Porsche Cayenne Buyers Guide 2011 – 2018

The Porsche Cayenne was first seen in late 2002 and went on sale in the US in 2003. Very rapidly the Porsche Cayenne became the top selling Porsche model and continued to hold that spot right up to the launch of the Macan in 2014. The idea of a family Porsche SUV came right on the back of Porsche switching the 911 to water cooled engines and launching the 996. This effectively split the Porsche community into two groups – one that sees Porsche as a classic air-cooled coupe car manufacture and the other that sees Porsche for what it is – a luxury SUV manufacture with niche coupe models and racing heritage.

This split in thinking is still raw in some circles today – one air-cooled specialist described to us that everything after the 993 was a toy and not a real Porsche!

Cayenne Maintenance and Repair Support

The second generation of the Cayenne (958 or 92A) lunched in 2011, is an everyday practical family SUV made by a luxury manufacture. Critically, finding the right expertise to take care of your Cayenne takes more than finding someone who claims to work on Porsche. There is a huge difference between the needs of the Cayenne versus air-cooled cars or high-end late model 911s. Some shops will frown upon the suggestion of working on the Porsche SUVs – they only want the 911 customer! Selecting the right type of shop to help you is critical. Look for dealer alternate shops that work on European brands. We list independent specialists who can typically save you 20% on the cost of maintaining your Cayenne versus dealer service.

The Popular Porsche SUV – 958 Cayenne

Generation two of the Porsche Cayenne is fun and exhilarating to drive, yet can be used as a practical SUV every day. Porsche refined the second generation of the Cayenne with use of more aluminum in construction, and no low range transfer case – this saved 400lbs in weight versus the previous version. A variety of engine changes and the short, and quietly forgotten diesel, were made to the 958 chassis. More performance options were added, infotainment improved, and the 958 was eventually given an exterior facelift in 2014 for the launch of the 958.2 version. The 958.2 saw engine changes and modifications to the all-wheel-drive system, along with bodywork, headlights, taillights, and interior updates. The 958.2 moved the Cayenne further away from the off-road truck and more toward the high-end luxury SUV for road use.

Cayenne Goes Hybrid

Porsche introduced the S Hybrid Cayenne model with the launch of the 958 Cayenne version. The original hybrid version included a large battery under the floor of the trunk and gave the Cayenne up to 22 miles of all electric power range. With the launch of the 958.2 facelift version of the Cayenne in 2014, Porsche also changed the hybrid model to be a plug-in S E-Hybrid version. The S E-hybrid was the first plug-in hybrid in the luxury SUV market.

Production Ends 2018

Porsche closed off production of the Cayenne 958 version in 2018 with over 535K models sold worldwide – sales in the USA represented approximately 339K of the total worldwide production.

The Porsche Cayenne 958 version was introduced in model year 2011 and improved on the previous version with:

• Refined exterior
• Longer wheel base
• 400lbs lighter
• No low range transfer case
• 8 Speed Tiptronic transmission
• New 3.6L V6 engines
• Tuned V8 engines
• Improved interior and materials
• Improved infotainment
• Hybrid drivetrain
• Improved handling
• More options

The 958.2 Cayenne facelift was introduced in 2014 for the 2015 model year and continued through to the end of production in 2018. The 958.2 introduced:

• Downsized twin-turbo 3.6L V6 engine for S and GTS models
• Turbo and Turbo S models retain V8 engine
• Active cooling flap technology introduced
• Updated sleeker headlights and taillights
• Redesigned hood, front bumper, and rear end bodywork
• Soft-close doors
• Modified AWD setup
• E-Hybrid plug-in model
• Revised interior and infotainment

The second generation Porsche Cayenne 958 is regarded as a rewarding and dependable luxury SUV. However, it does require expensive and timely maintenance to maintain it’s reputation as solid, practical, and fun to own. Most of the mechanical issues with the original Cayenne were resolved in the later 958 models. There are however, vulnerabilities and the potential for expensive issues with the all wheel drive transfer case – these are more likely on the 958.2 version.

More Luxury SUV

The 958 Cayenne started the move away from off-road rugged performance and set the direction more toward high end luxury. The 958 does not have the locking low-range transfer case of the original Cayenne, making it less practical for off-road projects. The focus of the 958 is definitely skewed toward luxury and a less aggressive feel. Even high performance Turbo models are somewhat understated and more refined.

Driving Dynamics and Feel

• Feels more like a sports car than an SUV despite large size.
• Good chassis that corners flat, with sharp, precise steering.
• Excellent suspension balance – smooth yet adaptive for higher speeds.
• Easy for long journeys – will cruise effortlessly all day long above the speed limit!

Build Quality & Interior

• High quality interior materials, fit-and-finish, combined with solid construction.
• Premium feel interior with low noise and no rattles.
• Seats are firm and comfortable for long-distance drives.
• Improved materials and modern cabin layout.
• Improved infotainment and driver aids.

Performance

• The V8 models deliver a robust, solid power feeling.
• The V8 engine delivers a muscle feel.
• 958.2 V6 turbo models are considered solid for daily use.
• Quick acceleration for size – Turbo model is very quick!
• Hybrid and Plug-in Hybrid option.
• Transmission is smooth and robust.

Off-Road & Practicality

• Confident performance in bad weather.
• AWD system is regarded as very capable in snow and rough weather conditions.
• Large rear cargo space, wide-opening tailgate, and roof rack options make it handy for family trips.
• Can tow up to 7,700 lbs – one of the strongest in its class.

Value

• Tends to hold value well due to the luxury brand name.

• Real world mpg is significantly less than tested – 12 to 15 at best.
• Infotainment – dated compared to newer versions and can have issues.
• Maintenance and repair costs – Porsche service and repair costs come with a luxury price tag.
• Transmission – maintenance required more frequently than recommended.
• Excessive brake wear – heavy SUV and soft powerful brakes equals quick wear.
• Hybrid economy is not as good as claimed in the real world.
• Expensive transfer case repairs.
• Lithium battery replaced in 958.2 is expensive.

The 958 Cayenne comes in two flavors of hybrid. The second version is a plug-in hybrid and offers increased battery range. While both versions are slightly more fuel efficient than the equivalent ICE version, the potential for disaster rises exponentially. Problems with the hybrid system are expensive to repair and battery replacement can exceed the value of the car. Common issues on the hybrid include:

• Misreporting of system health – Some vehicles report 100% battery health, yet deliver only about a third of expected EV range.
• Complete failures – Battery failures can be crippling and easily exceed the value of the car.
• Hybrid battery lifespan is unpredictable – Some report long-lasting batteries, others fail within the lifespan of standard batteries.
• Hybrid controller and coolant pump issues – High-voltage controller defects are common and replacement parts often do not solve ongoing issues.
• Battery overheating – Early NiMH batteries are prone to overheating, triggering dashboard warnings and potential safety risks.
• Repair knowledge – limited sales of the hybrid versions have caused a lack of knowledge and experience in making repairs. This increases your costs and risks of owning a hybrid.

We live in a world where speaking the truth is often considered “offensive.” So, do we dare criticize the attempt to save fuel, go greener, and be more efficient? Yes, frankly, the 958 hybrid version of the Porsche Cayenne as a used car is financially a significant risk and one that we highly recommend you avoid.

The Cayenne is now more than 20 years old and most have covered substantial mileage. As a result, independent specialists have developed extensive knowledge of these cars’ common mechanical issues and maintenance requirements. Independent specialists can typically save you 20% on the cost of maintaining your Cayenne versus dealer service.

