Audi is recalling nearly 28,000 2025 models due to a faulty rear seat belt that can affect child car seat safety. Learn more and check your vehicle today.
German automaker Audi has launched a recall that affects almost 28,000 vehicles from the 2025 model year. The problem centers on the rear‑seat safety‑belt system, which may not function correctly when a child‑car seat is secured with the belt.
Which models are affected?
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) lists 27,768 Audi cars across a range of families, including:
- A5 and S5
- A6 and A6 Sportback e‑tron
- S6 Sportback e‑tron
- Q6 e‑tron and Q6 Sportback e‑tron
- SQ6 e‑tron and SQ6 Sportback e‑tron
What’s wrong with the belt?
All affected cars share the same rear‑belt assembly. The automatic reel that locks the belt can fail to hold the strap when a child‑seat is installed. Instead of stopping at the prescribed limit, the belt can continue to extend, potentially allowing the seat to shift.
The defect traces back to a damaged spring cluster inside the reel. During production, a latch may have been installed incorrectly or become loose, causing the housing to deform and the latch to mis‑engage.
How serious is the issue?
Audi estimates that only about 3 % of the recalled vehicles actually exhibit the fault, but the risk to young passengers is significant enough to trigger a nationwide recall.
What owners can expect
Owners of the listed models should receive a recall notice in mid‑February. Dealerships will inspect the rear‑belt reel at no charge. If the belt shows excessive travel, the entire belt‑assembly will be replaced for free.
In addition to the repair, Audi has temporarily halted sales of the affected models until a permanent solution is available. At the time of writing, replacement parts are still being manufactured.
Simple DIY check (for reference only)
Technicians use a straightforward test: a ruler is placed against the rear seat, the belt is pulled, and the amount of movement is measured. If the belt extends beyond the specified range, the component must be swapped.
Next steps
If you own one of the listed Audi vehicles, contact your local Audi dealer as soon as you receive the notice. Prompt inspection and repair will ensure that your child’s car‑seat remains securely fastened.