Component Involved: Electrical System, Hybrid Propulsion System, Power Train. Description of Safety Hazard: While operating the vehicle at speed in live traffic, the vehicle suddenly lost all propulsion and completely shut off. A red "Hybrid System Failure" warning illuminated on the dashboard, and the vehicle had to be towed to a certified manufacturer dealership. Sudden, uncommanded loss of motive power on a highway poses an immediate accident risk to vehicle occupants and surrounding traffic. Technical Details & Diagnostics: Certified dealer diagnostics confirmed active high-voltage fault codes stored in the High-Voltage Battery Control Unit: P33F100 (High-voltage battery control unit, high-voltage system deactivation via CAN bus) and P0D3400. Upon replacing the control unit, the vehicle immediately threw fault code P0B1300 (High-voltage E-box, current measurement delta between Hall and shunt above limit value). The manufacturer is currently refusing to repair the interconnected E-box housing the high-voltage current sensors despite the component causing identical safety-critical vehicle shutdowns.
The worst 2017 Porsche Cayenne problems
Ranked by number of owner complaints. Mileage and cost come from what owners wrote.
- Electrical8
- Lights4
- Engine3
- Fuel system3
- Airbags2
Problems by type
Tap a problem to see which part fails, at what mileage and in which other years.
- Electrical8
- Lights4
- Engine3
- Fuel system3
- Airbags2
- Body1
- Brakes1
- Tires1
- Transmission1
Recalls 2
Exterior lighting: headlights
- What is wrong
- Porsche Cars North America, Inc. (Porsche) is recalling certain 2003-2020 Porsche Macan, Cayenne, Panamera, and Cayman S, 2001-2004 Boxster, Boxster S, 2004 Boxster 50 JAHRE SPYDER 550 vehicles. Please see the recall report for a complete list of all affected models and model years. The caps that cover the low-beam headlight horizontal adjustment screws are missing, which can allow the headlights to be improperly adjusted. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 108, "Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment."
- Risk
- Improperly adjusted headlights may not illuminate the road properly, or cause a glare to oncoming drivers, which can increase the risk of a crash.
- Remedy
- Dealers will inspect the headlights for sealing caps and install missing caps as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed October 28, 2022. Owners may contact Porsche's customer service at 1‑800‑767‑7243. Porsche's number for this recall is ANB4.
Recall number 22V656000 · Recall details
Equipment
- What is wrong
- Porsche Cars North America, Inc. (Porsche) is recalling certain 2017 Porsche Cayenne Turbo S, Cayenne Turbo, Cayenne Plug-in Hybrid, Cayenne GTS, Cayenne Plug-in Hybrid Platinum Edition, Macan Turbo and Macan GTS vehicles, 2017-2018 Cayenne S, Macan, Cayenne Platinum Edition and Macan S vehicles and 2018 Cayenne vehicles equipped with the optional ski bag. The ski bag fastening strap may have been sewn with incorrect thread, possibly resulting in the strap seams tearing and the ski bag being unsecured in the event of a crash.
- Risk
- If the ski bag detaches during a crash, it can increase the risk of injury.
- Remedy
- Porsche will notify owners, and dealers will replace the ski bags, free of charge. The recall began January 10, 2019. Owners may contact Porsche customer service at 1‑800‑767‑7243. Porsche's number for this recall is AJ12.
