Last updated: 2026-10-10

2018 Porsche Cayenne Reliability Report
The 2018 Porsche Cayenne is the best-rated Cayenne year, but E-Hybrid charging cables can melt and peeling dash leather is a reported airbag worry.
Recalls
1
Complaints
13
Complaint Rate
11.7per 10,000 sold
Est. Repair Cost
$1231
Annual Fuel Cost
$3,450–$4,050
Detailed Score Breakdown
Component-weighted complaints normalized by sales volume
Independent repair cost ratings
Recall count weighted by severity
Breadth of reported problem categories
The Verdict
Final second-generation year and the best of eight scored Cayenne years, though E-Hybrid charging cable burns and peeling dashboard leather draw complaints.
Top Issues to Watch
- ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (3)
- AIR BAGS (2)
- POWER TRAIN (1)
Generation & Refresh (US)
2018 is the last model year of the Second generation (92A).
- Final-year models are typically the most refined version of a generation.
- 4 years after the last refresh (2014).
- 2nd generation Cayenne (US).
What this means for buyers
Final-year models are usually the most polished version of a generation, but resale value may dip as buyers anticipate the next redesign.
2011: Second generation (92A) Launch
Generation start — new platform.
2014: Mid-Cycle Refresh
Updated features and styling tweaks.
2018: This Model Year
2018 is the last model year of the Second generation (92A).
Should You Buy the 2018 Porsche Cayenne?
Within the Cayenne lineup, this is the best of eight scored model years, and its standing is good. Against other 2018 SUVs it ranks below average, and independent repair-cost data puts yearly upkeep for the model at $1231 versus $807 for its class. The 2019 year rates worse, with 58 complaints and 14 recalls.
Owners filed 13 complaints. On the E-Hybrid, the charging cable sheath near the wall plug melts or burns during charging, with no warning light. In one report the plastic shorted the power. A dealer replaced another cable at 54,000 miles. A separate owner described heavy cabin heat, a burnt smell, and a loud overheat warning that forced a roadside stop. Leather dashboard covers also peel, and two owners fear loose leather could keep the passenger airbag from deploying properly. Neither involved a crash. One quoted a repair near $10K. Federal recall records list one equipment recall.
Check the dashboard leather for peeling, inspect the charging cable on any E-Hybrid, and ask for proof the recall work was done.
Compared to the 2019 Porsche Cayenne, which scored 6 points lower.
Pros
- +Acceptable reliability score
- +Low recall count
- +Below-average complaint rate for SUV
Cons
- −Above-average repair costs for its class
- −Frequent unscheduled repairs
- −ELECTRICAL SYSTEM issues reported (3 complaints)
Compare 2018 Porsche Cayenne With

