FaultScore

FaultScore report

2004 Porsche Cayenne problems

Owners have filed 51 complaints about the 2004 Porsche Cayenne with NHTSA between 2004 and 2023. The largest single group is the engine & cooling. Across this model's run it ranks 7 of 18 worst.

C

FaultScore 58/100

Higher is worse. Measured against the other years of the Porsche Cayenne.

How this is worked out

The numbers

51

Complaints

4

Crashes reported

2

Fires reported

0

Injuries reported

95,000 mi

Median mileage at failure

Half of reported failures happened before this

16%

Failed under 36,000 miles

Inside a typical bumper-to-bumper warranty

What kind of bad

The letter says how bad. This says what kind — whether this year drew an unusual number of complaints, unusually dangerous ones, or failures that arrived unusually early.

Complaint volume 68 vs 50 Severity 61 vs 50 Early failure 27 vs 50
The dashed ring is 50 — the national norm. Further out is worse.
Complaint volume — 68
Against the median year of the Porsche Cayenne. 50 means typical for this model; 100 means roughly double.
Severity — 61
11.8% of these complaints involved a crash, fire, injury or death, against a national rate of 9.7%.
Early failure — 27
16% of failures with a mileage on record happened under 36,000 miles, against a national rate of 29%.

How 2004 compares with every other Porsche Cayenne

Click any bar to open that year's report.

Complaints filed with NHTSA, by model year. Bar colour is the FaultScore grade: A B C D F ungraded

What breaks on a 2004 Porsche Cayenne

Every complaint is filed against a part. Follow any row for the complaints about that part alone.

2 crashes, 0 fires · median 113,138 mi

Engine & Cooling 10 19.6%

Median failure at 66,582 miles

Fuel & Propulsion 9 17.6%

0 crashes, 1 fires · median 110,000 mi

Electrical System 6 11.8%

0 crashes, 1 fires · median 107,500 mi

Lights 3 5.9%

Median failure at 70,000 miles

Airbags 3 5.9%

Median failure at 91,595 miles

Other & Unspecified 2 3.9%
Suspension 2 3.9%

Median failure at 42,000 miles

Child Seats 1 2.0%
Tires 1 2.0%

1 crashes, 0 fires

Acceleration & Cruise Control 1 2.0%

Median failure at 90,000 miles

Body & Structure 1 2.0%

Median failure at 35,345 miles

Brakes 1 2.0%

1 crashes, 0 fires

Steering 1 2.0%

Median failure at 266,969 miles

When it fails

Odometer readings owners gave when they filed. About half of all complaints include one.

1,000 – 9,999 miles 1 3.2%
10,000 – 24,999 miles 2 6.5%
25,000 – 49,999 miles 5 16.1%
50,000 – 74,999 miles 4 12.9%
75,000 – 99,999 miles 5 16.1%
100,000 – 149,999 miles 6 19.4%
150,000+ miles 8 25.8%

When owners complained

A spike years after the car went on sale usually means a part wearing out on schedule across the whole fleet — the kind of pattern no single owner can see from inside their own car.

Apr 2004 peak 5 Aug 2023

NHTSA investigations into the 2004 Porsche Cayenne

An investigation is the step before a recall: the agency has seen enough complaints to look into a pattern itself. An open one means it thinks something may be wrong and nothing has been fixed yet.

EA06005 Opened 15 Mar 2006 Closed 12 Mar 2007 AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:SENSOR/CONTROL MODULE-INACTIVE

SRS WARNING LIGHT ILLUMINATION

PORSCHE IS INITIATING A CUSTOMER NOTIFICATION ACTION TO ADDRESS A CONDITION RELATED TO A FAULTY OR LOOSE CONNECTOR IN THE SIDE AIRBAG SYSTEM.PORSCHE'S TESTING HAS SHOWN THAT THE FAULTY CONNECTOR WILL NOT PREVENT SIDE AIRBAG DEPLOYMENT.THE FAULTY CONNECTOR WILL CAUSE THE CIRCUIT RESISTANCE TO EXCEED THE THRESHOLD FOR ILLUMINATION OF THE AIR BAG WARNING LIGHT.PORSCHE HAS REPORTED A LARGE NUMBER OF WARRANTY CLAIMS FOR ILLUMINATION OF THE AIR BAG WARNING LIGHT AND MANY VEHICLES HAVE BEEN SERVICED TO CORRECT THIS CONDITION AS DESCRIBED IN THE CAYENNE TECHNICAL INFORMATION BULLETIN: GROUP 6, #11/04...

