Last updated: 2026-03-04

Mixed

2018 Porsche Macan Reliability Score & Common Problems

Name: 2018 Porsche Macan
Brand: Porsche

The 2018 Porsche Macan scores 57/100 ("Mixed"). With 13 recalls and 29 owner complaints, buyers should proceed with caution.

2018 is 2 years after the 2016 update refresh.

Recalls

Complaints

Complaint Rate

12.6

per 10k sold

Below avg

Est. Annual Cost

$1265

Above avg

Major Repair Risk

20%

NHTSA Rating

N/A

Score Breakdown

Complaint Severity35%

66/100 (Good)

Component-weighted complaints normalized by sales volume

Repair Costs30%

30/100 (Risky)

Independent repair cost ratings

Recall Impact20%

65/100 (Good)

Recall count weighted by severity

Issue Diversity15%

82/100 (Excellent)

Breadth of reported problem categories

Caution

Mixed reliability — proceed with caution and budget for repairs.

Top Issues

AIR BAGS (7)STEERING (6)ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (4)

13 recalls on record

Generation & Refresh (US)

Post-Refresh

2018 is 2 years after the 2016 update refresh.

Year 4 in the First generation (95B; 2014) (2015–2026).
Well-established in its generation — most early issues should be resolved.
1st generation Macan (US).

What this means for buyers

Post-refresh years tend to be among the most refined — updates have been applied and early kinks worked out.

First generation (95B; 2014)

2015redesign

2016refresh

2017

2018selected

2019refresh

2020

2021refresh

2022

2023

2024

2025

2026

Should You Buy the 2018 Porsche Macan?

The 2018 Porsche Macan scores 57/100 ("Mixed"). Buyers should proceed with caution. 2018 is 2 years after the 2016 update refresh.

With 29 owner complaints and 13 recalls, the complaint volume is above average. Reported issues — particularly in air bags (7) — can be costly to repair.

An extended warranty is strongly recommended. A thorough pre-purchase inspection focused on air bags (7) is essential before committing.

Compared to the 2019 Porsche Macan, which scored 7 points higher.

Pros

Below-average complaint rate for SUV
Well-established generation
Only 29 complaints reported

Cons

Below-average reliability score
Above-average repair costs for its class
Frequent unscheduled repairs
Above-average recall count

Compare 2018 Porsche Macan With

Good

2018 BMW X1

Score: 69/100

Good

2018 Audi Q3

Score: 74/100

Good

2018 Volvo XC60

Score: 74/100

Common Problem Categories

Safety

13 manufacturer recalls issued

Other

AIR BAGS (7)
STEERING (6)
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (4)
UNKNOWN OR OTHER (2)
ENGINE (2)
SERVICE BRAKES (1)
EXTERIOR LIGHTING (1)
FUEL SYSTEM (1)
SEAT BELTS (1)
TIRES (1)
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM (1)
POWER TRAIN (1)
STRUCTURE (1)

See detailed breakdown by component ↓

Recall Overview

recalls on record

The 2018 Porsche Macan has 13 recalls on record, which is above average. A higher recall count can indicate multiple component concerns. However, recalls also demonstrate that the manufacturer is actively addressing known issues. All recall repairs are performed free of charge at authorized dealerships.

NHTSA.gov →

Complaint Breakdown

12.6

per 10k sold

Segment avg: 23.5

LowAvgHigh

Moderate

Safety Incidents

Crashes

Fires

Injuries

Deaths

Data sourced from NHTSA complaint filings and manufacturer recall notices. Complaint narratives are owner-reported.

2018 Porsche Macan Recall Details

13 recalls have been issued for the 2018 Porsche Macan. All recall repairs are performed free of charge at authorized dealerships.

20V0770002020-02-12

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE

Porsche Cars North America, Inc. (Porsche) is recalling certain 2015-2018 Macan vehicles. The fuel pump service cover may contact the flow nozzle on the filter flange of the fuel pump, potentially causing cracks and a fuel leak.

