The Most Common Porsche Problems
The most common Porsche problems are Air Oil Separator failures, oil leaks, and coolant leaks.
Written by Katherine Duffy
Reviewed by Melanie Reiff
The most common Porsche problems include air oil separator failures, oil leaks, and coolant leaks, but watch out for transmission and suspension issues as well.
There’s no such thing as a flawless car—even from internationally recognized and celebrated automakers with a reputation for building high-quality vehicles. Some vehicles suffer from the same problems over and over again, sometimes without any apparent reason.
Are you interested in learning about the most common Porsche problems?
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What are the most common Porsche problems?
As a German automaker specializing in producing high-performance sports cars, SUVs, and sedans since 1931, it’s no wonder that Porsche is known around the world for its commitment to high quality. However, Porsche isn’t immune to creating cars that suffer from chronic mechanical problems.
Here are some of the most common Porsche problems:
- Intermediate shaft bearing failure
- Timing chain complications
- Cracked cylinder liners
The 2004
Porsche Cayenne
is the model that experienced the most problems, with eight major recalls and 96 complaints to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
The 2019 Porsche 718 Cayman
, on the other hand, is the most reliable model, receiving fewer complaints than other Porsche models. For a complete breakdown of the most common Porsche problems in the models on the market in 2022, check out the table below.
Model | Starting price | J.D. Power reliability rating | Most common problems | Years to avoid |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Cayenne | $70,350 | 81/100 | Cooling system issues, drivetrain problems, various engine issues | 2004, 2011 |
911 | $102,550 | 80/100 | Air Oil Separator failure, smoke on startup, low battery power, overheating | 1983, 2009 |
Panamera | $89,750 | 81/100 | V8 engine failure, rear spoiler malfunction, faulty oil pressure monitoring, coolant leaks | 1995, 1996 |
718 Cayman | $63,950 | 88/100 | oil leaks, Air Oil Separator issues, smoke on startup, check engine light issues | 2018 |
Macan | $57,000 | 82/100 | Faulty oil pressure monitoring, transmission issues, drive shaft support bearing failure, backup camera problems | 2015, 2016, 2017, 2019 |
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4.7/5 rating on the App Store | Trusted by 5+ million customers and 7 million cars4.7/5 app rating | Trusted by 5M+ driversThe most common Porsche Cayenne problems
Average annual repair cost: $1231
CarComplaints.com complaints: 66
The Cayenne’s most common problem is that its plastic coolant pipes couldn’t handle the high temperatures of this model’s high-performing engine. The high temperatures cause the pipes to melt and leak, potentially causing the engine to overheat and cause irreversible damage.
Watch out for failing drivetrain parts, like the transfer case or driveshafts, which can cause the Cayenne to make erratic and uncontrollable movements while driving.
If dangerous
leaking coolant
and a shaky drivetrain weren’t enough, the Cayenne also suffers from various engine problems. Many drivers report the Cayenne’s engine suddenly dying after just a few minutes of unexplainable noises from under the hood. So if you hear a noise from the engine
on your Cayenne, get to the side of the road as quickly and safely as possible!MORE: Are Porsches expensive to maintain?
The most common Porsche 911 problems
Average annual repair cost: $1072
CarComplaints.com complaints: 15
The
Porsche 911
’s most common issue is also one of Porsche’s most common problems across all of its models: its air oil separator (AOS) has several reported failures. The best indication of this problem is large amounts of
smoke from the engine
as well as a tough-to-remove oil cap because of the vacuum levels in the engine. Other drivers complain that on cold days, their engine will smoke for a few minutes once they start their car, which often is a sign of worn-out cylinders or a bad AOS system.
Additional common problems to watch for include dwindling battery life, overheating engines, and heavy clutch pedals. If your
clutch pedal goes all the way to the floor
, make an appointment with your mechanic.The most common Porsche Panamera problems
Average annual repair cost: $1252
CarComplaints.com complaints: 15
One of the most annoying issues with the
Porsche Panamera
problems is its malfunctioning Porsche Communication Management System, which is what Porsche calls its infotainment software. People report maps not loading, the system randomly switching languages, and the computer suddenly shutting down and turning back on again. The Panamera also experiences breaking cam adjuster bolts that secure the timing chain sprockets to the camshaft adjusters,
check engine warning light
faults, and even total engine failure. Like many other Porsches, watch out for coolant leaks in the Panamera as well.
The most common Porsche 718 Cayman problems
Average annual repair cost: $952
CarComplaints.com complaints: 1
Most of the Porsche 718 Cayman problems are related to the engine oil and the systems that deal with it. The most common issue is perhaps the most serious: a rear main seal oil leak. This leaking seal can destroy your car’s clutch if you drive a manual vehicle.
The Cayman also suffers oil leaks from other parts, including
valve cover
leaks and leaks from the spark plug tube seals. It’s no wonder then that the Cayman also can have air oil separator problems, which is often the cause of these various oil leaks. Replacing or upgrading the AOS early can often prevent these problems from happening again.
The most common Porsche Macan problems
Average annual repair cost: $1265
CarComplaints.com complaints: 7
Like the Porsche Panamera, the Porsche
Macan
has many complaints about its Porsche Communication Management System failing. The problems are mostly the same, with users complaining about random shutoffs, unstable maps, and language switching. The Macan also has problems with its oil pressure monitoring system. Drivers often receive alarming messages about an oil pressure fault at high speeds, with the
oil pressure light
illuminating incorrectly. Even though these messages are often faulty, oil pressure problems can cause engine damage, so many drivers who see these messages will stop driving immediately. Macan drivers have noted that the car’s backup camera is blurry and out of focus, and the passenger side mirror often doesn’t angle towards the curb when the car is in reverse like it’s supposed to.
Are Porsche cars reliable?
Despite the mechanical problems we’ve outlined here, Porsches are very reliable vehicles. J.D Power’s 2021 Vehicle Dependability Study ranks Porsche as the second-most reliable make on the market. Rest assured that if you invest in a Porsche, you’ll be able to rely on it for years to come.
Keep in mind that according to RepairPal, the average Porsche repair cost is $1,192. While Porsches are reliable high-quality vehicles, you should be prepared to pay higher than average repair and maintenance costs.
The least reliable Porsche model: 2004 Porsche Cayenne
Most common problem: Plastic coolant pipes melt and leak
NHTSA complaints: 96
The Porsche Cayenne provides a luxury driving experience for people who need SUV cargo space but crave the quality and comfortability of a Porsche. The
Porsche Cayenne trunk space
is one of the best in its class. It’s one of the most popular luxury SUVs on the market, but it also has more complaints than any other Porsche model, especially for the 2004 model. The biggest problem with the 2004 model is that its coolant pipes are plastic, not aluminum. If you’re on the hunt for your very own Porsche Cayenne, look for one that’s outfitted with aluminum coolant pipes instead.
The most reliable Porsche model: 2019 Porsche 718 Cayman
Most common problem: Rear main seal oil leak
NHTSA complaints: 0
On the other hand, the Porsche 718 Cayman is Porsche’s most reliable vehicle, particularly if you drive the 2019 model. Starting at $63,950, the 718 Cayman is more affordable than other Porsche models while still offering up a high-performance driving experience and a sporty look and feel. Plus, the 718 Cayman receives a “Great” score from J.D. Power’s reliability rankings.
How to buy hassle-free car insurance
Dealing with car problems can be a headache of phone calls and paperwork, but getting great
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FAQ
How long do Porsches last?
Porsches are known for their reliability and ability to last over time. In general, a Porsche can last at least 100,000 miles and about 9 years.
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