2017 Porsche Cayenne

17 complaints on file, page 1 of 1.

1. Filed Sep 15, 2026Failure Sep 15, 2026Hollywood, FLElectrical system, Exterior lighting

   The RIGHT FRONT HEADLIGHT has experienced recurring water/moisture intrusion and has now completely failed and no longer illuminates. This creates a safety concern because the vehicle has substantially reduced forward illumination for nighttime driving. On September 23, 2024, an authorized Porsche dealer performed headlight-related warranty work. The dealer’s repair record states that both headlights were removed and the modules were swapped side-to-side during diagnosis. On September 30, only seven days later, I photographed substantial condensation/water inside the right front headlight. On October 1, 2024, I reported the continuing condition to my Porsche service advisor. In written communications, the advisor asked whether the affected light was the right side. I confirmed that it was. He stated that the condition was “not normal” and that he would order the headlight. He subsequently confirmed in writing that the right headlight had been ordered. I continued reporting the problem. A November 27, 2024 dealer repair order specifically documents: “CUSTOMER STATES-RIGHT HEADLIGHT IS HOLDING WATER.” The headlight was not replaced because the moisture reportedly was not visible when the vehicle was inspected. The water/condensation continued to recur, and I have dated photographs documenting the condition over time. On September 7, 2026, the vehicle displayed the warning “Check front right dipped headlight.” I photographed the warning. The right front headlight has now completely failed and does not illuminate at all. The vehicle and failed headlight are available for inspection. I have reported the matter to Porsche Cars North America and provided repair records, dated photographs and contemporaneous communications. Porsche confirmed receipt of the documentation, but the problem remains unresolved. I am concerned that recurring moisture intrusion into the headlight assembly has progressed to complete lighting failure and may represent a safety issue

   NHTSA complaint 11764466
2. Filed Jul 27, 2026Failure Jul 27, 202340,000 milesDavidson, NCElectrical system, Tires

   The contact owns a 2017 Porsche Cayenne. The contact stated that the vehicle was hacked. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the driver's assistance safety features malfunctioned, causing the vehicle to swerve despite the driver's efforts to drive straight. Infotainment settings confirmed that the Porsche Doppelkupplung (PDK) system was engaged. Additionally, the message "External Usage External Equipment External Drivers remove the features" was displayed, and the cruise control was unintentionally engaged with messages for "Trailer," "Slippery Changing Max Settings," "Navigation Off," "Road feature Off," "Risk of an Accident," and "Pull Over, remove the key from the ignition and reset vehicle". The contact stated that while driving, the vehicle unintentionally shifted into Drive and Neutral at the same time. The contact stated that on several occasions, the vehicle failed to stop while depressing the brake pedal, requiring the driver to pull over to the side of the road and allow the vehicle to roll to a stop. Other failures included unintended engagement of the windshield wipers and heater. Per the owner's manual, the contact opened the infotainment settings, where the notification "Other Device External Usage" was displayed. Additionally, all four tire sensors needed to be replaced. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, and the insurance company, the Police Department, and the manufacturer were contacted, but no assistance was provided. The contact stated that all four tires blew up while driving, and the vehicle was towed to Porsche Charlotte Northlake (10205 Ronald Withrow Blvd, Charlotte, NC 28216); where the tires were replaced. The vehicle was not further repaired. The tire information was unavailable. The failure mileage was approximately 40,000.

   NHTSA complaint 11753055
3. Filed Dec 11, 2025Failure Dec 10, 2025Montgomery, ALElectrical system, Fuel/propulsion system

