Porsche GTS
The 4.8L V8 with direct injection (DFI) and cylinder deactivation in the Cayenne 92A is an evolution of the familiar V8 architecture. 400 hp as the S, 405 hp as the GTS — cylinder deactivation noticeably reduces consumption at part load. The sound is classic V8, the refinement good. The familiar M48 risks (coolant lines, cylinder coating) are still present, if somewhat more manageable than in the 955 generation. The GTS with its sportier suspension calibration is the more interesting configuration.
GTS — the Cayenne that Porsche drivers buy
The Cayenne GTS is the sweet spot of the range: sportier than the S, lighter than the Turbo, with a sport exhaust and firmer tuning. The V8 (or V6 biturbo from 9YA) revs more freely than in the S, the sport suspension keeps the 2.2-tonne SUV surprisingly flat. Nothing in this class feels less like an SUV on twisty roads. More precise than the BMW X5 M on mountain passes — less power, more precision.
Engine Weaknesses 7
Aluminium bolts on the camshaft adjusters break off. Timing chain loses tension. Engine damage possible. Check recall status!
Symptoms: Engine dies while driving, engine check light, safety systems fail
Aluminium bolts in the camshaft adjusters can shear off. Camshaft stops, pistons hit valves — total engine destruction. No official recall in Germany.
Symptoms: Engine bucks and dies suddenly, multiple fault codes simultaneously, camshaft no longer turning
Plastic timing chain guides on the 4.8 V8 break down from ~180,000 km. Typical codes: P0016, P0344. Dealer repair costs €7,000–10,000 due to required engine removal. IWIS chain kit (90001148) approx. €400 in parts.
Symptoms: Usually no noise — only P0016/P0344 in the fault memory. Occasional timing chain rattle on cold start
The high-pressure fuel pump on the 4.8 V8 DFI engine fails and generates code P0087 (fuel pressure too low). In worst case the pump disintegrates and contaminates the fuel system with metal particles — full system flush required.
Symptoms: Long crank time, power loss, engine stumbling, engine warning light code P0087, engine stalling
The 4.8L V8 is prone to elevated oil consumption from worn valve stem seals and piston rings at higher mileage.
Symptoms: Oil level drops noticeably between services, blue smoke on cold start
Silicone diaphragm in the AOS on the V8 fails, causing excess positive or negative pressure in the crankcase. Oil collects in the intake tract, rear crankshaft seal fails, oil consumption rises. Original lasts 10–13 years.
Symptoms: High vacuum at oil filler opening, oil in intake hose, elevated oil consumption, occasional engine warning light
The 92A V8 has 8 ignition coils that fail after 70,000–100,000 miles. Higher follow-on costs due to 8 coils to replace. Third coil generation (.14) improved over original (.10).
Symptoms: Engine stumbling, flashing engine check light, PSM fault, rough idle, auto start-stop failure
Vehicle Weaknesses 6
When turning to full lock, power steering assistance drops out briefly several times. Power steering pump overloaded or valve block faulty.
Level sensors and air suspension compressor fail through wear. Improved over the 955, but still a cost factor.
Blocked sunroof drains lead to water ingress. If the Bose sound system is fitted, the subwoofer in the boot can be damaged.
PDK gearbox and transfer case develop leaks. Oil loss at seals and shaft seals requires regular monitoring.
Rear doors develop rust at the door fold, often only 3-5 years after first registration. Porsche acknowledged the defects under warranty.
Climate control heats to maximum when A/C is switched off. Temperature sensor delivers invalid values. No fault codes stored.
Reports & Tests
254 owner complaints filed with NHTSA (2010–2017). Most reported: Powertrain (80), Engine (62), Other (53).