RoadVitals

2018 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.
31
Latest Jun 8, 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.
1

What this page shows

Everything below is an owner-reported complaint submitted to NHTSA about the 2018 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

  • Airbags1025.0%
  • Steering615.0%
  • Fuel system512.5%
  • Electrical512.5%
  • Seat belts37.5%
  • Brakes25.0%
  • Driver assistance25.0%
  • Exterior lighting25.0%
  • Tires & wheels12.5%
  • Powertrain (other)12.5%
  • Engine12.5%
  • Body & structure12.5%
  • Interior & seats12.5%

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.

10
reports

From owner reports, verbatim

Air bag light turns to "off" despite passenger sitting in seat. Took car to dealer (Bill Pearce Motors) who "verified customers concern" and "found fault present for passenger seat mat resistance to high" with a recommendation to replace "seat mat and module." This is at our expense (quote of $3700) and two trips to the dealer, being charged diagnostic fee each time. It is noted that a previous recall exists for this issue, however, it did not cover this vehicle. NHTSA ID 21V-131

NHTSA ID 11721323 · filed Mar 1, 2026

The airbag light came on in the vehicle. We took it into the dealership, they said we need a passenger airbag sensor mat and seat cushion for the passenger seat airbag system. This item was recalled in 2018 Porche Macon NHTSA Campain ID 21V131000/Recall AMA2. Porche said since our VIN was not included in the recall we have to pay to fix it. They said the only way to get our VIN added was to contact NHTSA. The quote to fix an item that has been recalled was over $1,800. It doesn't seem fair to have to pay for something that has been recalled for this car and is known to be defective. The vehicle is ready for inspection anytime. The passenger safety is at risk as defined by the recall. "The air bag will not deploy during a crash if a front passenger is undetected, increasing the risk or injury." The problem first appeared last year around May 2023 and it took a while to get an appointment at the dealership. I was not aware of this recall until today when I did a Kelly Blue Book value on the vehicle. I just called Porche and they said there is nothing they can do and to contact NHTSA to get our VIN added to the recall list. Attached is the repair estimate from the Porche dealership.

NHTSA ID 11573773 · filed Feb 24, 2024
All 10 reports naming airbags

Steering

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

6
reports

From owner reports, verbatim

Upon routine 80k service, discovered that steering wheel column loose due to faulty bushings. Individual bushings could be replaced but manufacturer insists that entire steering column needs replacement. Manufacturer should provide replacement bushings for technician to replace instead of entire column. This is simply an 8mm plastic piece!

NHTSA ID 11683624 · filed Aug 28, 2025

The steering of the vehicle completely failed while driving. The steering column detached from the steering rack and steering the vehicle was no longer possible. There was no warning and its only by luck that nobody was killed. The defect was confirmed and repaired by the dealer. There is a single bolt that attaches the column to the rack, which if not torqued properly can fall out and lead to this complete failure of steering. I reported to incident to the manufacturer, but they have not responded to my case at all. Please also see: NHTSA Campaign Number: 21V493000 for exact same issue with different model/year. This is a much larger issue that originally thought and has a very high chance of death or injury especially for a high performance vehicle.

NHTSA ID 11494148 · filed Nov 18, 2022

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

The contact owns a 2018 Porsche Macan. The contact stated that while the contact's wife was driving at an undisclosed speed, the contact's wife noticed an unusual odor in the interior and the exterior of the vehicle. In addition, the contact inspected the vehicle and noticed a fuel leak on the ground underneath the vehicle. The contact stated that the failure was persistent. The contact stated that the vehicle was a fire hazard and unsafe to drive. The dealer was made aware of the failure. The contact was informed of NHTSA Campaign Number: 20V077000 (Fuel System, Gasoline) however the VIN was not included. The contact was advised to contact the NHTSA Hotline to report the failure. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or dealer. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure but provided no assistance. The failure mileage was approximately 44,920.

NHTSA ID 11742714 · filed Jun 8, 2026

My fiancé was driving the car normally on the elevated interstate at about 130 in the morning central time on Monday, April 20 when the suddenly burst into flames! The entire vehicle is destroyed bumper-to-bumper the fuel pump on these models are apparently reason for recalls because of this exact reason.my fiancé's life was endangered because of this fire.thank Goodness there was no collision.police inspected and towed the vehicle

NHTSA ID 11732582 · filed Apr 20, 2026

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.

