The enthusiast's choice among Cayennes. The 958.1 GTS (2013-2014) with the naturally aspirated 4.8L V8 has become highly sought after for its linear throttle response and characterful sound—these are increasingly collectible. The 958.2 GTS (2015-2018) switched to a twin-turbo 3.6L V6 with more torque and better efficiency. Main concerns center on the transfer case (extended warranty now available), coolant pipe leaks requiring engine removal, and air suspension O-ring failures. The V6 models can experience PCV valve issues and timing cover leaks. Both variants offer genuine Porsche performance in SUV form but demand diligent maintenance and a realistic repair budget.
Moisture contamination causes wet clutch binding and erratic AWD behavior · more· less
This is the most well-documented issue affecting 2011-2018 Cayenne models. The transfer case distributes power between front and rear wheels using a multiplate wet clutch. The original design had a vent hose ending on the lower side of the transfer case, allowing moisture to be sucked in and contaminate the fluid. This causes premature corrosion and rust, leading to clutch binding and erratic AWD operation. Symptoms include shuddering, hesitation, and drivetrain malfunctions. Porsche extended the warranty: 2011-2014 models get 10 years unlimited mileage coverage; 2015-2018 models get 7 years unlimited. Dealer replacement costs €4,500-6,500; independent rebuild services now available for approximately €1,500-2,000. Check if warranty extension still applies to your vehicle.
Glued-in coolant manifold fitting fails, requires engine removal to repair properly · more· less
The 4.8L V8 uses plastic coolant pipes in the valley between cylinder heads, connected to a cast manifold with glued fittings. The adhesive (Loctite 638) degrades over time, causing the pipe to detach and leak. Coolant first fills the engine valley, then spills onto the starter at the rear, potentially damaging it. Symptoms include pink/reddish coolant on the ground after driving and starting issues from damaged starter. The proper fix requires engine removal (€4,000-5,000 at dealers). Some owners have had success with temporary DIY repairs using JB Weld or updated Loctite, but dealers won't warranty these. Porsche now offers updated aluminum pipes to replace the plastic originals. Front coolant leaks from thermostat housing are less expensive: €1,000-1,500 including water pump and belt while it's apart.
Air suspension leaks€2,000 - €4,500
O-ring seals degrade causing overnight sag, typically after 100,000 km · more· less
Air suspension struts are sealed with O-rings that degrade over time, especially in cold weather. The classic symptom is the vehicle sitting low on one corner after sitting overnight in cold temperatures, then rising to normal height when started. Air springs can also develop leaks. Warning lights include "Chassis System Failure," "Chassis System Fault," or "PSM Fault." This is a closed system—any leak will eventually kill the air compressor if not repaired. Dealer pricing: €2,400-2,500 per corner for air spring replacement; €2,500-2,700 for compressor. Independent shops charge 30-40% less. DIY top mount O-ring repair costs only €50-150 in parts. The system is generally reliable—some owners report original components lasting 175,000+ km—but once leaks start, they often cascade. Budget €2,000-4,500 depending on how many corners need attention.
PCV valve failure (V6 models)€400 - €1,200
PCV system built into valve cover causes vacuum leak and rear main seal failure · more· less
On the 3.6L V6, the PCV (Positive Crankcase Ventilation) separator is integrated into the valve cover and cannot be replaced separately. When the PCV fails, it develops a vacuum leak causing lean running conditions and check engine light. More seriously, inadequate crankcase pressure relief causes pressure buildup under acceleration, forcing oil past the rear main seal. This is common on all VAG V6 engines. The repair requires replacing the entire valve cover assembly: dealer pricing €800-1,200, independent shops €400-600. Aftermarket external PCV conversions are available for approximately €50-100 in parts. Symptoms include rough idle, oil leaks from rear of engine, and lean fuel mixture codes. Typically occurs between 80,000-120,000 km.
Ignition coil failure€300 - €800
Heat damage causes misfires and rough running, typically around 50,000-100,000 km · more· less
Ignition coils are a known weak point on Cayenne engines. They suffer heat damage and electrical overload, both causing partial or total failure. Symptoms include check engine light, rough idle, and loss of power from misfires. While Porsche doesn't include coils in the maintenance schedule, they commonly fail at 50,000-100,000 km, sometimes earlier. Worn spark plugs with larger gaps can accelerate coil failure by requiring higher voltage. The V8 uses 8 coils, V6 uses 6. OEM coils cost approximately €50-60 each; dealer installation runs €800 for all coils. DIY parts cost: €300-400 for full set. Independent shops charge €500-650 installed. Forum members report finding coils with cracks running the length of the housing at 100,000 km. Consider these consumables like spark plugs—budget for replacement during major service intervals.
