2004 Porsche Cayenne turbo problems

General information about Porsche-Cayenne turbo
Overview of popular issues
Recalls list

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.

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Common 2004 Porsche Cayenne turbo problems

Based on complaints from owners of the Porsche Cayenne Turbo 2004, several common problems have been reported:

Coolant Lines Issue: Owners of the 2004 Cayenne Turbo 4.5L have reported a common complaint regarding the coolant lines. These plastic coolant lines run down the center of the engine blocks and are prone to melting when the engine heats up. This can lead to coolant leaks, posing safety concerns. The pipes can also impact the starter located under them, causing additional problems. Repairing this issue typically involves installing an aluminum pipe kit to replace the plastic, with estimates for repairs amounting to $3,500 or more.
Engine Seizing: Another significant problem reported by owners of the 2011 Porsche Cayenne is the engine seizing after reaching 50,000 miles. This issue manifests with a check engine light warning followed by a loud noise that results in the engine shutting down abruptly. Addressing this problem often requires replacing the camshafts and existing bolts, and in severe cases, the entire engine may need replacement.
Transfer Case Malfunction: Owners of the 2012 Porsche Cayenne have experienced repeated problems with the transfer case. This issue commonly arises after hitting around 72,900 miles, once the warranty has expired. Replacing the transfer case can cost consumers approximately $5,000 per occurrence. Some drivers have faced this problem multiple times throughout the vehicle's lifespan, with Porsche not covering this common issue.
Drivetrain Issues: The drivetrain problems in the Porsche Cayenne can lead to erratic and uncontrollable behavior of the SUV. Some users have reported instances where the drivetrain transfer case fails without any warning signs. Additionally, the driveshaft may lose its center bearings, eventually causing failure.
Transmission Problems: Complaints from users have highlighted various transmission issues in the Porsche Cayenne, including gear problems, excessive vibrations, strange noises or odors, and fluid leaks. Each of these problems requires specific attention and repair methods tailored to the particular issue encountered.

These common problems with the Porsche Cayenne Turbo 2004 highlight the importance of thorough maintenance and potential costly repairs that owners may face with this model.

Is a 2004 Porsche Cayenne expensive to maintain?

The average annual repair cost is $1,231 which means it has poor ownership costs. The frequency and severity of repairs are both much higher than the average vehicle, which means you can expect more major repairs for the Cayenne.

Is a Porsche Cayenne Turbo expensive to maintain?

Estimates from RepairPal put the average annual repair and maintenance cost for a Porsche at $1,192 per year, which is 83% higher than the industry average for all vehicles.

How many miles can a 2004 Porsche Cayenne last?

200,000 to 250,000 miles

The Porsche Cayenne, a robust and luxurious SUV, can easily clock 200,000 to 250,000 miles. With a lifespan of up to 18.5 years with average use, the Cayenne is the most durable of all Porsche models.

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.

2004 Porsche Cayenne turbo complaints

The NHTSA has received 0 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2004 Porsche Cayenne turbo.

You can leave your car complaint via the special form below.

2004 Porsche Cayenne turbo recalls

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 8 recalls for different components of the 2004 Porsche Cayenne turbo.

2019-06-12

Manufacturer: Porsche Cars North America, Inc.
Components: POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:GEAR POSITION INDICATION (PRNDL)
Summary: Porsche Cars North America, Inc. (Porsche) is recalling certain 2003-2006 Cayenne S, Cayenne Turbo, 2004-2010 Cayenne, 2006 Cayenne Turbo S, 2010-2016 Panamera S, Panamera 4 S, Panamera Turbo, 2011-2016 Panamera, Panamera 4, 2012-2013 Panamera Turbo S, 2013-2016 Panamera 4 GTS, 2014-2016 Panamera 4 S Executive, Panamera Turbo Executive, Panamera Turbo S G1 II, Panamera Turbo S Executive, 2013 Panamera 4 Platinum Edition, Panamera Platinum Edition, 2016 Panamera 4 Edition, Panamera Edition, Panamera Turbo S Executive Luxury Sports vehicles. The bushing that attaches the gear selector lever to the gearbox may degrade over time, causing the bushing to detach. This condition could allow the driver to move the shift lever to Park and remove the ignition key, while the transmission may not be in Park, with no warning message or audible chime.
Consequence: If the vehicle is exited without the transmission being in Park and without the parking brake being applied, the vehicle may unexpectedly move, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Porsche will notify owners, and dealers will replace the shifter cable bushing, free of charge. Owners are instructed to use the parking brake until their vehicle is repaired. The recall began August 9, 2019. Owners may contact Porsche customer service at 1-800-767-7243. Porsche's number for this recall is AKB1.

