Porsche Cayman problems
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Porsche Cayman model years
Common Porsche Cayman problems
The Porsche Cayman is generally considered a reliable vehicle, but there are some common problems that have been reported by owners. One of the most significant issues is the axle assembly problem, which affects the side carrier sections and can lead to fractures. This problem is particularly serious because it can impact the vehicle's control and safety, especially during high-speed driving. Porsche issued a recall in 2021 to address this issue, affecting nearly 5000 Cayman units in the US.
Another common problem is related to the airbag system. Some Cayman models have experienced issues with the airbag control module, which can lead to deactivation of the airbags and pose a significant safety risk. Porsche issued a recall in 2016 to address this issue.
Engine-related issues are also a concern for some Cayman owners, particularly those with first-generation models. The intermediate shaft bearing (IMS) can lead to improper crankshaft rotation and block the oil lines in the engine, causing stalling and other engine problems. This issue is more prevalent in the 911 and Boxster models but can still affect the Cayman, particularly the 2005 and 2006 models.
Electrical issues are also a concern for some Cayman owners. These can include excessive battery discharge and faulty equipment, such as the faulty hood latch that triggered a recall in 2014. There have also been reports of faulty seatbelt anchor plates and issues with the owner's manual not providing sufficient instructions for certain features.
When it comes to the worst Porsche Cayman years to avoid, the 2006 model from the first generation and the 2014 and 2015 models from the third generation are often cited as having the most issues. The 2006 model, in particular, is known for its engine-related problems, while the 2014 and 2015 models are associated with the axle assembly problem and airbag system issues.
Overall, while the Porsche Cayman is generally considered a reliable vehicle, it's essential to be aware of these common problems and consider them when purchasing a used Cayman. A thorough inspection by a local Porsche expert and obtaining a repair history on the car can help identify potential problem areas and ensure that the car is in good condition before purchasing.
Is the Porsche Cayman reliable?
Are Porsche Caymans Generally Reliable? On average, you can expect the Porsche Cayman to be fairly reliable. There aren't very many model years you should avoid, and most Porsche Cayman users don't have major complaints.
Are Porsche Caymans expensive to repair?
The average annual repair cost for a Porsche is $1,192, which means it has below average ownership costs.
What is the life expectancy of a Porsche Cayman?
Porsche Boxster and Cayman models have similar mileage of around 150,000 to 200,000. This translates into 11 to 15 years with average use. However, it's not uncommon for these two models to surpass the estimated lifespan.
Are Porsche Caymans any good?
Reliability. Porsche claimed 20th place out of 32 brands in our 2023 What Car? Reliability Survey – behind Toyota and BMW. The Cayman itself (with the Porsche 718 Boxster) came sixth out of 15 models in the sports cars section of the survey, which is pretty good.
Percentage distribution of complaints by Porsche Cayman years
We have researched Porsche problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Porsche Cayman cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Porsche Cayman model years:
Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Porsche Cayman model years.
Distribution of the number of complaints by Porsche Cayman years
We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:
Porsche Cayman car problems categorized by type of issue
After analysing all complaints related to Porsche Cayman , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:
- Power train problems
- Engine problems
- Air bags problems
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Unknown or other problems
The graph below shows statistics for all Porsche Cayman vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Distribution of the number of complaints with fire by Cayman model years
There were a total of 1 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 Cayman model years
There were a total of 1 complaints that resulted in a injuries. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
The NHTSA has received 35 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Porsche Cayman . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Porsche Cayman vehicles.
Latest 25 complaints
Porsche Cayman 2016
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-16
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-16
- VIN: WP0AA2A80GK
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: Tail lamps are prone to hairline cracks difficult to see, when driven in rain or car wash tail lamp floods and causes electrical system to short circuit resulting in death or accident in inclement weather due to low visibility.
Porsche Cayman 2016
- Date Of Incident: 2024-03-03
- Date Complaint: 2024-08-25
- VIN: WP0AA2A80GK
- Components: STEERING,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: Engine stalls when stopped if not in sport mode. Electronic gauge display for oil level is confusing and shows low oil level in green, causing the user to add oil when it is full. Steering rubs and knocks when turning.
Porsche Cayman 2015
- Date Of Incident: 2024-07-31
- Date Complaint: 2024-07-31
- VIN: WP0AB2A86FK
- Components: AIR BAGS,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: Porsche dashboard leather has strunk and separated from the main dashboard. My understanding is that in the event of an accident, this could interfere with the airbag's ability to deploy correctly. A Porsche dealer has reviewed but was unable to repair it. The next step would be to replace. I've discovered this is a very common issue with Porsche vehicles from model years similar to this one.
