For all you petrolheads out there, the Porsche Cayenne 958 (from 2010 to 2018) is one of the cars that catches your eye from a mile away. I mean, seriously, nothing else on the road even comes close to looking like it. It’s got that classic Porsche silhouette but in an SUV package. It’s like the ultimate combo meal, combining performance, technology, practicality, and pure comfort.
But hold on tight because we’re not just skimming the surface here. We’re diving deep into Cayenne 958. We’re going to chat about its different versions and secret features. Geek out over its tech toys and tell you how it sips on gas. And guess what? We’re not stopping at the Cayenne alone. We’ll also size it up against the competition, share some tips on keeping it in top shape, and throw in a few cool DIY tricks.
So, if you’re as crazy about cars as we are, get ready for a plateful of awesome info about this fantastic SUV.
The Unexpected Tale of the Porsche Cayenne Origins
Back in 2002, when the Porsche Cayenne first rolled onto the scene, it didn’t exactly win any popularity contests. I mean, sure, Porsche seemed to be aiming for that sleek 911 look, but let’s be real here — it didn’t quite hit the mark! Jeremy Clarkson, the legendary voice of Top Gear, wasn’t holding back when he compared it to some, let’s say, less-than-glamorous things. He quipped, “I have seen more attractive gangrenous wounds than this. It is a monk fish among cars! It has the sex appeal of a camel with gingivitis!” Ouch, right?
But, you know what’s funny? Despite all the naysayers, the Cayenne managed to win over hearts across the globe. People couldn’t resist its impressive performance and tank-like built quality, whether tearing down the highway or tackling rough dirt tracks. It even became the unlikely hero that helped Porsche bounce from their financial crisis back and fund the development of the iconic Carrera GT.
Fast-forward a bit, and the Cayenne has gone through some serious glow-ups, evolving three times and getting three facelifts to keep up with the ever-demanding market and enthusiasts. It only proves that you shouldn’t judge a book — or a car — by its cover!
Porsche Cayenne 958’s Performance Secrets
As with any other Porsches ever made, the Porsche Cayenne is offered to enthusiasts in different trims. You have your base Cayenne, the versatile S model with gas, diesel, or hybrid power options, and then some heavy hitters like the GTS, Turbo, and Turbo S. It even came to the point that it became quite difficult to keep track of them. The following are the known trim options and powertrain combinations for Porsche Cayenne 958.
Porsche Cayenne 958 Model Year 2010 – 2014
- Cayenne — 300hp (220kW) — 3.6L V6 M55/02 — 6-speed manual, 8-speed Tiptronic S is optional
- Cayenne S — 400hp (294kW) — 4.8L V8 M48/02 — only 8-speed Tiptronic S
- Cayenne S Hybrid — 380hp (283kW) — 3.0 V6 supercharged CGEA — only 8-speed Tiptronic S
- Cayenne GTS — 420hp( 313kW) — 4.8L V8 M48/02 — only 8-speed Tiptronic S
- Cayenne Turbo — 500hp (368kW) — 4.8L V8 Biturbo M48/52 — only 8-speed Tiptronic S
- Cayenne Turbo S — 550hp (405kW) — 4.8L V8 Biturbo M48/52 — only 8-speed Tiptronic S
- Cayenne Diesel — 240hp (176kW) — 3.0L V6 Turbo CRCB — only 8-speed Tiptronic S
- Cayenne S Diesel — 382hp (281kW) — 4.2 V8 Biturbo CUDB — only 8-speed Tiptronic S
Porsche Cayenne 958.II — Facelift Model Year 2014 – 2018
- Cayenne — 300hp (220kW) — 3.6L V6 M55/02 — only 8-speed Tiptronic S
- Cayenne S — 420hp (309kW) — 3.6L V6 Biturbo M46/55 — only 8-speed Tiptronic S
- Cayenne S E-Hybrid — 416hp (310kW) — 3.0 V6 supercharged CGEA — only 8-speed Tiptronic S
- Cayenne GTS — 440hp (328kW) — 3.6L V6 Biturbo M46/55 — only 8-speed Tiptronic S
- Cayenne Turbo — 520hp (382kW) — 4.8L V8 Biturbo M48/52 — only 8-speed Tiptronic S
- Cayenne Turbo S — 570hp (419kW) — 4.8L V8 Biturbo M48/52 — only 8-speed Tiptronic S
- Cayenne Diesel — 262hp (193kW) — 3.0L V6 Turbo CRCB — only 8-speed Tiptronic S
- Cayenne S Diesel — 385hp (283kW) — 4.2 V8 Biturbo CUDB — only 8-speed Tiptronic S
Tech Goodies — Unveiling the Tech Features
The Porsche Cayenne 958 is an SUV with a racing pedigree that can be driven daily! This is because of its tech features that work harmoniously to provide performance with comfort. From 2010 to 2018, Porsche constantly upped its tech game to keep its luxury SUV ahead of the pack.