Recall number 18V844000 · Recall details
See all 2 recalls for the 2017 Porsche Cayenne
Defect investigations
Desiccated Air Bag Inflator Rupture
From 2000 through 2017, Takata produced millions of air bag inflators using two types of phase-stabilized ammonium nitrate ("PSAN") propellant -- propellant 2004 and propellant 2004L. After prolonged exposure to high temperature cycles and humidity, inflators using propellant 2004 can degrade, causing the propellant to burn too quickly when ignited. The rapid burning can cause the inflator to rupture during deployment, potentially causing serious or even fatal injury to vehicle occupants. See 2016 Blomquist Report at all frontal inflators using propellant 2004 that do not contain a "desiccant" (a substance that traps and holds moisture) in US vehicles are under recall. These "non-desiccated" inflators either have been or are required to be replaced.In some cases, the remedy part for these recalled inflators was, or will be, an inflator using either propellant 2004 or 2004L that does contain a desiccant. None of these "desiccated" remedy parts (which were installed in older model year vehicles) are currently under recall for a degradation concern. Certain subsets of desiccated PSAN inflators using propellant 2004 for use as original equipment, however, have been recalled for a degradation concern. All Takata inflators produced with propellant 2004L contain desiccant, and none of these desiccated inflators using propellant 2004L are under recall for a degradation concern. There have been no reported field ruptures in any non-recalled desiccated PSAN inflators.It is understood that desiccants fully saturate at some threshold, at which point any additional moisture will not be captured. This means the degradation process observed in non-desiccated inflators using propellant 2004 may also occur in non-recalled desiccated inflators using propellant 2004, assuming additional moisture enters the inflator and high temperature cycling occurs. Based on available information, desiccant saturation can occur within the first five years in the worst environments, and the time required for full saturation is affected by multiple factors. While no present safety risk has been identified, further work is needed to evaluate the future risk of non-recalled desiccated inflators using propellant 2004.Three entities -- Takata (now known as TK Global), the Independent Testing Coalition, and Exponent -- have been studying the long-term behavior of Takata desiccated PSAN inflators using propellant 2004L (as well as 2004) in the presence of moisture and temperature cycling. The research efforts, which include development of predictive modeling techniques and field sample analysis, are ongoing. To date, none of the researchers have identified field evidence showing that propellant 2004L is undergoing a degradation process that leads to aggressive deployment and potential rupture. However, the time in service of such inflators remains short compared to that of the inflators using propellant 2004. Further study is needed to assess the long-term safety of desiccated inflators using propellant 2004L.The Office of Defects Investigation is opening this investigation to examine whether a safety defect related to propellant degradation exists in non-recalled desiccated PSAN frontal inflators manufactured by Takata. This investigation will require extensive information on Takata production processes and surveys of inflators in the field. Lists of recall actions that may have used desiccated PSAN inflators as remedy parts, as well as the makes and models originally manufactured with them, is available with the downloadable version of this document (see -- note this information is subject to change/revision as the investigation proceeds). This investigation does not supersede EA15-001, which remains open.
EA21002
Technical service bulletins for the 2017 Porsche Cayenne 555
Bulletins tell dealers how to fix known problems. A warranty extension means the manufacturer pays for that repair for longer.
- Parts Information for Parts Withdrawal
- Parts Information for Parts Withdrawal
- Parts Information for Parts Withdrawal
- Parts Information for Parts Withdrawal
- Parts Information for Parts Withdrawal
- Manufacturer's Certificate for Overview of Approved Porsche A40 Engine Oils
- Manufacturer's Certificate for Overview of Approved Porsche C30 Engine Oils
- Manufacturer's Certificate for Overview of Approved Porsche C20 Engine Oils
- Manufacturer's Certificate for Overview of Approved Porsche C40 Engine Oils
- Special Tools and Equipment Information for alignment machines
2017 Porsche Cayenne fuel economy
Official EPA estimates in miles per gallon (MPGe for electric). Ranges cover trims that share the same engine.
| Engine | Drive | City | Highway | Combined |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3.0L 6‑cyl Plug-in hybrid | AWD | 21 | 24 | 22 |
| 3.6L 6‑cyl | AWD | 16-18 | 23-24 | 19-20 |
| 4.8L 8‑cyl | AWD | 14 | 21 | 17 |
What 2017 Porsche Cayenne owners say
Most recent owner complaints, unedited.
The contact owns a 2017 Porsche Cayenne. The contact stated the vehicle experiencing a catastrophic powertrain and electrical failure. The vehicle experienced severe thermal overloading behind the dashboard, and the radio head unit was excessively hot causing chrome trim around the screen to melt. The CAN bus was corrupted, causing the instrument cluster to display inaccurate information including 30 PSI and information that there were wheels on the vehicle. Additionally, the PCM malfunctioned and ceased Bluetooth connectivity and displayed system status logs indicating up to 7 drivers. The failure spread to the critical driving and safety systems. The contact stated while driving, the vehicle shifted to neutral unexpectedly. While inserting or removing the key from the ignition cylinder, the vehicle violently jolted back and forth. Most critically, the electrical cross-firing had compromised the automated driver assist features. The contact stated that without warning, the steering wheel violently jerked, and the vehicle drove off the roadway. The GPS became inoperable. The contact disconnected and removed the telematics module; however, the failure persisted. There was a burning odor coming from the front of the vehicle on the driver side. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 66,000.