Porsche Cayman 2014
- Date Of Incident: 2023-12-15
- Date Complaint: 2023-12-15
- VIN: WP0AB2A8XEK
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: Code P1023 Fuel Pump pressure/ quantity too low at start. Rough Start when engine is cold, high pressure fuel pump appears to be leaking. Replacement part is out of stock, unavailable. Unsafe to drive, could start a fire.
Porsche Cayman 2007
- Date Of Incident: 2021-10-01
- Date Complaint: 2023-11-25
- VIN: WP0AB29817U
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: On the freeway the brakes began pressing themselves, lifting the pedal had no impact on the brakes being applied. I had to shift into 3rd gear and floor it to move off the freeway safely. The wheel weights fell off the wheels the brakes were so hot I had to keep away from the wheel. The tire was damaged from the heat and the sidewalls began to form cracks. It looks like this is a BRAKE BOOSTER failure as I have now read several people reporting the fix for it.
Porsche Cayman 2015
- Date Of Incident: 2020-07-26
- Date Complaint: 2022-11-03
- VIN: WP0AB2A8XFK
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: The Cayman S model with V6, 3.4L motor, commonly referenced as a 9A1 motor had been self destructing with increasing amounts of metal slivers/chips found in the drained oil, oil filter and oil filter housing. The in-warranty Porsche dealer "installed oil" was first inspected by my shop at 27,031 mi - alarmingly metal was found, PIC attached. Metal was non magnetic, appearing to be aluminium. Subsequent oil/filter inspections found the metal volume to be significantly increasing, PIC attached, putting the motor at risk of self destructing. Car was parked with only 29,509 mi in fear of having the motor blowup/lockup while driving at highway speeds. It would have the potential of stopping abruptly or locking up the rear wheels putting the car in a spin, possibly causing a crash. Risky. Without taking the motor out and disassembling, professional opinion and speculation indicates possible early main crankshaft bearing or rod bearing failure. Motor needs replaced (estimates from $25,000 to $45,000 depending on damage and whether a dealer or independent does the work.) The vehicle is currently parked and taken off the road. Too expensive to fix. Porsche North America offered no investigative or repair support because it is out of warranty. Disappointing customer support, with this being my fourth Porsche. Isolated incident or have others found a similar problem ????
Porsche Cayman 2016
- Date Of Incident: 2022-06-12
- Date Complaint: 2022-06-27
- VIN: WP0AA2A8XGK
- Components: VISIBILITY/WIPER
- Summary: Windshield washer hose has snapped at the hood hinge which is preventing clearing of the windsheild of debris and obscuring forward visibility. This part was replaced by the dealer in 2016 during the first annual service for reasons unknown to me and has now failed.
Porsche Cayman 2015
- Date Of Incident: 2022-03-31
- Date Complaint: 2022-05-12
- VIN: WP0AB2A82FK
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: The contact owns a 2015 Porsche Cayman. The contact stated that the vehicle was taken to the dealer for the rear housing axle carriers repair under NHTSA Campaign Number: 21V679000 (Power Train). However, upon picking up the vehicle, the rear suspension was unstable and drifted all over the road while driving. The contact was able to drive to his residence. The vehicle was taken back to the dealer who inspected the vehicle and completed a torque adjustment however, the failure persisted. The dealer was notified but did not provide any assistance. Additionally, the contact stated that the vehicle had not experienced a failure prior to the recall repair. The contact also stated that the engine was located at the rear of the vehicle, which presented a severe potential risk to safety. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and a case was opened. The contact was awaiting a call back from the manufacturer. The failure mileage was approximately 40,000.
Porsche Cayman 2016
- Date Of Incident: 2020-02-01
- Date Complaint: 2022-02-09
- VIN: WP0AA2A8XGK
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TRW Automotive Inc. Airbag Control Unit (Part No. 218737-124 RI; Serial No. 11050089RI; Produced: April 20, 2015) was equipped in 2016 Porsche Cayman VIN [XXX] by Porsche (Vehicle Production Date: June 29, 2015). In 2019, TRW recalled the aforementioned ACU in NHTSA 19E-043. In 2019, in response to the TRW recall, Porsche recalled 2016 Porsche Caymans in NHTSA 19V-533 but Porsche & the NHTSA failed to include 2016 Porsche Cayman VIN [XXX] (Vehicle Production Date: June 29, 2015) from this recall by setting an incorrect production date bracket starting at July 8, 2015 which is at least 9 days too late. The ACU failed during normal operation of the vehicle on February 1, 2020. INFORMATION Redacted PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6).
