Owners have filed 65 complaints
about the 2019 Porsche Cayenne with NHTSA between 2019 and 2026.
The largest single group is the airbags.
Across this model's run it ranks 2 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 — 86
Against the median year of the Porsche Cayenne. 50 means typical for this
model; 100 means roughly double.
Severity — 16
3.1% of these complaints
involved a crash, fire, injury or death, against a national rate of
9.7%.
Early failure — 100
82% of failures with a mileage on record happened under
36,000 miles, against a national rate of
29%.
How 2019 compares with every other Porsche Cayenne
Odometer readings owners gave when they filed. About half of all
complaints include one.
Under 1,000 miles
327.3%
1,000 – 9,999 miles
436.4%
10,000 – 24,999 miles
218.2%
50,000 – 74,999 miles
19.1%
100,000 – 149,999 miles
19.1%
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.
May 2019peak 5Jul 2026
Recalls on the 2019 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
25V896000
BACK OVER PREVENTION: SENSING SYSTEM: CAMERA
Porsche Cars North America, Inc. (Porsche) is recalling certain 2019-2025 Cayenne, Cayenne E-Hybrid, 2020-2025 911, Taycan, 2024-2025 Panamera, and 2025 Panamera E-Hybrid vehicles. The rearview camera image may not display when the vehicle is placed in reverse. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 111, "Rear Visibility."
Risk: A rearview image that does not display properly reduces the driver's view behind the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
19V735000
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM: INSTRUMENT CLUSTER/PANEL
Porsche Cars North America, Inc. (Porsche) is recalling certain 2017 Panamera 4, Panamera Turbo, Panamera Turbo Executive, 2017-2018 Panamera, Panamera 4S Executive, Panamera 4S, 2018 Panamera Turbo S Hybrid, Panamera 4 Hybrid Sport Turismo, Panamera 4 Sport Turismo, Panamera Turbo S Hybrid Sport Turismo, Panamera 4 Hybrid, Panamera 4 Executive, 2019 Cayenne Hybrid, 2019-2020 Cayenne, Cayenne S, Cayenne Turbo, 2020 Cayenne Coupe, Cayenne Turbo Coupe, and Cayenne S Coupe vehicles. The instrument cluster may not provide a visual warning when the brake pads are worn out. As a result, these vehicles fail to comply with Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 135, "Light vehicle brake systems."
Risk: If the driver is not alerted when brake pads are worn out, the vehicle may not respond as expected when braking, increasing the risk of crash.
19V111000
VISIBILITY:REARVIEW MIRRORS/DEVICES:INTERIOR
Porsche Cars North America, Inc (Porsche) is recalling certain 2019 Cayenne and Cayenne S vehicles. A software failure may cause the rearview camera image display to be delayed in responding. As such, these vehicles fail to comply to Federal Motor Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 111, "Rearview Mirrors."
Risk: A rearview camera display that does not function as designed can reduce the driver's view of what is behind the car, increasing the risk of a crash.
19V112000
SUSPENSION:FRONT:SHOCK ABSORBER
Porsche Cars North America, Inc. (Porsche) is recalling one 2019 Cayenne Turbo vehicle. The affected vehicle has shock absorber forks that may allow the shock absorbers to loosen.
Risk: Loose shock absorbers may impair vehicle steering, increasing the risk of crash.
19V115000
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM: INSTRUMENT CLUSTER/PANEL
Porsche Cars North America, Inc. (Porsche) is recalling certain 2018 Panamera 4 Executive, Panamera 4S Sport Turismo, Panamera 4 Hybrid, Panamera 4 Hybrid Executive, Panamera 4 Hybrid Sport Turismo, Panamera Turbo Sport Turismo, Panamera Turbo S Hybrid Executive, Panamera Turbo S Hybrid, Panamera 4 Sport Turismo and Panamera Turbo S Hybrid Sport Turismo vehicles, 2017-2018 Panamera, Panamera 4, Panamera Turbo Executive, Panamera 4S, Panamera Turbo and Panamera 4S Executive vehicles and 2019 Cayenne S and Cayenne vehicles. The instrument cluster may not provide a visual warning when the brake pads are worn out. As a result, these vehicles fail to comply with Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 135, "Light vehicle brake systems."
Risk: If the driver is not alerted when brake pads are worn out, the driver may lose control of the vehicle while attempting to brake, increasing the risk of crash.
