2023 Porsche Macan problems

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2023 Porsche Macan

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Common 2023 Porsche Macan problems

The Porsche Macan, a popular sports utility vehicle, has been reported to have several common problems by its owners. One of the most frequently reported issues is with the Porsche Communication Management (PCM) system. The PCM system is known to restart every 2-3 minutes, load in the wrong language, or turn on and off randomly. Many owners suspect that a software update caused these issues, but the exact cause remains unclear.

Another common problem is with the passenger side mirror, which fails to aim downward toward the curb when shifting into reverse gear. Instead, it aims skyward, making it difficult for the driver to see along the passenger side of the car when backing up. Porsche has a software revision that seems to resolve this issue once the appropriate module has been flashed.

The Macan back-up camera has also sparked a lot of debate among owners. Many drivers have complained that the image shown by the camera is extremely out of focus and hinders their ability to back up safely. Porsche upgraded the camera in later versions of the car, but for early versions with camera problems, only an upgrade will fix the issue. Third-party companies offer cameras that can be installed using the Porsche system, which are a little less expensive and generally solve the problem instantly.

The PDK transmission, a crucial component of the Macan, has also been reported to fail. The PDK is an automated manual transmission that consists of a manual transmission rear section and an automated dual clutch front section. The manual transmission rear section is very solid and reliable, but most issues occur with the electronic and hydraulically controlled clutch section at the front of the transmission. Physically, the PDK is a ZF transmission unit that has been around for a number of years. However, the electronic components of the PDK transmission are prone to failure, causing rough gear changes, transmission faults, and emergency transmission run warnings on the dash.

These are just a few of the common problems reported by Porsche Macan owners. While the Macan is a fantastic car to drive, it is not without its flaws. Owners should be aware of these issues and consider them when making a purchasing decision.

2023 Porsche Macan engine

What is the common problem with Porsche Macan?

The Macan's most common issues were cited as non-engine electrics and these accounted for 9.9% of issues. Bodywork issues racked up 5.6% of complaints, while 2.8% related to interior trim and another 2.8% to suspension.

Is the new Porsche Macan reliable?

The 2024 Porsche Macan has a predicted reliability score of 84 out of 100. A J.D. Power predicted reliability score of 91-100 is considered the Best, 81-90 is Great, 70-80 is Average and 0-69 is Fair and considered below average.

What are the changes to the 2023 Porsche Macan?

Interior Updates

When you want to let your Macan take over, an all-new ParkAssist button enables the Macan to steer when entering or exiting a parking space. The 2023 Macan's front seats are positioned higher to give you better road views while improved ergonomics keep you more comfortable on even the longest trips.

Is Porsche Macan 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.

2023 Porsche Macan car problems categorized by type of issue

After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Porsche Macan problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:

  • Forward collision avoidance problems
  • Vehicle speed control problems
  • Service brakes problems
  • Air bags problems

The graph below shows statistics for all 2023 Porsche Macan vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

2023 Porsche Macan complaints

The NHTSA has received 4 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2023 Porsche Macan.

2024-10-26

FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-09-27
  • Number Of Injuries: 1
  • VIN: WP1AF2A58PL
  • Components: FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
  • Summary: Brakes slammed on and hard left turn initiated. Collision warning light flashed. There was nothing in front of me. Action caused an artery to tear in my lung. Hospitalized with life threating injury. Car had recently received 1st year service. Called dealer service manager to report failure, he said the car could not do this. Car has not been inspected at this time. Lawyer advised not to drive car, but also said his team had no equipment to review failure, needed to be taken to dealer who would probably not work with him. There are many of these failures on the internet, Also have friends how have had similar issues multiple times. How do i proceed?
2024-10-24

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-10-20
  • Crash: 1
  • VIN: WP1AA2A54PL
  • Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,SERVICE BRAKES
  • Summary: I was pulling into a parking space going 3-5 mph when the car suddenly accelerated, jumped the curb and wouldn't stop. Yes, available for inspection 2. Car wouldn't stop- heading into a storefront with people outside 3. Not yet 4. Yes, dealer and pending with insurance rep 5. None
2024-01-25

AIR BAGS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-01-17
  • Number Of Injuries: 1
  • VIN: WP1AA2A52PL
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: Car sensor showed collision happening, without any external car onsite on a highway. And after pulling the car onto a safe place on the shoulder, upon hitting park gear the side rail airbags deployed. No accident happened to the car but airbags deployed unprovoked causing neck and face injuries to driver. Diagnostic report showed no damage to externally or undercarriage damage, with airbags deploying 18sec after sensor malfunction
2023-12-09

FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2023-12-08
  • Number Of Injuries: 1
  • VIN: WP1AF2A57PL
  • Components: FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
  • Summary: Vehicle suddenly slammed on brakes on highway I90 in Chicago for NO apparent reason at 25mph. The car came to an immediate halt and if not for shoulder cars behind me would have stuck me. I am afraid to drive car. Dealership down plays faulty sensor, car has 2,000 miles. What assurance do I have to trust new sensor. System not redundant. I had no control of my vehicle and my life was at jeopardy. I will not trust.cat. Porsche is aware of issue for years yet nothing done to resolve. Phantom braking concerns litter the internet

Negative 2023 Porsche Macan car reviews

  1. Alejandrin Beatty 2024-11-25

    I hope you're doing well! I noticed that you mentioned your 2017 Macan GTS had a smoother and more refined ride due to its electronic air suspension. Since there was no GTS available at the time, you decided to go for the 2020 S instead. Living in New York, you've experienced that most roads have a brutally harsh ride quality, but on the highway at high speed, it's a true sports car. It's fast and very well built. Without the GTS suspension, you wouldn't have made the deal or paid much less for the base Macan, not the S.

  2. Isai Ernser 2024-08-08

    Just a friendly heads up, I wanted to share my experience with our Macan. We've had some issues with it and have had to take it to the dealer a few times. If you're considering buying one, I would recommend getting an extended warranty and trading it in before the warranty expires. I noticed some cheap plastic components under the hood which was a bit disappointing. Just wanted to share our experience, but of course, everyone's experience may differ!

  3. Marcus O'Keefe 2024-07-19

    Hi there! I noticed that you mentioned that your downshift paddle shifters gears 5 thru 1 are not slowing down your vehicle in both auto and manual mode. It seems like the engine revs and the RPM's increase, but the transmission doesn't engage to slow the vehicle. Have you tried checking if there are any issues with the transmission? It might be a good idea to have it looked at by a professional. Let me know if you need any further assistance!

  4. Sheridan Donnelly 2024-05-08

    Hello! I hope you're doing well. I wanted to share my experience with my 2020 Porsche Macan that I purchased from Greenwich Porsche on 4/21. Unfortunately, I've been having some trouble with the brakes. They make a loud squealing noise, almost like an 18 wheeler, especially in stop and go traffic. When I reached out to Greenwich and Fairfield Porsche, they told me that this is a common issue with high performance brakes. However, I'm not convinced as none of my friends who own Porsches have ever mentioned this issue, and I haven't read about it in any Porsche writeups. I'm feeling a bit frustrated and concerned for my safety, especially since I paid cash for this vehicle. I'm hoping to find some information or advice on whether this is a common issue with Porsche Macan 2020 brakes or any Porsche brakes in general. Thank you for your help!

  5. Roger Spencer 2024-05-02

    The handling was really nice, but unfortunately, the Macan S had some bad turbo lag. Also, it's worth noting that it doesn't come with a flat bottom steering wheel.

Positive 2023 Porsche Macan car reviews

  1. Leo McLaughlin 2025-06-23

    After owning two VW Golf Rs, I decided to make a Macan S my daily driver. Even at almost 80 years old, I still wanted a car with a sporty character that was also quiet and spacious enough for a couple of friends and their golf clubs. I considered an Audi SQ5, which is nominally a better buy, but I found it too SUV-like in its driving characteristics. I also tested a Mercedes GLC AMG43, but I found it too truck-like, especially the one I drove with 21” wheels. The Macan S, on the other hand, met all my needs perfectly. It is exceptionally nimble for its weight, with a very tight turning radius. It is also bank-vault quiet at speed, with none of the annoying artificial engine sound that is pumped into my wife’s Audi S4. On European-like macadam roads, it rides with barely a ripple. On broken pavement, the ride is firm but never harsh. I intentionally purchased a Macan S with 19” wheels and without air suspension. I also want to heap praise on the comfort of the Macan’s seat and the quality of its Bose sound system. The quality of the sound system was a surprise, given that it only has 10 speakers. The fit and finish are impeccable. However, the back seat’s tight legroom and price are the car’s only real negatives. While mine, equipped with the Premium Plus package and Adaptive Cruise Control, priced out at “only” $72K, it is plainly lacking in the many bells and whistles that are common in many cars costing considerably less.

  2. Timothy Sauer 2025-06-17

    To fully appreciate this car, it's important to understand the technology and the costs associated with its upkeep. That being said, it's an incredibly powerful and enjoyable driving experience. While it may not be the most fuel-efficient option, the thrill of the ride is well worth it.