PE05060 Opened 10 Nov 2005 Closed 15 Mar 2006 AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:SENSOR/CONTROL MODULE-INACTIVE

SRS WARNING LIGHT ILLUMINATION

DURING THE PRELIMINARY EVALUATION PHASE, ODI IDENTIFIED 76 OWNER COMPLAINTS AND 6,582 WARRANTY CLAIMS RELATED TO AIRBAG WARNING LIGHT ILLUMINATION FROM EITHER A FAULTY SIDE-IMPACT AIRBAG MODULE OR WIRING HARNESS.TO DATE, THERE HAS BEEN NO ALLEGATION OF CRASH, INJURY OR DEATH REPORTED.PORSCHE REPORTS THAT A BAD BATCH OF MODULES WAS PRODUCED DURING MID-NOVEMBER TO MID-DECEMBER, 2003.HOWEVER, PORSCHE?S WARRANTY DATA INDICATES THAT MOST OF THE MODULES REPLACED UNDER WARRANTY WERE ON VEHICLES BUILT BEFORE AND AFTER THIS PERIOD INDICATING THAT THE ISSUE COULD BE MORE WIDESPREAD.PORSCHE REPORTS THAT...

Recalls on the 2004 Porsche Cayenne

A complaint is one owner's allegation. A recall is the point at which the manufacturer or a regulator agreed the defect is real and dangerous enough to fix for free — however old the car is.

United States — NHTSA

22V656000

EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS

Porsche Cars North America, Inc. (Porsche) is recalling certain 2003-2020 Porsche Macan, Cayenne, Panamera, and Cayman S, 2001-2004 Boxster, Boxster S, 2004 Boxster 50 JAHRE SPYDER 550 vehicles. Please see the recall report for a complete list of all affected models and model years. The caps that cover the low-beam headlight horizontal adjustment screws are missing, which can allow the headlights to be improperly adjusted. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 108, "Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment."

Risk: Improperly adjusted headlights may not illuminate the road properly, or cause a glare to oncoming drivers, which can increase the risk of a crash.

19V446000

POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:GEAR POSITION INDICATION (PRNDL)

Porsche Cars North America, Inc. (Porsche) is recalling certain 2003-2006 Cayenne S, Cayenne Turbo, 2004-2010 Cayenne, 2006 Cayenne Turbo S, 2010-2016 Panamera S, Panamera 4 S, Panamera Turbo, 2011-2016 Panamera, Panamera 4, 2012-2013 Panamera Turbo S, 2013-2016 Panamera 4 GTS, 2014-2016 Panamera 4 S Executive, Panamera Turbo Executive, Panamera Turbo S G1 II, Panamera Turbo S Executive, 2013 Panamera 4 Platinum Edition, Panamera Platinum Edition, 2016 Panamera 4 Edition, Panamera Edition, Panamera Turbo S Executive Luxury Sports vehicles. The bushing that attaches the gear selector lever to the gearbox may degrade over time, causing the bushing to detach. This condition could allow the driver to move the shift lever to Park and remove the ignition key, while the transmission may not be in Park, with no warning message or audible chime.

Risk: If the vehicle is exited without the transmission being in Park and without the parking brake being applied, the vehicle may unexpectedly move, increasing the risk of a crash.

17V576000

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP

Porsche Cars North America, Inc. (Porsche) is recalling certain 2003-2006 Cayenne S and Cayenne Turbo vehicles, 2004-2006 Cayenne vehicles, and 2006 Cayenne S "Titanium" Edition vehicles. These gasoline-powered vehicles have a fuel pump flange that may crack, allowing fuel to leak.

Risk: A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source increases the risk of a fire.

04V593000

SEAT BELTS

CERTAIN PASSENGER CARS FAIL TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 208, "OCCUPANT CRASH PROTECTION." ALL THREE REAR SEAT POSITIONS AND THE FRONT PASSENGER POSITION ARE EQUIPPED WITH SEAT BELT RETRACTORS THAT HAVE A LOCKING FEATURE WHICH CONVERTS THE RETRACTOR FROM AN EMERGENCY LOCKING RETRACTOR (ELR) MODE TO AN AUTOMATIC LOCKING RETRACTOR (ALR) MODE FOR THE PURPOSES OF CHILD RESTRAINT INSTALLATION. THE BELT MAY DEACTIVATE THE ALR MODE WITH CERTAIN CHILD RESTRAINTS.