Consequence

Fuel leakage in the presence of an ignition source may increase the risk of a fire.

Remedy

Porsche will rework or replace and apply a protective film to the fuel pump flange. in addition, the fuel pump flange will be inspected and replaced if cracks are present. The recall began April 10, 2020. Owners may contact Porsche customer service at 1-800-767-7243. Porsche's number for this recall is ALA2.

23V4430002023-06-26

SEAT BELTS

Porsche Cars North America, Inc. (Porsche) is recalling certain 2016-2020 Macan S, 2017-2020 Macan, 2017 Panamera Turbo, 2018 and 2020 Macan Turbo and Panamera 4, 2018 Macan Sport Edition, Panamera 4 E-Hybrid, and 2019 Panamera 4 Sport Turismo vehicles. The screw that attaches the lower seat belt anchor to the seat frame on the outboard rear seats may not have been tightened properly.

Consequence

An improperly tightened seat belt anchor can detach during a crash, increasing the risk of injury.

Remedy

Dealers will replace and tighten the lower rear outboard seat belt anchor screws, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed August 24, 2023. Owners may contact Porsche's customer service at 1-800-767-7243. Porsche's number for this recall is APA9.

21V1310002021-03-03

AIR BAGS

Porsche Cars North America, Inc. (Porsche) is recalling certain 2017-2018 Macan, Macan Turbo Kits, Macan GTS, 2015-2018 Macan S, and Macan Turbo vehicles. The front passenger seat occupancy sensor mat may degrade and fail to detect a passenger in the front seat.

Consequence

The air bag will not deploy during a crash if a front passenger is undetected, increasing the risk of injury.

Remedy

Porsche will notify owners, and dealers will replace the sensor mat and seat cushion, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed October 25, 2021. Owners may contact Porsche customer service at 1-800-767-7243. Porsche's number for this recall is AMA2.

2018 Porsche Macan NHTSA Safety Ratings

Crash Test Results by Configuration (expand)

Gas Powertrain

Rollover risk: 0.0%

Safety Technologies

Dynamic Head Restraints (Not Available)Head Restraint (Driver, Front Passenger, Rear Seat)Advanced Belt Feature (Standard)Adjustable Upper Belt Anchorage (Driver, Front Passenger, Rear Seat)Seat Belt Reminder System (Driver)Frontal Air Bag (Driver, Front Passenger)Curtain (Driver, Front Passenger, Rear Seat)Torso (Driver, Front Passenger, Rear Seat)Knee (Driver, Front Passenger)Additional Air Bags (Not Available)Meets Side Air Bag Out-of-Position Requirements (Info Not Available)LATCH Locations (Rear Seat)Safety Power Windows (Anti-Pinch) (Standard)Safety Power Windows (Anti-Pinch) locations (Driver, Front Passenger, Rear Seat)

View full safety data on NHTSA.gov →

Porsche Macan Repair Costs & Maintenance

Maintenance Rating

1.5

Based on NHTSA complaint patterns, recall severity, and publicly available cost benchmarks.

Est. Annual Maintenance

$1265

vs $859 avg for luxury compact SUVs

vs $652 avg for all vehicles

Repair Frequency

1.3

unscheduled repair visits per year

Severe Repair Probability

20%

chance of a major repair

Annual Cost Comparison

Macan

$1265

Category Avg

$859

All Vehicles

$652

Category-level averages derived from publicly available industry reports (AAA, CarMD). Model-level estimates produced by Auto Reliability Index.

When Buying a Used 2018 Porsche Macan

Key things to inspect or verify before purchasing, based on the most common reported issues.

