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

45

2.4
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
porsche cayenne 2021 photo
Cayenne 2021
Porsche

11

4

41

2.3
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
porsche cayenne 2020 photo
Cayenne 2020
Porsche

9

3

31

2.3
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
porsche cayenne 2019 photo
Cayenne 2019
Porsche

20

5

24

2.1
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
porsche cayenne 2018 photo
Cayenne 2018
Porsche

10

1

25

2.1
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
porsche cayenne 2017 photo
Cayenne 2017
Porsche

9

2

38

2.5
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
porsche cayenne 2016 photo
Cayenne 2016
Porsche

29

2

29

2.1
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
porsche cayenne 2015 photo
Cayenne 2015
Porsche

11

2

25

2.1
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
porsche cayenne 2014 photo
Cayenne 2014
Porsche

48

3

24

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

35

3

33

2.2
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
porsche cayenne 2012 photo
Cayenne 2012
Porsche

34

4

23

2.1
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
porsche cayenne 2011 photo
Cayenne 2011
Porsche

57

3

9

2.4
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
porsche cayenne 2010 photo
Cayenne 2010
Porsche

1

2

46

2.5
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
porsche cayenne 2009 photo
Cayenne 2009
Porsche

13

2

47

2.2
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
porsche cayenne 2008 photo
Cayenne 2008
Porsche

41

3

45

2.3
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
porsche cayenne 2006 photo
Cayenne 2006
Porsche

53

3

49

1.8
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
porsche cayenne 2005 photo
Cayenne 2005
Porsche

41

4

44

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

101

6

48

1.9
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
porsche cayenne 2003 photo
Cayenne 2003
Porsche

2

2

47

2.3
  • 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. Garry Cruickshank 2025-10-21

    Vehicle year: 2021

    After driving 2000 KM, I noticed a rattling noise that was initially intermittent and I thought it was just a slight rattle on a heat shield at low RPM. At times, the throttle felt odd, but I attributed it to me not being accustomed to the transmission. However, by 2800 KM, the rattling noise became very loud and could be heard all the time. I contacted the dealership and they diagnosed it as an emergency brake sensor issue. At first, they blamed it on bad gas, but the problem persisted even after they drained and refilled the gas tank. I also own a 2014 ML63 that I fill up at the same gas stations, and I have never had any problems with it for almost 7 years. It took the dealership 3 months to fix the issue, during which they changed the motor, turbos, and throttle body. They informed me that the emergency brake sensor would arrive in 30 days. However, after driving 500KM, the rattling sound has returned intermittently and was very loud today. I have an appointment at the dealership tomorrow morning. I have owned this vehicle for 6 months, but I have only been able to drive it for about 10 weeks.

  2. Seamus D'Amore 2025-10-18

    Vehicle year: 2019

    I have both a 16’ and a 19, both turbos. Personally, I prefer the raw feel of the 16 more. On the other hand, the 19 is incredibly refined, almost to the point where it feels like driving a Camry, especially without the sport exhaust. However, I find the wind noise above 75mph to be extremely annoying. The dealer claims it's normal, but I disagree. It's inexcusable on a car like this. Additionally, I can't drive with the windows down because around 40mph, the wind buffeting becomes so bad that it's almost unbearable.

  3. Noble Gottlieb 2025-10-18

    Vehicle year: 2004

    After a recall for the transmission not long after owning this vehicle, it was replaced. Additionally, there were warranty issues with the radio/cd player, rear seat belts, and hinge replacement on the tailgate, which were promptly addressed. However, after the warranty ran out at 80,000 Kms, there were some unexpected repairs needed, including the driveshaft flex joint, heater blower, plastic cooling tubes (now metal), water pump, brake switch (which can start without having to apply brake), warning buzzer for lights left on, heated seat module, rust under rubber on door window frame, seat belt springs have weakened (they jam in door), and tailgate barely closes. The repairs cost approximately $8000.00. It's been a bit of a money pit, so I wouldn't recommend buying one.

