Porsche Cayenne problems

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The Porsche Cayenne is a series of automobiles manufactured by the German company Porsche since 2002. It is a luxury crossover SUV and has been described as both a full-sized and a mid-sized vehicle. The first generation was known internally within Porsche as the Type 9PA (955/957) or E1. It was the first V8-engined vehicle built by Porsche since 1995, when the Porsche 928 was discontinued. It is also Porsche's first off-road variant vehicle since its Super and Junior tractors of the 1950s, and the first Porsche with four doors. Since 2014, the Cayenne has been sold alongside a smaller Porsche SUV, the Macan.

The second-generation Cayenne (Type 92A or E2) was unveiled at the 2010 Geneva Motor Show in March. The Cayenne shares its platform, body frame, doors and electronics with the similar Volkswagen Touareg and Audi Q7. It received a facelift in 2014 with minor external changes, and introduced a new plug-in E-Hybrid version, with its public launch at the Paris Motor Show. Since 2008, all engines have featured direct injection technology. The third generation (Type PO536) was unveiled in 2017 at Stuttgart.

First generation (E1 9PA; 2002)

The original Porsche Cayenne entered into the global market to a mixed reception, but it proved itself to have excellent performance for an SUV and had comparably good handling as well as powerful engines. The lineup initially consisted of the V8-powered Cayenne S and Cayenne Turbo. Later in the model cycle, VR6 and diesel-powered versions joined the lineup. In the eight model years of the E1 generation, a total of 276,652 units were produced.

The base model Cayenne is powered by a 3.2-L VR6 engine producing 250 PS (184 kW; 247 hp). The intake manifold is unique to Porsche, but otherwise the engine is largely the same as the VW engine. Acceleration from 0–100 km/h (0–62 mph) is 9.1 seconds with the manual transmission and 9.7 seconds with the Tiptronic S.

photo of Porsche Cayenne car production

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Porsche Cayenne model years

porsche cayenne 2024 photo
Cayenne 2024
Porsche

3

2

29

3.8
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
porsche cayenne 2021 photo
Cayenne 2021
Porsche

11

4

31

3.1
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
porsche cayenne 2020 photo
Cayenne 2020
Porsche

9

3

23

3.1
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
porsche cayenne 2019 photo
Cayenne 2019
Porsche

20

5

17

2.9
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
porsche cayenne 2018 photo
Cayenne 2018
Porsche

10

1

16

3.3
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
porsche cayenne 2017 photo
Cayenne 2017
Porsche

9

2

26

3.6
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
porsche cayenne 2016 photo
Cayenne 2016
Porsche

29

2

18

3.3
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
porsche cayenne 2015 photo
Cayenne 2015
Porsche

11

2

16

3.3
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
porsche cayenne 2014 photo
Cayenne 2014
Porsche

48

3

13

3.8
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
porsche cayenne 2013 photo
Cayenne 2013
Porsche

35

3

22

3.3
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
porsche cayenne 2012 photo
Cayenne 2012
Porsche

34

4

17

2.8
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
porsche cayenne 2011 photo
Cayenne 2011
Porsche

57

3

7

3.1
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
porsche cayenne 2010 photo
Cayenne 2010
Porsche

1

2

33

3.5
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
porsche cayenne 2009 photo
Cayenne 2009
Porsche

13

2

34

3
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
porsche cayenne 2008 photo
Cayenne 2008
Porsche

41

3

30

3.5
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
porsche cayenne 2006 photo
Cayenne 2006
Porsche

53

3

30

2.9
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
porsche cayenne 2005 photo
Cayenne 2005
Porsche

41

4

26

3.4
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
porsche cayenne 2004 photo
Cayenne 2004
Porsche

101

6

35

2.7
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
porsche cayenne 2003 photo
Cayenne 2003
Porsche

2

2

30

3.7
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1

Common Porsche Cayenne problems

The Porsche Cayenne is a luxury SUV that has been popular among consumers for its performance and features. However, like any vehicle, the Cayenne has had its share of common problems reported by owners. Here are some of the most frequently reported issues:

  • Heavy Gear Changes & Noisy Transmission: Early Porsche Cayenne owners commonly experienced a heavy downshift from the transmission, accompanied by much louder gear shifts and clunking sounds from the transmission. This problem is often misdiagnosed as a physical failure in the transmission itself, when the more likely cause is in fact the valve body assembly within the transmission.
  • Cooling System Problems: The 2004 Porsche Cayenne has had a high number of complaints related to the cooling system, with multiple cars experiencing plastic coolant lines breaking and the center carrier bearing of the driveshaft failing. This has resulted in some cars refusing to start, and repairs can cost upwards of $3,000 in some instances.
  • Drivetrain Problems: The 2011 Porsche Cayenne has had complaints from customers about overheating at only 15,000 miles, as well as a complete engine failure at under 40,000 miles. Premature brake wear is another known issue, potentially happening as early as 21,000 miles and costing $3,000 to fix.
  • High Maintenance and Repair Costs: The Porsche Cayenne has been reported to have higher than average maintenance and repair costs, with an estimated $20,552 for maintenance and repairs during its first 10 years of service. This is more than the industry average for luxury SUV models by $4,838.

It is important to note that not all Porsche Cayenne models will experience these problems, and many owners have reported positive experiences with the vehicle. However, these common issues are worth considering when purchasing a used Porsche Cayenne.

Porsche Cayenne

What are the main problems with Porsche Cayenne?

Porsche Cayenne Problem Counts by Year

These are the most common problems reported by owners on platforms such as carproblems.com, carcomplaints.com, and Car Talk Community. The most frequently reported issues are engine failures, electrical problems, and broken plastic coolant lines.

Are Porsche Cayenne reliable cars?

Those behind the wheel of the Porsche Cayenne report taking it to the repair shop an average of 1.1 times a year for unexpected repairs, compared to . 4 for similar options. The Porsche Cayenne scores terribly in the reliability department for luxury midsize vehicle choices.

Is Porsche Cayenne high maintenance?

Yes, Porsches are expensive to maintain compared to most automakers' vehicles. Estimates from RepairPal show maintaining a Porsche costs an average of about 83% more than the industry average.

What is the disadvantage of Porsche Cayenne?

Cons: More expensive than competitors; limited cargo space; you'll be forking out big money for every last option. The 2024 Porsche Cayenne is one of the best do-it-all machines in existence, and it also happens to be heavily updated for the 2024 model year.

Percentage distribution of complaints by Porsche Cayenne years

We have researched Porsche problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Porsche Cayenne cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Porsche Cayenne model years:

Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Porsche Cayenne model years.

Distribution of the number of complaints by Porsche Cayenne years

We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:

Porsche Cayenne car problems categorized by type of issue

After analysing all complaints related to Porsche Cayenne , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:

  • Power train problems
  • Engine problems
  • Electrical system problems
  • Fuel/propulsion system problems
  • Unknown or other problems

The graph below shows statistics for all Porsche Cayenne vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by Cayenne model years

A total of 15 complaints were registered in which the accident occurred. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.

Distribution of the number of complaints with fire by Cayenne model years

There were a total of 8 complaints that resulted in a fire. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.

Distribution of the number of complaints with injuries by Cayenne model years

There were a total of 11 complaints that resulted in a injuries. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.

Distribution of the number of complaints with deaths by Cayenne model years

There were a total of 2 complaints that resulted in a death. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.

The NHTSA has received 528 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Porsche Cayenne . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Porsche Cayenne vehicles.

