2007 Porsche Cayman
The 2007 Porsche Cayman is a mid-engine sports car known for its exceptional handling and driver engagement. Engine options included a 2.7L flat-6 producing 245 horsepower and 201 lb-ft of torque, and a 3.4L flat-6 producing 295 horsepower and 251 lb-ft of torque in the Cayman S. Both engines were available with either a 5-speed manual (2.7L only), 6-speed manual, or a 5-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission. Owners generally praise the Cayman’s balanced chassis, precise steering, and overall driving experience. Common criticisms include limited storage space, a somewhat dated interior, and the potential for costly repairs associated with owning a Porsche.
Engine
2.7L Flat-6
- Intermediate Shaft (IMS) Bearing Failure
- Description/Symptoms: This is a potentially catastrophic failure where the IMS bearing, which supports the intermediate shaft that drives the camshafts, fails. Symptoms can range from metallic ticking noises to complete engine seizure.
- Solution: Replacing the IMS bearing with an aftermarket upgraded bearing is the most common fix.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,500 - $4,000+
- Recalls: None Found
- Rear Main Seal (RMS) Leak
- Description/Symptoms: Oil leak between the engine and transmission. Visible oil drips under the car are a common symptom.
- Solution: Replacing the rear main seal. This often involves removing the transmission.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
- Recalls: None Found
- Oil Separator Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Excessive smoke from the exhaust, rough running, and possible oil consumption.
- Solution: Replacing the oil separator.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800
- Recalls: None Found
3.4L Flat-6
- Intermediate Shaft (IMS) Bearing Failure
- Description/Symptoms: This is a potentially catastrophic failure where the IMS bearing, which supports the intermediate shaft that drives the camshafts, fails. Symptoms can range from metallic ticking noises to complete engine seizure.
- Solution: Replacing the IMS bearing with an aftermarket upgraded bearing is the most common fix.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,500 - $4,000+
- Recalls: None Found
- Rear Main Seal (RMS) Leak
- Description/Symptoms: Oil leak between the engine and transmission. Visible oil drips under the car are a common symptom.
- Solution: Replacing the rear main seal. This often involves removing the transmission.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
- Recalls: None Found
- Oil Separator Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Excessive smoke from the exhaust, rough running, and possible oil consumption.
- Solution: Replacing the oil separator.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800
- Recalls: None Found
Transmission
5-Speed Manual
- No Issues Found
6-Speed Manual
- Shifter Cable Bushing Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting into gears, loose shifter feel.
- Solution: Replacing the shifter cable bushings, often with aftermarket upgraded parts.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+ depending on if done DIY or at a shop.
- Recalls: None Found
5-Speed Tiptronic Automatic
- No Issues Found
Suspension
- Control Arm Bushing Wear
- Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises from the suspension, especially over bumps. Vague steering feel.
- Solution: Replacing the worn control arm bushings.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000+
- Recalls: None Found
- Strut Mount Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Creaking or groaning noises from the suspension, especially when turning.
- Solution: Replacing the strut mounts.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $400-$800
- Recalls: None Found
Electrical
- Door Lock Actuator Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Door lock fails to lock or unlock properly, remote key not working for the door.
- Solution: Replacing the faulty door lock actuator.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
- Recalls: None Found
- Window Regulator Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Window fails to go up or down, or moves erratically.
- Solution: Replacing the window regulator.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $700+
- Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- No Issues Found
Interior
- Center Console Switches Sticky/Malfunctioning
- Description/Symptoms: Center console switches (such as those for the climate control) become sticky or cease to function properly.
- Solution: Replacing the affected switches or cleaning the contacts.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $400+ depending on the number of switches affected and if it is done DIY or at a shop.
- Recalls: None Found
Summary
The 2007 Porsche Cayman, while a desirable sports car, is not without its potential issues. The most significant concern is the IMS bearing failure, which can lead to major engine damage. RMS leaks and oil separator failures are also relatively common and can add to the cost of ownership. Suspension components such as control arm bushings and strut mounts are also prone to wear and can affect handling. While not all Caymans will experience these issues, it is important to be aware of them when considering purchasing one. The cost to repair these issues can range from a few hundred dollars for minor fixes to several thousand dollars for major engine work. Pre-purchase inspections by a qualified Porsche mechanic are highly recommended.