5
reports

From owner reports, verbatim

My fiancé was driving the car normally on the elevated interstate at about 130 in the morning central time on Monday, April 20 when the suddenly burst into flames! The entire vehicle is destroyed bumper-to-bumper the fuel pump on these models are apparently reason for recalls because of this exact reason.my fiancé's life was endangered because of this fire.thank Goodness there was no collision.police inspected and towed the vehicle

NHTSA ID 11732582 · filed Apr 20, 2026

I am writing to formally submit a safety complaint regarding my 2018 Porsche Macan. I have experienced a significant issue with the vehicle’s headlights, which I believe poses a serious safety risk. Description of the Issue: The headlights on my 2018 Porsche Macan have failed without any prior warning or indication. There were no dashboard alerts or error messages to notify me of a problem. The failure occurred suddenly while driving at night, resulting in a complete loss of forward illumination. This created a hazardous situation, as I was unable to see the road ahead and other drivers were unable to see my vehicle clearly. Safety Concerns: The headlight failure happened unexpectedly and without any warning. This issue significantly increases the risk of a crash, especially when driving at night or in low-visibility conditions. Upon inspection, I was told the entire headlight assembly would need to be replaced, which is costly and concerning for a relatively new vehicle. Request for Investigation: I am aware that other owners of the 2018 Porsche Macan have reported similar headlight failures. I urge NHTSA to investigate this matter, as it appears to be a widespread and potentially dangerous defect. Reliable headlight operation is essential for safe driving, and sudden failure without warning is unacceptable. Thank you for your attention to this matter. Please let me know if you require any additional information or documentation.

NHTSA ID 11719315 · filed Feb 20, 2026

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

Seat belts

Reports naming seat belts, buckles, retractors and pretensioners.

3
reports

From owner reports, verbatim

The contact owns a 2018 Porsche Macan. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the front passenger’s side seat belt alert was inoperable. The contact stated that while a passenger was seated in the front passenger’s side seat without the seat belt buckled, the seat belt alert failed to activate. The vehicle was taken to the dealer and the contact was informed that the feature was not installed in the vehicle when the vehicle was manufactured. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure but provided no assistance. The failure mileage was approximately 27,000.

NHTSA ID 11566957 · filed Jan 22, 2024

Forgot case number with Porsche it is 800053607 Porsche says car is unsafe to drive. My case number with NHTSA is 11522971

NHTSA ID 11522972 · filed May 20, 2023

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

Brakes

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

2
reports

From owner reports, verbatim

I purchased this vehicle from The Collection Dealer Coral Gables, Florida. I brought the car in to have them check the brake pedal travel. It seems to me that the brake pedal response to applying the brakes is spongy or too much travel. It feels like the lines have air in them. The Service advisor says it is normal for this Macan S to feel that way. I still don't think is right. Also, it has been a few times when I am parking the car seems like it wants to accelerate all by itself and I have to apply the brakes not to go over the parking spot stopper or if inside my garage, not to go thru the wall and end up inside my living room.

NHTSA ID 11444460 · filed Dec 20, 2021

I PURCHASED THIS PORSCHE MACAN BASIC MODEL FROM A PORSCHE DEALERSHIP IN DESTIN IN OCT 2018 WITH 4,000 MILES, CERTIFIED PRE OWNED. THE BRAKE PEDAL HAS TOO MUCH PEDAL TRAVEL. I HAVE TO PUSH THE BRAKE PEDAL DOWN TO FAR BEFORE I FEEL THE BRAKES ENGAGE. I DON'T FEEL SAFE DRIVING THIS CAR. IT HAS BECOME A SAFETY ISSUE. ON MAR 29, 2019 I'M GOING TO TAKE IT INTO THE DEALERSHIP FOR THE 3RD TIME FOR THE SAME PROBLEM. I'VE WENT ONLINE AND DID A GOOGLE SEARCH FOR THIS PROBLEM AND THERE'S SEVERAL FORUMS WITH THIS SAME BASE MODEL MACAN WITH THE SAME PEDAL TRAVEL ISSUE. ALTHOUGH THIS CAR IS NOT THE 440 HP TURBO MODEL MACAN, IT HAS 250 HP AND IT NEEDS TO HAVE BETTER BRAKES THAN IT HAS. THAT IS WHY I'M WRITING THIS TO BRING THIS TO YOUR ATTENTION INCASE NO ONE HAS DONE THIS YET. I'M NOT SAYING THAT THE BRAKES DON'T WORK, I'M SAYING THERE'S TOO MUCH PEDAL TRAVEL BEFORE THEY ENGAGE AND IT'S SCARY WHEN I PUSH ON THE BRAKES AND THEY TRAVEL TOO FAR BEFORE THEY ENGAGE.

NHTSA ID 11189825 · filed Mar 18, 2019

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.

2
reports

From owner reports, verbatim

Engine failure

NHTSA ID 11718308 · filed Feb 16, 2026

Rear camera and vehicle proximity sensors are not working Due A Flaw with water moisture entering the rear cabin where modules are located. This us a common problem with this vehicle.

NHTSA ID 11575493 · filed Mar 5, 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.