The RIGHT FRONT HEADLIGHT has experienced recurring water/moisture intrusion and has now completely failed and no longer illuminates. This creates a safety concern because the vehicle has substantially reduced forward illumination for nighttime driving. On September 23, 2024, an authorized Porsche dealer performed headlight-related warranty work. The dealer’s repair record states that both headlights were removed and the modules were swapped side-to-side during diagnosis. On September 30, only seven days later, I photographed substantial condensation/water inside the right front headlight. On October 1, 2024, I reported the continuing condition to my Porsche service advisor. In written communications, the advisor asked whether the affected light was the right side. I confirmed that it was. He stated that the condition was “not normal” and that he would order the headlight. He subsequently confirmed in writing that the right headlight had been ordered. I continued reporting the problem. A November 27, 2024 dealer repair order specifically documents: “CUSTOMER STATES-RIGHT HEADLIGHT IS HOLDING WATER.” The headlight was not replaced because the moisture reportedly was not visible when the vehicle was inspected. The water/condensation continued to recur, and I have dated photographs documenting the condition over time. On September 7, 2026, the vehicle displayed the warning “Check front right dipped headlight.” I photographed the warning. The right front headlight has now completely failed and does not illuminate at all. The vehicle and failed headlight are available for inspection. I have reported the matter to Porsche Cars North America and provided repair records, dated photographs and contemporaneous communications. Porsche confirmed receipt of the documentation, but the problem remains unresolved. I am concerned that recurring moisture intrusion into the headlight assembly has progressed to complete lighting failure and may represent a safety issue
The contact owns a 2017 Porsche Cayenne. The contact stated that the vehicle was hacked. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the driver's assistance safety features malfunctioned, causing the vehicle to swerve despite the driver's efforts to drive straight. Infotainment settings confirmed that the Porsche Doppelkupplung (PDK) system was engaged. Additionally, the message "External Usage External Equipment External Drivers remove the features" was displayed, and the cruise control was unintentionally engaged with messages for "Trailer," "Slippery Changing Max Settings," "Navigation Off," "Road feature Off," "Risk of an Accident," and "Pull Over, remove the key from the ignition and reset vehicle". The contact stated that while driving, the vehicle unintentionally shifted into Drive and Neutral at the same time. The contact stated that on several occasions, the vehicle failed to stop while depressing the brake pedal, requiring the driver to pull over to the side of the road and allow the vehicle to roll to a stop. Other failures included unintended engagement of the windshield wipers and heater. Per the owner's manual, the contact opened the infotainment settings, where the notification "Other Device External Usage" was displayed. Additionally, all four tire sensors needed to be replaced. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, and the insurance company, the Police Department, and the manufacturer were contacted, but no assistance was provided. The contact stated that all four tires blew up while driving, and the vehicle was towed to Porsche Charlotte Northlake (10205 Ronald Withrow Blvd, Charlotte, NC 28216); where the tires were replaced. The vehicle was not further repaired. The tire information was unavailable. The failure mileage was approximately 40,000.
Case Number: 1170739 – Additional Evidence Submission I would like to provide an additional document for Case #1170739. The manufacturer (Porsche Cars North America) stated in writing that the vehicle is “safe to drive even with warning indicators illuminated,” but in the same communication offered a rental vehicle if I found this “inconvenient.” These two statements cannot logically coexist, and they raise concerns that the manufacturer may be minimizing or mischaracterizing a potential safety-related defect. Furthermore: The warning indicators involve the coolant and fuel systems of an E-Hybrid model, which may be connected to thermal management and combustion-related safety. The vehicle remained in the dealer’s possession for an extended period during repeated repair attempts. During a visit, I found the hood partially open while the vehicle was being stored long-term, raising questions regarding proper safety and storage protocols. Additional system warnings appeared after prolonged non-operation, suggesting possible deterioration related to improper storage or incomplete diagnostics. I respectfully request the federal safety agency’s assessment of whether it is appropriate for a dealer or the manufacturer (Porsche Cars North America) to advise a customer to operate a vehicle on public roads while warning indicators are illuminated. From a consumer’s standpoint, this does not appear reasonable or safe, and I wish to operate my vehicle only in a condition that is objectively safe for road use. The fact that such guidance was provided to me is deeply concerning, and I would appreciate the agency’s evaluation of whether this type of advice aligns with I am submitting the manufacturer’s email for your review, as it appears inconsistent with standard safety guidance and may reflect an attempt to address the matter through customer-service accommodations rather than technical evaluation. Please add this information and attached documentation to my existing case file. Thank you.
