Owners have filed 56 complaints
about the 2016 Porsche Cayenne with NHTSA between 2015 and 2026.
The largest single group is the other & unspecified.
Across this model's run it ranks 4 of 18 worst.
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.
The dashed ring is 50 — the national norm. Further out is worse.
Complaint volume — 74
Against the median year of the Porsche Cayenne. 50 means typical for this
model; 100 means roughly double.
Severity — 28
5.4% of these complaints
involved a crash, fire, injury or death, against a national rate of
9.7%.
Early failure — 100
70% of failures with a mileage on record happened under
36,000 miles, against a national rate of
29%.
How 2016 compares with every other Porsche Cayenne
Odometer readings owners gave when they filed. About half of all
complaints include one.
Under 1,000 miles
730.4%
1,000 – 9,999 miles
28.7%
10,000 – 24,999 miles
730.4%
25,000 – 49,999 miles
521.7%
50,000 – 74,999 miles
14.3%
75,000 – 99,999 miles
14.3%
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.
Sep 2015peak 5May 2026
NHTSA investigations into the 2016 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.
From 2000 through 2017, Takata produced millions of air bag inflators using two types of phase-stabilized ammonium nitrate ("PSAN") propellant -- propellant 2004 and propellant 2004L. After prolonged exposure to high temperature cycles and humidity, inflators using propellant 2004 can degrade, causing the propellant to burn too quickly when ignited. The rapid burning can cause the inflator to rupture during deployment, potentially causing serious or even fatal injury to vehicle occupants. See 2016 Blomquist Report at www.nhtsa.gov/sites/nhtsa.gov/files/documents/expert_report-hrblomquist.pdf.C...
Recalls on the 2016 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.
16V169000
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:PEDALS AND LINKAGES
Porsche Cars North America, Inc. (Porsche) is recalling certain model year 2011-2016 Cayenne vehicles manufactured April 28, 2010, to January 11, 2016. The brake pedal pivot pin may be missing a circlip, allowing the pivot pin to move and the brake pedal to dislodge.
Risk: If the brake pedal dislodges, the driver may not be able to apply the brakes, increasing the risk of a crash.
Canada — Transport Canada
Canada runs its own recall programme, and its campaigns do not
always mirror the American ones.
Recall 202630115,515 units in Canada
Other
Issue: On certain vehicles, the immobilizer system may not meet certain requirements of Canadian regulations. Safety Risk: This small error does not affect safety. Corrective Actions: This is not a recall. Porsche has made changes to ensure that all new vehicles meet Canadian regulations.
Recall 202248758,856 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 201919233,832 units in Canada
Label
Issue: Certain wheels were made without a marking that is required by Canadian regulations. Safety Risk: This small error does not affect safety. Corrective Actions: This is not a recall. The company has made changes to include the required marking on all new parts.
Recall 201613110,370 units in Canada
Brakes
On certain vehicles, a circlip at the brake pedal hinge may not have been installed at the time of assembly. This could allow the pivot pin to move out of position, which would allow the pedal to wobble, and could fracture the brake pedal pivot through continued use. A fractured hinge would allow the pedal to separate from its pivot, which could lead to impaired brake function and increase stopping distances, increasing the risk of a crash causing injury and/or damage to property. Correction: Dealers will inspect and add a circlip as necessary.
Reports where the owner recorded a crash, a fire, an injury or a death.
at 37,000 milesWoodbury, NY2 injured
POWER TRAIN
VIBRATION FROM VEHICLE CAUSES EAR DAMAGE TO OCCUPANTS, WHETHER VEHICLE IS STATIONARY OR MOVING.
NHTSA complaint #11209176 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 37,000 milesWoodbury, NY2 injured
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
VIBRATION FROM VEHICLE CAUSES EAR DAMAGE TO OCCUPANTS, WHETHER VEHICLE IS STATIONARY OR MOVING.
NHTSA complaint #11209176 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 37,000 milesWoodbury, NY2 injured
ENGINE
VIBRATION FROM VEHICLE CAUSES EAR DAMAGE TO OCCUPANTS, WHETHER VEHICLE IS STATIONARY OR MOVING.
NHTSA complaint #11209176 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
The most recent complaints
In the owners' own words, exactly as filed with NHTSA.
Granada Hills, CA
AIR BAGS
Porsche dashboard leather shrunk and staples pulled out. I was told that if the vehicle was in an accident the airbag might not deploy correctly. The Porsche dealer looked at it and recommended replacing the entire dashboard which costs over $10,000. This is apparently a very common issue.
NHTSA complaint #11740920 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Granada Hills, CA
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Porsche dashboard leather shrunk and staples pulled out. I was told that if the vehicle was in an accident the airbag might not deploy correctly. The Porsche dealer looked at it and recommended replacing the entire dashboard which costs over $10,000. This is apparently a very common issue.
