BrendonSF

Just acquired a used 2016 Cayenne GTS that is relatively flawless, save the fact that the Sport Exhaust button doesn't work. The system appears to be stuck in normal mode. I've done some searching on here, as well as google, but haven't been able to find anything definitive. I'm wondering if anyone else has experienced the issue, and if so what it took to fix.

An independent shop quoted me 2-3hrs just to diagnose it. I was able to find the attached service bulletin that applies to the 2016 Cayman about the system not working due to water damage, and am wondering if the same scenario might be common on other models despite not being documented.

Thanks in advance!

jtakhtalian

Go under the car near the rear and check to see if the rubber hose to each valve is connected or not. It's possible that the previous owner pulled them off and plugged the hoses so the exhaust would always be in sport mode. So what you think is normal mode may actually be the opposite full time. It's a simple "modification".

Mrg02D

Isn’t there an indication led for whether or not you’ve pressed the button? Does it light up?

jpru2001

Yes there is a red light that should come on when activated.

jtakhtalian

If the hoses are unplugged, the red light illuminating on the center console is irrelevant. What pulling the tubes does is override the mechanical system. The valves are activated through vacuum pressure. Pressing the button merely activated vacuum to the valves. So if they're disconnected, you wouldn't sense any difference whether the button is pressed or not.

Mrg02D

It actually is very relevant. If it isn’t turning on and off, it could very well be an electrical issue as suspected by the OP. That would save him a trip under the car right there.

BrendonSF

The button lights up, but it doesn't impact the sound. An independent shop told me that it was stuck in the "off" position back at the muffler or thereabouts. So the light functions, but whatever actuator that is supposed to fire when pressed isn't working.

Mrg02D

Okay, so now it’s time for a trip to the upside down.

Mark7000

2016 - isn't it still under factory warranty?

BrendonSF

I wish! Over the mileage threshold.

Mark7000

Inquire anyway.
There is leeway (called goodwill) for a dealer to grant warranty coverage based upon "loyalty". This can mean that you have owned multiple Porsches, have always had the vehicle maintained at the dealer, etc.

BrendonSF

Unfortunately I'm sunk there. I'm quite over mileage, and this is my first Porsche
Also, my local dealer has a reputation for not going the extra mile when it comes to stuff like this.

Mark7000

Isn't the warranty still 5 year 70k mile? You are over that on a 2016?

Mrg02D

Then it’s the upside down for you.

Mark7000

It is vacuum actuated. Have you crawled under and checked the line to see if it is cut or disconnected? There are some good trouble shooting threads on this issue on the forum.