Latest 25 complaints

Porsche Cayenne 2020
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-07-01
  • Date Complaint: 2024-10-22
  • VIN: WP1BA2AY4LD
  • Components: POWER TRAIN,SERVICE BRAKES,ENGINE
  • Summary: The car is very jerky, I bought in for engine or transmission mount because the idle shakes the whole car. They said its normal. Which I don't think it's normal.
Porsche Cayenne 2014
  • Date Of Incident: 2023-02-01
  • Date Complaint: 2024-10-22
  • VIN: WP1AD2A25EL
  • Components: AIR BAGS,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
  • Summary: Porsche dashboard leather shrunk, shifted position, and staples pulled out. Repair technician said if vehicle was in an accident the airbag might not deploy correctly. Porsche dealer has stated if the dashboard leather material gets in this state, they recommend replacing it. This is a very common issue.
Porsche Cayenne 2018
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-10-17
  • Date Complaint: 2024-10-17
  • VIN: WP1AC2A21JL
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: This is not accident related, but what appears to be a systemic issue related to Cayenne and Macan leather dashboards. The issue is related to delamination of the leather dash cover that can impede the safe deployment of the passenger airbag. Many cars are affected and the repair can be a significant expense to owners (~$10K) for vehicles less than 8 years old. There should be a recall to address a largely unaware owner base for a potential safety issue.
Porsche Cayenne 2014
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-10-16
  • Date Complaint: 2024-10-16
  • VIN: WP1AD2A24EL
  • Components: AIR BAGS,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
  • Summary: Dashboard leather shrunk. If the vehicle gets into an accident the airbags might not deploy correctly. Very common issue on the cayenne models.
Porsche Cayenne 2013
  • Date Of Incident: 2020-10-02
  • Date Complaint: 2024-10-08
  • VIN: WP1AB2A24DL
  • Components: AIR BAGS,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
  • Summary: Porsche Cayenne dashboard leather shrunk and staples pulled out. The airbag in the dashboard may not deploy properly in the event when there is an accident. Porsche dealer recommended the dashboard to be replaced. Many vehicles have this issue after warranty is out
Porsche Cayenne 2014
  • Date Of Incident: 2023-09-29
  • Date Complaint: 2024-10-07
  • VIN: WP1AD2A25EL
  • Components: AIR BAGS,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
  • Summary: Porsche Cayenne dashboard leather shrunk and staples pulled out. Leather is loose on dashboard. I was told that if the vehicle was in an accident the airbag might not deploy correctly. The Porsche dealer looked at it and recommended replacing it. This is a very common issue.
Porsche Cayenne 2016
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-09-22
  • Date Complaint: 2024-09-22
  • VIN: WP1AD2A24GL
  • Components: AIR BAGS,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
  • Summary: Porsche leather dashboard shrunk and staples pulled out. I was told by a Porsche service technician that if the vehicle was in an accident, the air bag might not deploy correctly. The Porsche dealer diagnosed it and recommended replacing it. This is a very common issue.
Porsche Cayenne 2013
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-08-12
  • Date Complaint: 2024-09-18
  • VIN: WP1AD2A28DL
  • Components: POWER TRAIN
  • Summary: The Drive train consists of an engine, transmission, transfercase, driveshafts and differentials. The Transfercase has failed prior to the normal life cycle. Porsche recognizes this problem on this series of SUV and extends the warranty for 10 years and unlimited mileage. Porsche announced this extension in June 2024. However this does not cover the early models in this series 2011-2013 with the same drivetrain and transfercase. So in effect this failure of the transfer case is not covered on 2014 - 2011 Porsche Cayenne's models with the same transfercase because Porsche delayed the notification to customers. Even though the SUV may have low mileage, they will not warranty or cover my failure.
Porsche Cayenne 2014
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-09-08
  • Date Complaint: 2024-09-12
  • VIN: WP1AB2A28EL
  • Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
  • Summary: Last week I took my car to car wash, After that my right passenger side light went off. water went in the rear sound control module and I lost sound too. my gps sound comes from woofer only. I heard from a by other Porsche owners that porsche had recall on rear lights, But I was never informed.
Porsche Cayenne 2016
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-09-05
  • Date Complaint: 2024-09-05
  • VIN: WP1AD2A22GL
  • Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
