Buying an older Cayenne - Questions

Buying an older Cayenne - Questions

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5678

Original Poster:

6,146 posts

228 months

Wednesday 30th July 2014
quotequote all
So, I'm pretty set on getting a 3.2 Cayenne. The V8 has been discounted because of the engine. The Turbo is just unnecessary as it's for my wife/family car.

I've read about issues with the prop shaft, but don't really know any of the details/cost if it hasn't been done yet. Any info on this would be helpful.

From what I can find though, there doesn't appear to be much else other than the odd electrical gremlin? Does anyone know differently?

Finally, air suspension. Everyone seems to think it's something to look for, but from a maintenance point of view, is it just something else to go wrong? I read a thread here recently where someone had to replace all four sensors and the ecu/controller.

Any other general tips? I'm looking at ~2005 cars and around £10k budget.

5678

Original Poster:

6,146 posts

228 months

Wednesday 30th July 2014
quotequote all
It's just the "what if?" factor. If I buy a V8, then theres a (small) chance the engine could go. If I buy the V6 there appears to be none of that chance.

5678

Original Poster:

6,146 posts

228 months

Wednesday 30th July 2014
quotequote all
davek_964 said:
That was me. Just to put your mind at rest on that, the controller + 4 sensors cost (as parts) just over £300. So probably not as bad as you think.

Having said that - I had another problem with the air suspension when I bought the car (can't remember the details) but I think that was nearer £1k to fix, maybe even over. So yes - it can cost money.

I have had an unfortunate year with mine. Starter motor failed (beware - this can be a consequence of the coolant pipe problem, resulting in coolant being dumped all over the starter motor - leading to a failure further down the line). Both front window regulators snapped at different times. Aux belt snapped. The level sensor failed. And probably some other stuff I've forgotten.

I really like the Cayenne as a runaround car. On the other hand - mine is on it's last chance. It is becoming what can only be described as : A money pit. I think it has cost me more to maintain in the last year than my two other cars put together. When they are a Ferrari 360 and a 996 turbo, that becomes a problem. (Although the 996 turbo is due a major next week, so perhaps the balance will shift......).
Yes, I remember! I've followed a fair few of your cayenne threads with much interest. Might have to have a dig through again.

AndrewIC said:
I would steer clear of the V6 personally unless you are looking at a Diesel, they are pretty underpowered and there is a reason Porsche stopped selling them in the UK (you can only get them now if you do a special order).

The V8 is a much better option overall, you will also find a higher level of specification and generally it will be a nicer car to drive providing it has been serviced maintained properly.
I've spoken to a few well regarded porsche specialists now (all of which have good reps on here) and all of them have suggested me to avoid the v8. Occurences of engine failures appear to be coming more frequent.

I will admit, I've not driven the v6 yet. I do accept there's a point where a car can be so slow as to be dangerous. If that's the case then I'm more likely to go for a turbo than the v8 based off the research so far!

5678

Original Poster:

6,146 posts

228 months

Thursday 31st July 2014
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Luke. said:
Seriously, go Turbo.

They're more reliable, not much thirstier and don't cost a lot more. In fact, I just sold mine for £8,500. There are bargains to be had.

Plus, in my view, they look far better and the kit on them is great.
What age/mileage was yours to go for that price? Looking at the usual places, there aren't many Turbos that cheap.

5678

Original Poster:

6,146 posts

228 months

Thursday 31st July 2014
quotequote all
Luke. said:
2003. 84000 miles. 5 owners. Good history.
Shame you've already sold it! There aren't that many around at that price point.

I'm after grey with black, roof bars, not too fussed on wheels. You'd think it wasn't this difficult!

5678

Original Poster:

6,146 posts

228 months

Thursday 31st July 2014
quotequote all
hondansx said:
If you're that terrified about things going wrong, why not going for the cheaper Toureg and spend the difference on the warranty? Otherwise you're paying a premium for 'the badge' when in reality you're getting the sorriest excuse for a Porsche available.
I wouldn't say terrified. I'm just trying to make a fairly safe purchase.

Looking at Turbos now anyway!

5678

Original Poster:

6,146 posts

228 months

Thursday 31st July 2014
quotequote all
Callughan said:
That's a good price you got, trade offers are far worse.
Which makes the prices of all the current stuff up for sale look like they've been smoking something. Lots of iffy looking stuff for quite high prices!

5678

Original Poster:

6,146 posts

228 months

Monday 4th August 2014
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YHM smile