18V751000
SEAT BELTS:REAR/OTHER
Porsche Cars North America, Inc. (Porsche) is recalling certain 2019 Porsche Cayenne vehicles. The passenger side rear seat belt buckle may break under load, such as in the event of a crash. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 209, "Seat Belt Assemblies."
Risk: If the seat belt buckle breaks in the event of a crash, the occupant will not be properly restrained, increasing their risk of injury.
Canada — Transport Canada
Canada runs its own recall programme, and its campaigns do not
always mirror the American ones.
Recall 202571625,175 units in Canada
Visual System
Issue: On certain vehicles, a software problem could cause the rearview camera image not to appear on the display. Canadian regulations require the rearview image to display when the transmission is shifted into reverse gear. Safety Risk: A rearview camera image that doesn't display could reduce a driver's ability to see behind the vehicle while backing up. This could increase the risk of a crash. Corrective Actions: Porsche will notify owners by mail and advise you to take your vehicle to a dealership to update the driver assistance system control unit software.
Recall 20236625,071 units in Canada
Accessories
Issue: Under certain conditions, the 220 V vehicle charging cable plug could become damaged by the house power outlet. As a result, the charging cable could overheat while charging. Note: This recall only affects electric and plug-in hybrid electric (PHEV) models. Safety Risk: A charging cable that overheats could create a fire risk. Corrective Actions: Porsche will notify owners by mail and advise you to take your 220 V vehicle charger to a dealership to replace the vehicle charging cable.
Recall 20214035 units in Canada
Steering
Issue: On a small number of vehicles, the screw that secures the steering column to the steering gear may not be properly tightened. If the screw comes loose, the steering column could detach and cause a complete loss of steering control. Safety Risk: A loss of steering control could create a risk of a crash. Corrective Action: Porsche will notify owners by mail and instruct you to bring your vehicle to a dealer to install a new screw to secure the steering column to the steering gear.
Recall 20211927,583 units in Canada
Lights And Instruments
Issue: Certain vehicles may not display the correct warning indicator when the brakes are worn out. As a result, the brake wear indicator lamp ("BRAKE WEAR") may display instead of a symbol. Note: Worn out brakes will also cause a warning message to display in the message centre. Safety Risk: While there is a low risk to safety, Canadian regulations require warnings to use common symbols, instead of words, to avoid driver confusion. Corrective Actions: Porsche will notify owners by mail and instruct you to take your vehicle to a dealer to reprogram the instrument cluster.
Recall 20195226,007 units in Canada
Lights And Instruments
Issue: On certain vehicles, the red brake wear warning light may not come on when the brake pads require replacement. This can happen when the instrument cluster display is set to the Map or Night Vision mode. Canadian regulations require the warning indicator to stay on when the brakes are worn. Note: This recall replaces Transport Canada recall 2019-078. Vehicles that were repaired under that recall also require this repair. Safety Risk: Driving a vehicle with brakes that are worn out 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 update the instrument cluster software.
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 20190781,224 units in Canada
Brakes
Issue: On certain vehicles, the red brake wear warning light does not come on when the brake pads are worn out. This could increase the risk of the vehicle being driven with worn out brake pads. Note: A yellow warning message will be displayed if the brake pads wear out. Note: This recall is superseded by recall 2019522. Please see <a href="http://wwwapps.tc.gc.ca/Saf-Sec-Sur/7/VRDB-BDRV/search-recherche/detail.aspx?lang=eng&&rn=2019522">recall 2019522</a> for more information. Safety Risk: Driving a vehicle with worn out brake pads could increase the risk of a crash. Corrective Actions: The company will notify owners by mail. Owners will be instructed to take their vehicle to a dealer to update the instrument cluster software.
Recall 201858366 units in Canada
Seats And Restraints
On certain vehicles, the right rear seat belt buckle may have been manufactured incorrectly and may not properly restrain an occupant in the event of a crash, increasing the risk of injury. Correction: Dealers will replace the rear right seat belt buckle with an improved part.