   Case Number: 1170739 – Additional Evidence Submission I would like to provide an additional document for Case #1170739. The manufacturer (Porsche Cars North America) stated in writing that the vehicle is “safe to drive even with warning indicators illuminated,” but in the same communication offered a rental vehicle if I found this “inconvenient.” These two statements cannot logically coexist, and they raise concerns that the manufacturer may be minimizing or mischaracterizing a potential safety-related defect. Furthermore: The warning indicators involve the coolant and fuel systems of an E-Hybrid model, which may be connected to thermal management and combustion-related safety. The vehicle remained in the dealer’s possession for an extended period during repeated repair attempts. During a visit, I found the hood partially open while the vehicle was being stored long-term, raising questions regarding proper safety and storage protocols. Additional system warnings appeared after prolonged non-operation, suggesting possible deterioration related to improper storage or incomplete diagnostics. I respectfully request NHTSA’s assessment of whether it is appropriate for a dealer or the manufacturer (Porsche Cars North America) to advise a customer to operate a vehicle on public roads while warning indicators are illuminated. From a consumer’s standpoint, this does not appear reasonable or safe, and I wish to operate my vehicle only in a condition that is objectively safe for road use. The fact that such guidance was provided to me is deeply concerning, and I would appreciate the agency’s evaluation of whether this type of advice aligns with I am submitting the manufacturer’s email for your review, as it appears inconsistent with standard safety guidance and may reflect an attempt to address the matter through customer-service accommodations rather than technical evaluation. Please add this information and attached documentation to my existing case file. Thank you.

   NHTSA complaint 11704535
4. Filed Dec 8, 2025Failure Oct 18, 2025Montgomery, ALElectrical system, Engine, Fuel/propulsion system

   I am reporting a series of safety-related defects involving the electrical, cooling, and fuel systems of my 2021 Porsche Cayenne E-Hybrid. The vehicle was initially brought to the authorized Porsche dealership due to an electrical system error, and the dealer kept the vehicle for an extended period. After approximately five months, the vehicle was returned to me without a clear explanation of the root cause or details of the repair. The very next day after receiving the vehicle, a coolant temperature warning appeared while driving, indicating abnormal engine overheating. This created an immediate safety hazard, as overheating can lead to sudden engine failure, loss of power, or a potential fire risk. I returned the vehicle to the dealership again for further repairs. Afterward, another serious issue occurred: because this is a hybrid vehicle, I went to refuel, but the fuel door would not open, and a fuel system error warning appeared again. This made the vehicle unsafe to operate, especially while already on the road. Due to these repeated failures, I was required to tow the vehicle multiple times. These problems — electrical malfunction, coolant overheating during driving, fuel system errors, and a non-functional fuel door — occurred repeatedly even after prolonged service by the dealership. The combination of electrical faults, overheating risk, hybrid system malfunction, and fuel system failure presents a significant safety concern. I will provide additional documentation to support this report. I request that NHTSA review this case to determine whether an investigation is warranted, as these issues may indicate a broader defect affecting this model.

   NHTSA complaint 11703739
5. Filed Sep 26, 2025Failure Sep 25, 2025Rexford, NYExterior lighting

   During rain events, headlight housings are becoming inundated with moisture (L and R sides). A quick search on multiple forums shows this is a known issue with all Porsche models. During night driving this issue reduces visibility significantly. Yes, this puts my occupants and other drivers at risk. Porsche is famous for not acknowledging and addressing out of warranty manufacturing defects, even safety issues. They would not address this issue. Brief warning lights and flashing of the headlight system was evident. This has been happening for a few years and is getting progressively worse.

   NHTSA complaint 11689861
6. Filed Jul 7, 2025Failure Jul 7, 2025Louisville, KYAir bags

   the piece of leather trim sit on top of dash panel below the windshield that cover the airbag shrink and peel off the main dash. The passenger air bag might not deploy properly in the event of frontal collisions because of a loose piece of leather cover it.

   NHTSA complaint 11671751
7. Filed Jan 15, 2025Failure Jan 13, 2025Paradise Valley, AZElectrical system

   When the weather drops below 0 celsius, the hybrid battery fails with a hybrid battery failure message. The Porsche dealer said this is a known issue and there is no fix. I've been stuck several times in the past 3 years up in the mountains when the temperature drops suddenly and there are no services within 100's of miles to even tow it to get a fix. I just have to wait for the temperature to warm up to start the car. There is currently no bypass to switch to gas only which would solve the issue. If you look at the pic, there is plenty of gas in the car.