I am reporting a series of safety-related defects involving the electrical, cooling, and fuel systems of my 2021 Porsche Cayenne E-Hybrid. The vehicle was initially brought to the authorized Porsche dealership due to an electrical system error, and the dealer kept the vehicle for an extended period. After approximately five months, the vehicle was returned to me without a clear explanation of the root cause or details of the repair. The very next day after receiving the vehicle, a coolant temperature warning appeared while driving, indicating abnormal engine overheating. This created an immediate safety hazard, as overheating can lead to sudden engine failure, loss of power, or a potential fire risk. I returned the vehicle to the dealership again for further repairs. Afterward, another serious issue occurred: because this is a hybrid vehicle, I went to refuel, but the fuel door would not open, and a fuel system error warning appeared again. This made the vehicle unsafe to operate, especially while already on the road. Due to these repeated failures, I was required to tow the vehicle multiple times. These problems — electrical malfunction, coolant overheating during driving, fuel system errors, and a non-functional fuel door — occurred repeatedly even after prolonged service by the dealership. The combination of electrical faults, overheating risk, hybrid system malfunction, and fuel system failure presents a significant safety concern. I will provide additional documentation to support this report. I request that the federal safety agency review this case to determine whether an investigation is warranted, as these issues may indicate a broader defect affecting this model.
During rain events, headlight housings are becoming inundated with moisture (L and R sides). A quick search on multiple forums shows this is a known issue with all Porsche models. During night driving this issue reduces visibility significantly. Yes, this puts my occupants and other drivers at risk. Porsche is famous for not acknowledging and addressing out of warranty manufacturing defects, even safety issues. They would not address this issue. Brief warning lights and flashing of the headlight system was evident. This has been happening for a few years and is getting progressively worse.
the piece of leather trim sit on top of dash panel below the windshield that cover the airbag shrink and peel off the main dash. The passenger air bag might not deploy properly in the event of frontal collisions because of a loose piece of leather cover it.
When the weather drops below 0 celsius, the hybrid battery fails with a hybrid battery failure message. The Porsche dealer said this is a known issue and there is no fix. I've been stuck several times in the past 3 years up in the mountains when the temperature drops suddenly and there are no services within 100's of miles to even tow it to get a fix. I just have to wait for the temperature to warm up to start the car. There is currently no bypass to switch to gas only which would solve the issue. If you look at the pic, there is plenty of gas in the car.
Passenger side dash board leather cover has pulled away from dash - thus creating a safety issue with the airbag. Porsche has examined the damage and recommended a repair but will not cover the cost - but did advise that in the event of a accident - they do see a potential problem with the passenger side air bag deploying safely (or not at all). There should be a recall on this by Porsche as it's a safetly issue.
Compare the 2017 Porsche Cayenne
Other model years
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Questions about the 2017 Porsche Cayenne
Is the 2017 Porsche Cayenne reliable?
Owners have filed 19 complaints about the 2017 Porsche Cayenne, fewer than a typical Cayenne model year.
What is the 2017 Porsche Cayenne year score?
The 2017 Porsche Cayenne scores 82 out of 100 (good). The score compares it with the other model years of the Porsche Cayenne: 75 is a typical year, 50 means twice the usual complaints, and serious complaints and recalls lower it.
What is the most common problem with the 2017 Porsche Cayenne?
Electrical system, with 8 complaints. Next is lights (4).
How many recalls does the 2017 Porsche Cayenne have?
2 recalls, covering exterior lighting and equipment.
What gas mileage does the 2017 Porsche Cayenne get?
Official estimates for the 2017 Porsche Cayenne range from 17 to 22 mpg combined. The most efficient version (3.0L 6-cyl plug-in hybrid, AWD) gets 21 city and 24 highway.
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