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Porsche · Known Issues

2013 Porsche Cayman Problems: 6 Known Issues

2013 model year · 3,400+ owner reports · Updated September 2026

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Issue summary

According to Au7o's analysis of 3,400+ owner reports, the 2013 Porsche Cayman has 6 documented known issues, with 2 rated critical. The most serious are Cylinder Bore Scoring ($7,000-$20,000 repair) and PDK Dual-Clutch Mechatronic / Clutch-Pack Faults ($1,500-$6,000 repair). The most commonly reported issue is Cylinder Bore Scoring with 2,200 owner reports. Across all issues with published estimates, repair costs range from $100 to $20,000. DIY maintenance guides at au7o.io.

In This Article

  • Cayman Engine1
  • Cayman Transmission1
  • Cayman Cooling2
  • Cayman HVAC1
  • Cayman Suspension1
  • Recalls5
  • FAQ
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In This Article

  • Engine1
  • Transmission1
  • Cooling2
  • HVAC1
  • Suspension1
  • Recalls5
  • FAQ

All 6 Known Issues

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ALL YEARS2021202020192018201720162015201420132012201120102009200820072006
Community reported
2,200 owners

On the 2006-2016 Porsche Cayman, the Cayman M97 and MA1 flat-six engines develop bore scoring on cylinders 1 and 6, identical to the pattern seen in the 911 and Boxster. The Cayman GT4 with its 3.8L 911-derived engine is also affected. Oil starvation at the cylinder walls during cold starts is the primary cause.

This issue also affects: Audi S8, Audi A4, Audi A1

Common Symptoms

  • Increasing oil consumption
  • Blue smoke on cold start
  • Misfires
  • Low compression on affected cylinders
  • Rough idle when cold

How to Fix

Engine rebuild with iron cylinder sleeves (Nickies) or engine replacement. Regular borescope inspections can detect scoring before it becomes catastrophic. Allow full warm-up before spirited driving.

Owner tips & cautions

  • WarningEven the Cayman GT4 with the 911-derived 3.8L MA1 engine is susceptible to bore scoring. Get a borescope inspection before buying any used Cayman.
Typical repair cost:$7,000 - $20,000

Research This Issue

Based on 2,200 owner reports

GoogleRedditYouTubeNHTSA
Community Reported
High Confidence2,200 owner reportsLast reported by owners Feb 2026Reviewed Mar 2026

On the 2009-2016 Porsche Cayman, the 7-speed PDK can develop jerky or delayed shifting, shudder, or drop into limp/emergency mode. The most common root causes are mechatronic-unit problems (the hydraulic valve body, solenoids, and the distance/position sensors that are the most frequent failure point) and, with miles, clutch-pack wear. On the 981 specifically, owners report it limping home with reduced gears.

This issue also affects: Audi A4 Avant

Common Symptoms

  • Jerky or harsh shifting
  • Delayed shift response
  • Shudder during engagement
  • Transmission warning / limp mode
  • Loss of reverse or specific gears

How to Fix

Diagnose with a Porsche scan tool. Service the PDK fluid and filter on schedule. Repair or rebuild the mechatronic unit (valve body / sensors / solenoids) — now repairable for a fraction of full transmission replacement — and replace worn clutch packs as needed.

Typical repair cost:$1,500 - $6,000

Research This Issue

GoogleRedditYouTubeNHTSA
Community Reported
High ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Jun 2026

On the 2006-2016 Porsche Cayman, the twin radiators and A/C condensers sit low behind the front bumper grilles, directly in the path of road debris, leaves, and salt. Debris packs between the condenser and radiator, traps moisture, and corrodes the aluminum until it perforates; rocks also puncture the exposed fins. The result is gradual coolant or refrigerant loss and, eventually, overheating or a dead A/C system. German owner sources specifically note the front radiators 'corrode and spring leaks' on the 987.