   NHTSA complaint 11636091
8. Filed Dec 14, 2024Failure Nov 6, 2024Millis, MAAir bags, Unknown or other

   Passenger side dash board leather cover has pulled away from dash - thus creating a safety issue with the airbag. Porsche has examined the damage and recommended a repair but will not cover the cost - but did advise that in the event of a accident - they do see a potential problem with the passenger side air bag deploying safely (or not at all). There should be a recall on this by Porsche as it's a safetly issue.

   NHTSA complaint 11630678
9. Filed Jun 3, 2024Failure Jan 2, 2024Rexford, NYEngine

   Broken and loosened timing chain cover bolts resulting in leaking oil onto drive components, belts and tires/brakes. This recall was done for the Macan and not the Cayenne. Ours was covered under factory extended warranty. That said, this is criminal. Porsche needs to be investigated, they refuse to recall their vehicles and we all know there are some manufaturing issues that are 100% the factory's fault. If the NTSB refuses to hold their feet to the fire this type of engineering will continue.

   NHTSA complaint 11592066
10. Filed Apr 20, 2024Failure Apr 15, 2024Rexford, NYEngine

    Oil leaks from timing chain cover due to defective bolt material, bolts loosen and break. This is a widespread known issue with Cayennes and Macans.

    NHTSA complaint 11584249
11. Filed Dec 17, 2023Failure Dec 16, 2023Newark, CAExterior lighting

    The two headlights have appeared to have condensation due to sealing problem of the headlight. When the light bulbs and beam heat up the air with moisture, it will leave water inside of the headlight cover. This will increase the safety risks when we were driving on the road. There is no warning message for that. The problem should not be normal and this should really be manufacturer’s problem to fix.

    NHTSA complaint 11560518
12. Filed Apr 20, 2023Failure Jan 23, 202342,000 milesEllenwood, GAPower train

    The contact owns a 2017 Porsche Cayenne. The contact stated while driving approximately 30 MPH, the vehicle stalled in the middle of a road. The contact stated no warning light was illuminated; however, the contact had been hearing an abnormal rattle and knocking sound from under the floorboard. The contact had the vehicle towed to a local dealer, where it was diagnosed and determined that the bolts from the transfer case had loosened, and the case had separated from the drive shaft. The vehicle had been repaired. The manufacturer had been informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 42,000.

    NHTSA complaint 11518090
13. Filed Feb 23, 2023Failure Feb 1, 2023Grantville, GAElectrical system, Unknown or other

    Porsche and VW has a drainage issues with certain model vehicles. The drainage plug is set in the trunk near the battery, main system cpu and amplifier. Water gets drain into the lower compartment of the trunk and causes electrical issues with the vehicle. It's been a design flaw from porsche since before the Cayenne was created. To repair the damage it cost upwards of $3,000 per damage battery, electrical components, amplifier are all billed separate. Porsche warranty refuses to honor the design flaws in correct the issues. Owners are not made aware of the issue until it becomes an issue then porsche wants no part to do with it. The drainage location can cause an electrical fire and engine malfunction while driving.

    NHTSA complaint 11508794
14. Filed Feb 10, 2022Failure Feb 10, 2022Petaluma, CAExterior lighting

    The headlights aren’t sealed correctly so water has leaked in and caused them to malfunction. Porsche is making me get them repaired at a cost of $4100

    NHTSA complaint 11451412
15. Filed Sep 18, 2020Failure Dec 3, 201924,172 milesEvanston, ILFuel/propulsion system

    OVERNIGHT FUEL PRESSURE LOSS RESULTS IN EXTENDED CRANK CYCLE. DESPITE 6 SERVICE VISITS BETWEEN TWO CHICAGOLAND AREA PORSCHE DEALERSHIPS, THE VEHICLE HAS NOT BEEN SATISFACTORILY REPAIRED. FUEL PRESSURE LOSS WAS CONFIRMED ON MULTIPLE OCCASIONS BY THE SEMERSKY'S PORSCHE EXCHANGE IN HIGHLAND PARK, ILLINOIS. FUEL PUMPS WERE APPARENTLY REPLACED, THE LAST TIME DAMAGING THE SEAT CLIPS UNDER THE SECOND ROW BENCH SEAT. FUEL PRESSURE LOSS HAS SLOWED, BUT STILL OCCURS WHEN FUEL TANK IS MORE THAN 3/4 EMPTY. THIS VEHICLE IS COVERED BY MANUFACTURER WARRANTY AND THE PROBLEM BECAME APPARENT AT 24K MILES.