Porsche Cayman 2015
- Date Of Incident: 2021-11-11
- Date Complaint: 2022-01-21
- VIN: WP0AB2A84FK
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: My door panels are delaminating around where the side curtain airbags are located. It has me concerned about driving the vehicle if I was involved in an accident.
Porsche Cayman 2022
- Date Of Incident: 2021-12-08
- Date Complaint: 2021-12-08
- VIN: WP0AD2A8XNS
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE
- Summary: I received delivery of my vehicle this morning and put about 20 miles on it when I received an engine fault error and my vehicle check engine light came on while accelerating from a stop to about 15 mph before the issue occurred. I lost responsiveness and my engine was in “limp mode”. This occurred in traffic and I had to safely exit the roadway before calling roadside assistance to get it towed to the dealer. ODB error codes from a shop include: 2838-P0087 Fuel rail system pressure too low - short to plus 10591-P0301 Cylinder 1 misfire detected 10592-P0302 Cylinder 2 misfire detected 10593-P0303 Cylinder 3 misfire detected 851CH/34076 Undocumented code
Porsche Cayman 2014
- Date Of Incident: 2021-08-30
- Date Complaint: 2021-09-17
- VIN: WP0AB2A86EK
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: Fuel tank is rubbing against the body causing visible rub marks on the plastic tank itself. This is caused by foam pads either being misplaced or not installed at all from the factory. Porsche themselves have a TSB on it (SB-1403), but they will not handle the fix outside of warranty. This seems like a major safety issue where a plastic component holding flammable fuel is rubbing against the metal body and causing a potential failure point where fuel can leak onto hot components. Porsche has stated this is not a safety issue, but I cannot see how that is possibly the case. Many others online are facing the same issue and are getting quotes of $2k USD for the fix to be carried out. Please look into this as I do not feel safe driving my car knowing that the fuel tank can rub itself to failure at any point.
Porsche Cayman 2011
- Date Of Incident: 2021-08-27
- Date Complaint: 2021-08-29
- VIN: WP0AB2A81BU
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: The vacuum pump retaining screws vibrated out, causing an oil leak and reduced functionality of the braking system. This is the second 2011 Porsche Cayman S that I have owned to have this problem. The first cause a fire and I received minor burns from the incident. Fortunately this time no fire was caused and the vehicle is repairable. Please see NHTSA tracking number 11430927. I also spoke with a Porsche mechanic and was told he had seen this failure on several Porsche Cayman. I have not had the vehicle repaired yet, but will document the repair and retain the parts for inspection if needed.
Porsche Cayman 2011
- Date Of Incident: 2018-08-05
- Date Complaint: 2021-08-29
- Fire: 1
- VIN: WP0AB2A84BU
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: The vacuum pump (Porsche part number 9A1-110-090-02) cover retaining screws vibrated out causing the cover to damage the fuel lines and causing an engine oil leak. The fuel and oil were ignited by the exhaust or stray spark cause by the vacuum covers rotation and hitting other metal objects. This vacuum pump provides vacuum to the brake booster and during the event drastically reduces the ability of the car to stop. The car was quickly consumed by fire (30-45 seconds) and I received very minor burns to my left arm exiting the car (mid-engine so the flames were coming out from under the drives side rear tire). I no longer have the car or parts but do have a lot of photos of the damage
Porsche Cayman 2016
- Date Of Incident: 2020-07-25
- Date Complaint: 2020-11-17
- VIN: WP0AC2A88GK
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: THE VARIABLE VALVE TIMING ADJUSTER SPROCKET BOLTS HAVE A TENDENCY TO SHEAR UNDER HIGH LOAD. THIS IS A DOCUMENTED ISSUE THAT WAS ALSO COMMON IN SEVERAL OTHER PORSCHE MODELS OF SIMILAR PRODUCTION YEAR RANGES. THE VALVETRAIN LOSES TIMING, RESULTING IN A CATASTROPHIC ENGINE FAILURE WHICH DISABLES A VEHICLE. MY VEHICLE SUSTAINED SUCH A FAILURE AND THE CAR IMMEDIATELY WENT INTO "LIMP MODE." ALL THE VALVES ON ONE CYLINDER BANK WERE BENT. OTHER MODELS WERE RECALLED BUT THE CAYMAN AND BOXSTERS THAT CAME WITH THE 9A1 ENGINE WERE NOT. PORSCHE REPAIRED MY ENGINE BUT THEY PUT THE SAME PART NUMBER THAT FAILED BACK INTO THE CAR. THERE HAS NOT BEEN AN ENGINEERING REVISION TO THE PART, AND ANOTHER FAILURE IS POSSIBLE.
