RoadVitals

2017 Porsche Macan Problems

Owner-reported complaints filed with NHTSA, grouped by component

Data refreshed

Owner complaintsComplaints are reports submitted to NHTSA by owners and drivers. NHTSA does not verify most reports before publishing them, and a complaint does not establish that a defect exists. Volume is influenced by how many of a vehicle were sold, how long it has been on the road, and how much attention an issue has received.
60
Latest Jul 22, 2026
Components namedHow many of our component categories appear on at least one report for this model year. One report can name several.
13
Crash or fire reportedComplaints whose submitter recorded that a crash or a fire occurred. These are the reporter's own answers on the NHTSA form, not verified findings.
4

What this page shows

Everything below is an owner-reported complaint submitted to NHTSA about the 2017 Porsche Macan, grouped by the component NHTSA recorded on the report. These are not confirmed defects, and they are not recalls. NHTSA does not verify most reports before publishing them, and a category with more reports in it is not evidence that a part is defective.

Complaints are reports submitted by owners and drivers to NHTSA. They are not verified and do not establish that a defect exists.

Reports by component

Ranked by how many owner reports name each component category

  • Airbags2129.6%
  • Brakes1014.1%
  • Engine811.3%
  • Steering68.5%
  • Fuel system57.0%
  • Driver assistance57.0%
  • Powertrain (other)34.2%
  • Exterior lighting34.2%
  • Electrical34.2%
  • Visibility34.2%
  • Interior & seats22.8%
  • Body & structure11.4%
  • Tires & wheels11.4%

Percentages are of component mentions. A single complaint can name more than one component, so these do not sum to the total complaint count.

Each component in detail

What the reports in each category say, in the owners' own words

Airbags

Reports naming the air-bag system — deployment behaviour, inflators, sensors and warning lights.

21
reports

From owner reports, verbatim

I was sold a vehicle with the incorrect front brakes, an open recall on airbag and bad transfer case all looked at and confirmed by a dealer .

NHTSA ID 11673593 · filed Jul 15, 2025

On [XXX] at around 6pm the AIRBAG light displayed in instrument cluster and remained steady after vehicle was placed in motion. I called my nearest service dealer at Porsche Carlsbad and they ran a vehicle diagnosis using their scanning tool. The finding was that the Front Passenger Seat Occupancy Sensor / Module was defective and needs replacement. The dealer also said that a recall had been issued (for which my vehicle's VIN was not listed). I called Porsche Company North America and they said my VIN was not part of that campaign to fix this issue, but I feel that this recall related to vehicle safety should have included my vehicle since it was within the make/model/year and trim of those included in the recall. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

NHTSA ID 11628935 · filed Dec 4, 2024
All 21 reports naming airbags

Brakes

Reports naming service brakes, the antilock braking system, brake hoses, master cylinders or the parking brake.

10
reports

From owner reports, verbatim

I was sold a vehicle with the incorrect front brakes, an open recall on airbag and bad transfer case all looked at and confirmed by a dealer .

NHTSA ID 11673593 · filed Jul 15, 2025

While driving at approximately 40 mph, traffic began to slow. When I attempted to slow to match traffic conditions, my brake pedal offered almost no resistance and sank to the floor. The car did not slow. I pumped the brake pedal repeatedly but it had no connection to the cars brakes. A vehicle collision occurred as a result as I coasted into the car ahead of me.

NHTSA ID 11551331 · filed Oct 23, 2023
All 10 reports naming brakes

Engine

Reports naming the engine itself — including stalling, misfires, oil consumption, cooling and internal engine components.

8
reports

From owner reports, verbatim

My 2017 Porsche Macan has a Timing Chain Cover Bolt Failure which has caused leaking oil and may lead to total loss of oil and engine failure. This is a known documented design and manufacturing defect affecting the 3.0L and 3.6L engines. The manufacturers original aluminum bolts for the cover suffer from premature failure leading them to break. Porsche has recognized this widespread defect and problem by issuing a technical service bulletin for this issue. Porsche has not issued a recall to fix this problem. I have contacted a Porsche dealer to address this problem but they refused to make the repair without my paying the cost to repair their defect.