A thorough PPI and some historical research into the Cayenne you want to buy should reveal the details of the maintenance history. Pay special attention to the transmission service history and the maintenance or repair of the transfer case.

Porsche Options and Acronyms

Porsche offers a wide range of build options that allow buyers to customize nearly every aspect of their vehicle, from performance upgrades and wheel designs to interior trims and driver-assistance systems. Options and performance technology typically attract an acronym!  So, it’s easy to get lost between your PSM, PDCC or PADM when shopping for a used car. In our acronym and options section we list and explain the most common acronyms you’re likely to see when shopping for a used Cayenne.

Most vehicles in the USA are not factory ordered by the original owner and typically configured with less available options. Some options were included as a basic requirement for specific market trims. When shopping and comparing prices on a used Cayenne, check the installed options thoroughly. Some options, for example PASM, PSE, or Sport Chrono can add significant value to the car in question.

These are the build options for the 958 Cayenne range:

Exterior Options

• Paint-to-Sample (PTS) – Special-order Porsche colors.
• Wheels – Multiple designs, sizes from 17 inch to 21 inch.
• Roof options – Standard steel roof, tilt/slide sunroof.
• Full panoramic roof.
• Tow package – factory trailer hitch and wiring.
• Running boards or side steps.
• Roof rails black, silver, or deleted.
• LED headlights.
• Privacy glass / heat-insulating glass.

Interior Comfort & Luxury

• 18-way power adjustable seats
• Adaptive sport seats.
• Upholstery – Leatherette, smooth leather, natural leather, Alcantara.
• Heated seats front & rear.
• Ventilated seats.
• Memory package – linked to key settings – KESSY.
• Rear seat package – split-fold, sliding adjustments.
• Steering wheel options – standard, multifunction, or wood/carbon/aluminum trim.
• Interior trim – painted, wood veneer, aluminum, or carbon fiber.
• Bose audio system or later Burmester.
• Rear-seat entertainment system.

Technology & Infotainment

• PCM – larger more modern navigation – CarPlay.
• CD changer / DVD navigation.
• Phone module / Bluetooth.
• ParkAssist.
• Rear-view camera

Chassis, Performance & Handling

• Air suspension (PASM) – Adjustable ride height + damping.
• PDCC (Porsche Dynamic Chassis Control) – Active anti-roll bars.
• Locking rear differential.
• Off-road Tech Package – Included locking rear diff, skid plates, hill descent control.
• SportDesign package – Aero kit, side skirts, unique bumpers.
• Sport exhaust – PSE.
• PCCB – ceramic brakes.

• Cheap to buy, expensive to own – Running cost can exceed resale value.
• Late base models depreciate by 50%.
• S, GTS, and Turbo models depreciate less quickly.
• Watch out for neglected high-mileage examples on the market.
• Good well maintained models command a premium.
• Base V6 models are simple, less powerful, generally more reliable, and cheaper to maintain.
• V8 models offer great performance, but have higher risk for big-ticket repairs.
• Collector interest – 958.1 GTS 6-speed manual – very rare.
• Turbo S models are starting to climb in value.

The 958 Cayenne models are not yet at the bottom of the curve for depreciation – expect to loose some value for resale. Prices are very much conditional upon mileage covered, repair history, and maintenance history. Buy the best-maintained one you can find:

• Base VR6 models – $12,000 – $25,000
• 958.1 Cayenne S – $18,000 – $35,000
• 958.2 Cayenne S – $30,000 – $50,000
• 958.1 Cayenne GTS – $20,000 – $32,000
• 958.2 Cayenne GTS – $30,000 – $50,000
• Cayenne Turbo – $40,000 – $71,000
• Turbo S – $48,000 – $60,000

Introduced in the USA in 2010, the second generation of the Cayenne continued as the largest portion of Porsche sales until the launch of the Macan in 2014. Porsche sold approximately 127K models in the USA during the 958 production. Once you start to delve into the market in detail, and the model specifics, you find some models are quite rare – especially given the number that have been neglected or have high mileage.

Compare the Cayenne 127K sales total to the Ford F series at 6.2 million over the same period, and you start to see why a good Cayenne is rare, and also why expertise on the Cayenne is not so commonplace.

Most of the good and certainly the rare examples of the 958 Cayenne are going to end up at a Porsche sales specialist we list on our resource page. These cars will attract a premium price, might be on consignment sale, or at a quality auction site when they become available.

You might be lucky. Sometimes, you’ll find an excellent example or a diamond in the rough in an unusual spot. Nobody is going to sell a Porsche cheap, unless 1) they incorrectly perceive problems with the car or 2) there are real problems with the car or 3) they have no clue! Your job is always to be better informed than the seller. The market drives down the price of good examples, so there are still bargains to be found if you shop carefully.

958 Cayenne Base

• 3.6L VR6 narrow angle V6 engine
• 296 HP
• 295 lb-ft torque
• All wheel drive
• 8 speed Tiptronic S transmission

958 Cayenne S Model

• 4.8L V8 engine
• 395 HP
• 369 lb-ft torque
• All wheel drive
• 8 speed Tiptronic S transmission

958 Cayenne S Hybrid

• 3.0L V6 supercharged engine + electric motor
• 380 HP
• 428 lb-ft torque
• All wheel drive
• 8 speed Tiptronic S transmission
• 288V NiMH non-plug-in battery

958 Cayenne GTS Model

• 4.8L V8 engine
• 414 HP
• 380 lb-ft torque
• All wheel drive
• 8 speed Tiptronic S transmission

958 Cayenne Turbo Model

• 4.8L V8 twin turbo engine
• 493 HP
• 516 lb-ft torque
• All wheel drive
• 8 speed Tiptronic S transmission

958 Cayenne Turbo S Model

• 4.8L V8 twin turbo engine – tuned with higher boost.
• 542 HP
• 553 lb-ft torque
• All wheel drive
• 8 speed Tiptronic S transmission

958 Cayenne Base

• 3.6L VR6 narrow angle V6 engine
• 300 HP
• 295 lb-ft torque
• All wheel drive
• 8 speed Tiptronic S transmission

958 Cayenne S Model

• 3.6L V6 twin turbo engine
• 414 HP
• 369 lb-ft torque
• All wheel drive
• 8 speed Tiptronic S transmission

958 Cayenne S E-Hybrid

• 3.0L V6 supercharged engine + electric motor
• 410 HP
• 435 lb-ft torque
• All wheel drive
• 8 speed Tiptronic S transmission
• 288V NiMH non-plug-in battery

958 Cayenne GTS Model

• 3.6L V6 twin turbo engine
• 434 HP
• 443 lb-ft torque
• All wheel drive
• 8 speed Tiptronic S transmission

958 Cayenne Turbo Model

• 4.8L V8 twin turbo engine
• 542 HP
• 553 lb-ft torque
• All wheel drive
• 8 speed Tiptronic S transmission

958 Cayenne Turbo S Model

• 4.8L V8 twin turbo engine – tuned with higher boost.
• 562 HP
• 590 lb-ft torque
• All wheel drive
• 8 speed Tiptronic S transmission

With the launch of the 2015 958.2 Cayenne facelift, Porsche made some significant changes to the engines in the Cayenne range:

• Base model – minor updates to V6 3.6L engine
• S Model – downsized to 3.6L V6 twin turbo
• GTS Model – downsized to 3.6L V6 twin turbo
• Turbo models – updated V8

Cayenne 958 S model features:

• Larger capacity V8 engine until 2015
• 2015+ V6 twin turbo engine
• 120+ more HP
• 100+ more lb-ft torque
• 2 seconds quicker 0-60mph time
• Higher top speed
• Larger brakes
• 19 inch standard wheel size
• Dual exhaust outlet
• Upgraded leather interior with sportier seats
• Power tailgate
• Typically $5K to $10K premium in used market depending on condition

Cayenne 958 GTS model features:

• Tuned V8 engine until 2015
• 2015+ tuned V6 twin turbo engine
• 20+ more HP
• 11+ more lb-ft torque
• Quicker 0-60 mph time
• Higher top speed
• PASM sport suspension setup lowered by 20mm
• Wider suspension setup
• Sporty body kit
• Larger brakes
• Standard sport exhaust
• 20-inch wheels
• Alcantara interior with sportier seats, revised trim
• Typically $8K to $12K premium in used market depending on condition

Cayenne 958 Turbo model features:

• Twin turbo V8 engine
• 90+ more HP
• 140+ more lb-ft torque
• Quicker 0-60 mph time
• Higher top speed
• Sportier suspension setup lowered by 24mm
• PASM tuned air-suspension setup
• Turbo front and rear bumpers
• Larger brakes – optional PCCB
• 21-inch wheels
• Typically $14K to $22K premium in used market depending on condition

Cayenne 958 Turbo S model features:

• Twin turbo V8 engine
• 50+ more HP
• 40+ more lb-ft torque
• Quicker 0-60 mph time
• Slightly higher top speed
• PDCC suspension
• PASM tuned air-suspension setup
• Standard PCCB brakes
• 21-inch wheels
• Upgraded interior trim
• Typically $20K premium in used market depending on condition

The 958 launch of the Cayenne in 2011 saw the introduction of the Cayenne Diesel. The diesel version had lots of torque and way better fuel consumption as you would expect from a diesel engine. Unfortunately, in 2015, the EPA and CARB announced that the Volkswagen Group (VW, Audi, Porsche, etc.) had installed “defeat devices” in their diesel engines. These devices were special software programs in the engine control unit (ECU) that could detect when the car was undergoing emissions testing and switch the car into a low-emissions mode. The diesel could then pass the U.S. nitrogen oxides emission regulations. However, as soon as the car returned to the road, the ECU switched back to “normal” mode and the Cayenne produced up to 40x the legal limit of nitrogen oxides (NOx). Yikes!

Only a limited number of Cayenne diesel models were sold in the USA – some say less than 1500 total. Subsequently, the whole diesel idea and the resultant debacle were swept under the rug and quietly forgotten.

All Cayenne models use the Aisin TR-80SD 8 speed Tiptronic S transmission. A manual transmission was also available for the 958.1 Cayenne but less than 3% of owners chose that option and it was subsequently discontinued. The 958 models have varying shift maps to produce faster and smoother shift patterns to match each model.

The transmission is smooth and conservative in shifting to match the SUV design. Tweaks to the software enabled the GTS, Turbo and Turbo S model to change gear a little quicker and the steering wheel shift buttons enable a manual shifting mode. The transmission has proved highly reliable and typically goes 200K miles provided regular maintenance has been performed.

Porsche offered a mix of standard and optional setups for the suspension on the 958 Cayenne that make a huge difference in how the SUV drives and also the repair costs.

The standard coil spring with passive damper suspension is rugged, durable, and less forgiving over bumps. It is easy to maintain, reliable, and easy to diagnose issues. As the suspension has aged, components such as lower control arms and dampers need to be replaced to maintain alignment and ride quality.

Many higher models were fitted with an optional air-ride suspension setup. The air-ride suspension became the standard fitment for the GTS and Turbo models with PASM included and the PDCC option available. The air-ride suspension was tuned for normal ride height level based on model type – the Turbo and GTS riding 20+mm lower than the S model for example.

The air ride suspension features include:

Multiple ride heights

• Loading level (very low for cargo)
• Normal road level
• Off-road level
• Special off-road level (maximum height, ~273 mm ground clearance)

Multiple modes – damper setting

• Comfort
• Normal
• Sport

Both the suspension and the components that support it were improved through the Cayenne generations. Air-ride failures tend to be more expensive to repair – struts, valve-blocks, and compressors for example have a luxury price tag. Check the type of suspension fitted to the 958 model you intend to buy – what’s fitted will affect your ride home quality and your wallet!

Interior Likes

• Solid build quality with heavy doors and quality feel.
• Driver-focused layout with clear gauges and improved displays.
• Firm and supportive seats that hold up well on long drives.
• Good visibility and commanding feel behind the wheel.
• High-end leather, wood trim, quality materials, and optional colors.
• Multi-function steering wheel.
• Heated seats front and rear.
• Versatile rear seats split 40/20/40 and fold flat.
• Quiet cabin and low road noise.
• Large cargo area with lots of storage.
• Infotainment improved with 958 – larger screen in later versions.
• Switches much improved with 958.
• Multi-color ambient lighting on later models

Interior Dislikes

• Base model plastics seem less refined.
• Switches are not always clear in functionality.
• Alcantara option can wear quickly.
• 958.1 dated PCM infotainment lacking phone connectivity.
• Limited rear seat comfort for long journeys.
• Hybrid version has reduced cargo space

• Carrara White Metallic
• Black
• Jet Black Metallic
• Cayenne Red
• Moonlight Blue Metallic
• Volcano Grey Metallic
• Agate Grey Metallic
• Mahogany Metallic
• Chalk
• Lava Grey Metallic
• Dolomite Silver Metallic
• White Gold Metallic
• GT Silver Metallic
• Sapphire Blue Metallic
• Deep Black Metallic
• Ruby Red Metallic
• Night Blue Metallic
• Jet Silver Metallic

The timing chain in the VR6 engine connects the crankshaft with the camshafts and correctly times the movement of the valves and pistons. The chain runs over a number of plastic guides and is held tight by a chain tensioner. Over time, the chain can stretch, the tensioner becomes weaker, and the guides wear out. The result is a chain rattle at engine start and eventually a loss of engine timing. This leads to misfires and potentially significant damage because the valves can make contact with the pistons – this is known as interference and is expensive to fix.

For any VR6 engine Cayenne, check the history for repairs associated with the timing chain, guides or tensioners. North of 100K miles this job is inevitable and many engines don’t make it that far. The work is expensive and requires the right skills – see specialist shops that can help you.

Failure of the water pump and thermostat assembly are common on the V8 Cayenne engine. Check the history to see if the work has been completed before. Both the water pump and thermostat were updated with the revised versions being more durable than the original. If this work has not been completed before, expect to have to replace the water pump and thermostat sooner rather than later.

The work is not difficult and can be completed without too much complication. Failure of either the water pump or thermostat can cause catastrophic overheating, so it’s important to know when this work was done or if it needs to be completed soon. A thorough PPI should examine these areas for coolant leaks which is a sign of upcoming problems. However, the thermostat can fail by becoming stuck open or closed with no leaks visible. Checking the engine warm up cycle and testing for coolant flow is the best way to determine thermostat health.

The 958.2 version of the Porsche Cayenne features active cooling flaps. These are small electronically controlled shutters in the front grille that open or close to improve aerodynamics, engine warm-up times, fuel efficiency, and cooling efficiency. Complete failure of the cooling flaps will set a check engine light for associated codes – typically P05A0–P05A3, and can also cause overheating or slow warm-up in cold weather climates.