Risk: WHEN INVOLVED IN A CRASH, THE CHILD RESTRAINTS MAY NOT BE PROPERLY SECURED INCREASING THE RISK OF INJURY OR DEATH TO THE SEAT OCCUPANT.

04V231000

SEAT BELTS:REAR/OTHER

ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES, THE REAR SEAT BELT LATCH ATTACHMENT BOLT IS INSUFFICIENT RIVETED.

Risk: IN THE EVENT OF A CRASH, THE SEAT OCCUPANT MAY NOT BE PROPERLY RESTRAINED INCREASING THE RISK OF PERSONAL INJURY.

04V071000

POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION

CERTAIN SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES MAY HAVE HAD A TRANSFER CASE INSTALLED THAT COULD, DUE TO CHANGES IN THE HOUSING CASTING, RESULT IN THE OIL PUMP ROTATION. SHOULD THIS OCCUR, OIL STARVATION OF THE INTERNAL GEARS MIGHT RESULT.

Risk: CONTINUED OPERATION OF THE VEHICLE COULD RESULT IN A FRACTURE OF THE TRANSFER CASE HOUSING. INCORRECT TORQUE WOULD THEN BE APPLIED TO THE DRIVEN WHEELS OR OIL COULD LEAK AND CONTACT THE TIRES.

Canada — Transport Canada

Canada runs its own recall programme, and its campaigns do not always mirror the American ones.

Recall 2022487 58,856 units in Canada

Lights And Instruments

Issue: On certain vehicles, covers were not installed over the horizontal headlamp adjusters. As a result, the headlamps may be adjusted horizontally. Canadian regulations do not allow for horizontal headlamp adjustment unless the vehicle is equipped with a built-in aiming device. Safety Risk: Headlamps that are not properly adjusted could cause reduced visibility or glare for oncoming drivers, and increase the risk of a crash. Corrective Actions: Porsche will notify owners by mail and instruct you to take your vehicle to a dealership to install caps over the headlamp adjustment screws.

Recall 2019290 8,742 units in Canada

Powertrain

Issue: On certain vehicles, the transmission shifter could detach from the transmission. This could cause the transmission not to shift gears when the shifter is moved. As a result, the transmission could be in a different gear than the gear shifter indicates. If a driver attempts to exit the vehicle while the transmission is not in Park, and the parking brake is not applied, the vehicle could move suddenly. Safety Risk: Sudden and unexpected movement of the vehicle could increase the risk of a crash. Corrective Actions: Porsche will notify owners by mail and instruct them to take their vehicle to a dealer to replace the shifter cable bushing. Owners are reminded to use the parking brake anytime the vehicle is parked.

Recall 2017457 4,817 units in Canada

Fuel System

On certain vehicles, the fuel pump flange may develop fine cracks or fissures, which could result in a fuel leak. Leaking fuel, in the presence of an ignition source, could lead to a fire causing injury and/or damage to property. Correction: Dealers will replace the fuel pump flange.

Recall 2004193 1,447 units in Canada

Other

Certain vehicles do not comply with the requirements of CMVSS 114. The steering wheel does not lock when the key is removed from the ignition switch using the optionally provided override device that permits key removal in the event of electrical system failure or when the transmission is not in the PARK position. Correction: Since this does not pose any safety risk, no corrective action is required.

Recall 2004168 1,023 units in Canada

Seats And Restraints

On certain vehicles, the rear seat safety belt latch attachment bolt may be insufficiently riveted, which could result in a reduced capability of the belt latch to withstand the applied loads. During a crash, the occupant may not be restrained as intended, which could result in injuries. Correction: Dealer will inspect and, if necessary, replace the seat belt buckle.

Recall 2004063 151 units in Canada

Powertrain

On certain vehicles, the transfer case could, due to changes in the housing casting, allow the oil pump to rotate. Should this occur, oil starvation of the internal gears could result. If this happens and the vehicle continues to be operated, fracture of the transfer case housing can occur. Correction: Dealer will inspect the housing casting number, and replace the transfer case if required.

Recalls cover specific build ranges, so check your own vehicle by VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls or, in Canada, Transport Canada.