Check for excessive brake pedal travel
Inspect for fuel odors indicating potential fuel pump leaks
Verify airbag system functionality and recall completion
Test steering for knocking or vibration at low speeds
Examine for oil leaks in the engine compartment
Ensure headlights function properly without sudden failure
Inspect dashboard for material shrinkage or obstruction

Check Any 2018 Porsche Macan's History Before You Buy

Reliability scores tell you what to expect from the 2018 Macan in general — but every car has its own story. Uncover past accidents, title issues, odometer rollbacks, and service records for a specific Porsche Macan with a free VIN lookup.

Run a Free VIN Check

2018 Porsche Macan Common Problems by Component

29 owner complaints grouped by vehicle system.

AIR BAGS (7)STEERING (6)ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (4)UNKNOWN OR OTHER (2)ENGINE (2)SERVICE BRAKES (1)EXTERIOR LIGHTING (1)FUEL SYSTEM (1)Other (5)

AIR BAGS

7 complaints

Owners of the 2018 Porsche Macan frequently report issues related to the passenger seat occupancy sensor mat, which is linked to airbag deployment concerns. Complaints describe the airbag warning light activating, with the passenger airbag system failing to recognize an occupant, thus disabling the airbag. Many owners mention delays in receiving parts for repairs, often citing back-orders lasting several months. Some owners also note their vehicle's VIN not being included in the recall, despite experiencing similar symptoms. These issues primarily relate to the safety risk that the airbag may not deploy during a crash if the passenger seat is not detected as occupied. This pattern emerges across various timelines, with some reports indicating unresolved issues for over a year.

7 complaints total

STEERING

6 complaints

Owners of the 2018 Porsche Macan report several steering-related issues. Commonly described symptoms include a rubbing or knocking sound when turning at slow speeds, sometimes accompanied by a vibration felt in the steering wheel or under the driver's seat. Some complaints mention steering column detachment from the steering rack, leading to a complete loss of steering control, with one case highlighting a failure at low mileage (800 miles). Another issue involves loose steering wheel columns due to faulty bushings, with a recommendation for entire column replacement rather than individual bushings. These reports suggest potential safety risks, particularly in cases of steering failure, and occur at various mileage points, including early in the vehicle's life.

6 complaints total

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

4 complaints

Owners of the 2018 Porsche Macan frequently report issues with the electrical system, particularly involving the seat belt sensor, rear camera, vehicle proximity sensors, and headlights. Complaints indicate a defective seat belt sensor with part number 95B 881 256 BA and moisture-related failures in rear camera and proximity sensors. Additionally, multiple owners describe sudden headlight failures without warning, which pose significant safety risks, especially during night driving. These issues typically emerge without prior alerts and have been noted by owners as common among similar models. Buyers considering this vehicle should be aware of these potential electrical problems and the associated safety implications, particularly regarding visibility and sensor functionality.

4 complaints total

UNKNOWN OR OTHER (2 complaints)

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

2 complaints

Owners of the 2018 Porsche Macan report issues related to dealership financing practices and dashboard material failures. One owner describes a dealership delaying the submission of necessary financing documents, which led to a forced shift to dealership financing. Another complaint highlights the leather on the dashboard shrinking and the glue failing, causing the material to buckle and obstruct the passenger airbag area, as well as impairing forward visibility. These issues do not indicate specific mileage patterns but suggest potential safety implications due to the dashboard obstruction. Buyers should be aware of these reported problems when considering a used 2018 Porsche Macan.

2 complaints total

ENGINE (2 complaints)

ENGINE

2 complaints

Owners of the 2018 Porsche Macan frequently report oil leaks as a common issue, often attributed to failing aluminum bolts and gasket problems. Typical symptoms include oil splashing over the engine compartment and pooling on the oil pan, with leaks sometimes traced to broken aluminum bolts. These issues are noted at relatively low mileages, such as around 23,000 miles. While no crashes or fires are mentioned, the recurring need for repairs, which can cost between $2,000 to $8,000, may be a consideration for potential buyers. The reported problems seem related to a broader issue with aluminum bolts used in these models, which some owners compare to previous recalls in other Porsche models.