Reports where the owner recorded a crash, a fire, an injury or a death.
at 12,000 milesCary, NCCrash
STEERING
SEVERAL TIMES A MONTH WHEN MY CAR COMES TO A STOP THE BRAKES MALFUNCTION AND THE BRAKE PEDAL GOES TO THE FLOOR AND THE POWER STEERING STOPS WORKING. IT TAKES UP TO ANOTHER CAR LENGTH TO FULLY STOP WHEN THIS HAPPENS - SOMETIMES JUST A FEW EXTRA FEET. IT HAS CAUSED ME TO DAMAGE THE FRONT END BY DRIVING INTO A BUSH. THE DEALER REFUSES TO DO ANYTHING BECAUSE THEY CAN'T REPLICATE THE BRAKE PROBLEM AND THEY STATE THE STEERING PROBLEM IS NORMAL. I HAVE BEEN ABLE TO REPLICATE THE STEERING PROBLEMS TO THEM BUT BECAUSE THE BRAKE ISSUE HAPPENS ONLY A FEW TIMES A MONTH I WAS NOT ABLE TO.
NHTSA complaint #11282603 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 12,000 milesCary, NCCrash
SERVICE BRAKES
SEVERAL TIMES A MONTH WHEN MY CAR COMES TO A STOP THE BRAKES MALFUNCTION AND THE BRAKE PEDAL GOES TO THE FLOOR AND THE POWER STEERING STOPS WORKING. IT TAKES UP TO ANOTHER CAR LENGTH TO FULLY STOP WHEN THIS HAPPENS - SOMETIMES JUST A FEW EXTRA FEET. IT HAS CAUSED ME TO DAMAGE THE FRONT END BY DRIVING INTO A BUSH. THE DEALER REFUSES TO DO ANYTHING BECAUSE THEY CAN'T REPLICATE THE BRAKE PROBLEM AND THEY STATE THE STEERING PROBLEM IS NORMAL. I HAVE BEEN ABLE TO REPLICATE THE STEERING PROBLEMS TO THEM BUT BECAUSE THE BRAKE ISSUE HAPPENS ONLY A FEW TIMES A MONTH I WAS NOT ABLE TO.
NHTSA complaint #11282603 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
The most recent complaints
In the owners' own words, exactly as filed with NHTSA.
at 105,000 milesDallas, TX
BACK OVER PREVENTION
The contact owns a 2019 Porsche Cayenne. The contact stated that while the vehicle was in reverse(R), the back-over prevention camera failed to provide a rear-view image. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V896000 (Back Over Prevention); and associated the failure with the recall. The local dealer was contacted; however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The failure mileage was approximately 105,000.
NHTSA complaint #11752100 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Chesnee, SC
AIR BAGS
The dashboard is peeling up and is unsafe due to airbag being underneath the leather dash. If airbag was to blow it would not function correctly due to dashboard leather peeling. Could potentially injur passenger or not deploy at all.
NHTSA complaint #11750486 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
West Bloomfield, MI
ENGINE
2019 Porsche Cayenne Turbo (EA825 4.0L V8, VIN [XXX]). Vacuum-actuated water pump seal failure caused coolant infiltration of the vacuum system on two separate occasions during the CPO warranty period. The vacuum system on this engine supplies the brake servo (brake booster) — a safety-critical connection documented in Porsche and Audi's own engineering literature for this engine (NHTSA document MC-XXX). First failure: XXX (92,916 miles, RO XXX). Towed in overheating. Technician documented coolant infiltrating vacuum system. Coolant pump replaced. Vacuum lines not inspected or replaced. Vacuum pump not inspected or replaced. PCNA's own ATI 2235.1 (NHTSA MC-XXX) required vacuum line inspection — not performed. Second failure: October 3, 2025 (103,904 miles, RO 207205). Coolant documented at timing chain cover. Coolant pump replaced. Change-over valve not replaced — required unconditionally by ATI 2235.1. Vacuum lines not inspected or replaced. No PQIS fault code logged — required by PCNA TSB 2307 (NHTSA MC-XXX). No oil analysis performed. No timing chain cavity inspection. Service visit performed one month before CPO expiration. Third visit: XXX (103,988 miles, RO XXX). Cracked breather hose found 84 miles after second service. Vacuum system still unremediated. Current failure: March 2026. Severe valvetrain noise on cylinder bank 2. Engine-out diagnosis required. Estimate $13,286.57. Vehicle currently at Porsche Novi/Farmington Hills. PCNA denied coverage June 25, 2026 without referencing a single technical bulletin, repair order, or published protocol from the documented record. The brake servo vacuum supply connection — documented in PCNA and Audi's own engineering literature — makes this a safety matter. PCNA's own TI 173/21 (NHTSA MC-XXX) explicitly covers the V8 Biturbo variant and was not followed. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
NHTSA complaint #11747045 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
West Bloomfield, MI
SERVICE BRAKES
