Porsche Turbo S
The 4.8L V8 Turbo S in the Cayenne 92A facelift — the maximum power level of the range at 570 hp. Technically a familiar engine, tuned here for maximum output. The driving experience is the most impressive the 92A has to offer: 800 Nm, extremely short response times, all in an SUV package. The usual biturbo V8 risks (coolant, crankcase ventilation) apply in full.
Turbo S facelift: The best
570 hp in the 92A facelift — the maximum expression of the best Cayenne chassis of its time. The driving feel is the most impressive thing Porsche offered in the SUV segment up to the 9YA generation. Expensive to acquire, expensive to run, but uncompromising in performance.
Engine Weaknesses 11
4.8L V8 Cayenne 92A: timing chain stretches, tensioner gives way. Engine and gearbox removal required for repair.
Symptoms: Camshaft position fault codes, chain rattle, power loss, CEL
Plastic coolant lines become brittle and can crack. Retrofit with aluminium pipes recommended.
Symptoms: Coolant loss, temperature warning, steam from the engine bay
The plastic timing chain guides on the 4.8L V8 degrade from 120,000 km. P0016 fault code and engine stumble are typical symptoms. Repair requires 24 labour hours.
Symptoms: P0016 fault code, engine stumble, PSM warning, soft rattle on cold start that worsens
The coolant pipes beneath the intake manifold are plastic and burst due to aging and heat cycling. Adhesive joints fail and steam escapes.
Symptoms: Steam from the engine bay, coolant loss, rising temperature display, coolant smell in the cabin
The biturbo configuration of the CYXA engine generates high exhaust temperatures. If the engine is switched off immediately after hard use without a cool-down phase, oil coking in the turbo bearings significantly reduces their service life.
Symptoms: Whining or rattling turbo noises, blue smoke on cold start, oil film in the charge air hose
The 4.8L V8 water pump fails through bearing wear or impeller breakage. Failure leads to rapid overheating and can cause head gasket damage.
Symptoms: Coolant loss, rapidly rising engine temperature, bearing noise from the water pump, steam from engine bay
The retaining bolts for the timing sprockets on the VVT actuators can come loose, leading to catastrophic engine damage. Problem occurs particularly on early 92A models.
Symptoms: Engine stumble, loud metallic clattering from the engine area, check engine light, sudden engine stall
The Turbo S at maximum output shows elevated oil consumption under sporty use. Porsche accepts up to 0.7 L/1,000 km as normal.
Symptoms: Oil level warning, regular top-ups required
Ignition coils on the 4.8L Cayenne Turbo S fail individually and cause cylinder misfires. With eight coils fitted, often only a check engine light is noticed at first.
Symptoms: Check engine light, engine stumble especially on cold start, power loss, noticeable shuddering
All eight V8 ignition coils are subject to increased wear from 90,000–120,000 km. Recommendation: replace all eight simultaneously.
Symptoms: Misfires, stumble at mid-range rpm, CEL
The valve cover gaskets on the 4.8L V8 harden with age and leak. Oil drips onto the hot exhaust manifold, creating a burning smell and a fire hazard.
Symptoms: Oil smell after driving, visible oil film on engine components, slight smoke after extended driving
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).