2 complaints total

SERVICE BRAKES (1 complaints)

SERVICE BRAKES

1 complaint

2019-03-18

I PURCHASED THIS PORSCHE MACAN BASIC MODEL FROM A PORSCHE DEALERSHIP IN DESTIN IN OCT 2018 WITH 4,000 MILES, CERTIFIED PRE OWNED. THE BRAKE PEDAL HAS TOO MUCH PEDAL TRAVEL. I HAVE TO PUSH THE BRAKE PEDAL DOWN TO FAR BEFORE I FEEL THE BRAKES ENGAGE. I DON'T FEEL SAFE DRIVING THIS CAR. IT HAS BECOME A SAFETY ISSUE. ON MAR 29, 2019 I'M GOING TO TAKE IT INTO THE DEALERSHIP FOR THE 3RD TIME FOR THE SAME PROBLEM. I'VE WENT ONLINE AND DID A GOOGLE SEARCH FOR THIS PROBLEM AND THERE'S SEVERAL FORUMS WITH THIS SAME BASE MODEL MACAN WITH THE SAME PEDAL TRAVEL ISSUE. ALTHOUGH THIS CAR IS NOT THE 440 HP TURBO MODEL MACAN, IT HAS 250 HP AND IT NEEDS TO HAVE BETTER BRAKES THAN IT HAS. THAT IS WHY I'M WRITING THIS TO BRING THIS TO YOUR ATTENTION INCASE NO ONE HAS DONE THIS YET. I'M NOT SAYING THAT THE BRAKES DON'T WORK, I'M SAYING THERE'S TOO MUCH PEDAL TRAVEL BEFORE THEY ENGAGE AND IT'S SCARY WHEN I PUSH ON THE BRAKES AND THEY TRAVEL TOO FAR BEFORE THEY ENGAGE.

EXTERIOR LIGHTING (1 complaints)

EXTERIOR LIGHTING

1 complaint

2019-05-06

2018 PORSCHE MACAN. CONSUMER WRITES IN REGARDS TO DIM LIGHTING SETTING BEING A SAFETY HAZARD. *LD THE CONSUMER STATED THE HEADLIGHTS APPEARED TO BE POINTING IN A DOWNWARD POSITION. *J'S

FUEL SYSTEM (1 complaints)

FUEL SYSTEM

1 complaint

2023-12-15

The contact owns a 2018 Porsche Macan. The contact stated that there was an abnormally strong fuel odor coming from the vehicle while driving and while the vehicle was parked. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where it was diagnosed that fuel was leaking from the fuel pump. The dealer drained the fuel tank and replaced the fuel pump. The vehicle was repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 94,000.

SEAT BELTS (1 complaints)

SEAT BELTS

1 complaint

2020-07-22

The contact owns a 2018 Porsche Macan. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the front passenger’s side seat belt alert was inoperable. The contact stated that while a passenger was seated in the front passenger’s side seat without the seat belt buckled, the seat belt alert failed to activate. The vehicle was taken to the dealer and the contact was informed that the feature was not installed in the vehicle when the vehicle was manufactured. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure but provided no assistance. The failure mileage was approximately 27,000.

TIRES (1 complaints)

TIRES

1 complaint

2024-07-24

265/45ZR20 104Y Tire shop has been unable to balance tire since there's a defect with the brand new tire itself. Vehicle vibrates excessively at highway speeds, feels unsafe to drive. I've reached out to vendor for tire replacement and hasn't made an effort to replace tire in a timely manner. I use my vehicle everyday. Tires were purchased from tireagent.com

When Do 2018 Porsche Macan Problems Start?

Based on owner complaint patterns, here's when common issues tend to appear.

27,000–94,000 milesFuel pump leaks

23,000–80,000 milesOil leaks

Best & Worst Porsche Macan Years

Best Porsche Macan Years to Buy

The best Porsche Macan year is 2024 with a reliability score of 66/100, rated good. Other strong picks include 2023 (66/100) and 2025 (65/100).