2019 Porsche Cayenne Turbo (EA825 4.0L V8, VIN [XXX]). Vacuum-actuated water pump seal failure caused coolant infiltration of the vacuum system on two separate occasions during the CPO warranty period. The vacuum system on this engine supplies the brake servo (brake booster) — a safety-critical connection documented in Porsche and Audi's own engineering literature for this engine (NHTSA document MC-XXX). First failure: XXX (92,916 miles, RO XXX). Towed in overheating. Technician documented coolant infiltrating vacuum system. Coolant pump replaced. Vacuum lines not inspected or replaced. Vacuum pump not inspected or replaced. PCNA's own ATI 2235.1 (NHTSA MC-XXX) required vacuum line inspection — not performed. Second failure: October 3, 2025 (103,904 miles, RO 207205). Coolant documented at timing chain cover. Coolant pump replaced. Change-over valve not replaced — required unconditionally by ATI 2235.1. Vacuum lines not inspected or replaced. No PQIS fault code logged — required by PCNA TSB 2307 (NHTSA MC-XXX). No oil analysis performed. No timing chain cavity inspection. Service visit performed one month before CPO expiration. Third visit: XXX (103,988 miles, RO XXX). Cracked breather hose found 84 miles after second service. Vacuum system still unremediated. Current failure: March 2026. Severe valvetrain noise on cylinder bank 2. Engine-out diagnosis required. Estimate $13,286.57. Vehicle currently at Porsche Novi/Farmington Hills. PCNA denied coverage June 25, 2026 without referencing a single technical bulletin, repair order, or published protocol from the documented record. The brake servo vacuum supply connection — documented in PCNA and Audi's own engineering literature — makes this a safety matter. PCNA's own TI 173/21 (NHTSA MC-XXX) explicitly covers the V8 Biturbo variant and was not followed. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
NHTSA complaint #11747045 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Weehawken, NJ
POWER TRAIN
The hybrid cooling system on my 2019 Porsche Cayenne E-Hybrid repeatedly displayed a red dashboard warning while the vehicle was in motion: "Hybrid coolant level too low / Park vehicle safely / Let vehicle cool down." This warning appeared on multiple occasions at speeds of approximately 22 mph, 38–40 mph, and 47 mph, as documented in timestamped photos and videos taken in November 2025. A separate warning in July 2025 read: "Engine cannot be started / Remove charger plug." The warnings indicate a potential thermal management or hybrid cooling system failure. A moving vehicle being instructed to park and cool down presents a safety risk to the driver and others, particularly if the condition causes sudden power loss or thermal event. The vehicle was serviced at an authorized Porsche dealer in 2025. Despite that service activity, the hybrid coolant warning recurred while driving in November 2025, suggesting the underlying condition was not fully resolved. The issue was reported to the manufacturer (PCNA), who acknowledged it under a case number and offered a service voucher. The selling dealer attributed the concerns to a manufacturer charging-cable campaign. Neither response addressed the recurring in-motion warning or confirmed the hybrid cooling system was repaired. Timestamped photo and video evidence is available showing the dashboard warnings and vehicle speed at time of occurrence. Complete repair orders have been requested but not yet provided. The component may be available for inspection upon request.
NHTSA complaint #11745533 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Weehawken, NJ
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
The hybrid cooling system on my 2019 Porsche Cayenne E-Hybrid repeatedly displayed a red dashboard warning while the vehicle was in motion: "Hybrid coolant level too low / Park vehicle safely / Let vehicle cool down." This warning appeared on multiple occasions at speeds of approximately 22 mph, 38–40 mph, and 47 mph, as documented in timestamped photos and videos taken in November 2025. A separate warning in July 2025 read: "Engine cannot be started / Remove charger plug." The warnings indicate a potential thermal management or hybrid cooling system failure. A moving vehicle being instructed to park and cool down presents a safety risk to the driver and others, particularly if the condition causes sudden power loss or thermal event. The vehicle was serviced at an authorized Porsche dealer in 2025. Despite that service activity, the hybrid coolant warning recurred while driving in November 2025, suggesting the underlying condition was not fully resolved. The issue was reported to the manufacturer (PCNA), who acknowledged it under a case number and offered a service voucher. The selling dealer attributed the concerns to a manufacturer charging-cable campaign. Neither response addressed the recurring in-motion warning or confirmed the hybrid cooling system was repaired. Timestamped photo and video evidence is available showing the dashboard warnings and vehicle speed at time of occurrence. Complete repair orders have been requested but not yet provided. The component may be available for inspection upon request.