Complaints that involved harm

Reports where the owner recorded a crash, a fire, an injury or a death.

at 115,000 miles Gretna, LA Fire

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 PORSCHE CAYENNE S. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE ATTEMPTING TO START THE VEHICLE, THE CONTACT HEARD A LOUD "BOOM" NOISE AND FIRE STARTED COMING FROM THE GLOVE BOX IN THE INTERIOR OF THE VEHICLE. FIRE MARSHALS WERE CALLED ONTO THE SCENE TO ATTEMPT TO EXTINGUISH THE FIRE, AFTER 3 HOURS THE FIRE WAS EXTINGUISHED. A REPORT WAS MADE WITH THE FIRE MARSHALS. THE CONTACT STATED NO INJURIES WERE SUSTAINED AT THE SCENE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TOWED AND REMAINS ON CONTACTS PROPERTY. UPON INVESTIGATION, THE CONTACT ASSOCIATED THE FAILURE WITH, NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 04V069000 (ELECTRICAL SYSTEM) HOWEVER THE VIN WAS NOT INCLUDED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS INFORMED OF FAILURE AND TOLD THE CONTACT THAT SINCE THEY DID NOT PURCHASE THE VEHICLE FROM A PORSHE DEALER THERE WAS NOTHING THEY COULD TO DO ASSIST THE CONTACT. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 115,000.

NHTSA complaint #11399023 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

at 90,000 miles Omaha, NE Crash

POWER TRAIN

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 PORSCHE CAYENNE. THE CONTACT STATED HE PARKED THE VEHICLE IN HIS DRIVE WAY WITHOUT THE EMERGENCY BREAK ENGAGED AND LEFT TO ENTER HIS RESIDENCE. THE CONTACT STATED WITHIN 2-3 MINUTES LATER, WHEN EXITING HIS RESIDENCE, THE VEHICLE INADVERTENTLY SHIFTED GEARS TO REVERSE AND ROLLED AWAY FROM HIS RESIDENCE. THE CONTACT STATED THE VEHICLE HIT TWO TREES, A FENCE, CONTINUED TO ROLL AWAY AND HIT A SECOND FENCE WHICH DETAINED THE VEHICLE. AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY. THE CONTACT STATE NO ONE WAS INJURED. THE CONTACT STATED HE HAD TO BREAK THE REAR PASSENGER SIDE WINDOW TO ENTER AND TURN OFF THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A BODY SHOP FOR BODY DAMAGE REPAIRS. THE CONTACT STATE AT THAT MOMENT HE DID NOT CONTACT THE DEALER TO HAVE THE VEHICLE DIAGNOSED. THE CONTACT STATES HE RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 19V446000 (POWER TRAIN) IN SEPTEMBER OF 2019. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN PORSCHE OF OMAHA (6625 L ST, OMAHA, NE 68117) WHERE THE RECALL REPAIRS WERE SERVICED. THE MANUFACTURER HAD BEEN INFORMED OF FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 90,000.

NHTSA complaint #11319375 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

LOS Angeles, CA Crash

POWER TRAIN

2004 PORSCHE CAYENNE. CONSUMER WRITES IN REGARDS TO TRANSMISSION SHIFT LEVER SAFETY RECALL. *LD THE CONSUMER STATED THE VEHICLE WAS PARKED AND ROLLED INTO ANOTHER VEHICLE WHICH, THEN CRASHED INTO A VEHICLE. THE TRANSMISSION SHIFT LEVER FAILED AND WAS REPLACED. THE CONSUMER REQUESTED TO BE REIMBURSED FOR THE REPAIRS TO THE VEHICLES. *JS *JS - (RECALL RELATED INCIDENT) TS

NHTSA complaint #11280095 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

at 100,000 miles Westlake, OH Fire

FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

TL* THE CONTACT OWNED A 2004 PORSCHE CAYENNE. WHILE PARKED AT HOME, THE VEHICLE CAUGHT FIRE. THE FIRE DEPARTMENT WAS CONTACTED AND THE FIRE WAS EXTINGUISHED. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE CONTACT'S HOUSE SUSTAINED FIRE DAMAGE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS CONTACTED AND DID NOT ASSIST. THE VEHICLE WAS PREVIOUSLY TAKEN TO PORSCHE OF NORTH OLMSTED LOCATED 28400 LORAUIN RD, NORTH OLMSTEAD, OH WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE FUEL PUMP WAS DEFECTIVE AND NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE CONTACT LATER RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 17V576000 (FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE) AFTER THE FAILURE OCCURRED. THE VEHICLE WAS DEEMED DESTROYED. THERE WERE NO INJURIES. THE VIN WAS NOT PROVIDED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 100,000.