Water pump failure€1,000 - €2,200
Electric water pump fails causing overheating and coolant warnings · more· less
The 958 Cayenne uses an electric water pump integrated with the cooling system. Common failure symptoms include coolant warning light, engine overheating, poor cabin heating, and coolant leaks. The pump typically lasts 80,000-120,000 km before needing replacement. Standard replacement costs €1,000-2,000 including parts and labor. Parts alone run €300-600. If water pump failure damages the vacuum system (coolant can leak into vacuum lines), repair costs escalate dramatically—one owner faced €2,500 in parts plus €7,500 in labor (20 shop hours) for full vacuum system replacement alongside the pump. Symptoms of vacuum system damage include loss of brake assist. Using an independent specialist can save 30-40% versus dealer pricing. Consider replacing thermostat and serpentine belt simultaneously since they're accessible during water pump replacement.
Front timing cover gasket leaks oil, requires engine removal to repair · more· less
The 3.6L twin-turbo V6 (2015-2018 GTS) is known for timing cover oil leaks. The front main seal and timing cover gaskets can develop leaks, typically appearing between 80,000-120,000 km. Because of the transverse engine mounting in the Cayenne, the timing cover is only accessible with the engine removed from the vehicle. This makes what would normally be a €600-800 job into a €2,500-4,500 repair due to engine removal labor (8-12 hours). Oil Filter Housing and Oil Cooler seals also commonly leak as seals flatten from heat cycles; these are more accessible at €400-800 to repair. Forum members also note the engine needs a software flash at the dealer if not already done, to fix over-sensitive knock sensors. Monitor oil level and check for leaks during every service.
Aluminum bolts on camshaft adjusters can shear, causing catastrophic timing failure · more· less
This critical issue affects 2011 and early 2012 Cayenne models with the 4.8L V8 engine (S, GTS, Turbo). The aluminum/steel composite bolts holding the timing chain sprockets to the camshaft adjusters can shear, allowing free play and loss of cam timing. This causes rough running, check engine light, and fault codes for cam position sensor, misfires, and cam-to-crank timing errors. In the worst cases, bolt shearing causes complete timing failure and catastrophic engine damage requiring full engine replacement (€20,000-25,000). Porsche issued recall WC-22 for affected vehicles. If you're considering a 2011-2012 V8 model, verify the recall has been completed using the VIN with a Porsche dealer. The updated bolts are all-steel construction. This issue is rare on 2013+ models as the parts were updated during production. Not applicable to V6 models.
HVAC blower motor failure€150 - €1,200
Blower motor fails causing reduced airflow or rattling noise · more· less
The HVAC blower motor is a common failure point across all 958 variants, though it's relatively inexpensive to fix. Symptoms include dramatically reduced air pressure from vents (even though heat/AC still works), rattling or grinding noise from passenger footwell area, or complete blower failure. On the 958, the resistor pack and blower motor are integrated into a single unit that must be replaced together. Dealer pricing runs €1,000-1,200; independent shops €400-600. DIY parts cost €135-550 depending on OEM vs. aftermarket (VW Touareg equivalent parts fit and cost less). Installation takes under an hour—the blower is accessed from underneath without removing glove box, vents, or panels. This is a wear item that typically fails between 80,000-150,000 km.
Front control arm bushings€800 - €1,800
Bushings wear out causing clunking noises and poor handling, typically at 80,000-120,000 km · more· less
Front control arm bushings commonly wear out as the Cayenne approaches 100,000 km. On many Cayenne models, bushings are permanently pressed into the control arms, meaning the entire arm must be replaced rather than just the bushings. Symptoms include clunking over bumps, vague steering feel, and uneven tire wear. Full control arm replacement costs €1,600-1,800 at dealers for both sides; independent shops charge €800-1,200. Aftermarket polyurethane bushings are available from Powerflex for those willing to press out old bushings, but pressing them out can be difficult. Ball joints and tie rod ends often need replacement simultaneously, adding €400-800. Wheel alignment is mandatory after control arm work, adding €100-200. Budget €1,000-2,000 for comprehensive front suspension refresh at 100,000 km.
