRASH IMAGESCrash-test images
Crash-test images are US federal government works (NHTSA / NCAP), public domain.
NHTSA // RECALLSRecall record
BACK OVER PREVENTION:DISPLAY FUNCTION22V742000
Risk: A blank rearview camera display can reduce the driver's rear visibility, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Dealers will update the infotainment unit software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed October 25, 2022. Owners may contact Audi's customer service at 1-800-253-2834. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 91DZ.
Reported 2022-10-05
TIRES22V034000
Risk: Rear axle misalignment may cause premature or uneven tire wear, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Dealers will inspect the rear axle, adjust the alignment as necessary, and replace any prematurely or unevenly worn tires, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed March 3, 2022. Owners may contact Audi customer service at 1-800-253-2834. Audi's number for this recall is 42L5.
Reported 2022-01-26
SEAT BELTS:REAR/OTHER:RETRACTOR21V606000
Risk: An unsecured child restraint system can increase the risk of injury during a crash.
Remedy: Dealers will inspect, and replace as necessary, the middle-rear seat belt assemblies, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed August 27, 2021. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-893-5298 and Audi customer service at 1-800-253-2834. Volkswagen's numbers for this recall are 69CR (VW) and 69CS (Audi).
Reported 2021-08-05
SUSPENSION:REAR:AXLE:NON-POWERED AXLE ASSEMBLY21V295000
Risk: A broken lock nut may misalign the rear axle, causing a loss of control and increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Dealers will replace the lock nuts and, if necessary, the associated bolts, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed June 4, 2021. Owners may contact Audi customer service at 1-800-253-2834. Audi's number for this recall is 42L1.
Reported 2021-04-26
NHTSA // COMPLAINTSOwner complaints
11 owner complaints on file. These are unverified allegations reported to NHTSA.