NHTSA ID 11752140 · filed Jul 22, 2026

Porsche is making use of aluminum fasteners for important engine components. These fasteners are substandard for the service. At 100,000 miles, two of the bolts for the timing chain cover simply broke in half during normal service, resulting in a substantial oil leak and an expensive repair (about $3000). At 120,000 miles, one of the bolts for the valve cover also simply broke in half, resulting in another oil leak and a repair bill of about $1000.

NHTSA ID 11654627 · filed Apr 14, 2025
All 8 reports naming engine

Steering

Reports naming the steering system — racks, columns, power-steering assist and steering linkage.

6
reports

From owner reports, verbatim

While driving east on I-40 in North Carolina, my power steering catastrophically failed and I had to use all of my arm strength to steer the vehicle. The section of I-40 where this event occurred is extremely curvy (near the Haywood Rest Area) and there is no margin for error. If I had not been alone and totally concentrating on my driving, I could envision a severe accident as there were cars all around me. I managed to drive the vehicle to my Porsche dealer in Columbia, SC for repairs. They found multiple faults for the steering torque sensors and determined that the electric steering rack was faulty. They replaced the steering rack. Prior to this event, I had complained to the Porsche dealer about rubbing noises in the steering. The dealer replaced the steering shaft but the noise came back.

NHTSA ID 11556849 · filed Nov 26, 2023

Driving north on Interstate 95 near Stafford, VA and took exit for lunch. Restaurant was right at exit and we entered the parking area. Went to turn and the steering was frozen. Caution light said Power Steering Malfunction and steering could only be turned slightly with maximum effort by driver and passenger. Managed to move car to parking area. Subsequently towed to Porsche dealership in Arlington VA for repair. If this frozen steering had occurred moments earlier on I95, we would have likely crashed with the vehicle suddenly unable to be steered. We were terrified and believe our lives were in jeopardy. The dealer identified the problem as a broken/defective electronic rack & pinion steering unit. Vehicle has approximately 20,000 miles and is always garaged. The failed parts will be available at the dealer when replacement parts are received. There were no warning lights or indication of any problem prior to the event.

NHTSA ID 11537205 · filed Aug 8, 2023

Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.

Fuel system

Reports naming fuel storage or delivery — tanks, pumps, lines, injectors and fuel leaks.

5
reports

From owner reports, verbatim

I am submitting this complaint regarding a known safety issue affecting my vehicle. I own a 2017 Porsche [2017 Macan GTS ], and I recently discovered that the fuel pump flange on my car has developed cracks, causing a noticeable fuel odor and potential fuel leakage. This component matches the description of the part listed under NHTSA Recall No. 17V-289 (Porsche Campaign AH06), which addresses the same defect. However, when I contacted Porsche and checked my VIN, I was informed that my vehicle is not included in the recall, despite exhibiting the exact failure described in the recall documentation. This situation raises serious safety concerns, as fuel leaks pose a significant fire hazard. I respectfully request that NHTSA investigate why vehicles experiencing the same defect are being excluded from the recall and ensure Porsche extends coverage to all affected vehicles. I am happy to provide photos, repair invoices, and inspection reports upon request. Thank you for your attention to this important safety matter. Recall Overview The recall campaign is identified as NHTSA Campaign No. 17V-289 (also known internally by Porsche as AH06). NHTSA +2 RepairPal.com +2 Affected vehicles: 2015-2017 Macan S and Macan Turbo, and 2017 Macan, Macan Turbo (with Performance Package), and Macan GTS. Asbury Auto +2 NHTSA +2 Issue: The fuel-pump filter-flange may develop fine hairline cracks due to aging/oxidation and internal pressure, which can allow fuel seepage. Fuel leakage in presence of an ignition source increases fire risk. NHTSA +1 Remedy: Dealers will inspect the flange. If cracked, it will be replaced. If not cracked, a protective film will be applied to the flange to prevent external damage. This work is free of charge. RepairPal.com +1 Date of notice: June 13, 2017 for this recall

NHTSA ID 11698028 · filed Nov 6, 2025

The fuel flange failed causing gas to leak from the vehicle and subsequent fumes from the gasoline leaking. The part was recalled by Porsche and repaired, however Porsche was not able to tell me when the repair was done, what was done nor where it was done. I paid out of pocket for the same failure to be fixed, meaning their previous covered repair either was never completed, or Porsche's solution was put a band-aid on the problem instead of a complete fix. Keep in mind, the car was parked in my garage that filled with the stench of gas (which explodes in high pressure or a spark). I have paid for the repair and it still smells of gas. This is a safety issue of possible fire/explosion due to fumes/gas that leaks due to a failure of the flange.

