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2021 Porsche 718 Cayman

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By Research the Car 4 min read

The 2021 Porsche 718 Cayman is a mid-engine sports car known for its exceptional handling and engaging driving experience. It’s offered with several engine and transmission options. The base engine is a 2.0-liter turbocharged flat-4 producing 300 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque. A 2.5-liter turbocharged flat-4 that generates 350 horsepower and 309 lb-ft of torque is available for the S model. The GTS 4.0 and GT4 models feature a naturally aspirated 4.0-liter flat-6, which produces 394 horsepower and 309 lb-ft of torque for the GTS 4.0 and 414 horsepower and 309 lb-ft of torque for the GT4. Transmission choices include a 6-speed manual and a 7-speed PDK dual-clutch automatic. Owners typically praise the Cayman for its precise steering, balanced chassis, and overall fun-to-drive nature. Common complaints revolve around the base engine’s sound, the limited practicality of a two-seater sports car, and the relatively high cost of options.

Engine

2.0L Turbocharged Flat-4

  • Oil Leaks
    • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks, particularly from the timing chain cover, oil pan, or rear main seal. You may notice oil spots on the ground under the car or a burning oil smell while driving.
    • Solution: Replacing the leaking gaskets or seals. In more severe cases, the timing chain cover or oil pan itself may need replacement.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,500+ depending on location and severity.
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Coolant Leaks
    • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks from the water pump, thermostat housing, or coolant hoses. Low coolant levels and overheating can occur.
    • Solution: Replacing the faulty water pump, thermostat housing, or coolant hoses.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,500+ depending on the location of the leak.
    • Recalls: None Found

2.5L Turbocharged Flat-4

  • Oil Leaks
    • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks, particularly from the timing chain cover, oil pan, or rear main seal. You may notice oil spots on the ground under the car or a burning oil smell while driving.
    • Solution: Replacing the leaking gaskets or seals. In more severe cases, the timing chain cover or oil pan itself may need replacement.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,500+ depending on location and severity.
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Coolant Leaks
    • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks from the water pump, thermostat housing, or coolant hoses. Low coolant levels and overheating can occur.
    • Solution: Replacing the faulty water pump, thermostat housing, or coolant hoses.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,500+ depending on the location of the leak.
    • Recalls: None Found

4.0L Naturally Aspirated Flat-6

No Issues Found

Transmission

7-Speed PDK (Dual-Clutch Automatic)

  • Harsh Shifting
    • Description/Symptoms: Rough or jerky shifting, especially during low-speed maneuvers or downshifts.
    • Solution: A PDK transmission software reflash can resolve the issue. If the problem persists, clutch replacement or valve body repair may be necessary.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $6,000+ depending on whether it’s a software issue or a mechanical issue.
    • Recalls: None Found

6-Speed Manual Transmission

No Issues Found

Suspension

  • PASM (Porsche Active Suspension Management) Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Erratic or inconsistent damping behavior, warning lights on the dashboard indicating a problem with the PASM system.
    • Solution: Diagnosing the faulty PASM sensor or strut and replacing it.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+ per strut, depending on location and labor.
    • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

  • PCM (Porsche Communication Management) Problems
    • Description/Symptoms: The PCM system may freeze, reboot unexpectedly, or experience glitches with navigation, audio, or smartphone connectivity.
    • Solution: Software updates can fix many PCM issues. In some cases, the PCM unit may need replacement.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100-$300 for software updates. $1,500 - $4,000+ for PCM replacement.
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Battery Drain
    • Description/Symptoms: Premature battery drain, especially if the car sits for extended periods.
    • Solution: Identifying and addressing parasitic draws, which may involve faulty modules or improperly installed aftermarket accessories. A new battery may also be required.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ for diagnosis and parasitic draw repair. $200 - $500+ for battery replacement.
    • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

No Issues Found

Interior

  • Dashboard Reflections
    • Description/Symptoms: On sunny days, the light-colored dashboard can reflect into the windshield, causing glare and obstructing the driver’s view. This is more of a design flaw than a mechanical issue.
    • Solution: Applying a dark-colored dashboard cover or using polarized sunglasses can mitigate the glare.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $20-$100
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Seat Heater Malfunction
    • Description/Symptoms: The seat heaters may fail to operate correctly or heat inconsistently.
    • Solution: Inspecting and replacing the heating element, wiring harness, or switch.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200-$1000+ depending on the cause.
    • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2021 Porsche 718 Cayman is generally a reliable sports car. However, like any vehicle, it has its share of potential issues. The most frequently reported problems relate to oil and coolant leaks, particularly in the 2.0L and 2.5L turbocharged engines, as well as electrical gremlins like PCM failures and battery drain. Harsh shifting in the PDK transmission has also been noted. Most repairs range from a few hundred to a few thousand dollars, although a PCM replacement or engine repair can quickly escalate costs. While significant recalls are not common, addressing potential issues early can prevent more serious and expensive repairs down the line.

Porsche, 718 Cayman
Porsche 718 Cayman 2021
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