Early Model Reliability
#1
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Hi all,
I've been looking at early model Cayennes for a few weeks now (04, 05). I'm aware of all of the usual issues (coolant tubes, cardan shaft, coil packs, etc). The one thing I just discovered is the cylinder scoring issue. I'm aware that it only affects a certain range of VINs, but it sounds like it is affecting vehicles outside of that range as well?
I'm not afraid of the regular issues and maintenance, but the thought of an engine grenading, and the replacement cost associated, terrifies me a little bit.
What are everyone's thoughts on this? Is it something I should be worried about? Is there any way to determine if it will happen? Should a PPI include a boroscope of all of the cylinders? Basically, should I buy one or not?
Thanks all,
Mike
I've been looking at early model Cayennes for a few weeks now (04, 05). I'm aware of all of the usual issues (coolant tubes, cardan shaft, coil packs, etc). The one thing I just discovered is the cylinder scoring issue. I'm aware that it only affects a certain range of VINs, but it sounds like it is affecting vehicles outside of that range as well?
I'm not afraid of the regular issues and maintenance, but the thought of an engine grenading, and the replacement cost associated, terrifies me a little bit.
What are everyone's thoughts on this? Is it something I should be worried about? Is there any way to determine if it will happen? Should a PPI include a boroscope of all of the cylinders? Basically, should I buy one or not?
Thanks all,
Mike
#2
Drifting
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I've only seen cylinder scoring on Cayenne S models, so if you're looking for a V6 or a Turbo, this isn't really a concern. It also appears to be a bigger problem in colder climates, so another way to reduce risk would be to check history, and buy one that's only lived in warmer climates. A typical PPI won't include a boroscope, but I'm sure you could request it and pay extra.
Good luck!
Good luck!
#3
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I should mention that I have been looking at the Cayenne S, and I live in Saskatchewan Canada, so the majority of what I'm looking at has lived in, and will continue to live in, a pretty darn cold climate.
#4
Drifting
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Well, it's still a relatively low percentage that seem to have that issue. If it worries you, just save a little extra and look for a Turbo. You won't regret it if you do.
#6
Rocky Mountain High
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My 2004 CS has been very reliable. It rolled 120K miles last week!
#7
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The prices up here don't seem that bad. They seem to sell for right around the cost of a new engine.
The turbos are a little harder to come by and a little out of my price range, and I'm having a hard time getting excited about the V6.
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#8
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Anyone know the VIN range for the scoring issue? That's all I need! I have 04 S with 65k and I've replaced:
Water pump
battery
coolant tubes
fuel pump
cardan shaft
all coils/plugs
hatch struts
brakes/rotors
What I still need done:
Climate control servos....sometimes vents work, sometime they don't
Bose CD system makes noises like there's a CD in there, but there's not
That said, I also had a flash done and added cat bypass pipes and intake. Will probably keep this thing as winter ride until dies now. Definitely worth the money if you can find one with most of the above repairs done (mainly coolant tubes, cardan shaft, coils).
Water pump
battery
coolant tubes
fuel pump
cardan shaft
all coils/plugs
hatch struts
brakes/rotors
What I still need done:
Climate control servos....sometimes vents work, sometime they don't
Bose CD system makes noises like there's a CD in there, but there's not
That said, I also had a flash done and added cat bypass pipes and intake. Will probably keep this thing as winter ride until dies now. Definitely worth the money if you can find one with most of the above repairs done (mainly coolant tubes, cardan shaft, coils).
#9
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I have 2004 Cayenne S with 89k miles and love it. I just had the coolant pipes burst last month so that set me back $3k, but no other problems. I'm getting the cat bypass pipes installed next week. I wouldn't have any other car, I can rage the back roads and it corners on rails, an I can throw the mountain bikes on the back and pack up the fam for the beach. My next car will be a Turbo!
#12
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I searched nationwide through all sorts of resources and of course found all sorts of V8 Cayenne engines from wrecked vehicles also.
Most rebuilders want $6500 starting price for a rebuilt VR6 24v 2.8l
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The 3.2L version found in the Cayenne and Touaregs is usually priced at $3k and up for a used take out from a wreck.(keep in mind these are the averages I was seeing around the country)
Most of the V8s turbo and NA were priced around $5k, some were,less, some more. Expensive? Yes! As expensive as has been posted for a factory block at $20k? NO! Most used 911 motors go for more than this!(used to used)
So while it would suck, its not *really* that expensive by comparison IF you were in the microscopic % that needs one
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#14
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There are tons of '04/'05 Cayennes out there. That says it all. If they're still looking great and being driven, you only have to find the one you want and buy it. Set aside $2000 per year of disposable income (may not need it but...may) and drive the heck out of it.