Porsche Cayenne Reliability
I am looking to buy a 2004-2009 Porsche Cayenne as a daily driver. I understand the 911s have a range up to maybe 300,000 miles assuming proper maintenance has been performed. The newer Cayennes are out of my price range, but some in the years 2004-2009 with under 100,000 miles seem to be reasonably priced. Is there anything special to look for when looking to purchase. Also, which is the better power train, the V-6, V-8 or V-8 Turbo. Also, 2WD or 4WD? Thanks everyone.
For a commuter car I would buy the most economical and cheapest model which would mean the V6. 4WD is a choice that you have to make but if you live in snow country I would pick the 4WD. You do know that it will cost you an arm and a leg to repair and maintain?
There is no 2WD Cayenne, they are full time variable ratio 4WD only. I would go for the V8 Cayenne S or Turbo as the V6 is very sluggish. Good ones of both can be found for well under $20k. 2 big things to check are the kardan shaft bearing (middle of the drive shaft leading to the rear diff and that the coolant tubes have been updated, as there was a common problem on both of these. Another issue you may see are bad coil packs, there are several revisions, but these are cheap and easy to change.
Don't forget, the Cayenne is basically a VW Toureg, so expect VW reliability, which is not good. I've driven the V6 and the V8 in a Porsche sponsored auto cross as an instructor and both are very capable in accelerating, and especially the handling for such a big car. Also the V6 is easier to service, the V8, like the 928 is a tight fit in the engine bay. The V6 with maintenance records and pre- purchase inspection at a Porsche speed shop is a good choice. Avoid dealerships like the plague. Good luck!
I love Porsches,, however I would go with a Mercedes or Audi SUV versus the the Porsche / VW variant. If you do decide to go the Porsche route do you research through Edmunds as the Cayenne had many gremlins. I personally believe the Porsche Macan is the better of the two SUVs. Good luck with your purchase.
I bought my 2003 turbo last year and there is nothing cheap about anything on this car. If you can competently do it yourself then do it. The only problems I have had is with the key and bits of trim falling off. I live in Sweden so it snows A lot and the car is incredible. Mine's done 95k and sure it drinks petrol like a hillbilly drinks shine but if your prepared financially then it's a 4x4 sports car that is rarely challenged by anything on the road
We have owned 3 Porsche Cayennes over the past 15 years. Virtually no problems. Comfortable ride, stylish, and very dependable. Our Black on Black 2013 now has 73,000 miles and it is so fun to drive. Going for 300,000 miles on this one.
Do not buy the V8 Cayenne S. If you live in a cold climate you will at some point end up with a scored cylinder and will need a new engine. Porsche engines are time bombs. People are happy with them until it needs to be totally replaced (there is no fix for cylinder score). I was quoted CAD$26,000.00 for the repair. The image below shows the scratches on the inside of the engine (cylinders).
My 2012 CayennevTurbo has been bullet proof I buy my 9.5 quarts of Mobil 1 0w40 oil at Walmart for $45 and my filter on Amazon for $10 I changed the front/rear differential fluid and transfer case fluids in an hours time Brake work is easy and parts can be found on numerous sites Don’t waste your money at dealerships and learn to work on yourself and you will save tons of money It’s as reliable as my prior FJ Cruiser but much more luxurious and fun to drive
Bought my second one 3 months ago. Update 09 v6. Not that sluggish.. mpg? 15-16 around the city. Very reliable hence I bought the second one. What I really like? You don’t see these on the street very often, handles like a sports car, stylish..
