2020 Porsche 718 Cayman

The 2020 Porsche 718 Cayman is a popular sports car known for its exceptional handling, stylish design, and engaging driving experience. It comes with several engine and transmission options. The base model features a 2.0-liter turbocharged flat-four engine producing 300 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque. A more powerful 2.5-liter turbocharged flat-four engine producing 350 horsepower and 309 lb-ft of torque is available in the Cayman S. A six-speed manual transmission is standard on both engines, while a seven-speed PDK (Porsche Doppelkupplung) dual-clutch transmission is optional. Many owners praise the 718 Cayman for its precise steering, balanced chassis, and responsive engines. Some common complaints include the flat-four engine’s sound, which some find less appealing than the traditional flat-six, and the limited storage space.

Engine

2.0L Turbocharged Flat-Four

• Oil Leaks from Timing Cover
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks are reported from the timing cover. Symptoms include visible oil leaks on the engine block, a burning oil smell, and low oil levels.
  • Solution: Replacing the timing cover gasket and resealing the timing cover.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found

2.5L Turbocharged Flat-Four

• Cracked Cylinder Head
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaking into the oil. Overheating. White smoke.
  • Solution: Replacement of cracked cylinder head
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $5000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Manual

• Difficulty Shifting into Gear
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported difficulty shifting into certain gears, particularly first and second, especially when the transmission is cold. This can manifest as a notchy or grinding feeling.
  • Solution: Transmission fluid change or shifter cable adjustment. In severe cases, internal transmission repairs may be needed.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+ (fluid change/adjustment), $1500+ (internal repairs)
  • Recalls: None Found

7-Speed PDK (Porsche Doppelkupplung)

• Mechatronic Unit Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Erratic shifting, delayed engagement, transmission slipping, and error messages on the dashboard related to the transmission.
  • Solution: Replacement of the mechatronic unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3000 - $5000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• PASM (Porsche Active Suspension Management) Shock Absorber Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Premature failure of the electronic dampers on cars equipped with PASM. Symptoms include a knocking sound from the suspension, uneven ride height, and a rough or bouncy ride. Warning lights may appear on the dashboard.
  • Solution: Replacement of the affected shock absorber(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1000 - $2000+ per shock
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• PCM (Porsche Communication Management) System Freezing/Rebooting
  • Description/Symptoms: The infotainment system (PCM) may freeze, become unresponsive, or spontaneously reboot. This can affect navigation, audio, and other vehicle functions.
  • Solution: Software update or replacement of the PCM unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (software update if covered by warranty), $1500 - $3000+ (PCM replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Battery drains even after short periods of inactivity leading to starting issues.
  • Solution: Replacing the battery or diagnosing the source of the drain.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

No Issues Found

Interior

• Dashboard Warping/Creaking
  • Description/Symptoms: Warping or creaking noises emanating from the dashboard, particularly in hot weather.
  • Solution: Replacement of dashboard components or installation of sound-dampening material.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2020 Porsche 718 Cayman, while praised for its performance and driving dynamics, can experience issues. Electrical glitches with the PCM and battery drains, along with the potential for suspension issues with the PASM system, can be costly to address. Engine problems can range from relatively minor oil leaks to more serious cylinder head issues. Transmission problems are also possible, with manual transmissions and PDK-equipped cars experiencing different issues. The severity of these issues varies, but potential buyers should be aware of these common problems when considering a 2020 Porsche 718 Cayman.