NHTSA complaint #11745533 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Weehawken, NJ
ENGINE
The hybrid cooling system on my 2019 Porsche Cayenne E-Hybrid repeatedly displayed a red dashboard warning while the vehicle was in motion: "Hybrid coolant level too low / Park vehicle safely / Let vehicle cool down." This warning appeared on multiple occasions at speeds of approximately 22 mph, 38–40 mph, and 47 mph, as documented in timestamped photos and videos taken in November 2025. A separate warning in July 2025 read: "Engine cannot be started / Remove charger plug." The warnings indicate a potential thermal management or hybrid cooling system failure. A moving vehicle being instructed to park and cool down presents a safety risk to the driver and others, particularly if the condition causes sudden power loss or thermal event. The vehicle was serviced at an authorized Porsche dealer in 2025. Despite that service activity, the hybrid coolant warning recurred while driving in November 2025, suggesting the underlying condition was not fully resolved. The issue was reported to the manufacturer (PCNA), who acknowledged it under a case number and offered a service voucher. The selling dealer attributed the concerns to a manufacturer charging-cable campaign. Neither response addressed the recurring in-motion warning or confirmed the hybrid cooling system was repaired. Timestamped photo and video evidence is available showing the dashboard warnings and vehicle speed at time of occurrence. Complete repair orders have been requested but not yet provided. The component may be available for inspection upon request.
NHTSA complaint #11745533 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Buffalo, NY
AIR BAGS
Porsche leather dashboard shrunk and staples pulled out. I was told if the vehicle was in an accident the airbag may not deploy properly. The Porsche dealer looked at it recommend that it be replaced. This is a known manufacturer defect that has been occurring with many of Porsche leather dashboards in different models. The manufacture is not taking responsibility in repairing or recalling this dangerous situation and putting the cost onto the customer. The fact that this is an option they offer as an additional cost on their vehicles , knowing this is a dangerous defect. This alone should automatically issue recall to fix before someone gets seriously injured.
NHTSA complaint #11737919 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Buffalo, NY
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Porsche leather dashboard shrunk and staples pulled out. I was told if the vehicle was in an accident the airbag may not deploy properly. The Porsche dealer looked at it recommend that it be replaced. This is a known manufacturer defect that has been occurring with many of Porsche leather dashboards in different models. The manufacture is not taking responsibility in repairing or recalling this dangerous situation and putting the cost onto the customer. The fact that this is an option they offer as an additional cost on their vehicles , knowing this is a dangerous defect. This alone should automatically issue recall to fix before someone gets seriously injured.
NHTSA complaint #11737919 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Enterprise, AL
AIR BAGS
The leather dash is peeling irregularly and will not deploy the passenger airbag properly if vehicle is involved in an accident and could result in death of a passenger. Serious problem with Cayenne SUV’s and Porsche refuses to address the problem with multiple complaints from other owners.
NHTSA complaint #11737472 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Enterprise, AL
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
The leather dash is peeling irregularly and will not deploy the passenger airbag properly if vehicle is involved in an accident and could result in death of a passenger. Serious problem with Cayenne SUV’s and Porsche refuses to address the problem with multiple complaints from other owners.
NHTSA complaint #11737472 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Charlotte, NC
ENGINE
sudden total drivetrain failure at 52k mi with no warning, child passenger, prior dealer-documented leak that was not escalated.
NHTSA complaint #11734234 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Charlotte, NC
POWER TRAIN
At approximately 52,000 miles, the vehicle experienced a sudden catastrophic transmission / driveline failure while in use. The failure created serious concern about safe operation and reliability and left the vehicle disabled or unsafe to continue driving normally. An authorized Porsche dealer evaluated the vehicle and stated that the repair would require replacement of the entire transmission assembly at very high cost. No practical parts-level repair option has been provided. I am reporting this because a sudden major powertrain failure at this mileage may indicate a safety-related defect.
NHTSA complaint #11731119 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Charlotte, NC
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
At approximately 52,000 miles, the vehicle experienced a sudden catastrophic transmission / driveline failure while in use. The failure created serious concern about safe operation and reliability and left the vehicle disabled or unsafe to continue driving normally. An authorized Porsche dealer evaluated the vehicle and stated that the repair would require replacement of the entire transmission assembly at very high cost. No practical parts-level repair option has been provided. I am reporting this because a sudden major powertrain failure at this mileage may indicate a safety-related defect.
