NHTSA // CRASH-TESTED
2024 Audi Q3 Safety Ratings
The 2024 Audi Q3 scores 88 out of 100 on the NHTSA Safety Index (Strong), with a 5-star overall NHTSA crash rating, 2 recalls, and 17 owner complaints on file.
Updated Oct 1, 2026 from NHTSA data · Reviewed by Ivanna Verstliar
The 2024 Audi Q3 achieves a "Strong" rating on the NHTSA Safety Index, with a score of 88 out of 100. This places it competitively within its class, though it marks a two-point decrease from the 2023 model's "Exceptional" 90. The vehicle's suite of active avoidance technologies and its NHTSA crash-test performance remain significant strengths. Two active recall campaigns are noted in the published data.
The 2024 Audi Q3 SUV AWD received a 5-out-of-5-star overall crash-test rating and a NHTSA Safety Index of 88 out of 100, based on NHTSA data.
MotorCaliber Safety Desk // NHTSA data, verified Oct 1, 2026
Among the 144 SUVs from 2024 that NHTSA has crash-tested, the 2024 Audi Q3 ranks 51 for overall NHTSA Safety Index.
- new and teen drivers who want standard crash-avoidance tech
- urban drivers exposed to side-impact risk
| NHTSA Safety Index | 88 / 100 (Strong) |
|---|---|
| Overall crash rating | 5 of 5 stars |
| Frontal / Side / Rollover | 4 / 5 / 4 stars |
| Rollover risk | 16.4% |
| Recalls on file | 2 |
| Owner complaints | 17 (unverified allegations) |
| Class rank | 51 of 144 SUVs tested for 2024 |
| Data verified | Oct 1, 2026 |
ANALYSISHow safe is the 2024 Audi Q3?
The 2024 Audi Q3's rollover picture presents a nuanced safety profile. Its 16 percent risk figure and 4-star rollover rating are the only areas where it falls short of a top mark in NHTSA crash testing. Otherwise, crash protection forms the backbone of its safety assessment, contributing 61 out of 70 points to its overall score. This is anchored by a 5-star overall NHTSA rating. A perfect 10 out of 10 for avoidance technology reflects standard inclusion of forward collision warning, lane departure warning, and electronic stability control. MotorCaliber's computed Safety Index for the 2024 Q3 is 88/100, placing it in the Strong band. This represents a two-point decrease from the 2023 model's 90/100 Exceptional score. This decline is primarily attributable to the defect-record component, which contributes 17.25 out of a possible 20 points. Two recall campaigns impact this year's score. The first, a broad multi-model recall for back-over prevention software, suggests a platform-level issue. The second recall addresses air bag occupant-classification software. While the 2024 Q3 demonstrates strong crash-test results, its recall record introduces more complexity compared to the 2023 model at this stage.
NCAP // CRASH TESTHow did the 2024 Audi Q3 perform in crash tests?
The 2024 Audi Q3 achieved an overall safety rating of 5 out of 5 stars from NHTSA. Its side impact protection earned the highest possible score, with 5 stars. Frontal crash protection and rollover resistance each received 4 out of 5 stars. The Q3 exhibited a rollover risk of 16 percent, with the dynamic tip-test concluding with a "No Tip" result. All crash-test categories were rated.
Source: NHTSA NCAP, VehicleId 19501
Index breakdown
NCAP // CRASH IMAGESCrash-test images
Crash-test images are US federal government works (NHTSA / NCAP), public domain.
NHTSA // RECALLSDoes the 2024 Audi Q3 have any recalls?
Two recall campaigns cover the 2024 Audi Q3. The first involves a back-over prevention software error affecting certain 2024-2025 Q3 vehicles. The second concerns an air bag occupant-classification sensor fault spanning multiple Volkswagen Group models including this Q3. Neither campaign carries a do-not-drive or park-outside designation, but owners should verify remedy completion by VIN through NHTSA.
BACK OVER PREVENTION:SOFTWARE25V082000
Risk: A rearview camera that does not display an image can reduce the driver's rear view, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Dealers will update the camera control unit software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed to Audi owners April 3, 2024, and Volkswagen owners November 18, 2025.Volkswagen owners will receive a second notice once remedy parts become available. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-893-5298 or Audi customer service at 1-800-253-2834. Volkswagen's numbers for this
Reported 2025-02-12
AIR BAGS:SENSOR:OCCUPANT CLASSIFICATION:FRONT PASSENGER24V251000
Risk: A deactivated front passenger air bag will not deploy during a crash, increasing the risk of injury.