2018 BMW X5
Reliability: 59/100

2018 Land Rover Range Rover Sport
Reliability: 47/100

2018 Audi Q7
Reliability: 58/100

2018 Mercedes-Benz GLE
Reliability: 69/100

2018 Lexus GX
Reliability: 77/100
Common Problem Categories
Safety
LOW RISK- 1 manufacturer recall issued
Other
HIGH RISK- ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (3)
- AIR BAGS (2)
Recall Overview
1
recall on record
The 2018 Porsche Cayenne carries 1 recall — a low count. Authorized dealers repair any open recall free of charge, regardless of warranty status.
NHTSA.gov →Complaint Breakdown
11.7
per 10,000 soldSegment avg: 27.1
Safety Incidents
0
Crashes
0
Fires
0
Injuries
0
Deaths
Data sourced from NHTSA complaint filings and manufacturer recall notices. Complaint narratives are owner-reported.
2018 Porsche Cayenne Recall Details
1 recall has been issued for the 2018 Porsche Cayenne. All recall repairs are performed free of charge at authorized dealerships.
EQUIPMENT
Porsche Cars North America, Inc. (Porsche) is recalling certain 2017 Porsche Cayenne Turbo S, Cayenne Turbo, Cayenne Plug-in Hybrid, Cayenne GTS, Cayenne Plug-in Hybrid Platinum Edition, Macan Turbo and Macan GTS vehicles, 2017-2018 Cayenne S, Macan, Cayenne Platinum Edition and Macan S vehicles and 2018 Cayenne vehicles equipped with the optional ski bag. The ski bag fastening strap may have been sewn with incorrect thread, possibly resulting in the strap seams tearing and the ski bag being unsecured in the event of a crash.
Consequence
If the ski bag detaches during a crash, it can increase the risk of injury.
Remedy
Porsche will notify owners, and dealers will replace the ski bags, free of charge. The recall began January 10, 2019. Owners may contact Porsche customer service at 1-800-767-7243. Porsche's number for this recall is AJ12.
Buying a used 2018 Porsche Cayenne? Check its history first
Electrical system problems lead owner complaints about the 2018 Porsche Cayenne, and 1 recall was issued for it. A VIN check shows whether this car's recall work was done, plus accident, title, and odometer history.
- Accidents
- Open Recalls
- Title History
- Odometer Rollback
2018 Porsche Cayenne NHTSA Safety Ratings
Crash Test Results by Configuration (expand)
Gas Powertrain
Rollover risk: 0.0%
Safety Technologies
HEV Powertrain
Rollover risk: 0.0%
Safety Technologies
Porsche CayenneRepair Costs & Maintenance
Maintenance Rating
1.5Maintenance rating: 1.5 out of 5Based on NHTSA complaint patterns, recall severity, and publicly available cost benchmarks.
Est. Annual Maintenance
$1231
vs $807 avg for luxury midsize SUVs
vs $652 avg for all vehicles
Repair Frequency
1.1
unscheduled repair visits per year
Severe Repair Probability
21%
chance of a major repair
Annual Cost Comparison
Category-level averages derived from publicly available industry reports (AAA, CarMD). Model-level estimates produced by Auto Reliability Index.
MPG & Annual Running Costs
Gas
17–20 MPG
Running cost: $4,700–$5,300/yr
Fuel + repair
14–18 city / 21–24 hwy MPG
Plug-in Hybrid
22 MPG
Running cost: $4,400/yr
Fuel + repair
21 city / 24 hwy MPG
Running cost includes EPA fuel-cost estimate and independent repair-cost data (repair cost estimated at model level). Excludes routine maintenance, depreciation, and insurance. Data as of 2018 EPA label cycle.
Gas trims
| Trim | Drive | Trans. | City | Hwy | Comb | Fuel Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cayenne 3.6L 6-cyl | All-Wheel Drive | Automatic (S8) | 18 | 24 | 20 | $3,450 |