  • Summary: **Subject**: Urgent Safety Concern: Headlight Condensation and Water Damage in 2015-2018 Porsche Cayenne 958.2 Dear NHTSA, I am writing to report a serious safety issue with the LED matrix headlights on my 2016 Porsche Cayenne GTS (958.2). The problem involves severe condensation buildup within the headlight assembly, leading to water damage and electrical failures. This defect has caused my headlights to fail, particularly during nighttime driving in heavy rain, which significantly reduced visibility. This failure could have resulted in a major accident, putting my life and the lives of others at risk. The vehicle is available for inspection upon request. The issue first became noticeable after a rainstorm, where condensation started to build up inside the headlights. Despite multiple visits to my local Porsche dealership, where they confirmed the problem and attempted repairs, the issue continues to persist. I also notified Porsche corporate directly, but neither the dealership nor Porsche offered any assistance or permanent resolution. Both have failed to take responsibility for what I believe is a widespread defect, as I have found numerous similar reports from other owners. No warning lights or messages were displayed prior to the headlight failure, which made the issue even more dangerous. Without any prior indication, I was left driving without functioning headlights at night, in poor weather conditions. Given the potential for catastrophic consequences, I strongly urge NHTSA to investigate this issue. A recall or other corrective action is necessary to prevent further risks to drivers. Thank you for your attention to this matter.
Porsche Cayenne 2011
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-06-16
  • Date Complaint: 2024-08-23
  • VIN: WP1AC2A23BL
  • Components: ENGINE
  • Summary: The contact owns a 2011 Porsche Cayenne Turbo. The contact stated that while starting the vehicle, the vehicle shuddered abnormally. Additionally, while driving, the vehicle experienced a loss of power steering assist, and the brake pedal was firm while depressed. The vehicle failed to come to a complete stop. The traction control, check engine, oil pressure, and several other unknown warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was towed to the dealer, where it was diagnosed that the passenger's side camshaft controller and bolts had failed. The dealer determined that both the driver's and passenger's side camshaft controllers and bolts needed to be replaced. The dealer replaced the camshaft adjusters and bolts under NHTSA Campaign Number: 17V368000 (Engine) associated with the VIN; however, the contact was not satisfied with the remedy for the recall. The contact stated that the dealer failed to recover all the failed bolts inside the engine. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and a case was opened. The failure mileage was 131,046.
Porsche Cayenne 2016
  • Date Of Incident: 2023-09-19
  • Date Complaint: 2024-08-21
  • VIN: WP1AA2A23GK
  • Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
  • Summary: Backup Camera Intermittent, Yes, available for inspection. Unexpected blackout of the screen. Cannot see pedestrians behind when backing out and expecting to see from the camera instead of rear view mirror. Yes, reproduced by the Dealer. Yes, by the Dealer representing the manufacturer. No warning of any kind. First appeared 9/19/23 Unknown.
Porsche Cayenne 2018
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-08-21
  • Date Complaint: 2024-08-21
  • VIN: WP1AB2A21JL
  • Components: AIR BAGS,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
  • Summary: The Porsche Cayenne that equipped with leather dashboard are peeling off over the time. If the vehicle in an accident, the airbag on the passenger side dashboard may not deploy correctly. I am finding many cayenne owners are having this issue. I really hope NTSB can issue a recall.
Porsche Cayenne 2019
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-08-19
  • Date Complaint: 2024-08-19
  • VIN: WP1AA2AY3KD
  • Components: POWER TRAIN,ENGINE
  • Summary: When car downshifts from 2nd gear to 1st gear, it lunges / jerks forward, even as brakes are applied. Porsche mechanic and Porsche Cars North America both indicate nothing is wrong with the transmission. THIS IS A CONSTANT ISSUE. EVERYDAY FOR THE LAST TWO WEEKS. EVERY STOP.
Porsche Cayenne 2013
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-08-13
  • Date Complaint: 2024-08-19
  • VIN: WP1AB2A29DL
  • Components: SEAT BELTS
  • Summary: Just purchased this vehicle from an independent dealer. Each time I test drove the vehicle, I put my seat belt on and after a few seconds of driving the driver's seat belt would come unlatched. Sales person told me that perhaps I wasn't latching it (false latch). After purchase, it has unlatched during my first day of driving it. I see that there are other customers complaining of the same issue on the NHTSA website.