2017-09-20

Manufacturer: Porsche Cars North America, Inc.
Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP
Summary: Porsche Cars North America, Inc. (Porsche) is recalling certain 2003-2006 Cayenne S and Cayenne Turbo vehicles, 2004-2006 Cayenne vehicles, and 2006 Cayenne S "Titanium" Edition vehicles. These gasoline-powered vehicles have a fuel pump flange that may crack, allowing fuel to leak.
Consequence: A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source increases the risk of a fire.
Remedy: Porsche will notify owners, and dealers will replace the fuel filter flanges with new filter flanges that have a protective film, free of charge. The recall began July 6, 2018. Owners may contact Porsche customer service at 1-800-767-7243. Porsche's number for this recall is AH10.

2004-12-15

Manufacturer: PORSCHE CARS NORTH AMERICA, INC.
Components: SEAT BELTS
Summary: CERTAIN PASSENGER CARS FAIL TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 208, "OCCUPANT CRASH PROTECTION." ALL THREE REAR SEAT POSITIONS AND THE FRONT PASSENGER POSITION ARE EQUIPPED WITH SEAT BELT RETRACTORS THAT HAVE A LOCKING FEATURE WHICH CONVERTS THE RETRACTOR FROM AN EMERGENCY LOCKING RETRACTOR (ELR) MODE TO AN AUTOMATIC LOCKING RETRACTOR (ALR) MODE FOR THE PURPOSES OF CHILD RESTRAINT INSTALLATION. THE BELT MAY DEACTIVATE THE ALR MODE WITH CERTAIN CHILD RESTRAINTS.
Consequence: WHEN INVOLVED IN A CRASH, THE CHILD RESTRAINTS MAY NOT BE PROPERLY SECURED INCREASING THE RISK OF INJURY OR DEATH TO THE SEAT OCCUPANT.
Remedy: DEALERS WILL PERMANENTLY INSTALL A CLIP IN EITHER OF THE AFFECTED REAR OUTBOARD SEAT BELTS AND PROVIDE AN OWNER'S MANUAL INSERT. THE CLIPS WILL PREVENT UNWARRANTED CONVERSION FROM ALR TO ELR MODE WITH CHILD SEAT INSTALLATION. THE RECALL BEGAN MAY 17, 2005. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT PORSCHE AT 1-800-545-8039.

2004-05-17

Manufacturer: PORSCHE CARS NORTH AMERICA, INC.
Components: SEAT BELTS:REAR/OTHER
Summary: ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES, THE REAR SEAT BELT LATCH ATTACHMENT BOLT IS INSUFFICIENT RIVETED.
Consequence: IN THE EVENT OF A CRASH, THE SEAT OCCUPANT MAY NOT BE PROPERLY RESTRAINED INCREASING THE RISK OF PERSONAL INJURY.
Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE BELT BUCKLE LATCH AND, IF NECESSARY, REPLACE THE LATCH. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN ON JUNE 1, 2004. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT PORSCHE AT 1-800-545-8039.

2004-02-18

Manufacturer: PORSCHE CARS NORTH AMERICA, INC.
Components: POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
Summary: CERTAIN SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES MAY HAVE HAD A TRANSFER CASE INSTALLED THAT COULD, DUE TO CHANGES IN THE HOUSING CASTING, RESULT IN THE OIL PUMP ROTATION. SHOULD THIS OCCUR, OIL STARVATION OF THE INTERNAL GEARS MIGHT RESULT.
Consequence: CONTINUED OPERATION OF THE VEHICLE COULD RESULT IN A FRACTURE OF THE TRANSFER CASE HOUSING. INCORRECT TORQUE WOULD THEN BE APPLIED TO THE DRIVEN WHEELS OR OIL COULD LEAK AND CONTACT THE TIRES.
Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE TRANSFER CASE HOUSING AND, IF NECESSARY, REPLACE THE TRANSFER CASE. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN ON MAY 3, 2004. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT PORSCHE AT 1-800-545-8039.

