Audi Q8 Alternator Failure Warning Signs & Repair Tips

Had the same symptoms on my Audi A7 2016 diesel last winter. The alternator was indeed failing, causing the battery to drain and affecting multiple electrical systems. The serpentine belt was also damaged due to the failing alternator bearing, which is a common issue. The diagnosis showed the alternator was only producing 11.8V instead of the required 13.8-14.2V. This explained the dim lights, struggling starter motor, and various warning lights on the dashboard. The car electronics were affected because the failing alternator wasnt providing enough power to maintain proper voltage. The repair involved: Complete alternator replacement, New serpentine belt installation, Battery load testing, Electrical system diagnostics Total repair time was about 4 hours. This is a serious repair that should not be postponed, as continued driving risks complete electrical failure and potential engine damage. The failing alternator puts extra stress on the battery, which can lead to premature battery failure. Would recommend getting a second opinion from a certified Audi specialist, as proper diagnosis and repair requires specific knowledge of the electrical system in these models.

I had exactly these issues with my Q8 about 8 months ago. The charging system was failing, causing low voltage across all electrical components. The dim lights and weak starter motor were the first signs, followed by unusual warning lights on the dash. The diagnosis revealed a bad alternator bearing, which also damaged the serpentine belt. This seems to be a common pattern with these models when the alternator starts to fail. The voltage drop was significant enough to affect multiple systems. The battery was still good but was suffering from being constantly undercharged. Had all this sorted and havent had any electrical problems since, but would be interested to hear what you ended up paying for the repair. Mine needed a complete alternator replacement and new belt, care to share your final cost? Also curious if youve noticed any other electrical quirks since the repair was done?

Just had the alternator issue fixed last week. The complete repair including parts and labor came to 960 Euro, which included a new alternator replacement, serpentine belt, and full charging system diagnostics. The shop confirmed the voltage drop was causing all those electrical problems, and the failing alternator bearing had started to damage the belt. The repair has completely resolved all the previous symptoms, no more dim lights, warning signals, or starting problems. The charging system is now maintaining proper voltage levels around 14V. No electrical quirks since the repair. The engine runs smoother, and all electrical components are working as they should. The battery is now getting proper charge, and morning starts are back to normal. Would definitely say the investment was worth it to prevent further damage to other electrical components. Can confirm this is a common issue with these models when the alternator starts failing. Getting it fixed early likely prevented additional problems with other parts of the electrical system.

Thanks for taking my car to a reliable mechanic. After multiple warnings about alternator problems, I finally got it sorted at a certified shop. The whole repair took about 5 hours and cost 890 Euro, which included a new alternator, belt, and full system check. The mechanic showed me the old alternator, the bearing was completely shot and had started chewing up the belt. He also tested the battery which surprisingly survived the ordeal. The voltage readings were now steady at 14.2V, exactly where they should be. The difference after repair was immediate. The car starts perfectly, all lights are bright, and those annoying dashboard warnings are gone. The complete charging system is working like new. Its been 2 months now with zero electrical issues. For anyone dealing with similar symptoms, dont wait like I did. A failing alternator can damage other expensive electrical components. The repair cost was worth it to prevent bigger problems down the road.