NHTSA complaint #11052953 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Colorado Springs, CO Crash

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:ANTILOCK/TRACTION CONTROL/ELECTRONIC LIMITED SLIP

THE CONSUMER'S 2004 PORSCHE CAYENNE WAS UNCONTROLLABLE WITH THE SLIGHTEST SNOWFALL. *NM WHEN THE CONSUMER APPROACHED AN INTERSECTION HE WAS UNABLE TO STOP AND CONSEQUENTLY HE HIT ANOTHER VEHICLE. THE MANUFACTURER HAS ACKNOWLEDGED THERE IS A PROBLEM WITH THE TIRES. THE CONSUMER ALSO STATED THE ABS WAS ERRATIC.

NHTSA complaint #10115621 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Colorado Springs, CO Crash

TIRES

THE CONSUMER'S 2004 PORSCHE CAYENNE WAS UNCONTROLLABLE WITH THE SLIGHTEST SNOWFALL. *NM WHEN THE CONSUMER APPROACHED AN INTERSECTION HE WAS UNABLE TO STOP AND CONSEQUENTLY HE HIT ANOTHER VEHICLE. THE MANUFACTURER HAS ACKNOWLEDGED THERE IS A PROBLEM WITH THE TIRES. THE CONSUMER ALSO STATED THE ABS WAS ERRATIC.

NHTSA complaint #10115621 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

The most recent complaints

In the owners' own words, exactly as filed with NHTSA.

Richmond, VA

POWER TRAIN

Strong odor of gasoline traveling through the vents injected into vehicle. Fuel filter has a crack. Underhood electrical problems that may cause a fire

NHTSA complaint #11540647 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Richmond, VA

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Strong odor of gasoline traveling through the vents injected into vehicle. Fuel filter has a crack. Underhood electrical problems that may cause a fire

NHTSA complaint #11540647 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Richmond, VA

FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

Strong odor of gasoline traveling through the vents injected into vehicle. Fuel filter has a crack. Underhood electrical problems that may cause a fire

NHTSA complaint #11540647 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

East Grand Forks, MN

Chest Clip, Buckle, Harness

The contact is a car seat technician. The contact worked with a family who owns a Maxi-Cosi Pria 85 Max Convertible Car Seat, as the technician was inspecting the car seat she noticed the chest clip was not working as needed. The magnetic piece that clips on the chest area comes out easily.

NHTSA complaint #11500425 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

at 266,969 miles Stewartsville, NJ

STEERING

The contact owns a 2004 Porsche Cayenne. The contact stated that while the vehicle was taken to the dealer for a recall repair appointment, he noticed that the steering wheel had a quarter inch of play. The U-Joint connection was severely corroded. The dealer diagnosed that the steering column and steering shaft needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was 266,969.

NHTSA complaint #11497634 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Chicago, IL

FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

There is a significant smell of gasoline inside the cabin of the vehicle. There was a recall on the same make, model, and year for fuel pump filter flange leaks, which are indicative of a strong smell of gas inside the car. This can potentially cause the car to start on fire. The dealer stated due to the VIN, the vehicle was not covered under the existing recall.

NHTSA complaint #11493210 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

at 170,000 miles Gardena, CA

POWER TRAIN

The contact owns a 2004 Porsche Cayenne. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Numbers: 22V656000 (Exterior Lighting), 19V446000 (Power Train), and 17V576000 (Fuel System, Gasoline) however, the parts to do the recall repairs were unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The contact stated that the fuel gauge failed to read accurately. The headlamp wiring had been deteriorating causing the headlights to malfunction. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and a case was opened. The approximate failure mileage was 170,000. Parts distributions disconnect.

NHTSA complaint #11491915 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

at 170,000 miles Gardena, CA

EXTERIOR LIGHTING

The contact owns a 2004 Porsche Cayenne. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Numbers: 22V656000 (Exterior Lighting), 19V446000 (Power Train), and 17V576000 (Fuel System, Gasoline) however, the parts to do the recall repairs were unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The contact stated that the fuel gauge failed to read accurately. The headlamp wiring had been deteriorating causing the headlights to malfunction. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and a case was opened. The approximate failure mileage was 170,000. Parts distributions disconnect.

NHTSA complaint #11491915 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

at 170,000 miles Gardena, CA

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE

The contact owns a 2004 Porsche Cayenne. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Numbers: 22V656000 (Exterior Lighting), 19V446000 (Power Train), and 17V576000 (Fuel System, Gasoline) however, the parts to do the recall repairs were unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The contact stated that the fuel gauge failed to read accurately. The headlamp wiring had been deteriorating causing the headlights to malfunction. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and a case was opened. The approximate failure mileage was 170,000. Parts distributions disconnect.