Symptoms include: engine runs hotter than normal, cooling fans stay on, or check engine light on dash.

The typical causes are:

• Faulty actuator motor
• Stuck flap due to debris, corrosion, or ice
• Broken plastic flap hinges

Make sure during a PPI that a thorough visual inspection of the grille area for leaves, dirt, or broken flaps is conducted. Replacement of the assembly is expensive.

The 958 Cayenne V8 engines experienced a number of ongoing issues with ignition coil failure. Check the history on the Cayenne you are looking to buy to see if this work has been completed. Most likely it has – not many early 958 Cayenne models would have made it this far without replacing the ignition coils.

A failing ignition coil typically stops any spark and sets a misfire code with a completely dead cylinder. This will cause rough running, especially at idle. However, coils can also part fail, where a weak spark causes misfires to occur when the cylinder is loaded under acceleration. Resetting the cylinder and clearing the CEL fault will cause the engine to run well at idle but set the fault again when driven more aggressively. Pushing the engine a little on a test drive is a good thing to do to check the health of the ignition coils.

Oil leaks from any engine are commonplace. On the Cayenne, the most common leaks occur in the valve covers, and camshaft adjuster seals of the V8 and the rear main seal in the V6. A thorough PPI should identify any oil leaks and what work is necessary to resolve the leaking oil. You should note where the oil is leaking from and also where it is going. On an old Cayenne you might tolerate the odd drop of oil on the floor, however, if the oil is leaking on to the exhaust or the engine wiring harness, then potential catastrophe awaits in the form of a fire with the exhaust or major engine electrical problems in the case of the wiring harness.

Turbo Engine Oil Leaks

The Cayenne Turbo models and the 958.2 V6 turbo models are subject to oil leaks from the oil supply lines to the turbos. This leak is messy and dangerous as the turbos are extremely hot and likely to burn the oil or cause a fire. The oil leaks in the turbo supply lines in the V8 often cause owners to move on and sell the car. Repair work to replace the turbo oil supply lines is very expensive and complex – less so in theV6 model. In addition, low oil supply to the turbos causes them to wear quickly. The recommended work calls for replacing the oil supply lines and rebuilding the turbos.

The later Cayenne 958 engines feature a high-pressure fuel pump driven from a camshaft. The high-pressure fuel pump is subject to failure and typically, it initially sets a check engine light and faults associated with the fuel rail pressure.

Typical symptoms of a failing high pressure fuel pump include:

• Delayed start of the engine or long crank time
• Hesitation or sputtering in acceleration
• Lack of power
• Higher engine temperatures
• Engine stalling and being difficult to restart

Misdiagnosed High Pressure Fuel Pump

Lack of fuel in the engine fuel rail sets faults for low fuel pressure. The obvious candidate is the high pressure fuel pump, however, the high pressure fuel pump cannot do its job if no fuel is being delivered to it. The low pressure fuel pump in the tank can also fail and cause misleading symptoms and misdiagnosis of the high pressure pump. Low pressure fuel pumps in the Cayenne have been updated a number of times and will commonly fail.

The early 958 Cayenne V8 engine has a series of coolant pipe connectors that are glued into their aluminum housings and over time the glue seal begins to fail and coolant leaks out. There are two likely spots for this to occur – the front of the engine or the rear of the engine close to bell housing and the transmission to engine joint.

During the PPI it’s important to establish that these joints are not leaking or at least to confirm that they have been updated to the later metal connection along with the coolant distribution pipe. Coolant leaking at the back of the engine can be an expensive and complex problem to solve.

Some models of the 958 Cayenne feature the start/stop system for fuel saving. If you are driving in stop and go traffic this can contribute to better fuel economy. It can also be rather annoying and many people turn it off! When shopping for a pre-owned Cayenne, try to establish where the Cayenne has been driven during it’s life. If you suspect more city driving, then there is a good chance for more use of the start/stop feature and a significant increase in the wear on the starter motor. That might mean having to replace it sooner rather than later and can be an expensive job.

The 8 speed Tiptronic S transmission in the 958 Cayenne is extremely reliable. Some early Porsche Cayenne 958 owners experienced a heavy downshift from the transmission. In many circumstances this was accompanied by much louder gear shifts and clunking sounds from the transmission.

The problem was often mis-diagnosed as a physical failure in the transmission itself, when the more likely cause was in fact the valve body assembly within the transmission. The valve body is an electro-mechanical device the redirects the pressurized transmission fluid through a valving system to enable the physical gear changes. Failure of the mechanism can lead to some wild gear shifts and unpleasant noises. Check the Cayenne you plan to buy for history of work to replace the valve body assembly.

Transmission Maintenance

The Tiptronic transmission in the Cayenne was described as having a lifetime fluid. As a result, maintenance on the transmission has never been performed on Cayenne models on the used market today. Subsequently, the maintenance cycle for the transmission was reduced to 8 years or 80K miles. So, what’s important to determine is if the Cayenne you are looking to buy has had any transmission maintenance performed in it’s lifetime. The general rule is, if no maintenance has been performed, leave the transmission alone. However, if maintenance has been performed historically, it is better to continue to perform maintenance on the 80K schedule.

The Porsche transfer case or all-wheel-drive controller is the core mechanical unit within the all wheel drive system that makes the Cayenne capable of intelligently distributing power to all four wheels based on driving conditions.

The transfer case is a gearbox-like housing bolted to the back of the main transmission:

• Uses a multiplate clutch pack and electronic control to vary the torque split between the front and rear axles.
• Managed by Porsche Traction Management (PTM).
• Constantly adjusts power flow to axle based on wheel slip, throttle position, steering angle, and stability control inputs.

Failure of the transfer case has become a common issue on all wheel drive Porsche models. Porsche extended the warranty on the transfer case for the Cayenne and revised the technology. However, the transfer case remains a potential weak point and an expensive repair. Recommended maintenance for the transfer case has been increased as a result of common failures. Porsche now recommends the transfer case fluid is exchanged more frequently than the original lifetime recommendation!

Transfer Case History on Used Cayenne

Replacing the transfer case or all-wheel-drive controller on the Cayenne is a $5K job, so understanding the repair history on the transfer case of the used Cayenne you plan to buy is important. Use the vin number with a Porsche dealer to check the warranty on the transfer case in the car first. Check the history for replacement of the transfer case and maintenance history for all wheel drive controller fluid replacement. If the Cayenne you plan to buy has no history of work or replacement, you should budget to complete this work at some point in the future. See Cayenne common problems for symptoms associated with the transfer case.

Your going to be hard pressed to find an older Cayenne that hasn’t had work completed on the front axles. Over time, the movement and flexing of the rubber boot sealing the CV joint in the axle, will cause the boot to fail. Harsh road chemicals or hot dry environmental conditions can speed up this process. Eventually, the CV boot cracks and the grease comes out. The axle joint dries out and begins to wear rapidly.

With consistent maintenance and ongoing inspections, this problem can be identified early, and often replacing the boot and repacking the joint solves the problem. However, with so many Cayenne models being neglected, the replacement of axles has often been the best solution.

Make sure at a PPI that the axles are checked thoroughly for signs of wear on the CV boots. If you need to replace an axle the work is heavy, expensive, and problematic.

There are third party axle assemblies on the market with varying degrees of quality. Having the original factory axle rebuilt is the best choice – this assumes the original axle is still in the Cayenne you plan to buy!

The 958 Cayenne models have dated infotainment systems. The 958.1 was shipped with PCM 3.1 and the facelift 958.2 was upgraded to the PCM 4.0 version.