Latest 5 recalls Porsche Cayenne

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 56 recalls for different components of the Porsche Cayenne.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.

  • Model: Porsche Cayenne 2024
  • Report Received Date: 2024-07-16
  • Manufacturer: Porsche Cars North America, Inc.
  • Park It: 1
  • Components: SUSPENSION:FRONT:CONTROL ARM:UPPER ARM
  • Summary: Porsche Cars North America, Inc. (Porsche) is recalling certain 2024 Cayenne vehicles. The driver’s side front axle upper left control arm installed on the vehicles may have been installed with cracks. which can result in front axle control arm breaking and an unexpected loss of steering and wheel control.
  • Consequence: A sudden loss of steering control increases the risk of a crash.
  • Remedy: Dealers will replace the driver side left upper control arm, free of charge. Owner letters were mailed September 13, 2024. Owners may contact Porsche customer service at 1-800-767-7243. Porsche's number for this recall is ARB2.
  • Model: Porsche Cayenne 2024
  • Report Received Date: 2023-07-27
  • Manufacturer: Porsche Cars North America, Inc.
  • Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING:LIGHTING CONTROL MODULE:SOFTWARE
  • Summary: Porsche Cars North America, Inc. (Porsche) is recalling certain 2024 Cayenne, Cayenne S, Cayenne Coupe, Cayenne Turbo GT, and Cayenne S Coupe vehicles. After the vehicle is turned off, the rear hazard warning lights and the parking lights may not illuminate if they are activated within 10 seconds after the gateway control unit shuts off. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 108, "Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment."
  • Consequence: Rear hazard warning lights and parking lights that fail to illuminate can reduce the vehicle's visibility to other drivers, increasing the risk of a crash.
  • Remedy: Dealers will update the gateway control unit software, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed September 26, 2023. Owners may contact Porsche's customer service at 1-800-767-7243. Porsche's number for this recall is APB1.
  • Model: Porsche Cayenne 2011
  • Report Received Date: 2022-08-30
  • Manufacturer: Porsche Cars North America, Inc.
  • Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS
  • Summary: Porsche Cars North America, Inc. (Porsche) is recalling certain 2003-2020 Porsche Macan, Cayenne, Panamera, and Cayman S, 2001-2004 Boxster, Boxster S, 2004 Boxster 50 JAHRE SPYDER 550 vehicles. Please see the recall report for a complete list of all affected models and model years. The caps that cover the low-beam headlight horizontal adjustment screws are missing, which can allow the headlights to be improperly adjusted. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 108, "Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment."
  • Consequence: Improperly adjusted headlights may not illuminate the road properly, or cause a glare to oncoming drivers, which can increase the risk of a crash.
  • Remedy: Dealers will inspect the headlights for sealing caps and install missing caps as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed October 28, 2022. Owners may contact Porsche's customer service at 1-800-767-7243. Porsche's number for this recall is ANB4.
  • Model: Porsche Cayenne 2008
  • Report Received Date: 2022-08-30
  • Manufacturer: Porsche Cars North America, Inc.
  • Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS
  • Summary: Porsche Cars North America, Inc. (Porsche) is recalling certain 2003-2020 Porsche Macan, Cayenne, Panamera, and Cayman S, 2001-2004 Boxster, Boxster S, 2004 Boxster 50 JAHRE SPYDER 550 vehicles. Please see the recall report for a complete list of all affected models and model years. The caps that cover the low-beam headlight horizontal adjustment screws are missing, which can allow the headlights to be improperly adjusted. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 108, "Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment."
  • Consequence: Improperly adjusted headlights may not illuminate the road properly, or cause a glare to oncoming drivers, which can increase the risk of a crash.
  • Remedy: Dealers will inspect the headlights for sealing caps and install missing caps as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed October 28, 2022. Owners may contact Porsche's customer service at 1-800-767-7243. Porsche's number for this recall is ANB4.
  • Model: Porsche Cayenne 2009
  • Report Received Date: 2022-08-30
  • Manufacturer: Porsche Cars North America, Inc.
  • Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS
  • Summary: Porsche Cars North America, Inc. (Porsche) is recalling certain 2003-2020 Porsche Macan, Cayenne, Panamera, and Cayman S, 2001-2004 Boxster, Boxster S, 2004 Boxster 50 JAHRE SPYDER 550 vehicles. Please see the recall report for a complete list of all affected models and model years. The caps that cover the low-beam headlight horizontal adjustment screws are missing, which can allow the headlights to be improperly adjusted. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 108, "Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment."
  • Consequence: Improperly adjusted headlights may not illuminate the road properly, or cause a glare to oncoming drivers, which can increase the risk of a crash.
  • Remedy: Dealers will inspect the headlights for sealing caps and install missing caps as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed October 28, 2022. Owners may contact Porsche's customer service at 1-800-767-7243. Porsche's number for this recall is ANB4.

