Porsche S Diesel
The 3.6L V6 petrol facelift for the Cayenne 92A with improved injection and marginally more power than the predecessor. A solid, unremarkable engine without special character — it does what it should without inspiring enthusiasm. Carbon build-up on the intake valves is a long-term issue with the direct injection only. For the Cayenne buyer seeking a low-maintenance, economical engine, this is a reasonable choice.
Diesel S — torque monster
The Cayenne S Diesel with the V8 TDI delivers 627 Nm — more torque than a 911 Turbo. On the motorway it accelerates with a composure no petrol engine in this class can match. 8 litres on long distances with over two tonnes of kerb weight. The sound is no highlight, but the thrust experience compensates for that. The most convincing engine choice for long-haul drivers.
Engine Weaknesses 7
V8 TDI Cayenne 92A: Timing chain sits at the rear of the engine, repair only possible with engine and gearbox removal. 3,000–6,000 EUR.
Symptoms: Chain rattle on cold start, camshaft position fault code
4.2L V8 TDI with twin turbos: bearing failure requires replacement of both turbos. Parts alone documented at 12,000 EUR.
Symptoms: CEL, power loss, whistling turbo noise
The 4.2 V8 TDI is more prone to timing chain stretch than the V6. Plastic timing guide rails degrade — forum reports indicate DPF regeneration causes oil contamination in the chain tensioners.
Symptoms: Rattling noise on cold start, check engine light, code P0016, goes away once warm
The bi-turbo configuration of the 4.2 V8 TDI shows susceptibility to turbo damage. Deposits in oil supply lines cause heat damage to bearings. Expensive repair since both turbos rarely fail independently.
Symptoms: Whistling from engine bay, power loss, bluish-white smoke, oil in intercooler
The V8 TDI suffers from injection problems more severely than the V6. Metal shavings from a catastrophic pump failure can contaminate the entire fuel system — costs up to 22,000 € in that case.
Symptoms: Engine stalling while driving, tow-away required, metallic clacking, fault P0087 (fuel pressure too low)
V8 TDI particulate filter clogs with predominantly short-trip use. Regeneration does not complete.
Symptoms: DPF warning light, reduced engine power, increased fuel consumption
Timing chain cover gaskets develop leaks at high mileage. Complex repair requiring engine and gearbox removal.
Symptoms: Oil leak at rear of engine, oil smell after switching off, oil spots
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).