What are the most common Porsche Cayman problems?
According to Au7o's analysis of 3,400+ owner reports, the 2016 Porsche Cayman has 6 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: Cylinder Bore Scoring, PDK Dual-Clutch Mechatronic / Clutch-Pack Faults, AC Compressor Failure and Clutch Burnout. Of these, 2 are rated critical and should be addressed promptly.
Is the Porsche Cayman reliable?
The 2016 Porsche Cayman has 6 known issues documented across 3,400+ owner reports. 2 issues are rated critical: Cylinder Bore Scoring and PDK Dual-Clutch Mechatronic / Clutch-Pack Faults. Prospective buyers should inspect for these issues and factor potential repair costs into their purchase decision. 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 $100 to $20,000, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. The most critical issue, Cylinder Bore Scoring, typically costs $7,000-$20,000 to repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.
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: high.
What is the 2009-2016 Porsche Cayman PDK Dual-Clutch Mechatronic / Clutch-Pack Faults?
The 7-speed PDK can develop jerky or delayed shifting, shudder, or drop into limp/emergency mode. The most common root causes are mechatronic-unit problems (the hydraulic valve body, solenoids, and the distance/position sensors that are the most frequent failure point) and, with… Repairs typically run $1,500-$6,000. Severity: high.
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.
What is the 2006-2016 Porsche Cayman Front Radiator / A/C Condenser Corrosion and Debris-Trapped Leaks?
The twin radiators and A/C condensers sit low behind the front bumper grilles, directly in the path of road debris, leaves, and salt. Debris packs between the condenser and radiator, traps moisture, and corrodes the aluminum until it perforates; rocks also puncture the exposed fi… Repairs typically run $300-$1,200. Severity: medium.
What is the 2006-2016 Porsche Cayman Coolant Expansion Tank and Cap Failure / Cooling System Leaks?
The plastic coolant expansion (header) tank develops hairline cracks at the seams from heat cycling and age, and the pressure cap frequently fails — losing seal and letting the system lose pressure. The result is slow coolant loss that often evaporates off hot components without… Repairs typically run $150-$900. Severity: medium.
What is the 2006-2016 Porsche Cayman Front Suspension Clunk — Control Arms, Sway Bar Bushings, Drop Links?
Higher-mileage cars develop a clunk or rattle over bumps at low speed. Common culprits are worn lower-control-arm ball joints and bushings, a sway (anti-roll) bar that has gone loose inside its rubber mount bushings, and worn drop links (sway bar end links). Owners frequently cha… Repairs typically run $100-$900. Severity: low.