NHTSA complaint #11740920 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Eugene, OR
AIR BAGS
Porsche dashboard leather shrunk and staples pulled out. I was told that if the vehicle was in an accident the airbag might not deploy correctly. The Porsche dealer looked at it and recommended replacing it. This is a very common issue.
NHTSA complaint #11739293 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Novato, CA
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
I noticed a hesitation when I Pressed the gas pedal, I also noticed the smell of Gasoline when I parked it in my Garage. I had my Certified mechanic look at it and he told me there was a recall on the Fuel sending unit, creating a transfer case failure, apparently the flange breaks and leaks gas. I googled it and it confirms it. I called the local dealer and they have not called me back?
NHTSA complaint #11721778 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Atlanta, GA
AIR BAGS
Porsche dashboard leather shrunk and staples pulled out. I was told that if the vehicle was in an accident the airbag might not deploy correctly. The Porsche dealer looked and recommended replacing it. This is a very common issue.
NHTSA complaint #11703693 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Atlanta, GA
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Porsche dashboard leather shrunk and staples pulled out. I was told that if the vehicle was in an accident the airbag might not deploy correctly. The Porsche dealer looked and recommended replacing it. This is a very common issue.
NHTSA complaint #11703693 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Hampton Falls, NH
AIR BAGS
passenger side leather covered dashboard delaminated making air bag deployment inpossible
NHTSA complaint #11695576 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Frisco, TX
AIR BAGS
Porsche dashboard leather shrunk and staples pulled out. I was told that if the vehicle was in an accident the airbag might not deploy correctly. The Porsche dealer looked at it and recommended replacing it. This is a very common issue.
NHTSA complaint #11635383 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Frisco, TX
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Porsche dashboard leather shrunk and staples pulled out. I was told that if the vehicle was in an accident the airbag might not deploy correctly. The Porsche dealer looked at it and recommended replacing it. This is a very common issue.
NHTSA complaint #11635383 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Arlington, VA
ENGINE
Engine oil leak detected in 2021 @33,195 miles caused by broken aluminum bolts in upper part of timing cover. Repaired by dealer on a “good will” basis for what I was told would have cost me approximately $9-10,000. Oil leak reappeared in 2023 @44,657 miles (less than 12,000 since first leak) caused again by broken aluminum bolts in the lower, upper oil pan, and timing cover. Repair done this time by independent shop at a cost of $6,865.70.
NHTSA complaint #11627258 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
West Covina, CA
AIR BAGS
Porsche cayenne leather dashboard shrunk and peeling out. I was told that if the car was in an accident, the airbag might not deploy correctly. This is a common issue.
NHTSA complaint #11627046 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
West Covina, CA
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Porsche cayenne leather dashboard shrunk and peeling out. I was told that if the car was in an accident, the airbag might not deploy correctly. This is a common issue.
NHTSA complaint #11627046 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Madison, WI
AIR BAGS
The dashboard leather has shrunk and the staples are beginning to pull out. I have read that this may keep the dashboard airbag from property deploying in the case of an accident. This is a common issue and the dealers are recommending replacement.
NHTSA complaint #11626837 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Madison, WI
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
The dashboard leather has shrunk and the staples are beginning to pull out. I have read that this may keep the dashboard airbag from property deploying in the case of an accident. This is a common issue and the dealers are recommending replacement.
NHTSA complaint #11626837 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Baton Rouge, LA
AIR BAGS
Porsche leather dashboard shrunk and staples pulled out. I was told by a Porsche service technician that if the vehicle was in an accident, the air bag might not deploy correctly. The Porsche dealer diagnosed it and recommended replacing it. This is a very common issue.
NHTSA complaint #11615812 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Baton Rouge, LA
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Porsche leather dashboard shrunk and staples pulled out. I was told by a Porsche service technician that if the vehicle was in an accident, the air bag might not deploy correctly. The Porsche dealer diagnosed it and recommended replacing it. This is a very common issue.
NHTSA complaint #11615812 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
West Hollywood, CA
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
**Subject**: Urgent Safety Concern: Headlight Condensation and Water Damage in 2015-2018 Porsche Cayenne 958.2 Dear NHTSA, I am writing to report a serious safety issue with the LED matrix headlights on my 2016 Porsche Cayenne GTS (958.2). The problem involves severe condensation buildup within the headlight assembly, leading to water damage and electrical failures. This defect has caused my headlights to fail, particularly during nighttime driving in heavy rain, which significantly reduced visibility. This failure could have resulted in a major accident, putting my life and the lives of others at risk. The vehicle is available for inspection upon request. The issue first became noticeable after a rainstorm, where condensation started to build up inside the headlights. Despite multiple visits to my local Porsche dealership, where they confirmed the problem and attempted repairs, the issue continues to persist. I also notified Porsche corporate directly, but neither the dealership nor Porsche offered any assistance or permanent resolution. Both have failed to take responsibility for what I believe is a widespread defect, as I have found numerous similar reports from other owners. No warning lights or messages were displayed prior to the headlight failure, which made the issue even more dangerous. Without any prior indication, I was left driving without functioning headlights at night, in poor weather conditions. Given the potential for catastrophic consequences, I strongly urge NHTSA to investigate this issue. A recall or other corrective action is necessary to prevent further risks to drivers. Thank you for your attention to this matter.