958.1 2011–2014
PCM 3.1 Screen size – 7-inch touchscreen.

• AM/FM/CD/DVD.
• Optional hard-drive–based navigation.
• Bluetooth phone + audio.
• USB/iPod connectivity.
• Optional BOSE or Burmester premium sound
• No Apple CarPlay or Android Auto
• Slower, older graphics compared to later units

958.2 – 2015–2018
PCM 4.0 Screen size – 7-inch touchscreen with improved resolution & faster processor.

• Faster navigation, 3D maps, online services
• Improved Bluetooth and media streaming
• Smartphone integration improved but still no CarPlay until late 2017–2018
• Optional Connect Plus module enabled WiFi hotspot & app integration
• Much more responsive than PCM 3.1
• Better menu layout, easier to use

Significant repairs or replacement of the PCM system is an expensive option. There are third parties who offer more cost effective repairs of the system depending on malfunction. We suggest you check the functionality of the PCM thoroughly before completing your purchase and have low expectations of successful interactions with the PCM. Common issues with the PCM include:

• LCD pixels fade or lines appear, making the screen unreadable.
• CD navigation drive failure.
• Screen freezes, lags when changing menus, system reset needed.
• Amplifier failure and no sound.
• MOST bus failures – connection between the devices is lost.
• No Bluetooth connectivity.
• Phone connectivity can be sketchy.
• Backup camera / park assist integration problems.

HVAC functionality is often overlooked by buyers and sometimes at a PPI too. The Cayenne has known issues with the blower motor and blower motor resistor that governs the fan speed. Test the HVAC thoroughly for all fan speeds and the correct redirection of air flow through the cabin outlets. Make sure you have cold air with AC and warm air with heating control.

Replacing the blower motor and resistor are fairly straightforward and common. Replacing the motors that control the flow of air through the airbox to the cabin outlets (feet, face, screen) is an expensive proposition. Removal of the dash may be necessary and that’s not a job most people would ever wish to undertake!

Part of the annual maintenance schedule for the Porsche Cayenne is the clearing of roof water drains. However, this has been overlooked and not carried out in many circumstances. The resultant damage from blocked roof drains can be extensive and a class action law suit was filed against Porsche.

Porsche Sunroof Drains

The Cayenne has 4 drains that take water away from the roof and send it through a tube to an exit point low on the bodywork. These drains can become blocked with debris from leaves, dust and general road dirt. They can also fail or split. Once the drain is blocked, water backs up in the pipe until the pipe gives way or it finds another way out. Unfortunately, the exit point for the water typically seems to be close to sensitive electronic equipment. Water ingress usually results in unusual electrical behavior and is often difficult to pinpoint.

Finding  Water Leaks in Your Cayenne

For the Cayenne you plan to buy, check thoroughly for signs of water in the trunk or inside the passenger cabin by the front windshield – blocked or failed roof drains are normally the root cause. The water can very quickly enter the wiring harness, electrical connectors, and control modules near the leak. The replacement of control modules is expensive and often requires additional security programming. Water entering the trunk can also damage the trunk mechanism, exterior lighting, and the trunk interior. Check the history on the Cayenne and see if control modules have been replaced in these areas.

At a PPI ask that the roof drains are thoroughly inspected and declared free to drain. If they are not clear and you purchase the car, clear the drains as quickly as possible afterwards.

Your PPI should include feedback on the health of the battery. Most batteries have a useable life of approximately 5 years. After that, battery performance starts to decline and the battery will eventually fail. Check the age of the battery and the CCA output. See our article on battery health.

This is not as easy as it sounds – the battery is located under the driver seat. The seat needs to be unbolted and tilted backwards with some trim removed to access the battery. Worth paying extra on a PPI to understand the type of battery installed and it’s health before making you purchase.

Check What Type of Battery is Installed

Typically you would expect to find an AGM (Absorbent Glass Mat) battery in most 958s because of high electrical demand. However, commonly overlooked is that some higher trims or facelift models included a lightweight lithium-ion battery option. The cost to replace the lithium-ion battery is usually above $2K and can come as a shock to many unaware owners.

The brakes on the Cayenne are generally excellent with the GTS, and Turbo model featuring larger brakes with drilled rotors. Brake pad material does degrade over time – check on low mileage examples to see when the last brake service was performed. The brake fluid history should show a change every few years regardless of mileage. Also, measure the amount of brake pad material remaining – you want more than 3mm. At the 3mm mark the brake pad wear sensor will trigger the replace brake pads message. This should be reported back with your PPI.

A complete brake service with pads, rotors and sensors can be quite expensive. So, if you’re buying from a used car vendor, look for new pads on old rotors. Both the pads and rotors should always be changed at the same time. Used car centers are famed for just replacing the pads and leaving on the old rotors. “The car has new brakes” – not if the rotors weren’t changed it doesn’t!

Some performance Cayenne models have drilled brake rotors. Look carefully to see how clear the drill holes are and make sure there are no cracks between the drill holes. Cracks between the drill holes can lead to a much bigger crack developing and rotor failure very quickly under heavy braking. A failed brake rotor when you are trying to stop quickly is an unpleasant experience in a large SUV!

Brake fluid has a limited lifetime. Older cars have often skipped the brake fluid service, so it’s important to determine the health of the brake fluid on the Cayenne you plan to buy. Check the history for the last brake fluid flush in the service records. If the last brake fluid service was more than 2 years ago, we recommend you complete a brake fluid service sooner rather than later.

The brake fluid you see in the reservoir maybe be clean and look healthy. This is not a good test. What you can’t see is what matters – the fluid in the caliper at the end of the line the reservoir connects too. Despite the fluid in the reservoir being clean, the fluid in the caliper could easily be burnt and degraded.

Some Cayenne models were fitted with the optional Ceramic Composite Brakes – the Turbo S model as standard. This option is typically associated with yellow brake calipers. During the PPI it’s important to be sure of the type of brakes fitted to the Cayenne you want to buy. If the car is fitted with the PCCB option and the brakes need to be replaced the cost will be between $10K and $20K.

Upside of having PCCB brakes:

• Massive weight savings
• Reduces rotational mass for better handling and ride
• Superior heat resistance
• Significantly longer lifespan – 100K miles possible
• Virtually no brake dust

The downsides of PCCB brakes:

• Very expensive replacement cost
• Slightly less initial bite when cold – not dangerous, just noticeable
• Susceptibility to chipping or damage if not handled correctly

The Porsche Cayenne 958 has an electric tailgate with self closing and self opening features. The tailgate on later models can be configured for the height of opening and can be operated from an exterior handle, cabin switch in the driver’s door, the key fob, and a close button on tailgate edge. The tailgate features a soft close via an electronic latch that pulls the tailgate closed and later models have the kick under the rear bumper option to open.

The tailgate has a reputation of being finicky and can experience a number of issues:

• Stops mid-close or mid-open  – tailgate reverses, beeps
• Doesn’t open to saved height – only opens halfway despite memory set
• Won’t latch fully – closes but warning shows tailgate open
• Rattles or clicks when driving – noise from rear hatch area
• Slow to respond in cold weather – moves sluggishly or stops

Many of these issues have been addressed with revised parts such as the motor assembly, latch assembly, and struts. In some circumstances the operation of the tailgate needs to be recalibrated using the PIWIS.

Check the operation of the tailgate thoroughly on any used Cayenne you intend to buy. Likely the history will show some repairs to the tailgate.

