2012 Porsche Cayman

The Porsche Cayman is a mid-engine sports car manufactured by Porsche. It was introduced in 2006 as the successor to the 986 Boxster and is available in both coupe and convertible (Boxster) body styles. For the 2012 model year, the Cayman received a facelift and a number of mechanical updates. It is available with two engine options: a 2.7-liter flat-six with 245 horsepower and a 3.4-liter flat-six with 330 horsepower. Both engines are mated to a six-speed manual or a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission.

People like the Porsche Cayman for its sharp handling, powerful engines, and luxurious interior. However, some people have reported issues with the vehicle’s engine, transmission, suspension, electrical system, and exterior.

Engine

2.7-liter flat-six

• Oil leaks: Oil may leak from the rear main seal or the camshaft covers. Symptoms include a burning smell, blue smoke from the exhaust, and a loss of oil pressure. The solution is to replace the leaking seal or cover. Estimated cost to fix: $500 - $1,500+
• Timing chain failure: The timing chain may fail prematurely, causing the engine to lose power or stall. Symptoms include a rattling noise from the engine, a loss of power, and a check engine light. The solution is to replace the timing chain and tensioner. Estimated cost to fix: $2,000 - $3,000+
• Camshaft failure: The camshafts may wear prematurely, causing the engine to lose power or stall. Symptoms include a rattling noise from the engine, a loss of power, and a check engine light. The solution is to replace the camshafts and lifters. Estimated cost to fix: $2,500 - $4,000+

3.4-liter flat-six

• No major issues found

Transmission

Six-speed manual

• Synchronizer wear: The synchronizers may wear prematurely, making it difficult to shift gears. Symptoms include a grinding noise when shifting gears and a difficulty getting the car into gear. The solution is to replace the worn synchronizers. Estimated cost to fix: $1,000 - $2,000+

Seven-speed dual-clutch automatic

• Clutch pack failure: The clutch pack may fail prematurely, causing the transmission to slip or shudder. Symptoms include a slipping clutch, a shuddering transmission, and a check engine light. The solution is to replace the clutch pack. Estimated cost to fix: $2,500 - $4,000+

Suspension

• Front suspension noise: The front suspension may make a clunking or rattling noise when driving over bumps. The solution is to replace the worn suspension components. Estimated cost to fix: $500 - $1,000+
• Rear suspension noise: The rear suspension may make a clunking or rattling noise when driving over bumps. The solution is to replace the worn suspension components. Estimated cost to fix: $500 - $1,000+

Electrical

• Battery drain: The battery may drain prematurely, causing the car to fail to start. The solution is to replace the battery or find and fix the electrical drain. Estimated cost to fix: $100 - $500+
• Alternator failure: The alternator may fail prematurely, causing the car to lose power. Symptoms include a loss of power, a dim dashboard, and a check engine light. The solution is to replace the alternator. Estimated cost to fix: $500 - $1,000+

Exterior

• No major issues found

Interior

• Climate control issues: The climate control system may not work properly, causing the car to be too hot or too cold. Symptoms include a lack of heat or air conditioning, a malfunctioning fan, or a check engine light. The solution is to diagnose and repair the faulty component. Estimated cost to fix: $500 - $1,500+
• Power window failure: The power windows may fail to operate properly. Symptoms include a window that does not open or close, a window that opens or closes slowly, or a window that makes a loud noise when operating. The solution is to replace the faulty window motor or switch. Estimated cost to fix: $200 - $500+

Summary

The Porsche Cayman is a well-built sports car, but it is not without its problems. Some of the most common issues reported by owners include oil leaks, timing chain failure, and transmission problems. However, these issues are not widespread and most Caymans are reliable vehicles. The severity and cost of the issues vary depending on the problem, but most can be fixed for a reasonable price.