NHTSA ID 11604247 · filed Jul 24, 2024

Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.

Driver assistance

Reports naming forward-collision avoidance, lane keeping, back-over prevention, cruise control and related electronic driver-assistance systems.

5
reports

From owner reports, verbatim

this is in regards to NHTSA TSB #ATI-1907. i had this issue repaired by porsche san antonio for over 1k. the problem came back and porsche is trying to charge me again saying there is a design flaw they are aware of but cannot perform work under warranty. This is very unfair and makes me think that everytime it rains i cant drive my car because ill have to spend another 1k for a rear camera and parking sensor fail. I hope i can get any kind of help or visibility on this problem. It is not only unsafe, but porsche as a brand has such bad customer service and no one wants to help

NHTSA ID 11745742 · filed Jun 22, 2026

The specific concern pertains to the routing of sunroof water drains from the roof to the wheel well of several Porsche vehicles. In this case, the rear water drains are routed directly over fuses and other electronic components within the vehicle. One of the electronic components affected, a Park Assist Control Unit (part 95B 919 475 L), controls multiple vehicle safety functions including perimeter sensors and the backup camera. When this unit fails, the backup camera is blank and perimeter sensors that beep to notify the driver of potentially hidden objects (or people) close to the vehicle do not function. Such failure may jeopardize the overall safety of vehicle occupants and other road users and may affect safe operation of the vehicle. This Park Assist Control Unit has failed in my Porsche Macan on three separate occasions due to corrosion of the terminals. The Porsche Orland Park (Illinois) dealership where I took my vehicle for repair stated that the corrosion was due to leakage from the sunroof drain onto the unit. After the third failure of this unit due to corrosion, I contacted Porsche North America customer support. I was told that the corrosion of the terminals and subsequent failure of the Park Assist Control Unit was due to clogging of the sunroof water drain, causing “pooling and draining to places where it can cause damage.” Although other electronic components directly adjacent to this Unit have never had similar corrosion, there has never been evidence of water leakage inside the vehicle, and I regularly test the drains and have found no sign of blockages, I accepted Porsche North America’s explanation. They stated that “park[ing] a vehicle outside” or “driv[ing] where there are many trees” may exacerbate the issue. Unfortunately, subsequent concerns I raised regarding the tendency for these drains to clog at any time and Porsche’s decision to route a water drain in such close proximity to electronic vehicle safety systems were ignored.

NHTSA ID 11551390 · filed Oct 23, 2023

Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.

Powertrain (other)

Powertrain reports that are not specifically the engine or transmission — driveshafts, axles, transfer cases and differentials.

3
reports

From owner reports, verbatim

I was sold a vehicle with the incorrect front brakes, an open recall on airbag and bad transfer case all looked at and confirmed by a dealer .

NHTSA ID 11673593 · filed Jul 15, 2025

Porsche Macan has known transfer case problem. Should be recalled. I have a 2017 Macan with 15,000 miles and transfer case bad.

NHTSA ID 11622379 · filed Oct 28, 2024

Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.

Exterior lighting

Reports naming headlights, tail lights, turn signals and other exterior lighting.

3
reports

From owner reports, verbatim

Headlight severe crazing/crackle and DLR module failure. Both Porsche NA and extended warranty fail to cover or take responsibility for this poorly mfr’d part that is dangerous as it limits visibility as well as others seeing you. I want Porsche NA to own up to this hazardous parts failure.

