Known Faults Database

Porsche Cayman Common Problems & Known Faults (UK)

If you are considering buying a used Porsche Cayman, there are several major reliability issues worth knowing about first. Our garage database tracks 2 known faults for this model, 2 of them rated high severity. Every one below is a repair bill a seller has good reason not to mention.

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Porsche Cayman 996 / 986 / Early 997 / Early 987 (1998-2008) problems

Engine/EmissionsHigh severity📝 Editorial

Intermediate Shaft (IMS) bearing failure causing catastrophic engine destruction without warning

Rough guide

£10000-15000

Typical symptoms

metallic debris in the oil filter during servicing
loud rattling noise from the engine
sudden and complete engine failure

Affected vehicles

Engines:: M96 / M97 (Non-Mezger)
Typical mileage:: 40000-80000 miles

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Porsche Cayman 997 Gen 1 / 987 Gen 1 (2004-2008) problems

Engine/EmissionsHigh severity💬 Owner reports

Cylinder bore scoring causing piston slap, high oil consumption, and eventual engine failure

Rough guide

£8000-12000

Typical symptoms

ticking or tapping noise from the engine (piston slap)
high oil consumption
one exhaust tailpipe noticeably sootier than the other

Affected vehicles

Engines:: 3.4 / 3.6 / 3.8 (M96/M97)
Typical mileage:: 50000-90000 miles

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Repair costs are typical UK ranges, not quotes. Actual cost depends on condition and garage.Data last verified: June 2026

Other Porsche models

9112 known faults