Latest negative Porsche Cayenne car reviews

  1. Felipe Predovic 2025-03-26

    Vehicle year: 2024

    I purchased a 2019 Cayenne from Bethesda Porsche in December 2018, but unfortunately, I experienced several issues with the car. Despite seeking assistance from multiple dealerships, the brake cracking noise persisted, and the electrical system malfunctioned, causing the auto headlights to stop working. Additionally, there was a noticeable bounce when the auto mission shifted from one to three, and muffler noise and vibrations occurred at low speeds when the air conditioner was on. Although there were other problems, these issues caused me significant stress, and I ultimately decided to switch to another car. However, I was disappointed to learn that the Cayenne I traded was sold as a certified used car by Porsche. I believe that selling a defective vehicle without offering a money-back guarantee and promoting location trackers and maintenance programs as compulsory options is fraudulent. I hope that Porsche will take this issue seriously and consider the impact on affected customers. If you are considering purchasing a Porsche in Maryland, I recommend avoiding Bethesda Porsche and Silver Spring Porsche. Thank you for your attention to this matter.

  2. Landen Lesch 2025-03-19

    Vehicle year: 2021

    I purchased a 2019 Cayenne from Bethesda Porsche in December 2018, but unfortunately, I experienced several issues with the car. Despite seeking assistance from multiple dealerships, the brake cracking noise persisted, and the electrical system malfunctioned, causing the auto headlights to stop working. Additionally, there was a noticeable bounce when the auto mission shifted from one to three, and muffler noise and vibrations occurred at low speeds when the air conditioner was on. Although there were other problems, these issues caused me significant stress, and I ultimately decided to switch to another car. However, I was disappointed to learn that the Cayenne I traded was sold as a certified used car by Porsche. I believe that selling a defective vehicle without offering a money-back guarantee and promoting location trackers and maintenance programs as compulsory options is fraudulent. I hope that Porsche will take this issue seriously and consider the impact on affected customers. If you are considering purchasing a Porsche in Maryland, I recommend avoiding Bethesda Porsche and Silver Spring Porsche. Thank you for your attention to this matter.

  3. Jake Breitenberg 2025-03-17

    Vehicle year: 2017

    Congratulations on your first Porsche! It sounds like you had an exciting experience ordering exactly what you wanted and tracking it from the factory. The lime green brakes sound eye-catching and the mileage is impressive, getting about 50mpg based on your driving pattern. Although there was a noticeable lag on acceleration when going from electric to gas when the battery was drained, it wasn't a big deal. It's unfortunate that the engine light came on after 6 months of ownership, but it's great that the dealership was able to fix the issue. It's important to note that the hybrid does not have a spare tire due to the battery taking up space, but AAA was able to assist you when your tire got slashed. Overall, it's been a nice ride and you consistently get about 45-50mpg. Thank you for sharing your experience with us!

  4. Napoleon Roberts 2025-03-15

    Vehicle year: 2004

    After 15 months, I have finally settled with Porsche. Unfortunately, the vehicle was in the shop for 52 days due to one problem. In addition, the driver's seat broke, the remote doesn't work, and the tires had to be replaced. This SUV has always driven in a herky-jerky manner and the brakes squeak. Three months ago, I asked the dealership to work with me on a trade-in, but they offered $30K less than what I paid for it, which I thought was ridiculous. When I finally 'lemon lawed' it, Porsche called and wanted to settle, fifteen months after I purchased it. I am disappointed in this car and would recommend to everyone not to buy it.