Remedy: 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.
Reported 2024-04-03
NHTSA // COMPLAINTSWhat do owners report about the 2024 Audi Q3?
Seventeen unverified consumer allegations have been reported to NHTSA for the 2024 Audi Q3. The most frequently alleged problem areas are the Electrical System with 6 reports, Unknown or Other with 5, and Service Brakes with 4. One reported crash and one reported injury appear in the dataset. All are unverified allegations, not established facts.
17 owner complaints on file. These are unverified allegations reported to NHTSA.
USED BUYERWhat should used buyers know about the 2024 Audi Q3?
Two separate recall campaigns were initiated for the Q3. Shoppers should confirm the completion of all recall remedies via a franchised dealer prior to purchase; this step is critical for ensuring the vehicle meets safety specifications.
- The 2024 Audi Q3 dropped two points year-over-year from the 2023 model's Exceptional 90/100 to a Strong 88/100, a shift driven in part by two new recall campaigns not present at the same stage for the prior year.
- A back-over prevention software recall specifically names 2024-2025 Audi Q3 vehicles as part of a Volkswagen Group multi-model campaign, making it a direct and active concern for every unit of this model year.
- NHTSA's 5-star overall crash rating is supported by a perfect 5-star side-impact result, while the 4-star frontal and 4-star rollover scores with a 16 percent rollover risk represent the only areas where testing fell short of the maximum.
- Seventeen unverified consumer allegations have been filed with NHTSA, with Electrical System complaints leading at 6 reports and Service Brakes drawing 4 reports, a pattern worth monitoring as this model year ages in the used market.
RANKINGSWhere the 2024 Audi Q3 places
The 2024 Audi Q3 qualifies for these MotorCaliber safety rankings:
FAQ2024 Audi Q3 safety questions
Was the 2024 Audi Q3 crash-tested by NHTSA?
Yes. NHTSA crash-tested the 2024 Audi Q3, and it earns a NHTSA Safety Index of 88 out of 100, placing it in the Strong band. The index combines federal crash-test stars, standard crash-avoidance tech, and the recall record.
What are the 2024 Audi Q3 crash-test star ratings?
In NHTSA testing the 2024 Audi Q3 earned 5 out of 5 stars for overall, 4 out of 5 stars for frontal, 5 out of 5 stars for side, and 4 out of 5 stars for rollover. Its measured rollover risk is 16.4%. Categories NHTSA did not test show as not rated.
How many recalls does the 2024 Audi Q3 have?
According to NHTSA recall data, 2 vehicle recalls are on file for the 2024 Audi Q3. Confirm your VIN at nhtsa.gov to see which apply to your car.
How many complaints have owners filed about the 2024 Audi Q3?
According to NHTSA's complaint database, 17 owner complaints are on file for the 2024 Audi Q3. These are unverified allegations submitted by owners, not confirmed defects, and include reports involving a crash.
Cross-check this record against independent expert reviews and the live NHTSA database before you buy.
Other Q3 years
Rivals in SUV (2024)
| Vehicle | NHTSA Safety Index | Overall stars | Recalls |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 Lexus Rz 300e | 100/100 | not rated | 0 |
| 2024 Tesla Model Y Rwd | 100/100 | 5 of 5 | 0 |
| 2024 Subaru Forester Wilderness | 98/100 | not rated | 0 |
| 2024 Lexus Rz 450e | 96/100 | 5 of 5 | 0 |
| 2024 Buick Encore GX | 95/100 | 5 of 5 | 2 |
| 2024 Nissan Murano | 95/100 | 5 of 5 | 1 |
- DATA Pulled directly from NHTSA: New Car Assessment Program crash tests (VehicleId 19501), the recallsByVehicle and complaintsByVehicle records for the Audi Q3 2024.
- SCORE The NHTSA Safety Index (0-100) weights crash protection, standard crash-avoidance tech, and the defect record. Full formula on the methodology page. It ranks 51 of 144 in the SUV class for 2024.
- EDITED Written by the MotorCaliber Safety Desk and reviewed for accuracy and plain-language clarity by Ivanna Verstliar, Editor, against the source figures on this page.
- VERIFIED Data last synced Oct 1, 2026. Recalls change; confirm your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls. See our corrections policy and disclosure.