Common Symptoms

  • Gradual coolant loss with no obvious puddle
  • Rising engine temperature
  • Weak or non-functioning air conditioning
  • Debris and corrosion visible in bumper intakes
  • Refrigerant leak

How to Fix

Clean trapped debris from the bumper ducts (typical shop charge around USD 300), and replace the corroded radiator and/or A/C condenser, then re-gas the A/C. Many owners fit aftermarket radiator/condenser protective grilles or screens behind the bumper intakes to prevent recurrence.

What you need to fix it

Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.

  • Rennline 987 Cayman radiator protection grille screens

    Confirm Cayman R bumper configuration before purchase.

    Flat 6 Motorsports
  • Radiator Grille Store 981 Cayman front and side intake grilles

    Confirm exact bumper/intake options.

    Radiator Grille Store
  • SR1 Performance 981 GTS three-piece radiator grilles

    Confirm center-radiator and parking-sensor configuration.

    SR1 Performance

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases; other part links may also earn au7o a commission. Confirm fitment by VIN before buying.

Typical repair cost:$300 - $1,200

Research This Issue

GoogleRedditYouTubeNHTSA
Community Reported
High ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Jun 2026

On the 2006-2016 Porsche Cayman, the plastic coolant expansion (header) tank develops hairline cracks at the seams from heat cycling and age, and the pressure cap frequently fails — losing seal and letting the system lose pressure. The result is slow coolant loss that often evaporates off hot components without leaving a visible puddle, plus air pockets and localized boiling. The 2.7L/3.4L engines also have a plastic coolant cross-over pipe whose rubber block seals degrade and weep down the front of the engine.

Common Symptoms

  • Low coolant warning
  • Coolant smell after driving
  • Slow coolant loss with no visible leak
  • Overheating or fluctuating temperature gauge
  • White scale deposits near pipe/pump seals

How to Fix

Pressure-test the cooling system. Replace the cracked expansion tank and the pressure cap together (the cap fails about half the time and is cheap to do alongside). Reseal or replace the plastic coolant pipe seals if leaking. Bleed the system afterward.

What you need to fix it

Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.

  • Genuine Porsche 98710604703 Cayman 987 expansion tank

    Confirm VIN and required vent hose, especially 2006/early production.

    Europa Parts
  • Genuine Porsche 99610644704 Cayman 987 expansion-tank cap

    2006-2012 Porsche Cayman 987, genuine 99610644704; use the vehicle selector/VIN and do not substitute for the 981 cap.

    FCP Euro
  • Genuine Porsche 98110604706 Cayman 981 expansion tank

    2014-2016 Porsche Cayman 981, genuine 98110604706; validate VIN and connecting components before order. Fitment/availability: In stock with add-to-cart live at review

    FCP Euro
  • Genuine Porsche 98110604406 Cayman 981 coolant filler cap

    2014-2016 Porsche Cayman 981, current 98110604406 superseding earlier revisions; not the 987 99610644704 cap. Fitment/availability: Ready for shipping with add-to-cart live at review

    TEILE.COM

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases; other part links may also earn au7o a commission. Confirm fitment by VIN before buying.

Typical repair cost:$150 - $900

Research This Issue

GoogleRedditYouTubeNHTSA
Community Reported
High ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Jun 2026
Community reported
1,200 owners

On the 2006-2016 Porsche Cayman, the AC compressor on the Cayman fails prematurely, often due to clutch bearing wear or internal seal failure. The mid-engine layout subjects the AC system to higher ambient temperatures. When the compressor clutch fails, it can throw the serpentine belt and disable all accessories.

Common Symptoms

  • AC blowing warm air
  • Clicking or grinding noise when AC engages
  • Serpentine belt squealing
  • AC clutch not engaging
  • Burning rubber smell from accessory belt area

How to Fix

Replace the AC compressor and receiver/drier. Flush the AC system of any debris from the failed compressor. Replace the expansion valve as preventive maintenance. Ensure proper refrigerant charge after repair.