NHTSA ID 11695816 · filed Oct 27, 2025

Vehicle was driven to Porsche of Arlington (Virginia) for warranty service and a Virginia safety inspection. Service advisor reported that safety inspector informed him the vehicle passed inspection; however, it was noted there is fogging, spiderweb type cracks, and discoloration on the inside of each headlight lens. It was discovered through conversations at the dealership and online research that a chemical reaction between the factory lens coating and the gas emitted by the headlight bulbs was the likely cause. Lumen output has gradually decreased as the issue grows worse and both lenses become more opaque in appearance. Porsche of Arlington advised us the factory warranty had expired, as we had expected. They completed a thorough inspection of the headlight assemblies, took photos at the dealership, and further suggested we contact Porsche Cars North America to file a claim to ascertain whether a remedy could be made under 'good will' as this is undoubtedly a safety issue. Porsche Cars North America responded via e-mail and advised us that 'customer safety and satisfaction is our top priority.' They assigned a case number and informed us we would be hearing from a representative for additional information. After several weeks of phone calls, Porsche Cars North America determined that no 'good will' would be provided as this issue involves/is related to the vehicle's glass/lens and therefore excluded from any adjustments or consideration from Porsche Cars North America. We are asking NHTSA to investigate this issue for the following reasons: 1) This is a growing safety issue as lumen output is steadily decreasing 2) This is unrelated to regular service/maintenance or any culpability on behalf of the owners 3) Absent replacement, this issue cannot be corrected by the owners 4) It has been reported to be a growing issue among numerous Porsche Macan owners 5) We have exhausted our options with the dealership and Porsche Cars North America

NHTSA ID 11523110 · filed May 21, 2023

Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.

Electrical

Reports naming the electrical system — wiring, battery, charging, control modules, infotainment and electrical accessories.

3
reports

From owner reports, verbatim

this is in regards to NHTSA TSB #ATI-1907. i had this issue repaired by porsche san antonio for over 1k. the problem came back and porsche is trying to charge me again saying there is a design flaw they are aware of but cannot perform work under warranty. This is very unfair and makes me think that everytime it rains i cant drive my car because ill have to spend another 1k for a rear camera and parking sensor fail. I hope i can get any kind of help or visibility on this problem. It is not only unsafe, but porsche as a brand has such bad customer service and no one wants to help

NHTSA ID 11745742 · filed Jun 22, 2026

The specific concern pertains to the routing of sunroof water drains from the roof to the wheel well of several Porsche vehicles. In this case, the rear water drains are routed directly over fuses and other electronic components within the vehicle. One of the electronic components affected, a Park Assist Control Unit (part 95B 919 475 L), controls multiple vehicle safety functions including perimeter sensors and the backup camera. When this unit fails, the backup camera is blank and perimeter sensors that beep to notify the driver of potentially hidden objects (or people) close to the vehicle do not function. Such failure may jeopardize the overall safety of vehicle occupants and other road users and may affect safe operation of the vehicle. This Park Assist Control Unit has failed in my Porsche Macan on three separate occasions due to corrosion of the terminals. The Porsche Orland Park (Illinois) dealership where I took my vehicle for repair stated that the corrosion was due to leakage from the sunroof drain onto the unit. After the third failure of this unit due to corrosion, I contacted Porsche North America customer support. I was told that the corrosion of the terminals and subsequent failure of the Park Assist Control Unit was due to clogging of the sunroof water drain, causing “pooling and draining to places where it can cause damage.” Although other electronic components directly adjacent to this Unit have never had similar corrosion, there has never been evidence of water leakage inside the vehicle, and I regularly test the drains and have found no sign of blockages, I accepted Porsche North America’s explanation. They stated that “park[ing] a vehicle outside” or “driv[ing] where there are many trees” may exacerbate the issue. Unfortunately, subsequent concerns I raised regarding the tendency for these drains to clog at any time and Porsche’s decision to route a water drain in such close proximity to electronic vehicle safety systems were ignored.

NHTSA ID 11551390 · filed Oct 23, 2023

Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.

Visibility

Reports naming windshields, glass, wipers, defrosters and mirrors.

3
reports

From owner reports, verbatim

It was noted there is fogging, spiderweb type cracks, and discoloration on the inside of each headlight lens. It was discovered through conversations at the dealership and online research that a chemical reaction between the factory lens coating and the gas emitted by the headlight bulbs was the likely cause. Lumen output has gradually decreased as the issue grows worse and both lenses become more opaque in appearance. The car is available for inspection. We are asking NHTSA to investigate this issue for the following reasons: 1) This is a growing safety issue as lumen output is steadily decreasing 2) This is unrelated to regular service/maintenance or any culpability on behalf of the owners 3) Absent replacement, this issue cannot be corrected by the owners 4) It has been reported to be a growing issue among numerous Porsche Macan owners. I asked Porsche if it was covered under the warranty, they stated it was not. They did examine the car. No warning messages.

