83 of the
702 complaints filed about the Porsche Cayenne
are about the fuel system —
12% of everything owners reported.
The worst model year for it is 2006.
Nearly 25% of the total time I have owned this Certified Pre-Owned vehicle (146 out of 564 days), it has been non-functional and in the shop — roughly 1 out of every 4 days of ownership. I am a [XXX} with a [XXX] child, and I purchased this vehicle as a Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) Porsche — expecting the manufacturer's rigorous inspection and warranty to ensure reliability and safety. Instead, the first breakdown occurred within just 1 month of purchase, and the vehicle has since failed six separate times over 18 months (Feb 2025–Aug 2026), totaling 60+ days out of service, despite extensive component replacement: [XXX] (≈1 month after CPO purchase) – Battery failure; car would not start; towed at 2–3 AM. [XXX] – No-start; fuel tank drained/refueled ("improper additive"). [XXX] – Low fuel pump replaced. [XXX] – High fuel pump, all 6 fuel injectors, DME system replaced. [XXX] – Recurring no-start; repurchase denied May 7, 2025; Porsche later claimed root cause found (mechanical part) and replaced it. Aug 1, 2026–ongoing – Check engine light returned; misfire on cylinder 4 and coolant leak into vacuum system found. Dealer replaced coolant pump/vacuum components, updated DME software — check engine light reappeared on the dealer's own test drive. Why This Is Especially Dangerous: A CPO vehicle should not fail this quickly or repeatedly. It raised serious concern that either the inspection was inadequate or a pre-existing defect was never disclosed. My child rides in this vehicle regularly. A sudden stall or power loss at highway speed, at an intersection, or during school pickup/drop-off could cause a serious collision, endangering my child's life and my own. As a [XXX] with no backup driver/vehicle, an unexpected breakdown have cost lost work time, unreimbursed Uber expenses, and childcare disruptions. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
NHTSA complaint #11756293 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
The high-voltage battery pack in my 2018 Porsche Cayenne S E-Hybrid (VIN: [XXX] , approximately 81,000 miles) has experienced a noticeable and progressive reduction in battery range and performance. On February 20, 2026, Porsche White Plains (an authorized Porsche dealer) performed an inspection but was unable to duplicate an active fault code and declined to generate a battery State of Health (SoH%) report. No warranty repair was authorized. Porsche Cars North America (PCNA), Case #XXX, has since moved to close my statutory warranty claim, citing the absence of a duplicated fault. However, under New York State's adopted CARB emission warranty standards (6 NYCRR § 218-9.1), high-voltage propulsion batteries in TZEV/PZEV vehicles are warranted for 10 years or 150,000 miles from the date of original sale. My vehicle was placed in service in 2018 and remains within that statutory coverage window through 2028. PCNA has not addressed this statutory obligation or provided written confirmation of coverage. I also have not received the inspection documentation I formally requested on March 17, 2026, despite no case closure having occurred at the time of that request. As of the date of this filing, PCNA has not responded to my follow-up correspondence. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
NHTSA complaint #11735314 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
This vehicle qualified for the Volkswagen Emissions Recall, yet from the start of the recall through 2018 settlement lawsuit dates , no correspondence was sent (by Porsche nor VW). According to all recall regulations, my vehicle should have among the ‘recall’ with the 85K plus others, yet no correspondence was sent (by Porsche nor VW) & now the local Porsche dealership is denying in, According to all recall regulations, even still with the EPA, the vehicle was to receive an initial emissions test, then undergo all related repairs/part replacements before the issue resulted in toxic emissions, NOX sensor failures, & premature problems with the DPF system, leading to thermostat problems & the failure of the diesel turbo. Federal regs mandate that vehicle & vehicle equipment manufacturers comply with Early Warning Reporting requirements, submit to NHTSA copies of their manufacturer communications. & update all communications including warranty, policy extensions & product improvement communication sent to dealers, distributors, owners, purchasers, etc. regarding any defect, failure or malfunction beyond normal deterioration in use, failure of performance, flaw or other unintended deviation from design specifications whether it is safety-related or not. Porsche now says my vehicle never showed the recall, despite court mandates that all affected vehicles will be notified communication failed on the sides of both manufacturers. In 2026, if one possesses an eligible vehicle but never received a "Dieselgate" recall notice, options for financial compensation from the original U.S. settlements stated to be likely limited, & I’m not able to find how to proceed with Volkswagen, but regardless, according to EPA and all vehicle standards, I read my vehicle is still entitled to receive an emissions modification at no cost, and that I should be covered by an extended emissions warranty to address all current & related issues.