Solid SUV but needs proactive maintenance and realistic budget
The 958 Cayenne is among the most reliable Porsche SUVs, especially 2013+ models that avoid early production issues. The biggest concern is the transfer case, but Porsche's extended warranty covers many vehicles. Most other issues are predictable wear items or known problems with established solutions. The V8 models (2013-2014 GTS) are increasingly collectible but watch for coolant pipe leaks and VarioCam bolts on 2011-2012 units. The twin-turbo V6 (2015-2018 GTS) is efficient and powerful but can have timing cover leaks requiring engine removal. Budget €6,000-9,000 annually for ownership including maintenance, repairs, insurance, and fuel. Pre-purchase inspection from a Porsche specialist is essential—neglected examples become money pits quickly.
Pre-Purchase Inspection Checklist
General checks
Service history
Complete Porsche dealer or specialist records essential. Look for evidence of 10,000 km oil changes, transmission fluid service at 80,000 km, and transfer case fluid changes.
Tires
Check tread depth, age, and uneven wear. GTS models typically use 21-inch wheels with 285/40R21 front, 315/35R21 rear tires costing €350-450 each.
Cold start
Engine must start completely cold. Listen for unusual noises, especially timing-related rattles on V8 models. Check for white smoke which could indicate bore scoring.
Body condition
Check for accident damage, paint mismatch, and corrosion. Cayennes are often used for towing—inspect hitch area for signs of heavy use.
Test drive
Minimum 30 minutes including highway speeds, acceleration, and tight turns to evaluate AWD system.
Specific for this vehicle
Transfer case operation
During test drive, feel for jerking, hesitation, or shuddering when accelerating. Listen for knocking noises. These indicate transfer case issues. Ask about transfer case warranty extension status.
Air suspension level check
Car should sit level when parked cold. Sagging on one corner indicates air suspension leak. Check for "Chassis System Failure" warnings on startup.
Coolant system inspection (V8 models)
Look for pink/reddish coolant residue on ground or in engine valley. Check coolant level—low level suggests leaks. Inspect starter area for coolant damage.
Oil leaks
Check timing cover, valve covers, oil filter housing, and rear main seal area. V6 twin-turbo models especially prone to timing cover leaks.
VarioCam recall verification (2011-2012 V8)
If considering a 2011 or early 2012 V8 model, contact Porsche dealer with VIN to verify VarioCam adjuster bolt recall (WC-22) was completed. This is critical.
Service campaigns completed
Check for oil separator bulletin WC-55 (2011-2013 S/Turbo), wheel speed sensor warranty extension, and any other open campaigns using VIN at Porsche dealer.
Check engine codes
Have specialist scan for stored fault codes. Common issues throw codes for misfires, cam timing, lean conditions, air suspension faults.
HVAC blower test
Test blower at all speeds. Listen for rattling from passenger footwell. Check airflow strength—weak flow indicates failing motor.
Control arm and suspension bushings
On lift, check for torn bushings, excessive play in ball joints. Clunking over bumps during test drive suggests worn bushings.
Suspension alignment (Nov 2014 production)2015 models only - verify completed
Contact a Porsche dealer with the VIN to verify all recalls and service campaigns have been completed. The VarioCam bolt recall is critical for 2011-2012 V8 models. The transfer case warranty extension can save you €4,000-6,500 if your vehicle qualifies and has issues within the coverage period.
Warranty Status
Factory warranty (2 years)Expired on all 958 models
Transfer case extended warrantyCheck eligibility - may still apply
Porsche Approved extended warrantyAvailable for qualifying vehicles
All 958 Cayennes are outside their original 2-year factory warranty. However, Porsche extended the transfer case warranty: 2011-2014 models receive 10 years with unlimited mileage; 2015-2018 models receive 7 years with unlimited mileage. Calculate from the original in-service date to determine if your vehicle still qualifies. Porsche Approved extended warranties are available for qualifying used vehicles through Porsche dealers.
This report is for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional advice. Estimates may be inaccurate. Always have a qualified specialist inspect the vehicle before purchase. We accept no liability for decisions made based on this information.