Audi is once again recalling several hybrid car models due to a risk of battery pack overheating, which could lead to fires.
The recall affects the Q5 55 TFSI e quattro and A7 55 TFSI e quattro plug-in hybrids produced in the U.S. between August 10, 2021, and December 10, 2022, according to Autoevolution.
The defect has been traced to Samsung SDI cells in the high-voltage batteries. Most of the affected vehicles are Q5 models, with only a small number of A7 models included in the recall.
Audi is investigating the cause of the overheating but has implemented a temporary software update to alert drivers of potential issues.
If necessary, Audi will replace defective modules or entire high-voltage batteries.
This is not the first time Audi has had to recall electrified cars. But the issues are not always the fault of the carmaker.
Recalls are not unique to Audi, as some car brands face these challenges more frequently than others.
For example, Ford has emerged as the brand with the highest recall rate. In the first 19 weeks of 2024 alone, Ford issued an average of 1.3 recalls per week, addressing issues such as faulty welds, transmission failures, and engine problems.
In November, Ford was hit with the largest fine in U.S. history for ignoring a recall. The company has been allowed to divide the penalty into three parts: an immediate payment, funds allocated for further development, and a conditional waiver of the final portion if Ford meets all road safety requirements within three years.
