2017 Audi Q7 — my model year is in a recall article but my VIN is not — second opinion before I spend money

Write down what you already tried. A second data point from another 2017 Audi Q7 owner helps more than a generic diagnosis. That's where I'd start. Time, temperature, and whether it's in gear are the notes that actually help a shop. Not trying to scare you — just skip the expensive first guess. This is the version I'd tell a friend.

Don't overfit one forum story to your car. If it still isn't clear on the 2017 Audi Q7, a specialist hour can be cheaper than another round of parts. That's where I'd start. Keep sale price, fees, and rate as three different conversations. That's coming from doing this as an owner, not a shop. I'm keeping receipts and dates in one folder.