2016 Porsche 911

2016 Porsche 911

The 2016 Porsche 911 is a high-performance sports car available with various engine and transmission options. The base Carrera model features a 3.4-liter flat-six engine producing 350 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque, while the Carrera S boasts a 3.8-liter flat-six with 400 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque. Both come standard with a seven-speed manual transmission, but a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic (PDK) is available. The 911 Turbo and Turbo S models have a 3.8-liter twin-turbocharged flat-six generating 540 horsepower and 560 lb-ft of torque in the Turbo and 580 horsepower and 553 lb-ft of torque in the Turbo S. These models come exclusively with the PDK transmission.

The 911 is renowned for its handling, performance, and luxurious interior. However, like any car, it has its fair share of issues.

Engine

3.4-liter Flat-Six (Carrera)

• Camshaft Actuator Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine misfires, reduced power, and illuminated check engine light.
  • Solution: Replace the affected camshaft actuators.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2000 - $3000+
• Valve Cover Oil Leaks:
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks from the valve covers onto the engine and surrounding components.
  • Solution: Replace the valve cover gaskets and seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000
• Oil Cooler Line Leaks:
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks from the oil cooler lines, resulting in low oil levels.
  • Solution: Replace the leaking oil cooler lines.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1000 - $2000+
• Recalls:
  • NHTSA Campaign Number: 17V390: Engine Fire Risk
  • NHTSA Campaign Number: 18V522: Engine Oil Leaks

3.8-liter Flat-Six (Carrera S, Turbo, Turbo S)

• Intermediate Shaft Bearing Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Knocking or rattling noise from the engine, reduced power, and eventually engine failure.
  • Solution: Replace the affected intermediate shaft bearing.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $5000 - $8000+
  • Recalls:
    • NHTSA Campaign Number: 18V970: Engine Bearing Failure
• Turbocharger Actuator Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Reduced boost pressure, loss of power, and illuminated check engine light.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty turbocharger actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $2500+
• Recalls:
  • NHTSA Campaign Number: 16V895: Turbocharger Failures

Transmission

Seven-Speed Manual

• Shift Linkage Issues:
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting gears or gears not engaging properly.
  • Solution: Replace the affected shift linkage components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000
• Clutch Master Cylinder Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Leaking clutch fluid, spongy or hard clutch pedal.
  • Solution: Replace the clutch master cylinder.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $750+

Seven-Speed PDK Automatic

• Mechatronic Unit Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Transmission shuddering, difficulty shifting, or no power transfer.
  • Solution: Replace the Mechatronic unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $5000 - $7000+
• Shifter Selector Fork Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting gears, especially between certain gears.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty shifter selector fork.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2000 - $3000+
• Recalls:
  • NHTSA Campaign Number: 19V427: Transmission Oil Leaks

Suspension

• Rear Axle Bushing Deterioration:
  • Description/Symptoms: Excessive rear-end noise, vibration, and instability.
  • Solution: Replace the worn rear axle bushings.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000
• Coilover Shock Absorber Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Reduced shock absorption, uneven ride height, and accelerated tire wear.
  • Solution: Replace the failed coilover shock absorbers.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1000 - $2000+

Electrical

• Battery Drain:
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty starting the vehicle or dead battery after a period of time.
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair the underlying electrical problem causing the battery drain.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies depending on the cause

Exterior

• Headlight Condensation:
  • Description/Symptoms: Buildup of moisture inside the headlight assemblies, impairing visibility.
  • Solution: Replace the affected headlights or reseal them.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000+

Interior

• Climate Control Panel Malfunction:
  • Description/Symptoms: Climate control system not functioning properly, difficulty adjusting temperature or fan speed.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty climate control panel.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000
• Dashboard Squeaks and Rattles:
  • Description/Symptoms: Annoying noises coming from the dashboard, especially over rough roads.
  • Solution: Apply sound dampening material to the dashboard or replace the trim pieces.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500

Summary

The 2016 Porsche 911 is a high-performance vehicle that offers a thrilling driving experience. However, like any car, it is not without its issues. Some of the engine and transmission problems can be severe and expensive to fix. However, many of the other issues are relatively minor and can be addressed at a reasonable cost. Overall, the 911 remains a highly desirable sports car, but it is essential to be aware of the potential issues before making a purchase decision.