    NHTSA complaint 11359767
16. Filed Oct 1, 2019Failure Aug 23, 201947,000 milesGalveston, TXUnknown or other

    FRONT PANEL OF PANORAMIC SUN ROOF EXPLODED AND SHATTERED WHILE DRIVING AT APPROXIMATELY 75 MPH ON A HIGHWAY.

    NHTSA complaint 11265503
17. Filed Jan 10, 2018Failure Nov 22, 201715,000 milesSarasota, FLService brakes, Body, Unknown or otherCrash

    ACC/ PAS UNAVAILABLE WARNING: APPROXIMATELY EIGHT MONTHS AGO WHILE DRIVING ON A CITY STREET IN SARASOTA, FL THE PAS SYSTEM WAS ACTIVATED AND ABRUPTLY STOPPED MY VEHICLE WITHOUT REASON. ON TWO SEPARATE OCCASIONS THE "ACC/PAS IS UNAVAILABLE" WARNING HAS APPEARED ON MY INSTRUMENT PANEL. ON THE FIRST OCCASION, A VEHICLE TO MY LEFT WAS ATTEMPTING TO MERGE INTO MY LANE OF TRAFFIC WHILE WE WERE APPROACHING AN INTERSECTION ON A CITY STREET. I ATTEMPTED TO HONK MY HORN (WHICH FAILED MAKING AN AUDIBLE SOUND) AND SWERVED TO PREVENT THIS IMPENDING COLLISION. THE DRIVER OF THE VEHICLE IN FRONT OF ME ALSO WITNESSED WHAT WAS OCCURRING AND SLAMMED ON THEIR BREAKS. MY PAS SYSTEM FAILED TO ALERT AND APPLY PRESSURE AND/OR STOP THE BREAKS AS THIS SAFETY FEATURE IS DESIGNED. DESPITE MY EFFORTS TO BREAK QUICKLY THE VEHICLE IN FRONT OF ME AND I COLLIDED. THE FIRST DRIVER THAT MERGED INTO MY LANE FLED THE SCENE. THERE WAS NO DAMAGE TO THE VEHICLE IN FRONT OF ME AND THE PORSCHE HAD MODERATE FRONT END DAMAGE. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO OUR INSURANCE COMPANY'S AUTO REPAIR EXPRESS PROGRAM AT A COLLISION CENTER OF THEIR CHOICE. IT WAS THEN SENT TO OUR LOCAL PORSCHE SERVICE DEPARTMENT FOR INSPECTION AND REINSTALLATION AND CALIBRATION OF THE PAS CAMERAS AND OPERATIONS. ON THE SECOND OCCASION APPROXIMATELY 10 DAYS AFTER HAVING THE VEHICLE BACK FROM THE BODY SHOP AND INSPECTIONS, I WAS SITTING AT RED TRAFFIC LIGHT ON A CITY STREET. THE LIGHT CHANGED GREEN, CARS BEHIND ME STARTED HONKING. THE CAR IN FRONT OF ME BEGAN TO PROCEED THROUGH THE LIGHT BEFORE BREAKING ABRUPTLY. AGAIN THE "ACC/PAS IS UNAVAILABLE" WARNING APPEARED ON THE INSTRUMENT PANEL PRIOR TO THIS AND MY BREAKS DID NOT RESPOND TO MY APPLIED PRESSURE. I HAD NOT YET ACCELERATED.

    NHTSA complaint 11061958