Owner tips & cautions

  • TipRun the AC system for at least 10 minutes every month, even in winter, to keep the compressor seals lubricated and prevent premature failure.
Typical repair cost:$1,000 - $2,500

Research This Issue

Based on 1,200 owner reports

GoogleRedditYouTubeNHTSA
Community Reported
Medium Confidence1,200 owner reportsLast reported by owners Dec 2025Reviewed Mar 2026

On the 2006-2016 Porsche Cayman, higher-mileage cars develop a clunk or rattle over bumps at low speed. Common culprits are worn lower-control-arm ball joints and bushings, a sway (anti-roll) bar that has gone loose inside its rubber mount bushings, and worn drop links (sway bar end links). Owners frequently chase the noise to the sway bar bushing after replacing other parts. Rear clunks trace to a loose sway bar or a trailing-arm bushing.

Common Symptoms

  • Clunk or knock over bumps at low speed
  • Rattle from front end
  • Loose or vague steering feel
  • Rear-end clunk on uneven surfaces

How to Fix

Inspect for play with the car lifted. Replace worn drop links first (cheap DIY), and renew sway bar mount bushings, lower control arms / ball joints, and tie rod ends as needed. A four-wheel alignment is required after control arm replacement.

Typical repair cost:$100 - $900

Research This Issue

GoogleRedditYouTubeNHTSA
Community Reported
High ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Jun 2026
NHTSA Recalls5 recalls

POWER TRAIN:AXLE ASSEMBLY

Porsche Cars North America, Inc. (Porsche) is recalling certain 2013-2015 Boxster, 2013-2014 Boxster S, 2014-2015 Cayman, Cayman S, 2015 Boxster GTS, and Cayman GTS vehicles. The rear-axle carrier side sections may fracture.

Campaign #21V67900001/09/2021

EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL

Porsche Cars North America, Inc. (Porsche) is recalling certain 2014 Cayman and Cayman S, 2014-2016 911 GT3, 2016 911 GT3 RS and 911 R, 2018 911 GT3 and 911 GT2 RS and 2019 911 GT3 RS, 911 GT3, and 911 GT2 RS vehicles. The Child Restraint System (CRS) instructions within the Owner's Manual may not provide enough specificity for proper installation. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 225, "Child Restraint Anchorage Systems."

Campaign #19V87500011/12/2019

LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES:HOOD:LATCH

Porsche Cars North America, Inc. (Porsche) is recalling certain model year 2014-2015 Porsche 911, Boxster, and Cayman vehicles manufactured May 7, 2014, to September 23, 2014. The front hood upper lock components were not manufactured to specification and may fail to securely latch the vehicle's hood during operation.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most common Porsche Cayman problems?

According to Au7o's analysis of 3,400+ owner reports, the 2013 Porsche Cayman has 6 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: Cylinder Bore Scoring, PDK Dual-Clutch Mechatronic / Clutch-Pack Faults, AC Compressor Failure and Clutch Burnout. Of these, 2 are rated critical and should be addressed promptly.

Is the Porsche Cayman reliable?

The 2013 Porsche Cayman has 6 known issues documented across 3,400+ owner reports. 2 issues are rated critical: Cylinder Bore Scoring and PDK Dual-Clutch Mechatronic / Clutch-Pack Faults. Prospective buyers should inspect for these issues and factor potential repair costs into their purchase decision. Regular maintenance following the manufacturer's schedule helps prevent many common problems.

How much does it cost to fix common Porsche Cayman problems?

Repair costs for known Porsche Cayman issues range from $100 to $20,000, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. The most critical issue, Cylinder Bore Scoring, typically costs $7,000-$20,000 to repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.

What is the 2006-2016 Porsche Cayman Cylinder Bore Scoring?

The Cayman M97 and MA1 flat-six engines develop bore scoring on cylinders 1 and 6, identical to the pattern seen in the 911 and Boxster. The Cayman GT4 with its 3.8L 911-derived engine is also affected. Oil starvation at the cylinder walls during cold starts is the primary cause. Repairs typically run $7,000-$20,000. Severity: high.