The Cayenne suspension is extremely durable and should not have any issues given the age of the vehicle. However, rubber bushings and struts can be worn with age or spirited driving. Listen for clunks or squeaks and check for fluid leaks from suspension struts. The most common issues are as follows:

Worn Control Arm Bushings

• Symptoms: Clunking noise over bumps, uneven tire wear, loose steering feel.
• Cause: Original rubber bushings degrade over time.
• Fix: Replace control arms or bushings.

Failed Lower Control Arms

• Symptoms: Clunking, instability under braking, poor alignment retention.
• Fix: Replace with OEM or upgraded units

Top Mounts / Strut Mounts

• Symptoms: Squeaking, clunking over bumps, poor ride quality.
• Fix: Replace top mounts.

Worn or Leaking Shocks or Struts

• Symptoms: Bouncy ride, nose dive when braking, poor cornering stability.
• Fix: Replace shocks or struts

Sway Bar End Links & Bushings

• Symptoms: Clunks or rattles during cornering.
• Fix: Replace worn end links or sway bar bushings.

Alignment & Ride Height Issues

• Symptoms: Pulling to one side, excessive inner tire wear.
• Fix: Get a professional alignment, ideally from a Porsche specialist. Many Cayenne models can be misaligned due to aged components.

Many 958 Cayenne models were fitted with air ride suspension. The ride quality and performance is enhanced, however, the air ride suspension is less reliable than the standard suspension setup. Check thoroughly to understand what type of suspension is included on the model of Cayenne you intend to buy. Air ride suspension repairs can be expensive and the skills needed to correctly diagnose issues are not commonplace. More detail on the air ride suspension issues in our Cayenne common problems section and see our recommended Porsche repair shop list for more help.

PASM Option with Air Ride Suspension

PASM is a suspension option that constantly makes adjustments to the shock absorbers while your drive. PASM dynamically controls the damping force based on the feedback from road conditions or driving mode you choose. This enables the suspension to be controlled based on performance – comfort for longer drives, versus tight, firm suspension for more aggressive driving. PASM faults can be complex to diagnose and potentially expensive – especially with the wrong diagnosis!

Thoroughly check the suspension repair history of the Cayenne you plan to buy if it includes the PASM suspension option.

Uneven tire wear, especially on the inner rear shoulders, often points to worn rear control arms, poor toe setting, aggressive camber settings, and general poor alignment. Rear tires are expensive and an alignment issue will quickly degrade the tire. This should be revealed in the PPI.

Check tire DOT dates — anything over 5 years old should be replaced, even if tread looks good. Low-mileage cars often have old, degraded tires that can fail despite the minimal wear level. With a used Cayenne and low mileage, you will likely need new tires because of their age rather than because they are worn. Knowing the DOT date allows you to plan for when the tires will need to be replaced.

The Cayenne 958 is fitted with a variety of newer style headlights depending on the individual build options and model. The option packages included daylight running lights, dynamic cornering function, and PDLS plus. Some models featured black tinting inside the headlight.

It’s important to understand which option is included with the Cayenne you are interested to buy. The difference between simple bulb replacement and headlight unit replacement is substantial. Check the headlight functionality and the condition of the lenses thoroughly. Check for condensation or cracks that could lead to condensation. Replacement of the headlight unit is expensive, with the enhanced lighting package option typically more than $2K per light unit. Control modules for the headlights may also require additional coding if replaced.

If you don’t know what to expect when a headlight goes out on your used Cayenne, you might be in for a nasty expensive shock.

Most Cayenne models are used everyday, so 10K miles per year is normal. Maintenance should be based on elapsed time and physical inspection, not just mileage. We recommend working with a specialist Porsche shop from our list to assess maintenance needs based on condition and elapsed time. Our guide to maintenance on the Cayenne covers everything you need to know about efficiently servicing your Cayenne. If you have further questions or concerns about the maintenance requirements of your Cayenne, you may find answers that can help you in our guide to Cayenne maintenance service questions.

Maintenance Service Dash Messages

The Porsche Cayenne will display a variety of maintenance-related messages on the dash to remind you of service intervals. These appear in the central multifunction display and can vary depending on model year and the PCM (Porsche Communication Management). Check the PCM in the car you want to buy and scroll through the remaining time and mileage in the maintenance area. The guide should indicate the time to the next service and what type of service is due. There is a significant difference between the cost of an annual service and a major service interval every four years. Understanding what service is due next, what’s included in that service, and the cost of the maintenance interval, can help you plan for your ongoing ownership cost.

Many dealerships are limiting service to newer vehicles, often turning away Porsche models over 10 years old due to a lack of technicians trained in older cars and an increasing focus on EV cars. The original 958 Cayenne models are just on the cusp of that problem.

In contrast, independent shops usually have decades of experience, offer a more personalized service, and often allow customers to see and understand the work being done on their car first-hand. In addition, independent shops are typically exposed to the other brands in the Porsche group and have experience with those brands that can be helpful with some of the Cayenne systems – such as VAG engines. We recommend you use a local recommended Porsche repair shop for your Cayenne. Expert Porsche shops can save you 20% on Cayenne maintenance compared to dealer service.

The first thing you have to do with almost any 958 Cayenne on the used car market today, is to be sure the maintenance is up to date. Often that’s not simple, so completing a full inspection and putting the Cayenne you buy into the best starting position with all maintenance freshly completed is the way to go.

With the maintenance up to date, create a maintenance plan based on inspections and the advice from a repair shop. We recommend you budget $120 a month for routine maintenance service, covering annual, intermediate, and major maintenance over four years. Plan extra for new tires and brakes based on mileage and condition.

Additional costs include repairs, insurance, and taxes. Repair costs can vary dramatically depending upon the issue that needs to be resolved, and typically work on the Cayenne is difficult and attracts more labor time with expensive parts. We suggest budgeting a further $80 per month to cover likely repairs over a four year period.

Recommended maintenance for the transfer case or all-wheel-drive controller has been increased as a result of common failures. Porsche now recommends the transfer case fluid is exchanged more frequently than the original lifetime recommendation! It’s very likely that this has not been completed on a used model. Check the history thoroughly and if in doubt have the all wheel drive controller oil changed to match the 8 years or 80K mile marker.

Availability of spare parts for the Porsche Cayenne 958 is good. Porsche has supported the Cayenne well through its parts program. Many original parts were revised and reused on the later chassis. Many components are still in production or at least readily available through after-market suppliers via OEM manufacturers. Parts that are harder to find include interior trim components and sensors, headlights, and infotainment system replacement parts – many of these can be sourced through the used parts market.

Once you’ve found a potential Cayenne, your first step should be a thorough inspection by a Porsche specialist. A pre-purchase inspection (PPI) can uncover hidden mechanical issues that aren’t obvious at a glance. It’s important to use a competent and experienced shop to perform the PPI. Providing the shop with any known repair or maintenance history on the car will help them with a detailed assessment. Even if the Cayenne is cheap, it’s still worth spending a few hundred dollars to get a thorough PPI.

The inspection should uncover the details of the mechanical wear on the Cayenne and the general condition. What you also want to know from the report is what’s next. Before making the purchase, you want to know the extent of maintenance work needed on the car in the next few years. Use our maintenance guide for the Cayenne to map the history to your next maintenance steps. You also want to know the age and health of the battery and the DOT on the tires.

The PPI Should Check Fault Codes and Emissions Readiness

Before buying any car, it’s crucial to check when the OBD fault codes were last cleared and to verify the emissions monitor status. A seller can easily clear codes just before your test drive, which also resets the emissions monitors to “not ready.”