NHTSA complaint #11731119 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
San Juan Capistrano, CA
AIR BAGS
Bubbled dashboard is considered as a safety issue that airbag may NOT be properly deployed when an accident occurs.
NHTSA complaint #11722824 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Eagle, ID
BACK OVER PREVENTION
The contact owns a 2019 Porsche Cayenne. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V896000 (Back Over Prevention). The contact called a local dealer and the manufacturer but was advised that the part for the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The contact had not experienced a failure.
NHTSA complaint #11721015 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
San Juan Capistrano, CA
AIR BAGS
SAFETY ASSESSMENT: 2019 Porsche Cayenne S Dashboard Material Failure Vehicle Identification: VIN [XXX] , Current Odometer: 46639 Assessment Date: 12/11/2025 Evaluator: [XXX] , Registered Owner/Operator ________________________________________ EXECUTIVE SUMMARY The dashboard upper assembly in this vehicle exhibits progressive adhesive delamination and synthetic leather separation (colloquially “bubbling”) across the instrument cluster housing and passenger airbag deployment zone. This defect, while initially cosmetic, presents measurable safety risks under Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS) by compromising passive restraint systems, driver visibility, and interior structural integrity during collision events. The failure pattern is consistent with documented manufacturing defects affecting 2018-2022 Cayenne production units. ________________________________________ TECHNICAL ANALYSIS Defect Manifestation: •Multi-point adhesive failure between dashboard substrate and synthetic leather wrap •Bubbles ranging 2-8cm diameter directly above passenger-side airbag module •Progression rate: 15% surface area increase over 4-month observation period •Material: Thermoplastic olefin (TPO) substrate with polyurethane coating exhibiting UV-degradation and outgassing Root Cause: Inadequate adhesive curing during manufacturing combined with incompatible material expansion coefficients, resulting in progressive de-lamination under thermal cycling. ________________________________________ SAFETY CONCERNS 1. PASSENGER AIRBAG DEPLOYMENT (FMVSS 208 Violation Risk) 2. DRIVER VISIBILITY IMPAIRMENT (FMVSS 101 Violation Risk) 3. INTERIOR STRUCTURAL INTEGRITY (FMVSS 201/214) 4. SECONDARY PROJECTILE HAZARD 5. OCCUPANT HEALTH & COGNITIVE LOAD This defect constitutes a latent safety hazard that degrades over time, not a static cosmetic issue. The combination of airbag deployment trajectory interference, driver visibility impairment, structural integrity compromise. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FO
NHTSA complaint #11710843 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
San Juan Capistrano, CA
VISIBILITY/WIPER
SAFETY ASSESSMENT: 2019 Porsche Cayenne S Dashboard Material Failure Vehicle Identification: VIN [XXX] , Current Odometer: 46639 Assessment Date: 12/11/2025 Evaluator: [XXX] , Registered Owner/Operator ________________________________________ EXECUTIVE SUMMARY The dashboard upper assembly in this vehicle exhibits progressive adhesive delamination and synthetic leather separation (colloquially “bubbling”) across the instrument cluster housing and passenger airbag deployment zone. This defect, while initially cosmetic, presents measurable safety risks under Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS) by compromising passive restraint systems, driver visibility, and interior structural integrity during collision events. The failure pattern is consistent with documented manufacturing defects affecting 2018-2022 Cayenne production units. ________________________________________ TECHNICAL ANALYSIS Defect Manifestation: •Multi-point adhesive failure between dashboard substrate and synthetic leather wrap •Bubbles ranging 2-8cm diameter directly above passenger-side airbag module •Progression rate: 15% surface area increase over 4-month observation period •Material: Thermoplastic olefin (TPO) substrate with polyurethane coating exhibiting UV-degradation and outgassing Root Cause: Inadequate adhesive curing during manufacturing combined with incompatible material expansion coefficients, resulting in progressive de-lamination under thermal cycling. ________________________________________ SAFETY CONCERNS 1. PASSENGER AIRBAG DEPLOYMENT (FMVSS 208 Violation Risk) 2. DRIVER VISIBILITY IMPAIRMENT (FMVSS 101 Violation Risk) 3. INTERIOR STRUCTURAL INTEGRITY (FMVSS 201/214) 4. SECONDARY PROJECTILE HAZARD 5. OCCUPANT HEALTH & COGNITIVE LOAD This defect constitutes a latent safety hazard that degrades over time, not a static cosmetic issue. The combination of airbag deployment trajectory interference, driver visibility impairment, structural integrity compromise. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FO
NHTSA complaint #11710843 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Charlottesville, VA
AIR BAGS
Porsche leather dashboard shrunk and is loose; I was told airbags may not deploy correctly. Porche recommended replacing the dashboard. This is a very common issue.