2
reports

From owner reports, verbatim

I am writing to formally submit a safety complaint regarding my 2018 Porsche Macan. I have experienced a significant issue with the vehicle’s headlights, which I believe poses a serious safety risk. Description of the Issue: The headlights on my 2018 Porsche Macan have failed without any prior warning or indication. There were no dashboard alerts or error messages to notify me of a problem. The failure occurred suddenly while driving at night, resulting in a complete loss of forward illumination. This created a hazardous situation, as I was unable to see the road ahead and other drivers were unable to see my vehicle clearly. Safety Concerns: The headlight failure happened unexpectedly and without any warning. This issue significantly increases the risk of a crash, especially when driving at night or in low-visibility conditions. Upon inspection, I was told the entire headlight assembly would need to be replaced, which is costly and concerning for a relatively new vehicle. Request for Investigation: I am aware that other owners of the 2018 Porsche Macan have reported similar headlight failures. I urge NHTSA to investigate this matter, as it appears to be a widespread and potentially dangerous defect. Reliable headlight operation is essential for safe driving, and sudden failure without warning is unacceptable. Thank you for your attention to this matter. Please let me know if you require any additional information or documentation.

NHTSA ID 11719315 · filed Feb 20, 2026

2018 PORSCHE MACAN. CONSUMER WRITES IN REGARDS TO DIM LIGHTING SETTING BEING A SAFETY HAZARD. *LD THE CONSUMER STATED THE HEADLIGHTS APPEARED TO BE POINTING IN A DOWNWARD POSITION. *J'S

NHTSA ID 11245710 · filed Aug 23, 2019

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

265/45ZR20 104Y Tire shop has been unable to balance tire since there's a defect with the brand new tire itself. Vehicle vibrates excessively at highway speeds, feels unsafe to drive. I've reached out to vendor for tire replacement and hasn't made an effort to replace tire in a timely manner. I use my vehicle everyday. Tires were purchased from tireagent.com

NHTSA ID 11604472 · filed Jul 25, 2024

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.

1
report

From owner reports, verbatim

The Macan engine cooling system is defective and dangerous. It is made with a plastic cooling lines that are poorly placed (and concealed) where they are subject to high heat and pressure and therefore break suddenly. The danger is that it happens suddenly and you have to pull over right away even in dangerous road situations to avoid complete engine damage/failure. My husband and I drove the Macan to Mammoth Lakes for instance for the holidays and had to pull over in a dangerous side of a windy cliff, which posed great risk to our safety. Not to mention the difficulty and danger for a tow truck to access us. It was further pitch dark and snowing. We waited hours for the tow truck which thankfully came but we easily could have had to spend the night in a dangerous spot. Porsche should have let its customers know about this vulnerability so we could have changed these plastic lines even at our cost to avoid such a possible situation. They were sued for this same defect on the Cayenne. It's something I would have paid for and changed but they are not wanting to publicize this dangerous issue. They are putting customers' lives at risk. When we were (luckily) towed to Mammoth, Mammoth does not have the Porsche parts nor many mechanics so the mechanic (who was booked out for weeks) there did a temp fix and we risked our lives on the way back as well. We paid around $700 for the temporary repair and maybe another $1341 for the permanent change of the lines when we returned. This is a serious problem. We need to be able to trust otherwise reputable manufacturers like Porsche and our government entities. Happy to provide receipts. This vehicle needs to be recalled. At very least, the customers need to know about the issue because the plastic cooling tubes are concealed and not obvious. Further the lines cannot be replaced where the vehicle stalled and have to be towed to a mechanic.

NHTSA ID 11707892 · filed Dec 30, 2025

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

Engine

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

1
report

From owner reports, verbatim

OIl leak from "Brocken aluminum bolts" that do not hold up and are failing to hold up from basic car use. A safety recall on this manufacturing parts issue should have been mandatory back in 2015. When this issue started and Macan 2015-2022 all have this issue and are now been replaced with steel bolts. It is costing consumers $2000-$8000 in repairs do the safety issues of bad manufacturing of bolts used . [XXX] Sounds similar to the fiasco with the 958.1 gen Cayenne V8s using aluminum bolts for the Variocam adjusters in the engine which eventually resulted in a NHTSA mandated recall due to the bolt heads sometimes shearing off and causing all sorts of nastiness (my Cayenne Turbo had this recall). Of course the Cayenne's instance of using inappropriate aluminum bolts/fasteners resulted in much more serious consequences \than a just slow oil leak/seepage as is the case as its not been totally documented with the Macan V6s yet , but not good in either case. <sigh> should have recalled on all V6 MACANS also! A partial repair was done by Porsche in Sep 2023 and in [XXX] I have another oil leak from another aluminum bolt breakage . INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

NHTSA ID 11609210 · filed Aug 18, 2024

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

Engine failure

NHTSA ID 11718308 · filed Feb 16, 2026

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.

1
report

From owner reports, verbatim

I cannot use my car for fearing of legal actions if I put anybody onto the front passenger seat. This recall has been on since April this year— that’s almost 5 months. I’ve contacted the Porshe dealership so many times and they still haven’t received the parts from the manufacturer.

NHTSA ID 11434375 · filed Sep 25, 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 .