During this time, the Cayenne got a serious tech makeover. They brought in the big guns with the Porsche Communication Management (PCM) system, which was all about making your smartphone feel right at home in your ride. The result? A super user-friendly setup that gives you easy access to everything from navigation to jamming out to your favorite tunes, all with just a tap on the touchscreen.
But wait, there’s more! The Cayenne lineup also embraced some nifty driver assistance systems. This was all about making your ride safer and cozier. It’s Porsche’s way of saying, “We’re all about innovation and keeping you comfy on the road.” So, here’s the lowdown on the driver assistance systems and other tech goodies that’ll have your back while you’re cruising.
- Porsche Dynamic Light System (PDLS): Think of this as your car’s personal spotlight operator. PDLS adjusts your headlights, ensuring you’ve got the right amount of light exactly where you need it, whether cruising through winding roads or navigating a dark alley. It’s like having your own personal lighting crew.
- Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC): ACC is like having an invisible chauffeur who’s really good at keeping a safe distance from the car in front of you. It takes the stress out of highway driving by adjusting your speed to match the traffic So you can just chill and have a good time.
- Lane Change Assist (LCA): LCA is your extra set of eyes on the road. It warns you if a vehicle lurks in your blind spot when you want to change lanes, preventing you from making any surprise moves.
- Park Assist: Park Assist is your parallel parking buddy. It can help you easily slide into tight spots, guiding you through the tricky part of parking, so you look like a pro.
- Surround-View Camera: This one’s like having a drone above your car. The Surround-View Camera gives you a bird’s-eye view of your vehicle, making parking and maneuvering in tight spaces a breeze — no more guesswork, just clear, 360-degree vision.
- Tyre Pressure Monitoring (TPM): TPM is your silent guardian for your tires. It keeps tabs on tire pressure, letting you know if you need extra air to roll smoothly and safely.
- Porsche Car Connect (PCC): PCC turns your phone into a car remote control. You can lock or unlock your car, check its status, and even locate it all from your phone, even in a busy parking lot. It’s like having a magic wand for your Porsche.
- Porsche Vehicle Tracking System (PVTS): PVTS is like your car’s personal watchdog. If someone borrows your Porsche without permission, PVTS will help you track it down. It’s your very own high-tech security system for your precious ride.
- Porsche Rear Seat Entertainment (PRSE): PRSE is your family’s road trip savior. It’s an entertainment system that keeps the backseat passengers entertained with movies, music, and more. No more “Are we there yet?” from the kids; PRSE keeps everyone happy on long drives.
From 2010 to 2018, the Porsche Cayenne was like a high-tech playground on wheels! It was packed with all sorts of fancy performance gadgets that made driving an absolute blast. Porsche was totally committed to giving you that heart-pounding, edge-of-your-seat kind of ride, where all these cool innovations joined forces to deliver some mind-blowing performance and keep you in control. Check out the tech wizardry that made driving a Cayenne a true adrenaline rush!
- Porsche Traction Management (PTM): Think of it as your trusty co-pilot, making sure you’ve got a grip and control whether you’re navigating through rain, shine, or off-road escapades.
- Porsche Torque Vectoring Plus (PTV Plus): Have you ever dreamt of your car feeling like it’s reading your mind through every twist and turn? PTV Plus gets you close. It’s all about precision handling and making corners your playground.
- Launch Control: Ready to unleash some serious speed? Launch Control is your go-to party trick, helping you blast off the line with style and precision.
- Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM): It’s like having two cars in one – a comfortable cruiser for your daily grind and a sporty beast when you want to push the pedal to the metal.
- Porsche Dynamic Chassis Control (PDCC): This one’s all about keeping the rubber side down. No matter how much you like living on the edge, PDCC ensures you do it with confidence and control.
- Porsche Ceramic Composite Brakes (PCCB): When you need to hit the brakes, you’ll be glad to have PCCB. They’re like the dependable bouncers at the club – always there to ensure a smooth exit.
- Porsche Stability Management (PSM): PSM is your guardian angel, stepping in when things get a bit too wild. It keeps your Cayenne on the straight and narrow, even when you’re tempted to go sideways.
Porsche Cayenne 958 vs. the Competition
The Porsche Cayenne is the cream of the crop for luxury SUVs from this era. It excels in every aspect, from breathtaking performance and precise handling to an exquisite cabin. With its sporty characteristics and driving dynamics, it’s an undisputed champion.