2004-02-18

Manufacturer: PORSCHE CARS NORTH AMERICA, INC.
Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING:FRONT UNDERHOOD
Summary: ON CERTAIN SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES, THE MAIN WIRING HARNESS WAS INCORRECTLY ROUTED. DAMAGE TO THE MAIN WIRING HARNESS CAN LEAD TO THE FAILURE OF VARIOUS ELECTRICAL SYSTEMS.
Consequence: IN EXTREME CASES, TO A CABLE FIRE BENEATH THE INSTRUMENT PANEL IN THE PASSENGER COMPARTMENT.
Remedy: DEALERS WILL RE-ROUTE THE WIRING HARNESS. OWNER NOTIFICATION SCHEDULE BEGAN ON MARCH 29, 2004. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT PORSCHE AT 1-800-545-8039.

2004-02-18

Manufacturer: PORSCHE CARS NORTH AMERICA, INC.
Components: SEATS
Summary: ON CERTAIN SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES, THE DRIVER'S SIDE SEAT FRAMES WERE NOT ADEQUATELY WELDED.
Consequence: IN THE EVENT OF A CRASH, THE SEAT FRAME COULD BREAK, INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE DRIVER'S SIDE SEAT FRAME. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN ON MARCH 29, 2004. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT PORSCHE AT 1-800-545-8039.

2003-09-24

Manufacturer: PORSCHE CARS NORTH AMERICA, INC.
Components: EQUIPMENT:OTHER:LABELS
Summary: ON CERTAIN SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES, THE AFFECTED VEHICLES MAY BE MISSING THE GROSS VEHICLE WEIGHT RATING (GVWR) AND GROSS AXLE WEIGHT RATINGS (GAWR) ON THE CERTIFICATION LABEL AS REQUIRED BY PART 567.4(G)(3) AND (G)(4).
Consequence: THE VEHICLE OPERATOR WILL NOT BE INFORMED OF THE VEHICLE'S GVWR AND GAWR.
Remedy: DEALERS WILL APPLY THE CORRECTED LABEL. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN ON DECEMBER 22, 2003. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT PORSCHE AT 1-800-545-8039.

Additional sources

More sources of information about 2004 Porsche Cayenne turbo problems:

About to purchase '04-'05 Cayenne Turbo - Need advice/help ...

https://rennlist.com/forums/cayenne-955-957-2003-2010/677302-about-to-purchase-04-05-cayenne-turbo-need-advice-help.html

Jan 27, 2012 ... Common issues - coolant pipes (if not done factor $1800) and cardam shaft (broke on me at 65k-cost $800~). As probably the majority of the guys ...

Issues to look out for with high mileage 04 Cayenne Turbo ...

https://www.cayenneforums.com/threads/issues-to-look-out-for-with-high-mileage-04-cayenne-turbo.23822/

Sep 12, 2022 ... The car has two issues that need addressing right off the bat, the first being that the transmission valve body is failing causing erratic ...

Cayenne Turbo 03 -06' (955) known issues.. - Rennlist - Porsche ...

https://rennlist.com/forums/cayenne-955-957-2003-2010/777679-cayenne-turbo-03-06-955-known-issues.html

Sep 22, 2013 ... A common problem is harsh down shifts most commonly from 5th to 4th. It had to do with a sticking valve body silenoid. I believe the 03-04 are ...

I bought a 2004 Porsche Cayenne Turbo - 1 year of ownership : r/cars

https://www.reddit.com/r/cars/comments/grkqjz/i_bought_a_2004_porsche_cayenne_turbo_1_year_of/

May 27, 2020 ... Despite the issues it feels amazingly solid for the mileage and price. I think they are lots of car for the money if you can wrench, and if you ...