NHTSA complaint #11491915 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Redwood City, CA

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

I returned after being away for a few weeks, in May 2021. The solar panel had been on the inner windshield of the car following installation a few months prior. I found the car's 12V battery was almost dead (about 4 Volts), and the solar panel's plastic frame was severely melted, causing it to deform and lift away from the glass solar panel. Photos uploaded below. From reading reviews on this product on the Harbor Freight website, I now see that this is a common problem. I don't know what the cause is. Could be that the cheap plastic is just not made to withstand summer heat (although I have 2 more of these in my other cars, with no problems), and that the severe deformation of the frame somehow shorted something electical inside the panel that caused the car's 12V battery to discharge, heating the glass panel and melting all the surrounding plastic. Or it could be that an electrical problem was the trigger, causing the battery to discharge, etc. Harbor Freight is so far making it extremely difficult to try to raise the problem with them. I think this could be a serious issue, perhaps leading to a car fire. And if it is indeed an electrical fault that triggers this, then it could happen when parked in a garage (no solar heating needed), possibly leading to worse.

NHTSA complaint #11421164 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Peyton, CA

POWER TRAIN

The cam shaft actuator has gone out.. Recalled on newer vehicles mine is 2004. Front airbag is also non operational

NHTSA complaint #11420279 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Peyton, CA

AIR BAGS

The cam shaft actuator has gone out.. Recalled on newer vehicles mine is 2004. Front airbag is also non operational

NHTSA complaint #11420279 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

at 115,000 miles Gretna, LA Fire

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 PORSCHE CAYENNE S. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE ATTEMPTING TO START THE VEHICLE, THE CONTACT HEARD A LOUD "BOOM" NOISE AND FIRE STARTED COMING FROM THE GLOVE BOX IN THE INTERIOR OF THE VEHICLE. FIRE MARSHALS WERE CALLED ONTO THE SCENE TO ATTEMPT TO EXTINGUISH THE FIRE, AFTER 3 HOURS THE FIRE WAS EXTINGUISHED. A REPORT WAS MADE WITH THE FIRE MARSHALS. THE CONTACT STATED NO INJURIES WERE SUSTAINED AT THE SCENE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TOWED AND REMAINS ON CONTACTS PROPERTY. UPON INVESTIGATION, THE CONTACT ASSOCIATED THE FAILURE WITH, NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 04V069000 (ELECTRICAL SYSTEM) HOWEVER THE VIN WAS NOT INCLUDED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS INFORMED OF FAILURE AND TOLD THE CONTACT THAT SINCE THEY DID NOT PURCHASE THE VEHICLE FROM A PORSHE DEALER THERE WAS NOTHING THEY COULD TO DO ASSIST THE CONTACT. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 115,000.

NHTSA complaint #11399023 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

at 90,000 miles Omaha, NE Crash

POWER TRAIN

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 PORSCHE CAYENNE. THE CONTACT STATED HE PARKED THE VEHICLE IN HIS DRIVE WAY WITHOUT THE EMERGENCY BREAK ENGAGED AND LEFT TO ENTER HIS RESIDENCE. THE CONTACT STATED WITHIN 2-3 MINUTES LATER, WHEN EXITING HIS RESIDENCE, THE VEHICLE INADVERTENTLY SHIFTED GEARS TO REVERSE AND ROLLED AWAY FROM HIS RESIDENCE. THE CONTACT STATED THE VEHICLE HIT TWO TREES, A FENCE, CONTINUED TO ROLL AWAY AND HIT A SECOND FENCE WHICH DETAINED THE VEHICLE. AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY. THE CONTACT STATE NO ONE WAS INJURED. THE CONTACT STATED HE HAD TO BREAK THE REAR PASSENGER SIDE WINDOW TO ENTER AND TURN OFF THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A BODY SHOP FOR BODY DAMAGE REPAIRS. THE CONTACT STATE AT THAT MOMENT HE DID NOT CONTACT THE DEALER TO HAVE THE VEHICLE DIAGNOSED. THE CONTACT STATES HE RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 19V446000 (POWER TRAIN) IN SEPTEMBER OF 2019. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN PORSCHE OF OMAHA (6625 L ST, OMAHA, NE 68117) WHERE THE RECALL REPAIRS WERE SERVICED. THE MANUFACTURER HAD BEEN INFORMED OF FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 90,000.