Good

2024

0 recalls · 7 complaints

Good

2023

0 recalls · 6 complaints

Good

2025

0 recalls · 3 complaints

Porsche Macan Years to Avoid

The worst Porsche Macan year is 2018 with a score of 57/100, primarily due to air bags (7) issues.

Mixed

2018(this page)

13 recalls · 29 complaints

See full Porsche Macan years-to-avoid analysis →

Porsche Macan Reliability Score Trend

Porsche Macan reliability has remained consistent across model years, averaging 63/100.

avg 63

Scores 0–100. Higher is better. Current year highlighted.

Porsche Macan reliability scores by year
Year	Score	Rating
2018	57/100	Mixed
2019	64/100	Good
2020	62/100	Good
2021	59/100	Mixed
2022	65/100	Good
2023	66/100	Good
2024	66/100	Good
2025	65/100	Good

Porsche Macan Reliability Compared to Other Years

Reliability scores compared across model years
Year	Score	vs Prior Year	Rating	Recalls	Complaints
2025	65/100	-1	Good	0	3
2024	66/100	0	Good	0	7
2023	66/100	+1	Good	0	6
2022	65/100	+6	Good	0	3
2021	59/100	-3	Mixed	1	8
2020	62/100	-2	Good	4	17
2019	64/100	+7	Good	2	10
2018(selected)	57/100	—	Mixed	13	29

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the 2018 Porsche Macan reliable?

The 2018 Porsche Macan has a "Mixed" reliability rating (57/100) and may present some ownership challenges. With 13 recalls and 29 complaints, buyers should research known issues carefully.

What are the most common problems with the 2018 Porsche Macan?

The most commonly reported problems with the 2018 Porsche Macan include: AIR BAGS (7 complaints), STEERING (6 complaints), ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (4 complaints), UNKNOWN OR OTHER (2 complaints), ENGINE (2 complaints). These issues were identified from owner complaints analyzed by Auto Reliability Index.

How many recalls does the 2018 Porsche Macan have?

The 2018 Porsche Macan has 13 recalls on record. Recalls are safety or compliance fixes issued by the manufacturer and repaired at no cost at authorized dealerships.

Is the 2018 Porsche Macan expensive to maintain?

The 2018 Porsche Macan has estimated annual repair costs of $1265/year, which is $406 more than the luxury compact SUVs average of $859. Its reliability score of 57/100 and 29 owner complaints suggest that unexpected repairs are more likely. Budgeting for maintenance reserves is advisable.

How We Calculate Reliability Scores

Auto Reliability Index scores are calculated on a 0–100 scale using a weighted formula that combines multiple public data sources. Each factor is weighted based on its predictive value for real-world ownership experience.

Key Ranking Factors

Complaint Severity

NHTSA owner complaints weighted by component category (e.g., powertrain, safety systems, electronics, cosmetic) — safety-critical issues carry more weight than cosmetic ones. Adjusted for sales volume so high-volume models aren't unfairly penalized.

Repair Costs

Independent reliability ratings based on repair frequency, average repair costs, and severity of typical repairs for each model.

Recall Impact

Number of NHTSA recalls weighted by severity. “Stop driving” and fire-risk recalls are penalized more heavily than minor software or labeling recalls.

Issue Diversity

Measures how many major vehicle systems (engine, transmission, electrical, braking, etc.) have recorded complaints. A vehicle with issues spread across many systems may indicate systemic quality issues.

Scores are grouped into four tiers:

80–100: Excellent — Top-tier reliability, minimal issues
60–79: Good — Reliable with some minor concerns
40–59: Mixed — Notable issues, research before buying
0–39: Risky — Significant problems, proceed with caution

Data is sourced from NHTSA recall records, owner complaint filings, and independent repair databases. Scores are recalculated as new data becomes available. While the weighting model is proprietary, all underlying data sources are public and traceable.