What are the most common Porsche Cayman problems?
According to Au7o's analysis of 8,700+ owner reports, the 2006-2016 Porsche Cayman has 5 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: Air-Oil Separator (AOS) Failure, AC Compressor Failure and Clutch Burnout, Intermediate Shaft (IMS) Bearing Failure. None are rated critical, but regular maintenance is recommended.
Is the Porsche Cayman reliable?
The 2006-2016 Porsche Cayman has 5 known issues documented across 8,700+ owner reports. No issues are rated critical, suggesting generally good reliability. Regular maintenance following the manufacturer's schedule helps prevent many common problems.
How much does it cost to fix common Porsche Cayman problems?
Repair costs for known Porsche Cayman issues range from $400 to $22,000, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.
What year Porsche Cayman is the most reliable?
Reliability varies across model years of the Porsche Cayman. Based on owner reports, issues are most commonly reported in earlier model years. Au7o recommends checking the specific known issues for your target year before purchasing, and having a pre-purchase inspection performed by a qualified mechanic. Our known issues database covers the 2006-2016 Porsche Cayman with 5 documented issues from 8,700+ owner reports.
What is the 2006-2012 Porsche Cayman Intermediate Shaft (IMS) Bearing Failure?
The Cayman shares the M97 engine with the 911 and Boxster, inheriting the IMS bearing weakness. The 2006-2008 single-row bearing variant is the highest risk. The Cayman R with its 3.4L engine is equally susceptible despite its performance-oriented positioning. Repairs typically run $1,800-$4,000. Severity: critical.
What is the 2006-2016 Porsche Cayman Cylinder Bore Scoring?
The Cayman M97 and MA1 flat-six engines develop bore scoring on cylinders 1 and 6, identical to the pattern seen in the 911 and Boxster. The Cayman GT4 with its 3.8L 911-derived engine is also affected. Oil starvation at the cylinder walls during cold starts is the primary cause. Repairs typically run $7,000-$20,000. Severity: critical.
What is the 2014-2016 Porsche Cayman Cylinder Scoring on 981 GTS and GT4?
The 981 Cayman GTS and GT4 with the larger displacement MA1 engines are particularly prone to cylinder scoring. The GT4's 3.8L engine (shared with 991 Carrera S) has the highest incidence rate among Cayman variants. Track use accelerates the onset due to thermal cycling. Repairs typically run $8,000-$22,000. Severity: critical.
What is the 2006-2012 Porsche Cayman Air-Oil Separator (AOS) Failure?
The Cayman M97 engine shares the same AOS weakness as the Boxster and 911. The diaphragm ruptures, causing vacuum leaks, excessive oil consumption, and fouled spark plugs. The mid-engine layout makes the AOS moderately accessible for replacement. Repairs typically run $400-$1,200. Severity: medium.
What is the 2006-2016 Porsche Cayman AC Compressor Failure and Clutch Burnout?
The AC compressor on the Cayman fails prematurely, often due to clutch bearing wear or internal seal failure. The mid-engine layout subjects the AC system to higher ambient temperatures. When the compressor clutch fails, it can throw the serpentine belt and disable all accessorie… Repairs typically run $1,000-$2,500. Severity: medium.