Latest 5 recalls Porsche Cayman
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 10 recalls for different components of the Porsche Cayman.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.
- Model: Porsche Cayman 2014
- Report Received Date: 2021-09-01
- Manufacturer: Porsche Cars North America, Inc.
- Components: POWER TRAIN:AXLE ASSEMBLY
- Summary: Porsche Cars North America, Inc. (Porsche) is recalling certain 2013-2015 Boxster, 2013-2014 Boxster S, 2014-2015 Cayman, Cayman S, 2015 Boxster GTS, and Cayman GTS vehicles. The rear-axle carrier side sections may fracture.
- Consequence: A carrier fracture may cause a loss of control, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will replace the rear-axle carrier side sections, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed January 6, 2022. Owners may contact Porsche customer service at 1-800-767-7243. Porsche's number for this recall is AMB7.
- Model: Porsche Cayman 2015
- Report Received Date: 2021-09-01
- Manufacturer: Porsche Cars North America, Inc.
- Components: POWER TRAIN:AXLE ASSEMBLY
- Summary: Porsche Cars North America, Inc. (Porsche) is recalling certain 2013-2015 Boxster, 2013-2014 Boxster S, 2014-2015 Cayman, Cayman S, 2015 Boxster GTS, and Cayman GTS vehicles. The rear-axle carrier side sections may fracture.
- Consequence: A carrier fracture may cause a loss of control, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will replace the rear-axle carrier side sections, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed January 6, 2022. Owners may contact Porsche customer service at 1-800-767-7243. Porsche's number for this recall is AMB7.
- Model: Porsche Cayman 2021
- Report Received Date: 2021-03-24
- Manufacturer: Porsche Cars North America, Inc.
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: Porsche Cars North America, Inc. (Porsche) is recalling certain 2021 Porsche Cayman GT4, Cayman GTS 4.0, 718 Spyder, and Boxster GTS 4.0 vehicles. The engine connecting rods may crack and loosen.
- Consequence: A loose connection while driving may cause engine damage, a stall, or an oil leak, increasing the risk of a crash or fire.
- Remedy: Porsche will notify owners, and dealers will replace the connecting rods or, as necessary, the engine, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed May 21, 2021. Owners may contact Porsche customer service at 1-800-767-7243. Porsche's number for this recall is AMA4.
- Model: Porsche Cayman 2021
- Report Received Date: 2021-03-10
- Manufacturer: Porsche Cars North America, Inc.
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: Porsche Cars North America, Inc. (Porsche) is recalling certain 2021 Porsche Taycan Turbo, Taycan Turbo S, Taycan, Taycan 4S, 911 Turbo S Coupe, Cayman, Cayman T, Cayman S, Cayman GT4, 911 Carrera Coupe, 911 Carrera S Coupe, 911 Carrera 4S Coupe, 911 Carrera 4S Targa, 911 Carrera Cabriolet, 911 Carrera S Cabriolet, 911 Carrera 4S Targa Heritage Design Edition, 911 Carrera 4S Cabriolet, 911 Turbo Coupe, 911 Turbo Cabriolet, 911 Turbo S Cabriolet, 718 Spyder, and Boxster vehicles. Certain suspension components may not have been tightened correctly and can loosen.
- Consequence: Loose suspension components may detach, causing a sudden loss of vehicle stability and control, and increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will replace the affected suspension nuts and bolts. Dealers will also inspect surrounding components for damage, and replace any damaged parts as necessary. Repairs will be performed free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed May 7, 2021. Owners may contact Porsche customer service at 1-800-767-7243. Porsche's number for this recall is AMA3.
- Model: Porsche Cayman 2014
- Report Received Date: 2019-12-11
- Manufacturer: Porsche Cars North America, Inc.