  3. Micheal Grant 2025-05-24

    If you're looking for a car that offers great performance, handling, and quality of assembly, then the extra money for the Model S 3.0 L V6 is definitely worth it. The cockpit is expertly engineered and configured with gauges, physical switches, and knobs that make driving an absolute pleasure. The new high resolution 10.2” touch screen is also responsive and intuitive to use, and comes with a complement of physical buttons. Surprisingly, the Model S 3.0 L V6 is more fuel efficient than expected, with a steady 70-75 mph yielding about 25 mpg. While the engine exhaust note is rather muted, the sport exhaust is a great option to consider. For a great starting point, the premium plus package is a good choice. If you opt for the 20/21 inch wheels, be sure to also get the PASM or air suspension. However, if you have 19 inch wheels, the standard steel springs are just fine.

  4. Estevan Hammes 2025-05-24

    We were searching for a replacement for our 2014 Audi Q5 3.0, which was sporty, peppy, and handled well. However, we were disappointed to find that Audi did not offer a comparable vehicle in 2020, and the ones they did offer did not perform in a similar manner. After test driving the Macan and Macan S, we quickly concluded that the S was a great replacement, albeit slightly more expensive and with less cargo space. The performance is nothing less than outstanding, as expected from a Porsche. The standard features and functions are excellent, but the few options we chose were quite expensive, which is typical for Porsche. The Premium Package and leather cost over $8000, and the mirror lights that warn of someone in your blind spot when changing lanes cost $700. After driving it for a year, we are extremely pleased with it in all New England driving conditions and are very happy to have it. There are a few minor issues that we wish Porsche would consider addressing, such as the analog instrument markings being hard to see in daylight, but the digital instruments are easy to see even with sunglasses. Additionally, the heated steering wheel on/off button is located in a position on the steering wheel that is hard to identify but easy to actuate unknowingly while driving. With memory seat and memory key, the Audi was smart enough to adjust the seat position automatically when you open the door based on your key. Porsche will do that only if the car is locked and you unlock it upon entry. Why not move the seat for the driver automatically? However, these are minor annoyances that are far outweighed by the performance and handling of this great vehicle.

  5. Mathias Grimes 2025-05-18

    I have driven both the base and the S models and found the base to be plenty quick. Porsche offers a wide range of options that can quickly add up in cost. However, I was able to build a really nice ride with the price difference. This particular Porsche is one of the nicest I have owned, going all the way back to a '59 cabriolet.

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Additional sources

More sources of information about 2023 Porsche Macan problems:

The Porsche Macan has A HUGE PROBLEM! Common fault with big ...
The Porsche Macan has A HUGE PROBLEM! Common fault with big ...
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_UdNVsRKDHg

Jan 23, 2023 ... We found a common fault on the porsche Macan and its causing big issues! water kills everything Follow me here to see what else I get up ...

What are some common issues with the 3rd Gen Macan (2022+)? ...
What are some common issues with the 3rd Gen Macan (2022+)? ...
https://www.macanforum.com/threads/what-are-some-common-issues-with-the-3rd-gen-macan-2022.189807/page-2

May 18, 2023 ... Gachnar. · Registered. 2018 Porsche Macan GTS. Joined Oct 5, 2020. ·. 1,308 Posts. #27 · May 20, 2023 · Only show this user · wenlong12121 said:.

Macan Reliability - Rennlist - Porsche Discussion Forums
Macan Reliability - Rennlist - Porsche Discussion Forums
https://rennlist.com/forums/macan/1337109-macan-reliability.html

Feb 16, 2023 ... All Macans are very reliable. Everything you read online is overstated. Most people go to car forums to see if their recent failure is common ...

Updated - New 2023 Gentian Blue Macan, New Problems :( | Page 4 ...
Updated - New 2023 Gentian Blue Macan, New Problems :( | Page 4 ...
https://www.macanforum.com/threads/updated-new-2023-gentian-blue-macan-new-problems.189434/page-4

Porsche put a new transmission in the car and extended the warranty for an extra 2 years. 2023 Macan S - Jet Black Metallic with Black/Red Bordeaux Full Leather ...

Any common issues with the Porsche Macan Turbo? - Porsche ...
Any common issues with the Porsche Macan Turbo? - Porsche ...
https://www.macanforums.co.uk/viewtopic.php?t=9463

Jan 12, 2020 ... There's the issue of the timing chain cover oil leak. ... to the undertray and ultimately drips onto a garage floor. Typically owners, or their ...

Other years of Porsche Macan

porsche macan 2015 photo
Macan 2015
Porsche

20

2

24

  • 5
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  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
porsche macan 2016 photo
Macan 2016
Porsche

0

1

34

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
porsche macan 2017 photo
Macan 2017
Porsche

52

6

24

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
porsche macan 2018 photo
Macan 2018
Porsche

23

5

31

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
porsche macan 2019 photo
Macan 2019
Porsche

9

1

35

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
porsche macan 2020 photo
Macan 2020
Porsche

11

2

41

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1

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