NHTSA ID 11544727 · filed Sep 15, 2023

Vehicle was driven to Porsche of Arlington (Virginia) for warranty service and a Virginia safety inspection. Service advisor reported that safety inspector informed him the vehicle passed inspection; however, it was noted there is fogging, spiderweb type cracks, and discoloration on the inside of each headlight lens. It was discovered through conversations at the dealership and online research that a chemical reaction between the factory lens coating and the gas emitted by the headlight bulbs was the likely cause. Lumen output has gradually decreased as the issue grows worse and both lenses become more opaque in appearance. Porsche of Arlington advised us the factory warranty had expired, as we had expected. They completed a thorough inspection of the headlight assemblies, took photos at the dealership, and further suggested we contact Porsche Cars North America to file a claim to ascertain whether a remedy could be made under 'good will' as this is undoubtedly a safety issue. Porsche Cars North America responded via e-mail and advised us that 'customer safety and satisfaction is our top priority.' They assigned a case number and informed us we would be hearing from a representative for additional information. After several weeks of phone calls, Porsche Cars North America determined that no 'good will' would be provided as this issue involves/is related to the vehicle's glass/lens and therefore excluded from any adjustments or consideration from Porsche Cars North America. We are asking NHTSA to investigate this issue for the following reasons: 1) This is a growing safety issue as lumen output is steadily decreasing 2) This is unrelated to regular service/maintenance or any culpability on behalf of the owners 3) Absent replacement, this issue cannot be corrected by the owners 4) It has been reported to be a growing issue among numerous Porsche Macan owners 5) We have exhausted our options with the dealership and Porsche Cars North America

NHTSA ID 11523110 · filed May 21, 2023

Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.

Interior & seats

Reports naming seats, latches, locks, linkages and interior fittings.

2
reports

From owner reports, verbatim

I receive a latter from Porsche Cars North America, Atlanta, Georgia, after that i went to the Porsche Dealer in Irvine, they told months ago that they where ordering the part, i went back and they just told me that they will call me when the part arrived, this is been before December of 2021.

NHTSA ID 11458348 · filed Mar 25, 2022

The manufacturer was unable to remedy the defect in the past 6 months despite I followed up multiple times. The respective service was also unable to provide estimated fix date as they mentioned no clear date provided by the manufacturer as to when the part will be available

NHTSA ID 11443078 · filed Dec 8, 2021

Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.

Body & structure

Reports naming the vehicle structure, frame, body panels, doors, hood and trim.

1
report

From owner reports, verbatim

I WENT ON A TEST DRIVE ON THIS CAR AND THE CAR CAUGHT FIRE FROM THE ENGINE. I NOTICED AFTER THE FACT THAT THERE WAS A RECALL ON THE VEHICLE FOR FUEL PUMP MALFUNCTION THAT CAN CAUSE FIRE. I'VE CONTACTED PORSCHE ABOUT 15 TIMES AND THEY WONT RETURN MY CALL AT ALL. I ALSO STARED A CASE WITH THEM AND THEY WONT ANSWER BACK. THE VEHICLE IS COMPLETELY BURNT. NEED ASSISTANCE.

NHTSA ID 11407094 · filed Apr 8, 2021

Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.

Tires & wheels

Reports naming tires, wheels, hubs, or the tire-pressure monitoring system.

1
report

From owner reports, verbatim

Tires ware original equipment new vehicle they ware so loud after 15k miles that I thought the front bearings ware bad took it to the dealer they said all good its a tire issue something about Porsche Macan and Pirelli tires I am not the first with the problem they recommend to buy Michelin tires insane.

NHTSA ID 11438542 · filed Oct 28, 2021

Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.

Higher-selling and older vehicles accumulate more reports. Counts are not failure rates and are not directly comparable between vehicles that sold in very different numbers.

Elsewhere on this vehicle

Data sources

Data on this page last refreshed .