- Components: EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL
- Summary: Porsche Cars North America, Inc. (Porsche) is recalling certain 2014 Cayman and Cayman S, 2014-2016 911 GT3, 2016 911 GT3 RS and 911 R, 2018 911 GT3 and 911 GT2 RS and 2019 911 GT3 RS, 911 GT3, and 911 GT2 RS vehicles. The Child Restraint System (CRS) instructions within the Owner's Manual may not provide enough specificity for proper installation. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 225, "Child Restraint Anchorage Systems."
- Consequence: Improper CRS installation increases the risk of an injury to the occupant in the event of a crash.
- Remedy: Porsche will notify owners, and dealers will provide a an Owner's Manual supplement with proper CRS installation instructions, free of charge. The recall began February 7, 2020. Owners may contact Porsche customer service at 1-800-767-7243. Porsche's number for this recall is AKC0.
Latest negative Porsche Cayman car reviews
Latest positive Porsche Cayman car reviews
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Vehicle year: 2016
The cayman is what the 911 could have been; a true sports car in all aspects. It has the perfect balance by having a mid-engine, superb handling and chassis design, superior brakes, and sounds of engine/exhaust sure to excite enthusiasts...
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Vehicle year: 2010
I have owned my Cayman S for two short weeks and I must say, I am thoroughly impressed with its overall handling and performance. I traded in my Mercedes Benz SL 500 and I have absolutely no regrets. The styling, performance, and ease of handling have far exceeded my expectations!
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Vehicle year: 2010
Hi there! I hope you're doing well. I wanted to share my experience with this amazing vehicle that I bought back in January 2008. So far, I've put in about 1600 miles and I must say, having owned Bimmer, Mercedes, Lexus & Infiniti in the past, this car by far offers the most fun and exhilaration to drive. The engine puts out an unmistakable note that sounds almost like a symphony orchestra. I'm really happy with the car's acceleration & performance, and it averages 19.7 mpg. However, I do have a few complaints about the body integrity, stereo, and Tiptronic buttons. Unfortunately, the rear-end produces rattle noises, but I've taken it to the dealer three times, including a replacement of the tail-light assembly under factory service bulletin, and they still can't seem to fix it. Lastly, I think the Tiptronic buttons should really be paddle-shifters. Thanks for reading!
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Vehicle year: 2012
My 3rd Porsche, previously a 914 & a 924, ALL FUN, (total of 53 cars since 1957). The Cayman is perfect and I am 81 years young. The ONLY thing I will say against it is that, here in Canada in the winter with my all season Pirelli Pilots on, it is not very useful in snow of more than a smidgeon. That is where my Volvo S80 AWD comes out all the time.
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Vehicle year: 2012
Easily the most enjoyable driving experience I've had. Tremendous value as well. The vehicle is incredibly well-designed.
Are you having problems with your Porsche Cayman?
Darion Kirlin 2024-11-20
Vehicle year: 2010
This car is definitely a head turner in the looks department and can be quite fun to drive (when it runs properly). It also has some functional features such as cupholders and front and rear storage. However, I have had some unfortunate experiences with Porsche as a brand. I have owned two Porsches and both have been the most unreliable vehicles I have ever owned. This particular car has been in the garage every $5K miles due to various issues such as failed oil separator (2x), maf issues (2x), power steering leak, and more. It's quite puzzling to me how this car has received good reviews.
Ray Deckow 2024-11-17
Vehicle year: 2010
I like the car but have noticed that the headliner is sagging.
Candelario Haley 2024-11-06
Vehicle year: 2012
This car is definitely a head turner with its stunning looks and it can be a lot of fun to drive (when it's running properly). It also has some functional features like cupholders and front and rear storage. However, I have unfortunately owned two Porsches and both have been the most unreliable vehicles I have ever owned. This one seems to be in the garage every $5K miles due to various issues such as failed oil separators (twice), MAF issues (twice), and power steering leaks, among others. It's hard for me to understand how this car has received good reviews.
Elvis Fahey 2024-11-03
Vehicle year: 2016
What a great driving sports car! However, it's disappointing to hear about the sticky radio knobs, falling headliner, and peeling leather dash, especially considering the price point of almost $100,000.
Orville Stracke 2024-10-18
Vehicle year: 2016
Despite some drawbacks such as poor visibility, a cramped cabin, and average acceleration, this vehicle boasts great handling. While it may be challenging for taller individuals to enter and exit, it still holds its own against other sports cars, even when compared to my C7 Corvette.