Since emissions tests require multiple drive cycles, hidden issues may not reappear for many miles. During a PPI the shop should confirm that the emissions system shows “ready” – this indicates the car has been driven enough since the last reset and isn’t hiding recent faults.

How Hard Has the Car Been Driven – Over-Revs

Revving an engine to the red line is safe and even healthy for Porsche engines when done correctly. A proper gear change at redline may briefly raise RPM slightly—this is normal and harmless. With the Cayenne transmission the potential for over-revving the engine through a manual transmission gear miss shift has been eliminated. High range over-revs are therefore extremely rare.

Recorded Events

Fortunately, Porsche’s engine management system logs key data, including engine over-rev events. The ECU permanently records engine hours and when these events occurred.

There are six over-rev levels, from minor redline hits to extreme, potentially engine-damaging RPM spikes. Lower-level events often just show spirited driving, but higher-level over-revs may indicate serious stress and events that could shorten the engine life. During a PPI you want to know what over-rev details are recorded in the ECU – the Cayenne should never have events above level 2 recorded.

Specific models and production ranges of those models can require repairs under manufacturer recalls. It’s worth checking to make sure that the pre-owned Porsche you plan to buy is up to date with the recalls required on the specific model. You can do this most effectively with:

National Highway Traffic Safety Administration

or directly with Porsche:

Porsche Recall Lookup

Camshaft Adjuster Bolt Recall

One of the most important recalls affecting Cayenne models with the 4.8L V8  during 2010–2012 model years, was the failure of the camshaft adjuster bolts. All V8 engine Cayenne models were recalled and it’s very unlikely you’ll find a V8 Cayenne from those years that has not already completed the work.

Issue – Aluminum bolts securing the camshaft adjusters were prone to shear off. The failure could cause immediate engine shutdown, loss of braking, power steering, and put the driver in an extremely dangerous situation.

Resolution – Cam adjuster bolts were replaced through workshop campaign WC22 and a safety recall AH08.

If you are looking to buy a V8 Cayenne model from the 2010 through 2012 production timeframe, make sure to check that this work has been completed under the workshop campaign or recall.

The original build sheet for the Cayenne you are interested to buy will tell you what was included during production. Understanding the actual build and options included with the Cayenne can give you an accurate picture of the relevant value to other cars for sale. Many options included with the car are not easy to determine visually without the help of the original build sheet. Most of the options on the car will be described using acronyms or abbreviations. The better informed you are and better understanding of exactly how the car was built, gives you the very best information you need to plan for maintenance and repairs in the future.

For example – it comes with pretty yellow calipers. Typically that means PCCB and a very expensive brake job in the future! Look for highly desirable options that maintain value such as PASM, Sport Chrono, PSE, etc.

If you find a helpful and willing person at a Porsche dealer, using some charm you may be able to persuade them to provide you with a copy of the build sheet and window sticker for the car you plan to buy. The seller should provide this information to backup their claims of the vehicle for sale. If all else fails, try an online resource such as Vin Analytics

There are often very genuine reasons why a car is for sale. We all move on, however, older cars are often put up for sale when mechanical issues are deemed too expensive. Dig deep and if possible, understand why the car is for sale.

If you’re buying from a used car dealer, find out where they sourced the Cayenne. A Porsche-focused dealer is a good sign. But if the dealer typically sells budget minivans, proceed with caution. Who trades in a Porsche at a used car lot that doesn’t specialize in them? Often, it’s someone offloading a car with hidden issues, betting the dealer won’t notice. Do your homework. Older Cayenne models are likely to appear at general used car dealers. Typically, they wont really understand what they have in their possession – your job is to find out if they have a great car for sale or if the Cayenne is one they are just blissfully unaware of potential issues. After reading this guide, you’ll often know way more than the seller – that’s a good thing!

Most cars are advertised using the model year or registration year. This can be misleading. The production year runs August through July. That means cars produced in August through December are described as the following year’s production e.g. September 2001 production is often called a 2002 model year car.

Why Does This Matter?

The answer is parts, recalls, updates, and real value. The actual production date is critical to understand the likely components fitted on the car. In the Cayenne case, the recalls and campaigns happened in a specific production window. Knowing the actual production date for the Cayenne you plan to buy can help you determine the real value of the car and the potential for issues.

10K miles per year is considered good condition for most cars. The Cayenne is an everyday use SUV, so higher mileage is to be expected. What’s important to discover is how the maintenance for the Cayenne changed over the mileage covered and its frequency – that will likely tell you more about the health of the car versus the total mileage covered. Pay particular attention to the maintenance history on the transmission and all wheel drive transfer case.

High speed freeway driving versus around town local driving can have a serious influence on the overall engine and transmission condition. Long drives at higher speeds tend to produce less wear as opposed to lots of cold starts and short journeys. Look at the location of the owners and make a judgement based on the mileage recorded over the time the owner used the car. Higher mileage recorded over a shorter time is not necessarily a bad sign – this suggests less start/stop short journeys and longer individual trips – potentially healthier than low mileage.

While low mileage on a Cayenne is very appealing, it can come with its own set of issues. Infrequent use often means missed service intervals, leading to age-related wear in fluids, seals, tires, and brakes. Lack of maintenance based on time is risky. For example, spark plugs should be replaced every 10 years, regardless of mileage, and brake fluid flushed every 2–3 years. Tires too may have good remaining tread but can still be unsafe if over 5 years old.

Low-mileage cars often demand a premium, but be sure to budget for catch-up maintenance after your purchase. Pay particular attention to the transmission maintenance performed and all wheel drive transfer case maintenance.

For most Porsche cars, the number of previous owners matters less than the car’s maintenance history and overall condition. What really matters is how long each owner had the car and how well they took care of it. If you see an increasing number of owners over a decreasing amount of time, that may well be a sign of neglect. You are likely to see a good maintenance history during the initial ownership period, followed by an increase in the number of owners and a decrease in the amount of maintenance performed.

There are several good ways to check the title status on a vehicle available. All you need is the vin number.

• National Motor Vehicle Title Information System (NMVTIS) – Government-backed, very reliable
• Carfax – Detailed history reports
• AutoCheck – Similar to Carfax
• VINCheck (NICB) – Free check for theft/salvage

Understanding where the car has been in the country can give you some clues as to its history of use. Cars in the south are likely to have been driven regularly as the weather does not preclude the enjoyment of the Cayenne. However, cars in northern states are often subjected to more road chemicals and more harsh conditions. Climate too can be a factor. Hot and dry versus high humidity has different effects on the health of rubber components, fluids, and interior trim for example.

This is a common question and not one that is easily answered. All Cayenne model year production has some potential for issues that you should pay close attention to. The earlier production 958 Cayenne has definitely experienced more problems, but most were fixed under warranty, recalls, or revised parts. There really isn’t a production year to avoid at all – more important is understanding the maintenance and repair history of the Cayenne in question. For sure, the Cayenne improved with age, so later models are significantly more desirable.

As luck would have it, the Porsche you really want is on the other side of the country! This used to be an issue, but these days buying cars out of state is commonplace. There are technology based tools to enable a smooth transaction and help minimize the risks, and excellent ways to transport you car home.