NHTSA complaint #11612920 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Massapequa, NY
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Backup Camera Intermittent, Yes, available for inspection. Unexpected blackout of the screen. Cannot see pedestrians behind when backing out and expecting to see from the camera instead of rear view mirror. Yes, reproduced by the Dealer. Yes, by the Dealer representing the manufacturer. No warning of any kind. First appeared 9/19/23 Unknown.
NHTSA complaint #11609968 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Lake Charles, LA
AIR BAGS
Dear NHTSA, I am writing to express a serious safety concern regarding the dashboard of my 2016 Porsche Cayenne S. The leather on the dash has begun to shrink and is no longer fitted properly. This misalignment is causing me significant worry about the potential impact on airbag deployment in the event of an accident. Given the crucial role that the dashboard and its covering play in the proper functioning of the airbag system, this issue could compromise the airbags' deployment or effectiveness. This is not only a major safety concern but also poses a risk of the airbags failing to protect occupants as intended, potentially leading to severe consequences during a collision. I am aware that this problem is not unique to my vehicle, as several other owners of the same model have reported similar issues. The potential impact on safety is alarming, and I believe this requires immediate attention. I kindly request that you investigate this issue urgently and advise on the appropriate resolution to ensure the safety of the vehicle’s airbag system. Prompt action is essential to address this potential risk.
NHTSA complaint #11608655 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Boxford, MA
AIR BAGS
Porsche dashboard leather shrunk and staples pulled out. I was told that if the vehicle was in an accident the airbag might not deploy correctly. The Porsche dealer looked at it and recommended replacing it. This is a very common issue
NHTSA complaint #11582346 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Boxford, MA
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Porsche dashboard leather shrunk and staples pulled out. I was told that if the vehicle was in an accident the airbag might not deploy correctly. The Porsche dealer looked at it and recommended replacing it. This is a very common issue
NHTSA complaint #11582346 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 86,000 milesBayonne, NJ
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
The contact owns a 2016 Porsche Cayenne. The contact stated that water had leaked inside the front driver's side and passenger's side headlamps. The contact stated that the failure caused the headlights to become foggy and significantly dim, reducing the visibility of the roadway. The contact stated that he had received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V656000 (Exterior Lighting) and the vehicle was taken to the dealer, where the recall repair was performed. The contact stated that the dealer sealed the headlamps while there was water inside. The dealer declined to perform additional repairs. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and referred the contact to the dealer for assistance. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 86,000.
NHTSA complaint #11562147 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Homewood, AL
POWER TRAIN
While driving vehicle, noticed some slippage/clunking when turning. Took vehicle to Porsche dealer, they said transfer case needed to be replaced. Car has 12,600 original miles on it. Dealer said there was an extended warranty on the transfer case that had expired. In researching, it became obvious that there is a Porsche design problem that affected several model years for the Cayenne. As a mechanical engineer I am concerned that a transfer case failure at freeway speeds could be dangerous. Separately an auto mechanic shop opined that driving without replacing could be a safety concern. In my opinion there should have been a recall rather than a extended warranty.
NHTSA complaint #11556846 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Queens, NY
ENGINE
car had a smell of gas diesel fumes inside cabin from air conditioning system. number of oil leaks over the years as well. now car at dealer for repair over 10 month. not fixed yet. number of problem with same diesel engine on line, even article i found . car was sold as CPO , it was new unregister, but they guaranteed us there will be no emission problems or leaking with this car. now warranty almost over Nov 2023 , and I will get a defective car back maybe... after warranty will expire! more importantly a car that leaks oil or diesel and smells inside the cabin from that.
NHTSA complaint #11543209 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Queens, NY
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
car had a smell of gas diesel fumes inside cabin from air conditioning system. number of oil leaks over the years as well. now car at dealer for repair over 10 month. not fixed yet. number of problem with same diesel engine on line, even article i found . car was sold as CPO , it was new unregister, but they guaranteed us there will be no emission problems or leaking with this car. now warranty almost over Nov 2023 , and I will get a defective car back maybe... after warranty will expire! more importantly a car that leaks oil or diesel and smells inside the cabin from that.
NHTSA complaint #11543209 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.