| Cayenne S 3.6L 6-cyl | All-Wheel Drive | Automatic (S8) | 17 | 24 | 20 | $3,450 |
| Cayenne GTS 3.6L 6-cyl | All-Wheel Drive | Automatic (S8) | 16 | 23 | 19 | $3,650 |
| Cayenne Platinum 3.6L 6-cyl | All-Wheel Drive | Automatic (S8) | 17 | 23 | 19 | $3,650 |
| Cayenne Turbo 4.8L 8-cyl | All-Wheel Drive | Automatic (S8) | 14 | 21 | 17 | $4,050 |
| Cayenne Turbo S 4.8L 8-cyl | All-Wheel Drive | Automatic (S8) | 14 | 21 | 17 | $4,050 |
Plug-in Hybrid trims
| Trim | Drive | Trans. | City | Hwy | Comb | Fuel Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cayenne S e-Hybrid 3.0L 6-cyl | All-Wheel Drive | Automatic (AM8) | 21 | 24 | 22 | $3,150 |
Used Buying Checklist
Key things to inspect or verify before purchasing a 2018 Porsche Cayenne.
Inspect the leather dashboard above the passenger airbag for peeling, bubbling, or lifted edges.
On E-Hybrid models, check the charging cable sheath near the wall plug for melted plastic or scorch marks.
Plug in the car for a short charge and feel the cable and plug for unusual heat.
On a long test drive, watch for engine overheat warnings and any burnt smell in the cabin.
Ask for dealer records showing any charging cable replacement or dashboard repair.
2018 Porsche Cayenne Common Problems by Component
13 owner complaints grouped by vehicle system.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
3 complaintsOn the E-Hybrid, the charging cable's protective sheath near the wall plug melts or shows burn damage while the car charges. No warning light comes on. In one report the plastic melted enough to short the power. A dealer blamed another case on external factors but still replaced the cable, and that failure came at 54,000 miles. A separate complaint describes heavy cabin heat, a burnt smell, and a loud engine overheat warning that forced a stop at the side of a highway. Both problems raise fire risk.
AIR BAGS
2 complaintsThe leather dashboard cover peels and delaminates over time. Complaints warn that the loose leather may keep the passenger airbag from deploying correctly in a crash. Both reports describe the problem as common on Cayennes with leather dashboards, and one puts the repair at about $10K. Neither complaint involves an actual crash. Both raise it as a safety risk that many owners may not know about.
POWER TRAIN
1 complaintDriving through a parking lot, less than five miles an hour, and suddenly heard a horrible knocking sound. Stopped and looked under the car. Nothing. Drove it very slowly to mechanic less than a mile away. Front drive shaft had collapsed and fallen down, according to the mechanic.
TIRES (1 complaints)
TIRES
1 complaintThe contact owns a 2018 Porsche Cayenne equipped with Michelin Tires, Tire Line: Latitude Sport, Tire Size: 295/35/R21, DOT Number: (N/A). The contact stated that while driving approximately 45 MPH, there was an abnormal sound coming from the front passenger’s side of the vehicle, and the front passenger’s side tire started deflating. The vehicle was driven to the side of the road and was later towed to the local dealer who determined that the front passenger’s side tire sidewall had blown out. The cause of the failure was not yet determined. The contact stated that the vehicle had not driven over any object to cause the failure. The tire manufacturer was not contacted. The vehicle manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was unknown.
EXTERIOR LIGHTING (1 complaints)
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