What is the 2009-2016 Porsche Cayman PDK Dual-Clutch Mechatronic / Clutch-Pack Faults?

The 7-speed PDK can develop jerky or delayed shifting, shudder, or drop into limp/emergency mode. The most common root causes are mechatronic-unit problems (the hydraulic valve body, solenoids, and the distance/position sensors that are the most frequent failure point) and, with… Repairs typically run $1,500-$6,000. Severity: high.

Content on this page was compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, owner reports, and public automotive data. While we strive for accuracy, this information may contain errors. Always verify repair procedures and specifications with your vehicle's service manual or a qualified mechanic.

Data sourced from 3,400+ owner reports, NHTSA recalls, TSBs, and automotive forums.

Campaign #14V69800004/11/2014

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Porsche Cars North America, Inc. (Porsche) is recalling certain model year 2014 Boxster, Boxster S, Cayman, Cayman S and 911 Carrera (S, Cabriolet, S Cabriolet, 4, 4S, 4 Cabriolet, 4s Cabriolet) vehicles manufactured September 2, 2013, through September 23, 2013. In the affected vehicles, the passenger seats may be equipped with defective wiring harnesses resulting in intermittent contact with the harness plug.

Campaign #13V50200017/10/2013

SEAT BELTS

PORSCHE IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2011 911 SPEEDSTER AND 911 GTS RS 4.0; AND MODEL YEAR 2012 BOXSTER (INCLUDING S AND SPYDER); CAYMAN (INCLUDING S AND R); 911 CARRERA (INCLUDING S, GTS, 4, 4S, AND 4 GTS); 911 TARGA 4 AND TARGA 4S; AND 911 TURBO AND TURBO S MODELS MANUFACTURED FROM MAY 31, 2011, THROUGH JUNE 10, 2011. THERE IS A POSSIBILITY THAT THE MOUNTING HOLES IN THE SEAT BELT ANCHOR PLATES FITTED TO THE VEHICLE ARE TOO SMALL. IF THE HOLE DIAMETER IS TOO SMALL, THE ANCHOR PLATE MAY NOT BE ABLE TO ROTATE ABOUT THE FASTENING BOLT AS DESIGNED.

Campaign #11V40900005/08/2011

Enter your VIN at NHTSA.gov to check recalls specific to your vehicle.

What is the 2006-2016 Porsche Cayman AC Compressor Failure and Clutch Burnout?

The AC compressor on the Cayman fails prematurely, often due to clutch bearing wear or internal seal failure. The mid-engine layout subjects the AC system to higher ambient temperatures. When the compressor clutch fails, it can throw the serpentine belt and disable all accessorie… Repairs typically run $1,000-$2,500. Severity: medium.

What is the 2006-2016 Porsche Cayman Front Radiator / A/C Condenser Corrosion and Debris-Trapped Leaks?

The twin radiators and A/C condensers sit low behind the front bumper grilles, directly in the path of road debris, leaves, and salt. Debris packs between the condenser and radiator, traps moisture, and corrodes the aluminum until it perforates; rocks also puncture the exposed fi… Repairs typically run $300-$1,200. Severity: medium.

What is the 2006-2016 Porsche Cayman Coolant Expansion Tank and Cap Failure / Cooling System Leaks?

The plastic coolant expansion (header) tank develops hairline cracks at the seams from heat cycling and age, and the pressure cap frequently fails — losing seal and letting the system lose pressure. The result is slow coolant loss that often evaporates off hot components without… Repairs typically run $150-$900. Severity: medium.

What is the 2006-2016 Porsche Cayman Front Suspension Clunk — Control Arms, Sway Bar Bushings, Drop Links?

Higher-mileage cars develop a clunk or rattle over bumps at low speed. Common culprits are worn lower-control-arm ball joints and bushings, a sway (anti-roll) bar that has gone loose inside its rubber mount bushings, and worn drop links (sway bar end links). Owners frequently cha… Repairs typically run $100-$900. Severity: low.