NHTSA complaint #11319375 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

LOS Angeles, CA Crash

POWER TRAIN

2004 PORSCHE CAYENNE. CONSUMER WRITES IN REGARDS TO TRANSMISSION SHIFT LEVER SAFETY RECALL. *LD THE CONSUMER STATED THE VEHICLE WAS PARKED AND ROLLED INTO ANOTHER VEHICLE WHICH, THEN CRASHED INTO A VEHICLE. THE TRANSMISSION SHIFT LEVER FAILED AND WAS REPLACED. THE CONSUMER REQUESTED TO BE REIMBURSED FOR THE REPAIRS TO THE VEHICLES. *JS *JS - (RECALL RELATED INCIDENT) TS

NHTSA complaint #11280095 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

at 131,276 miles LOS Angeles, CA

POWER TRAIN

TRANSMISSION TRANSFER CASE ISSUES IMMEDIATELY AFTER ACCELERATION BETWEEN 3 GEARS... CAR TRANSMISSIONS "STUMBLES" (TRANSMISSION LOCKING). WELL KNOWN ISSUE IN THE PORSCHE COMMUNITY AND PORSCHE SOLUTION IS DOES NOT FIX THE ISSUE. NO ENGINE ERROR CODES ISSUED AS WELL. PORSCHE SAYS CANNOT DUPLICATE PROBLEM. THIS HAS BEEN HAPPENING FOR QUITE A WHILE UNTIL I RESEARCHED THE ISSUES ONLINE. PREVIOUSE RECALL # 03V351000 - PORSCHE WILL NOT CURRENTLY HONOR THIS RECALL.

NHTSA complaint #11253537 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

South Ogden, UT

FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

I RECEIVED A RECALL LETTER IN NOVEMBER OF 2017 NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 17V576000. FUEL PUMP FLANGE MAY CRACK CAUSING FUEL LEAK A FUEL LEAK IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE INCREASES THE RISK OF A FIRE. MY LOCAL DEALER KEEPS TELLING ME NO PARTS AVAILABLE. I FIND THE TIMELINE UNACCEPTABLE AND I WANT THE RECALL REMEDIED IMMEDIATELY. WE ARE PUSHING TWO YEARS WITH NO REPAIR.

NHTSA complaint #11165743 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

at 180,000 miles Stafford, TX

POWER TRAIN:DRIVELINE:DRIVESHAFT

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 PORSCHE CAYENNE. WHILE DRIVING AND ACCELERATING, THE DRIVESHAFT MALFUNCTIONED, WHICH CAUSED THE VEHICLE TO WOBBLE AND SHAKE. THE CONTACT CALLED MOMENTUM PORSCHE (10155 SOUTHWEST FWY, HOUSTON, TX 77074, (844) 894-5470) AND WAS INFORMED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS NOT INCLUDED IN A RECALL. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT CONTACTED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 180,000.

NHTSA complaint #11141417 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

at 110,000 miles LAS Vegas, NV

FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

RECALL #AH10. MY TRUCK LEAK GAS EVERYWHERE; AND I'VE CALLED GAUDIN PORSCHE THEY SAID THEY'RE NOT DOING ANY RECALLS AT THE MOMENT. I CAN'T AFFORD TO FIX IT NOR CAN AFFORD THE GAS LOST.

NHTSA complaint #11092779 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Chowchilla, CA

POWER TRAIN

1) COOLANT PIPE PROBLEMS,PORSCHE NEVER FIX THEM ,HAD PAY TO GET THEM FIX.(2) FILTER FLANGE FUEL PUMP LEAKAGE,PROBLEMS PORSCHE SAID UNFORTUNATELY, AT THIS TIME PARTS ARE NOT AVAILABLE.HAD IT REPAIR MY OWEN MONEY, DID NOT WANT TO CHANCE A RISK OF FIRE.(3) TRANSMISSION MODULE PROBLEMS DID NOT SHIFT RIGHT,HAD TO BUY NEW ONE.TO MANY PROBLEMS.

NHTSA complaint #11084484 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Chowchilla, CA

ENGINE

1) COOLANT PIPE PROBLEMS,PORSCHE NEVER FIX THEM ,HAD PAY TO GET THEM FIX.(2) FILTER FLANGE FUEL PUMP LEAKAGE,PROBLEMS PORSCHE SAID UNFORTUNATELY, AT THIS TIME PARTS ARE NOT AVAILABLE.HAD IT REPAIR MY OWEN MONEY, DID NOT WANT TO CHANCE A RISK OF FIRE.(3) TRANSMISSION MODULE PROBLEMS DID NOT SHIFT RIGHT,HAD TO BUY NEW ONE.TO MANY PROBLEMS.