1 complaintOur 2018 Porsche Cayenne has a problem with the headlights and water intrusion that is affecting the functioning of the headlights. I took it to someone to look at and they said this should not be happening, that it is a manufacturer defect. I googled my car / year and there is a recall for headlight issues but for some reason my VIN is not included. It should be. How do I go about having Porsche North America fix this issue for me?
FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE (1 complaints)
FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
1 complaint2018 PORSCHE CAYENNE: AT HIGHWAY SPEEDS, RANDOMLY A SERIOUS UNSAFE TO OPERATE 'SERVICE NECESSARY' WARNING APPEARS ON THE INSTRUMENT PANEL AND THE CRUISE CONTROL MALFUNCTIONS. WITH THE SERVICE NECESSARY WARNING INDICATED, THE VEHICLE IS UNSAFE TO OPERATE. THIS UNSAFE VEHICLE IS NOT DRIVABLE WITH CRUISE CONTROL FOR APPROXIMATELY THE NEXT HOUR. THIS BREAKDOWN IS KNOWN TO PORSCHE (VIA THEIR COMMUNICATIONS WITH ME) AND THEY ARE UNABLE TO RECTIFY THE ERROR. IN A 2020 PORSCHE CAYENNE THIS FAILURE HAS BEEN RECTIFIED. ATTACHED, INVOICES FROM FIVE VISITS TO PORSCHE DEALERSHIPS, ALL DURING THE WARRANTY PERIOD. ATTACHED ALSO PHOTOGRAPHS TAKEN ON VARIOUS DAYS, TIMES AND SPEEDS, AND TRAFFIC CONDITIONS OF THE SERVICE NECESSARY WARNING ON INSTRUMENT PANEL AND CRUISE CONTROL MALFUNCTIONS.
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM (1 complaints)
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
1 complaintWHEN TRYING TO ACCELERATE INTO TRAFFIC VEHICLE WILL EXPERIENCE WHAT FEELS LIKE A DEAD SPOT IN THE ACCELERATOR AND THEN LURCH FORWARD AT A HIGH SPEED THIS CONDITION HAS BEEN REPORTED ON NUMEROUS COMPLAINT SITE CONCERNING VARIOUS PORSCHE VEHICLES AND SPECIFICALL CONCERNING PORSCHE CAYENNE DEALER SAYS CAR IS FINE.UNSAFE TO DRIVE SINCE YOU NEVER KNOW WHEN IT WILL ACCELERATE.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER (1 complaints)
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
1 complaintTHE CAR LOST POWER AND STALLED ON THE HIGHWAY WITHOUT WARNING, THE ROAD WAS THE GARDEN STAT PARKWAY IN NEW JERSEY , HAPPENED IN MID NIGHT
ENGINE (1 complaints)
ENGINE
1 complaintINTERMITTENT LACK OF ACCELERATION WHEN TAKING LEFT TURNS FROM A DEAD STOP. CAR WAS A DEALER LOANER WITH 9000 MILES ON SPEEDOMETER. I PURCHASED THE CAR IN AUGUST, 2018. WITHIN THE FIRST 1000 MILES AND IN LESS THAN FOUR WEEKS I EXPERIENCED A SERIOUS LACK OF ACCELERATION ON TWO OCCASIONS WHEN MAKING A LEFT TURN, I REPORTED THIS TO THE DEALER AND WAS ADVISED THAT IT WAS PROBABLY DRIVER ERROR CAUSED BY OPERATING THE BRAKE AND ACCELERATOR USING BOTH FEET. I DO NOT DRIVE AN AUTOMATIC CAR USING TWO FEET. ALSO, I WAS TOLD BY THE DEALER THEY CHECKED WITH PORSCHE AND THERE ARE RECORDS OF THIS TYPE OF EVENT. I CHECKED ON THE INTERNET AND THERE ARE NUMEROUS IDENTICAL COMPLAINTS DATING BACK SEVERAL YEARS. THIS LACK OF ACCELERATION HAS OCCURRED FOUR MORE TIMES. THE DEALER HAS BEEN RESPONSIVE AND KEPT MY VEHICLE ON TWO OCCASIONS TO TRY AND DUPLICATE THE EVENT TO NO AVAIL. ON ONE OF THESE OCCASIONS THE DEALER REPLACED THE TRANSFER CASE BUT THIS DID NOT SOLVE THE PROBLEM. FINALLY, THE DEALER CALLED IN THE PORSCHE ZONE MANAGE WHO I AM TOLD WAS WELL AWARE OF THIS CONDITION AND REFERRED TO IT AS A SAFETY FEATURE TO PREVENT UNINTENDED ACCELERATION. HE CLAIMED THAT THIS IS PERFECTLY NORMAL OPERATION. I CALL IT A SAFETY HAZARD. IN FOUR MONTHS I HAVE DRIVEN THE CAR 3200 MILES. THIS SO-CALLED SAFETY FEATURE HAS ENGAGED ON ONLY SIX OCCASIONS, ALWAYS ON LEFT HAND TURNS FROM A COMPLETE STOP. WHEN THIS HAPPENS I NEVER KNOW WHEN THE ACCELERATION WILL CUT OUT OR HOW LONG I WILL NOT BE ABLE TO ACCELERATE. UP TO NOW, THE FEATURE HAS NEVER ENGAGED IN RIGHT HAND TURNS, IN FORWARD OR REVERSE. I HAVE CHECKED THE OWNERS MANUAL CAREFULLY AND THERE IS NO MENTION OF "UNINTENDED ACCELERATION" NOR IS THERE ANY MENTION OF A SAFETY FEATURE PROGRAMMED IN THE CAR. I HAVE REQUESTED THE DEALER TO BY PASS OR ELIMINATE THIS FEATURE BUT THET SAY PORSCHE WON'T ALLOW IT.
