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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The 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.

MORE:

Car Loan for Porsche 2022

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.

MORE:

Should I buy a sports car?

How to buy hassle-free car insurance

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