  5. Domenick Koss 2025-03-06

    Vehicle year: 2021

    I've been experiencing some constant issues with my car. Unfortunately, in just 6 months and at about 6.5k miles, the car has been in the repair shop for over 30 days. The issues are quite serious. Firstly, the trunk opens randomly when the car is in motion, which is a very dangerous issue. Even worse, there is no error code. I was informed by the dealership that Porsche is aware of this issue in some 2019 and possibly 2020 Cayennes, but they don't have a fix yet. Secondly, the brakes are squeaky, which is totally unacceptable in an 80-90k car. Even worse, the dealers will tell you that it's acceptable because it's a race car and the solution is to brake hard. Thirdly, the ACC and PAS have stopped working and the service required message appeared twice. The dealership has changed 4 modules and failed to fix the issue. Even worse, they claim that Porsche Tech Line is not responsive. Lastly, the nav screen has gone black suddenly and doesn't work until restarting the vehicle many times. Do I have a lemon? Possibly. The customer service has been poor until I talked about the Lemon Law. Overall, the ride is fantastic and I love the pickup, handling, and responsiveness, but it's not worth the safety issues which could cause a serious accident. I would recommend staying away.

Latest positive Porsche Cayenne car reviews

  1. Raheem Huels 2025-03-29

    Vehicle year: 2008

    I purchased my 09 GTS in 2011 with only 10k on the odometer. Despite having a factory warranty, I drove it as much as possible. After a month or so, a check engine light came on, but it turned out to be an easy fix - just the filter from the transmission. Since then, the car has been running great. I have now driven it for 47K miles. During this time, I have changed the front and rear brake pads and front disk brakes, gone through a few sets of tires, and had oil changes every year, all of which were done at the Porsche dealer. I can confidently say that this is the best car I have ever owned. Porsche's customer service is outstanding and helpful, and they never try to sell me unnecessary services.

  2. Floy Wolf 2025-03-28

    Vehicle year: 2013

    No longer available in the US in the diesel version, which is a shame, because it combines all the fun of driving a Porsche SUV with the fuel economy of a diesel. The diesel version has much better pickup than the base gasoline Cayenne and is just a blast to drive - those 400 plus foot pounds of torque make the vehicle leap from a flat start. If you put it into the optional Sport mode, it's just sick. It's my perfect vehicle.

  3. Timmothy Weber 2025-03-27

    Vehicle year: 2016

    When you're looking to buy a vehicle like this, it's important to find one that matches your driving needs and expectations. The Cayenne is a great option that can provide fantastic results. It handles unbelievably well for an SUV/CUV and has the tightest turning radius I've ever experienced in a car, truck, or SUV. We decided to go with the e-hybrid because we mostly drive locally (less than 50 miles) and it offers excellent overall MPG (~45 to 50 MPG) while still providing enough power and torque to make driving fun (along with the legendary Porsche handling). This is our first hybrid and, having previously owned a Tesla Model S, I can honestly say that the instrumentation in the e-hybrid Cayenne is comprehensive, logical, and very well thought out.

  4. Hudson Fritsch 2025-03-26

    Vehicle year: 2004

    This car is amazing! With 450 hp, it still manages to get 18 mpg on the freeway. It's like having three cars in one! I absolutely love the twin turbo engine and the wide mouth front. The adjustable suspension is fantastic, and the stereo, brakes, handling, and interior are all top-notch. Plus, it's loaded with all the amenities and features you could want for a comfortable ride.

  5. Elbert Little 2025-03-24

    Vehicle year: 2006

    The Cayenne S is an excellent choice for those who crave a sporty SUV. It boasts impressive power and speed, with strong brakes and responsive steering. Despite its weight of 5300 lbs, this vehicle still manages to deliver exceptional performance. The ride may be a bit stiff, but the trade-off is exceptional cornering. The tiptronic transmission is the best auto-manual I have ever used, and I love being able to make the gear changes myself. For the best acceleration, changing gears manually is a must. I have already added precat bypass pipes, which have given me an additional 17hp over stock. I am also considering a computer remap and a free-flow intake for another 30-HP. As someone who has owned both 1988 and 1999 Carreras, I can confidently say that the Cayenne is a true Porsche.

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