NHTSA complaint #11707762 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Charlottesville, VA
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Porsche leather dashboard shrunk and is loose; I was told airbags may not deploy correctly. Porche recommended replacing the dashboard. This is a very common issue.
NHTSA complaint #11707762 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Buffalo, NY
AIR BAGS
The dashboard material cover is pulling away lifting up from the dashboard where air bags are located.Not safe
NHTSA complaint #11702288 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Elk Grove, CA
POWER TRAIN
While driving my 2019 Porsche Cayenne S on the freeway, the check-engine light came on, followed by a message on the dashboard that read “Engine Control fault – Driving permitted – Visit workshop.” Moments later, the vehicle suddenly lost power and decelerated from about ~75 mph to around 55 mph, even though my foot was still on the accelerator. I am [XXX] pregnant and had our [XXX] child in the car at the time. The unexpected loss of speed in fast-moving traffic was frightening. I had to quickly change lanes to reach the slower lane and avoid being hit by other vehicles. After reaching safety, I drove the car to an authorized Porsche dealership, where technicians found an active water-pump leak with coolant entering the vacuum system, which may have caused turbocharger and engine-power failure. This is after I replaced the water pump last year at another porsche dealership. A photo taken during the incident shows the dashboard warning message as it appeared. This incident created a serious safety hazard, as the vehicle displayed “driving permitted” even though it was at risk of a sudden loss of propulsion at highway speeds. The car and the failed components are available for inspection. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
NHTSA complaint #11698394 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Elk Grove, CA
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
While driving my 2019 Porsche Cayenne S on the freeway, the check-engine light came on, followed by a message on the dashboard that read “Engine Control fault – Driving permitted – Visit workshop.” Moments later, the vehicle suddenly lost power and decelerated from about ~75 mph to around 55 mph, even though my foot was still on the accelerator. I am [XXX] pregnant and had our [XXX] child in the car at the time. The unexpected loss of speed in fast-moving traffic was frightening. I had to quickly change lanes to reach the slower lane and avoid being hit by other vehicles. After reaching safety, I drove the car to an authorized Porsche dealership, where technicians found an active water-pump leak with coolant entering the vacuum system, which may have caused turbocharger and engine-power failure. This is after I replaced the water pump last year at another porsche dealership. A photo taken during the incident shows the dashboard warning message as it appeared. This incident created a serious safety hazard, as the vehicle displayed “driving permitted” even though it was at risk of a sudden loss of propulsion at highway speeds. The car and the failed components are available for inspection. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
NHTSA complaint #11698394 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Elk Grove, CA
ENGINE
While driving my 2019 Porsche Cayenne S on the freeway, the check-engine light came on, followed by a message on the dashboard that read “Engine Control fault – Driving permitted – Visit workshop.” Moments later, the vehicle suddenly lost power and decelerated from about ~75 mph to around 55 mph, even though my foot was still on the accelerator. I am [XXX] pregnant and had our [XXX] child in the car at the time. The unexpected loss of speed in fast-moving traffic was frightening. I had to quickly change lanes to reach the slower lane and avoid being hit by other vehicles. After reaching safety, I drove the car to an authorized Porsche dealership, where technicians found an active water-pump leak with coolant entering the vacuum system, which may have caused turbocharger and engine-power failure. This is after I replaced the water pump last year at another porsche dealership. A photo taken during the incident shows the dashboard warning message as it appeared. This incident created a serious safety hazard, as the vehicle displayed “driving permitted” even though it was at risk of a sudden loss of propulsion at highway speeds. The car and the failed components are available for inspection. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
NHTSA complaint #11698394 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Lawrence, MA
AIR BAGS
Porsche dashboard leather shrunk and staples pulled out, I was told that if the vehicle was in an accident the air bags might not deploy properly . the Porsche dealer looked at it and recommended replacing it . this is a very common issue .
NHTSA complaint #11683410 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.