Tips for Buying a Porsche Out of State

• Start with a thorough online evaluation
• Get detailed photos: exterior, interior, engine bay, undercarriage, and tires.
• Request a walkaround or live video call (FaceTime or Zoom) to confirm condition.
• Run a VIN check
• Use Carfax, AutoCheck, or VinAudit to check for accidents, title issues, maintenance history etc.
• Get an option list or build sheet using a vin decoder
• Get a Pre-Purchase Inspection (PPI) with a local Porsche specialist
• Use an escrow service for the transaction
• Insure the car before transport to you

Transporting the Car – Recommended Car Carriers

Some buyers like to fly in, put their hands on the car, complete the transaction and drive home. In many cases this is not practical, and so buyers turn to shipping companies to transport their new purchase directly to their home. If you’re buying from a Porsche sales specialist, they will likely have an option and can recommend a car shipping company they typically work with. Here are some shipping companies that we have worked with that offer excellent service:

Montway

Reliable Carriers

Preowned Auto Logistics

U.S. Luxury Shippers

Intercity Lines

Recommended Porsche Repair Shops You Can Trust

We researched the whole country to identify local Porsche repair shops that you can trust with your car. Our recommended Porsche repair shops, service centers, mechanics, and specialists provide Porsche repair, service, maintenance, diagnostics, and classic Porsche restoration services that can help you.

All versions of the Cayenne are easy to drive, park, and have fun in everyday. Owning a Cayenne feels less like having a family SUV and more like owning a cross between a Porsche sportscar and a German tank. The Cayenne is generally well-built, and comfortable, yet gives you that built like a tank feel on the road while moving along quite quickly. You’ll find it easy to drive on the morning commute and reassuring when the rain or snow hits on your journey home.

Porsche is a luxury brand, so while you have the brand experience, don’t be surprised when maintenance and repair costs reflect the same level of luxury. The Cayenne requires more expensive maintenance than many of it’s competitors and the more timely the maintenance, the better the Cayenne performs in the long run.

Cayenne Everyday Experience

• Comfort – The Cayenne is comfortable and practical for daily use. With optional PASM (standard on some models), it rides well even over broken pavement and is quite forgiving. Optional air-ride suspension makes the ride even smoother for long journeys, and changing to a sport mode provides the tight sportscar feel you’d want from a Porsche.
• Interior –  Driver focused, well laid out, and high-quality feel. Good solid upscale materials that last well and feel upscale. The sloping center console running into the dash, is lined with physical buttons for climate, suspension, off-road settings, and seat functions etc. lots of buttons to learn!
• Seats – 8-way power adjustable with firm German sport-oriented bolstering. Optional 14-way or 18-way Adaptive Sport Seats with adjustable bolsters, ventilation, and memory are included with some models.
• Space – The Cayenne has enough room to fulfill the SUV requirement. However, the rear seats are little tight on leg room for long journeys. The cargo area is practical for most things, but the sloped hatch limits tall items. Two sets of golf clubs can be done and rear seats do fold and split 40/20/40 if extra space is needed.
• Infotainment – The PCM is a little dated and can have issues. Later models are slightly better with the updated version of the PCM, but it’s probably best to have low expectations for the infotainment system.

Performance & Driving Feel

• Driver Interaction –  The Cayenne talks to you and feels good on the road. The steering is tight and well-weighted and the overall feel is stable, planted, and sharp to respond to input. Cornering feels balanced and you can be confident of keeping your foot in through twisty turns.
• Performance – The base 3.6L VR6 is OK around town, however, for real power the Turbo V8 model performs at very track competitive levels. The S and GTS V8 models have good throttle response and are more than fast enough for the practicality of getting home quick after a weekend away. The later 958.2 V6 twin turbo models have good power and better efficiency.
• Interior Noise – Porsche added extra sound deadening to the Cayenne on the later models. The difference is negligible. The cabin is quiet enough to still enable the awkward silence if you’d like one.
• Exhaust and Engine Tone – The engine and exhaust tones from the Cayenne are a quiet balance between sports car and family SUV. The 3.2L VR6 always sounds a little louder while you push it, but the V8 models have an excellent deep powerful sound. The exhaust is refined and just enough to be recognizable as a performance car. The 958.2 versions are quieter and engine tones less noticeable.
• Fuel Consumption – It’s an ICE Porsche – do you care? Well, if you do, 11 through 18 miles per gallon is the likely average landing spot. That’s representative of a sporty SUV that is designed to be driven and enjoyed. You can get the Turbo model down to single digit miles per gallon real easy if you try!

Cayenne Recommended Maintenance Intervals

Maintenance on the Cayenne is due annually, with an intermediate service at 2 years or 20K miles, and a major service at 4 years or 40K miles. The annual inspection on the older Cayenne is critical to help determine the ongoing health of the car and help you plan for repairs.

Recommended Porsche Repair Shops

In our repair shop section we highlight and recommend local shops we know to provide the very best service. To help, we also categorize the local shops to reflect the type of Porsche service each shop offers. Many of the local independent shops shown offer an excellent dealer alternative for Porsche service, maintenance, and repairs. Recommended Porsche specialists also offer repairs, tuning, upgrades, and modification expertise that surpasses the typical Porsche service center or dealer.

Save 20% on Maintenance Service and Repairs

Service, repair, or maintenance performed at an independent shop does not invalidate your warranty. On average, working with an independent shop will save you at least 20% on Porsche service and repair costs versus a dealer. In addition, it’s also worth considering how the local environment and road conditions affect maintenance requirements. An independent shop can help you with first-hand knowledge versus factory recommendations.

958.1 Cayenne 2011–2014

Dashboard & Center Console

• Heavy use of buttons – lots to learn
• Center console stack can look busy and button heavy
• Classic Porsche style gauge cluster
• PCM with 7-inch screen, HDD-based nav, Bluetooth, CD/DVD

Interior Materials

• Leather quality is good on most models and better on higher trims
• Lower base models have more plastic
• Wood and aluminum trim is high quality
• Soft touch, high-end feel materials

Seating

• Comfortable, firm German style, 8 way adjustable seats
• Optional seat upgrades for more adjustment and ventilation
• Good degree of comfort on long journeys
• Rear seats slide and recline to improve comfort

Cargo Space

• Generous size and practical for most situations
• 23.6 cu ft. behind rear seats and 62.9 cu ft. max with seats folded
• 40/20/40 rear seat split

958.2 Cayenne 2015–2018 Improvements

• Center console stack refined
• PCM functionality updated
• Better integration for phone, audio, USB
• Buttons layout more logical
• Updated HVAC controls
• Ambient lighting options

Interior Materials

• Improved soft-touch plastics
• More options for leather, Alcantara, and trims – wood, carbon, and aluminum
• Gloss black panels

The Cayenne uses Porsche N rated tires designed toward the performance end of the wear spectrum. If the car you buy has 19 or 20 inch rims, you’ll be looking at more than $1500 for a set of 4 tires. The rear tires will wear slightly more quickly than the fronts on the Cayenne due to more drive being sent to the rear wheels. You probably wont get as much mileage from a set as tires as you would imagine. The Cayenne is heavy and capable of handling faster turns from a suspension matched to performance rated tires – the net result is typically a faster wear pattern.

It’s also important to stay on top of vehicle alignment – any loss of alignment will eat the inner shoulder of the rear tires or cause unusual wear patterns on the front tires. A thorough PPI should determine the wear pattern on the tires and provide some insight into the current alignment.

The used parts market represents and excellent source for parts that are harder to find such as interior trim components, cabriolet motors and sensors, headlights, and infotainment system replacements. A quick search reveals many items for sale including things like complete rear seats, door panels, etc.