NHTSA complaint #11724527 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
The contact owns a 2009 Porsche Cayenne. The contact stated that there was an abnormal fuel odor inside the vehicle. The contact stated there was visible damage to the fuel tank flange, and there was a leak coming from the fuel tank. The contact stated that the OBD port provided a code and that the fuel was too lean, causing the RPM to fluctuate. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic for throttle body repair, but the failure persisted. A dealer was not contacted. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 157,000.
NHTSA complaint #11722935 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
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.
The car was driven from Cheshire, CT to Old Tappan, NJ about 90 miles, just under two hours drive time. Combination of highway and back roads. The car was in drive in comfort mode proceeding slowly (approx 20 mph) down a street within a condo complex. As I approached the driveway I lightly braked, turned into the driveway then lightly pressed the accelerator to bring the car up the driveway apron onto the single car length driveway. At that point the car accelerated to what felt like max power. The car accelerated uncontrollably causing the car to advance in a right turn through the closed garage door striking a garaged vehicle in the right rear quarter and the right wall of the garage. Fortunately no one was hurt but this could have resulted on severe injury or death. No pre warning lights just a slight burning smell just before. This unrequested acceleration occurred twice before the crash incident leaving a traffic light from stop. Porsche has analyzed the car and find no fault. The insurance company has sent an adjuster. Damage estimated at $73,000.00.
NHTSA complaint #11715977 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Last month I began experiencing a strong fuel odor after driving, most noticeable outside the driver-side rear door area, which aligns with the warning sign described in the recall report. This is a time-sensitive safety concern. [XXX] (PCNA 573 filing with NHTSA). INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
NHTSA complaint #11711993 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
The contact owns a 2006 Porsche Cayenne. The contact stated that after parking the vehicle in the garage and exiting the vehicle, the contact smelled an abnormal fuel odor outside the vehicle. A dealer was contacted. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, and it was diagnosed with a crack in the filter flange informed the contact was informed that the filter flange needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 17V576000 (FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE); however, the VIN was not included in the recall. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and confirmed that the VIN was not included in the recall. The failure mileage was 135,000.
NHTSA complaint #11709777 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
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 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
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 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
The contact owns a 2005 Porsche Cayenne. The contact stated that fuel was leaking from the vehicle. There was an abnormal fuel odor. There were no warning lights illuminated. The contact stated that the failure was related to NHTSA Campaign Number: 17V576000 (Fuel System, Gasoline). The contact replaced the fuel filter and repaired the vehicle. The contact called the local dealer and was informed that parts were on back order. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was contacted, but no assistance was provided. The failure mileage was approximately 157,290.
NHTSA complaint #11695787 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
As I was making a turn onto another avenue, and accelerating to blend into traffic flow, dashboard messages suddenly appeared 1)"Engine control error, driving still possible, see dealer." 2)"Active lane keeping not available, driving still possible, service required" 3)"Adaptive Cruise Control not available, driving still possible, service required". Adaptive cruise was not engaged at the time of the error. The car lost almost all power, despite saying "driving still possible"; cars behind me had to brake hard as my car would only go about 7-10mph tops with accelerator firmly depressed and engine began to run very roughly. I coasted to shoulder of road, took video of error messages, turned car off and restarted car which cleared messages and car regained normal operation. I was glad this happened in-town and not when merging on a highway. This is not the first time the car has issued sudden warning messages stating certain systems had failed only to be cleared by restarting the car. I have taken the car to the dealer before to have them research the issue but they say errors cannot be replicated. However, this was the first time Engine control message posted and was the first time the car lost power and put me in danger of not being able to control the car's speed in traffic. I have lost faith in the car's control systems. I can live with lack of cruise control or lane keeping, but I cannot tolerate sudden lack of power than can cause an accident. This is my 3rd Cayenne, and unfortunately on this model, the electronics are ruining an otherwise well designed vehicle.