Close on the heels of the Cayenne is the Range Rover Sport, which marries off-road capabilities with a lavish interior. It’s a masterclass in combining ruggedness with luxury.
The BMW X5 holds its own in the competition, boasting strong performance, superb handling, and an excellent interior. It’s a true contender but just shy of the Cayenne’s throne.
Next on the list is the Audi Q7, which offers a spacious, tech-savvy interior with premium materials, making it a formidable competitor. It promises a smooth and comfortable ride, although it doesn’t quite reach the Cayenne’s exhilarating performance.
Last on the list is the Mercedes-Benz GLE, previously known as the M-Class, which brings comfort and luxury to the forefront. It caters to those who prioritize refinement but might not match the Cayenne’s thrill factor.
Porsche Cayenne — Gas or Green?
Let’s be honest — The Porsche Cayenne is a sports car first and an SUV second. Although, compared to the previous generation, the 958 is much more fuel efficient due to losing almost 550 pounds, it is still falling behind the competition on this side of the race!
Now, if you want to have the most fuel-efficient Porsche that zooms from nothing to 60 mph in just 5.4 seconds, the adrenaline rush that you should expect, it would be the Porsche Cayenne S E-hybrid. This car can give you almost 70 miles per gallon! — depending on its battery charge, how you drive, and other external factors such as road conditions and temperature.
Next on the list will be the Base model; as this car provides less BHP on those wheels, they will, in turn, consume less. Then comes the Cayenne S, next is the GTS, then the Turbo, and the most gas-guzzler of them all is the Turbo S. My personal favorite will be the GTS line as it is a better handling car with an astounding exhaust sound, and it has the perfect balance of fuel economy and power.
Now that we have discussed how the Porsche Cayenne sips on gas, let’s talk about something else. Some of you might remember the Volkswagen emissions scandal, the “Dieselgate” that shocked the whole automobile industry way back in 2015. Did you know that the Porsche Cayenne Diesel with a 3.0L V6 TDI engine sourced from Audi/VW group is reportedly one of the cars fitted with this so-called defeat device? This “forbidden device” will know if the car is being tested and will manipulate the results to pass! While in normal driving conditions, it can produce over 40 times more Nitrogen oxides! Not cool, VW group! Not cool!
Porsche Cayenne 958 Common Issues
Hey there, listen up because we’ve got some money-saving tips for you! We’ve got the lowdown on what to watch out for, and trust me, it’s way cooler than your average car talk, so don’t zone out.
High Pressure Fuel Pump (HPFP) Issues
The High Pressure Fuel Pump (HPFP) is a known failure point on many Porsche Cayennes from the 958 generation. When the HPFP fails, you’ll notice starting issues, low power, poor acceleration, and several other symptoms. This is a tricky repair, but definitely one you can do on your own. Here’s a complete guide on how to fix the HPFP on your Porsche Cayenne 958!
Transfer Case Issues
First off, transfer cases can be a bit finicky on most trim models. If you’re cruising along and hear suspicious knocking noises under the shifting console when you hit the gas, it’s time for a checkup. You don’t want to ignore that.
Automatic Transmission Problems
Then there’s the 8-speed automatic transmission. Sometimes, it might drag its feet when shifting gears. Not cool, right? That could mean it’s time for a transmission fluid and transmission filter swap, or it might be a signal that the hydraulic control unit or transmission valve body is throwing a tantrum.
EGR and DPF Issues on Diesel Versions
Now, let’s talk diesel engines. Those Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) valves and Diesel Particulate Filters (DPF) can be a real headache. Sometimes, a good cleaning or regeneration can work wonders, but you might be looking at a replacement if they’re really acting up.
Cooling System Issues
And for you petrol engine lovers, especially if you’re rolling with a 4.8L V8 (turbo or non-turbo), 3.6L V6 (biturbo), or a 3.6 V6 (VR6), the cooling system can start acting its age. We’re talking about parts that could go kaput if you don’t keep an eye on them. Don’t let them drain your wallet!
- Engine Water Pump — can cause creaking noise, leaking
- Thermostat housing — loosened pipe causing leaks
- Thermostat — non-operational, blocked and leaking
- Breather line under intake manifold — leaking exc. VR6
- Coolant tank — prone to cracking, causing leaks
- Coolant tank cap — defect, causing overpressure
To learn more about diagnosing and fixing any of the cooling system issues, check out our dedicated cooling system guide for Porsche Cayenne 958.