  4. Cory Mosciski 2025-10-12

    Vehicle year: 2005

    It is disappointing to have to pay extra for a spare wheel and inflatable tire on a $55,000 car, especially when the sales brochure showed a spare as standard. Despite their claims that spares were not standard on '04 models, it is important to assert that the brochure provided to me had no date and listed a spare as standard. This lack of transparency is unacceptable and should be addressed by Porsche.

  5. Morgan Abbott 2025-10-09

    Vehicle year: 2019

    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. Madyson Sauer 2025-10-22

    Vehicle year: 2010

    I'm so glad you're enjoying your Porsche SUV! It's definitely a fun and exciting ride, with great response and a powerful engine. The design of the car is also really eye-catching, especially the Porsche wheels. Just keep in mind that, like with many German luxury cars, the wheels do require regular cleaning to keep them looking their best. With regards to fuel efficiency, you can expect around 14 MPG with regular and some fun driving. The car is also quite utilitarian, with plenty of room in the rear for golf clubs and other items. It's worth noting that while the car can comfortably seat four people, it may not be the best choice for larger groups. Overall, I'm thrilled to hear that you're enjoying your Porsche SUV and I hope it continues to bring you joy for years to come!

  2. Ryley Hyatt 2025-10-22

    Vehicle year: 2009

    A sport car in a large body...the turbo provides awesome power on demand and the PCCB provide instant stopping power. I really enjoy driving this incredible machine, it is one of the best Porsche made for the road. You almost forget you are in an SUV most of the time and the numbers are out there to prove it.

  3. Chaz Pouros 2025-10-22

    Vehicle year: 2006

    I recently upgraded my car from a BMW 2003 X5 to a Porsche Cayenne S and I must say, I am thoroughly impressed with its power and handling capabilities. The Tiptronic shifter is similar to BMW's and I find it very convenient to have it on the steering wheel for quick acceleration or passing. The Cayenne handles bumps on the road much better than the Sport Edition of the BMW X5 3.0 model that I previously owned. Its cornering is also superior. The engine sound is simply incredible and has that classic Porsche sound. Although there are some features that I miss from my BMW, in terms of handling and comfort of drive, I would choose the Cayenne S over the BMW X5 Sport Edition any day. If you're in the market for a new SUV, I highly recommend test driving both the Cayenne S and the new BMW X5 before making a decision.

  4. Rashawn Murray 2025-10-21

    Vehicle year: 2006

    The Porsche Cayenne V6 often receives criticism in the motoring press due to its 'only' 247hp and 229 lb. torque, which may not seem like much to move around a 4,800 lbs. SUV. However, if you enjoy driving a sports car and shifting gears, I have found the V6 to be more than sufficient for American roads. By keeping the revs above 2,500, you can save over $15,000 compared to the S model and get an extra 2 mpg over the V8 version. The suspension is pure Porsche, and I find the Cayenne to be more comfortable, better handling, a little more spacious, better off-road, and way more fun to drive than my previous BMW X5 3.0, which was at about the same price point. It is solid as a rock and feels over-engineered - the 7,700 lb. towing capacity speaks for itself.

  5. Fredy Reilly 2025-10-21

    Vehicle year: 2024

    The Cayenne is an excellent vehicle. If you're looking for the best handling mid-sized SUV in the world, look no further. It has great handling, road feel, and brake feel, as evidenced by Car and Driver ratings. The refined and elegant interior (after upgrades) sets it apart from futuristic Japanese robots. It's a luxury SUV that's less common than an X5 or GLE, and it's perfect for those who want to have fun while enjoying a big comfy seat. Additionally, the Cayenne is a highly reliable brand. However, it's important to note that regular maintenance can cost over $1000 per year. There are a few issues to be aware of, such as occasional bugs in the infotainment system and crunchy or squealing brakes, but these are minor compared to those of an X5.

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