NHTSA complaint #11671298 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Catastrophic failure of Bosch CP4 high-pressure fuel pump in my 2014 Porsche Diesel Cayenne. Resulted in metal shavings/shrapnel throughout entire fuel system. Car abruptly stalled while pulling out of parking lot and was unable to restart. Had vehicle towed to nearest Porsche dealer for repairs. Quote for parts only (without labor) to repair vehicle is $29,440.47. With labor is in excess of $40,000. Car has been determined to be a total loss. My 2014 Porsche Diesel Cayenne has always been maintained at suggested intervals and all service work for the life of the car was performed by Porsche. It has been a wonderful, reliable and fun vehicle to drive prior to this horrible event. No warnings of fuel pump failure came up on vehicle warning and message system.
NHTSA complaint #11589558 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Engine light came on and vehicle decelerated while making a turn in traffic. Based on the owners manual and code test, it comes up as a DPF issue. We could have been seriously injured had the oncoming traffic been closer to us or had someone attempted to follow me on the turn. When the car lost power, I could not accelerate to complete my turn. The problem has been duplicated by my husband who has some mechanical expertise, but the next step would be to take it to a dealer. It is available for inspection, but it is not safe to drive. The check engine light and the glow plug lamp came on at the same time. It happened once before on the interstate coming across I-80 on the interstate. In the middle of nowhere with no cell phone service, we were able to pull over, shut off and restart the engine which cleared the code for the rest of the trip. Then it didn’t do this again for nearly two months.
NHTSA complaint #11568669 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
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.
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.
The contact owns a 2006 Porsche Cayenne. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 17V576000 (Fuel System, Gasoline). The contact stated that the dealer retrieved the vehicle from the residence to perform the recall repair; however, the dealer confirmed that they were unable to access the fuel pump and fuel filter due to the corroded locking collars. The contact stated that after receiving the vehicle from the dealer, a fuel odor was detected while exiting the vehicle. Additionally, there was gasoline leaking underneath the rear driver's side tire onto the ground while the contact was at the gas station to refuel. The vehicle was towed to the residence. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 213,697.
NHTSA complaint #11525399 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
We purchased the 2005 Porsche Cayenne from my brother-in-law in August of 2022. He had owned the vehicle for at least a year before I purchased it from him. Shortly after the purchase, I noticed the engine light came on. On 09/12/22 a strong smell of fuel was emitting from the vehicle in a Walmart parking lot in Denton, Texas at approximately 1030pm. I noticed a large puddle of gasoline on the ground under the vehicle and it was steady stream of fuel while the vehicle was running. The vehicle was completely unsafe to drive for fear of ignition and fire. Due to the time and location, I had the vehicle towed to my mechanic approximately 3 miles away for diagnosis and/or repair. The closest Porsche dealership was approximately 25 miles away and the tow bill would have been excessive. Mechanic identified the problem as a cracked fuel filter flange/housing that sat on top of the fuel pump. The cracked fuel housing was replaced and the total for parts and labor was $462.48. No leaking fuel since repair. A few weeks later my brother-in -law contacted me and advised he had just received a recall (OCTOBER 2022) in the mail from Porsche for the exact part I had repaired (17V-576 / AH10). He mailed me the recall and I contacted Porsche for a reimbursement. They stated they only refund for repairs done at a Porsche dealership. I believe Porsche should cover the repair cost for their faulty equipment even after the recall was received. A Porsche Service Center would charge Porsche Corporate much more for this repair than what I paid. Please assist me in getting a refund for my expense of ($462.48) for the repair of Porsche's recall. Thanks [XXX] INFORMATION Redacted PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6).
NHTSA complaint #11497792 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.