Intake Camshaft Controller Bolts
If you’re rolling with a 4.8L V8 (turbo or non-turbo) engine from 2010 to 2014, there’s a sneaky problem with the intake camshaft controller bolts. Check if your ride is part of Porsche’s recall campaign — you don’t want to miss that. You can also be a detective and peek at those intake camshaft controllers through the oil filler cap. If you spot a white Pin-in Torx screw at the back, it’s the old version and needs a replacement pronto. The updated part rocks a normal Torx screw with a cool gunmetal gray vibe.
Suspension Issues
Now, let’s talk under the chassis. As your Porsche Cayenne 958 ages, depending on how you drive it, you might start hearing some noise when you hit speed bumps. It’s often the lower and upper arms causing the ruckus. Sometimes, those stabilizer links and bushings can join the noise party if things get really rough. But hey, the rear suspension is a champ, except for the GTS variant, which has a weak point in the rear lower arm bushing due to its lower height and geometry shenanigans. Here’s a complete guide on how to fix the lower control arm bushing problem.
Air Suspension Issues
Cayennes fitted with air suspension are known to develop various problems as these systems age. You will most commonly find leaking air suspension compressors, leaking air suspension struts, or electrical problems with the ride height regulator. We’ve written a complete guide on how to diagnose and fix these issues at home.
Interior and Electrical Issues
Inside your luxury ride, watch out for those power window switches – they like to shed their chrome design parts, and in some cases, the switches themselves might make a run for it. Oh, and the air conditioning vents? They’ve got a delicate flap, so try not to fiddle with them too much. If there’s some mysterious rattling noise inside, don’t sweat it – a bit of cloth tape and NVH lubricant can usually sort it out.
And for all you panoramic roof lovers, listen up. 958 Cayennes with a panoramic roof can have pesky roof drain issues. That might spell water damage for your Rear BCM and sound amplifier. Keep those roof drains clear and flowing to dodge that watery disaster. Your Porsche will thank you for it!
All of that being said, The Porsche Cayenne is not even close to the kind of headaches you’d get with some other cars. You can bet your bottom dollar these bad boys are solidly built. But, here’s the deal — no car is flawless, sadly.
Keeping Your 958 Cayenne Happy — Maintenance Know-How
You know the secret sauce to keep your car grinning and trouble-free? It’s all about maintenance, my friend! Taking good care of your four-wheeled buddy is like giving it a spa day. Regular oil changes, tire rotations, and check-ups can work wonders. It’s not just about avoiding surprise breakdowns but also extending your ride’s lifespan. Plus, who doesn’t want to cruise down the road without a care in the world? So, don’t skip those maintenance dates, and your car will repay you with many smooth, worry-free miles on the open road. Below are the things that must be replaced and checked for your Cayenne to be as happy as a pig in the mud.
- 10,000 miles or every year — Oil Service
- Engine oil and filter change
- Tire rotation
- Safety inspection (check for brake pad wear and brake rotor thickness. Here’s a complete guide on how to do this)
- 20,000 miles or every 2 years — Minor Service
- Oil service
- Brake fluid renewal
- Clutch fluid renewal (S E-Hybrid)
- Drain water from fuel filter (Diesel, S Diesel)
- Check and add AdBlue (Diesel, S Diesel)
- Check the expiration date of tire sealant
- Safety inspection
- 40,000 miles or every 4 years — Major Service
- Oil service
- Replace cabin filter
- Replace fuel filter (Diesel, S Diesel)
- Check and add AdBlue (Diesel, S Diesel)
- OBD check for transfer gear oil wear indicator. Replace if needed.
- Check the drive belt and replace if needed.
- General inspection
Additional Service Items
- 60,000 miles or every 6 years
- Replace PDCC reservoir
- Replace air filter (Diesel, S Diesel)
- Replace drive belt for supercharger (S E-Hybrid)
- Replace spark plugs (Cayenne base, S E-Hybrid)
- 40,000 miles or every 6 years
- Spark plugs (Cayenne S, GTS, Turbo, Turbo S)
- 80,000 miles or every 6 years
- Replace air filter (Cayenne base, S, GTS, Turbo, Turbo S, S E-Hybrid)
- 160,000 miles or every 16 years
- Front differential oil change
- Rear differential oil change
- ATF and filter change (automatic transmission)
Maintain Your Porsche Cayenne 958 with Quality Parts
Ultimately, maintaining your Porsche Cayenne 958 with quality parts is crucial to preserving its exceptional performance and longevity. It’s a remarkable vehicle that has earned its place in the hearts of petrolheads, and with proper care and maintenance, it will continue to be an icon on the road.
At eEuroparts.com, we’ve got all kinds of awesome parts for European rides. We’ve got the real deal, OEM stuff, and even some top-notch aftermarket options. Check us out! Just swing by our store, pick out your favorite make and model, and we’ll hook you up with a list of parts that are totally gonna fit!
