2009 Porsche Cayman

The 2009 Porsche Cayman is a mid-engine sports car known for its excellent handling and balanced performance. Engine options included a 2.9L flat-six producing 265 horsepower and 221 lb-ft of torque, and a 3.4L flat-six producing 320 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque. Transmission options were a 6-speed manual and a 7-speed dual-clutch PDK transmission. Owners typically praise the Cayman’s responsive steering, engaging driving experience, and distinctive Porsche styling. Common complaints revolve around limited cargo space, higher maintenance costs compared to other sports cars, and potential issues with certain engine components.

Engine

2.9L Flat-Six

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks can occur from various points on the engine, including the rear main seal, valve cover gaskets, and timing chain cover. Symptoms include visible oil drips, oil consumption, and a burning oil smell.
  • Solution: Replacing the leaking gasket or seal.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1500+ depending on the location of the leak.
  • Recalls: None Found

3.4L Flat-Six

• Intermediate Shaft (IMS) Bearing Failure (Applicable to early production 2009 models only, verify)
  • Description/Symptoms: While less common in the 987.2 generation, the IMS bearing issue can still occur, especially in early production 2009 models before the engine design changes were fully implemented. Symptoms include unusual engine noises, metal shavings in the oil filter, and potential engine seizure.
  • Solution: Replacing the IMS bearing with an upgraded aftermarket version.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $3000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Cylinder Scoring
  • Description/Symptoms: Cylinder scoring is a problem where the cylinder walls become scratched, leading to increased oil consumption, reduced engine performance, and potentially engine failure. Symptoms include excessive oil consumption, blue smoke from the exhaust, and a knocking sound from the engine.
  • Solution: Repairing or replacing the engine.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $8,000 - $20,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Similar to the 2.9L, oil leaks can occur from various points on the engine, including the rear main seal, valve cover gaskets, and timing chain cover. Symptoms include visible oil drips, oil consumption, and a burning oil smell.
  • Solution: Replacing the leaking gasket or seal.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1500+ depending on the location of the leak.
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Manual No Issues Found

7-Speed PDK

• Mechatronic Unit Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The mechatronic unit controls the PDK transmission’s shifting functions. Failure can result in erratic shifting, transmission slipping, failure to engage gears, or complete transmission failure.
  • Solution: Replacing or rebuilding the mechatronic unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $6,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Clutch Wear
  • Description/Symptoms: Excessive clutch wear in the PDK can cause slipping, shuddering during shifts, and difficulty engaging gears.
  • Solution: Replacing the PDK clutches.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,500 - $5,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• PASM (Porsche Active Suspension Management) Shock Absorber Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Failure of the PASM shocks can lead to a bouncy or unstable ride, reduced handling performance, and warning lights on the dashboard.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty PASM shock absorbers.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+ per shock (parts and labor).
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Climate Control Blower Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The blower motor may fail, resulting in no air blowing from the vents or intermittent operation.
  • Solution: Replacing the blower motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Door Lock Actuator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The door lock actuator can fail, preventing the door from locking or unlocking properly.
  • Solution: Replacing the door lock actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $700+ per door.
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Side Marker Lights cracking/damage
  • Description/Symptoms: The plastic housings of the side marker lights can crack or become damaged over time, leading to moisture intrusion and bulb failure.
  • Solution: Replacing the side marker light assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+ per light.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Center Console Switches Sticking/Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Switches on the center console, such as those for the sport mode, suspension settings, or hazard lights, can become sticky or fail to operate properly.
  • Solution: Replacing the affected switch.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $400+ per switch.
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2009 Porsche Cayman, while a highly desirable sports car, has some potential issues to be aware of. Engine issues such as IMS bearing failure (for early production models), cylinder scoring, and oil leaks can be costly to repair. Transmission problems, particularly with the PDK transmission, can also be expensive. Suspension and electrical issues are generally less severe in terms of cost but can still impact the driving experience. Overall, pre-purchase inspections are highly recommended to identify and address any potential problems before acquiring a 2009 Cayman.