VISIBILITY/WIPER (1 complaints)
VISIBILITY/WIPER
1 complaintPASSENGER WINDSHIELD WIPER CAME OFF SUDDENLY IN USE WHILE ON HIGHWAY SPEED. CAR HAS NEVER BEEN IN A CAR WASH AS DEALER THINKS AND HAS ONLY SIX MONTHS IN SERVICE.THE FORCE BENT SLIGHTLY THE ARM ITSELF AS IT RIPPED OFF.
Best & Worst Porsche Cayenne Years
Best Porsche Cayenne Years to Buy
Based on reliability index score2018
(Current Model)
2023
2022
Porsche Cayenne Years to Avoid
No Porsche Cayenne years are statistical outliers in our data.
Scores stay between 56 and 62 across 8 scored model years.
Porsche Cayenne Reliability Score Trend
Scores 0–100. Higher is better. Current year highlighted.
| Year | Score | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| 2018 | 62/100 | Good |
| 2019 | 56/100 | Mixed |
| 2020 | 58/100 | Mixed |
| 2021 | 58/100 | Mixed |
| 2022 | 60/100 | Good |
| 2023 | 61/100 | Good |
| 2024 | 57/100 | Mixed |
| 2025 | 61/100 | Good |
Porsche Cayenne Reliability Compared to Other Years
2018 Porsche Cayenne Reliability by Powertrain
The 2018 Porsche Cayenne is available with 2powertrain options. Here's how they compare on reliability.
| Powertrain | Complaints | Recalls | Incidents* | Crash Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gas | 12 | 1 | 0 | N/T |
| HEV | 1 | 0 | 0 | N/T |
| Total | 13 | 1 | 0 |
NHTSA tracks complaints by vehicle configuration when that detail is available. Model-level reports that do not identify a specific powertrain are included in Total but not assigned to a row. A plus sign indicates a confirmed minimum; — means no complaints could be attributed to that specific powertrain. N/T = Not tested by NHTSA.
* Incidents = crash + fire reports. A single complaint can include multiple incident types.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the 2018 Porsche Cayenne reliable?
What are the most common problems with the 2018 Porsche Cayenne?
Does the 2018 Porsche Cayenne have charging cable problems?
Does the 2018 Porsche Cayenne have dashboard leather problems?
Is the 2018 Porsche Cayenne better than the 2019?
Don’t buy a 2018 Porsche Cayenne without checking its VIN first — hidden accidents, title issues, and open recalls could cost you thousands.
How we score the 2018 Porsche Cayenne
Of the four inputs behind this score, the 2018 Porsche Cayenne does best on recall impact (88/100) and worst on repair costs (30/100). Scores weight complaint severity at 35%, repair costs at 30%, recall impact at 20%, and the spread of complaints across systems at 15%, with complaint counts adjusted for US sales. Read the full methodology.
Get notified when new recalls or reliability data is added for the Porsche Cayenne.
No spam. Only data updates for this model.
Browse More Porsche Models

Porsche 911
Score: 68/100

Porsche Boxster
Score: 70/100

Porsche Macan
Score: 65/100

Porsche Taycan
Score: 70/100
Browse More 2018 Vehicles

2018 Lexus RX
Score: 85/100

2018 Nissan Murano
Score: 82/100

2018 Lexus IS
Score: 81/100

2018 Buick Encore
Score: 80/100

2018 Toyota Corolla
Score: 80/100

2018 Lexus ES
Score: 80/100
See incorrect data? Report an issue