NHTSA complaint #11084484 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Chowchilla, CA

FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

1) COOLANT PIPE PROBLEMS,PORSCHE NEVER FIX THEM ,HAD PAY TO GET THEM FIX.(2) FILTER FLANGE FUEL PUMP LEAKAGE,PROBLEMS PORSCHE SAID UNFORTUNATELY, AT THIS TIME PARTS ARE NOT AVAILABLE.HAD IT REPAIR MY OWEN MONEY, DID NOT WANT TO CHANCE A RISK OF FIRE.(3) TRANSMISSION MODULE PROBLEMS DID NOT SHIFT RIGHT,HAD TO BUY NEW ONE.TO MANY PROBLEMS.

NHTSA complaint #11084484 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Canton, OH

FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

"PORSCHE SAFETY RECALL AH10" I RECEIVED A RECALL NOTIFICATION IN THE MAIL NOVEMBER '17 FOR THE REPLACEMENT OF THE FILTER FLANGE FUEL PUMP. DURING THE TIME, I DID NOT EXPERIENCE ANY CHANGES WITH MY VEHICLE, BUT I STILL CALLED TO HAVE MY VEHICLE REPAIRED. I WAS TOLD THAT THE PARTS ARE NOT IN AND I WOULD BE NOTIFIED WHEN THE PARTS WERE AVAILABLE. WITHIN THE LAST 3 WEEKS, I HAVE SMELLED GAS IN AND AROUND MY CAR. I AM CONVINCED THIS IS DUE TO MY VEHICLE NOT BEING REPAIRED FOR AN EXTENDED PERIOD OF TIME. I CONTACTED BOTH PORSCHE LOCATIONS IN MY AREA (NORTH OLMSTED AND BEACHWOOD, OHIO) TO SEE IF THERE WILL BE REIMBURSEMENT OF A RENTAL CAR OR IF A LOANER VEHICLE CAN BE PROVIDED UNTIL THE PARTS ARE IN AS I TRANSPORT A NEWBORN BABY IN MY VEHICLE ON A DAY TO DAY BASIS AND DO NOT WANT TO RUN THE RISK OF EITHER OF US BEING AFFECTED BY THIS FUEL LEAK. I'M AFRAID IF THE FUEL LEAKAGE ISN'T REPAIRED SOON IT MAY CAUSE A FIRE WHICH WILL BE A HAZARD TO MYSELF, CHILD, AND OTHER MOTOR VEHICLES ON THE ROAD. I AM REACHING OUT TO SEE OF THERE ARE ANY ALTERNATIVE TRANSPORTATION METHODS FOR THOSE INDIVIDUALS WHO WERE AFFECTED BY THIS ACTION. PLEASE ADVISE.

NHTSA complaint #11084480 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Palm Desert, CA

FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 PORSCHE CAYENNE. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 17V576000 (FUEL SYSTEM). THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR AS THE RECALL NOTICE WAS RECEIVED OVER FIVE MONTHS AGO. THE DEALER WAS NOT CONTACTED. THE MANUFACTURER STATED THAT THE PARTS TO DO THE REPAIR WERE UNAVAILABLE AND WAS UNABLE TO CONFIRM WHEN THE PARTS WOULD BE AVAILABLE. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. PARTS DISTRIBUTION DISCONNECT.

NHTSA complaint #11082462 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

at 100,000 miles Westlake, OH Fire

FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

TL* THE CONTACT OWNED A 2004 PORSCHE CAYENNE. WHILE PARKED AT HOME, THE VEHICLE CAUGHT FIRE. THE FIRE DEPARTMENT WAS CONTACTED AND THE FIRE WAS EXTINGUISHED. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE CONTACT'S HOUSE SUSTAINED FIRE DAMAGE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS CONTACTED AND DID NOT ASSIST. THE VEHICLE WAS PREVIOUSLY TAKEN TO PORSCHE OF NORTH OLMSTED LOCATED 28400 LORAUIN RD, NORTH OLMSTEAD, OH WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE FUEL PUMP WAS DEFECTIVE AND NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE CONTACT LATER RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 17V576000 (FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE) AFTER THE FAILURE OCCURRED. THE VEHICLE WAS DEEMED DESTROYED. THERE WERE NO INJURIES. THE VIN WAS NOT PROVIDED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 100,000.

NHTSA complaint #11052953 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.