Porsche Carrera GT Owners Getting Free Tires and Parts With Recall Repair

Porsche Fixes Suspension Issue for Carrera GT

Eighteen months after Porsche issued a stop-drive order for the Carrera GT, the automaker has finally announced a solution to a potentially dangerous suspension issue. The recall began when Porsche found that the spherical joints connecting the wishbone suspension components were susceptible to "intergranular stress corrosion" when exposed to salt and mechanical stress. While no catastrophic failures were reported, the risk of a suspension arm failing was enough to take every Carrera GT off the road until the problem was resolved.

A $109,000 Upgrade for Every Carrera GT

Porsche's solution isn't just a simple repair—it's a major investment in each vehicle. The company is replacing the suspension components with titanium parts, which are highly resistant to corrosion and worth an estimated $109,000 per car. Doug DeMuro, a Carrera GT owner, explained that the recall not only ensures safety but represents a commitment to maintaining the supercar's integrity. This extensive and costly repair might seem excessive, especially given that only one case of corrosion was found during inspections, but Porsche is determined to protect the legacy of the Carrera GT.

A Tire Upgrade with a Focus on Safety

As part of the recall, Porsche is also addressing another important safety issue: old tires. Many Carrera GTs, being more than two decades old, are still on their original tires. Given the car's infamous handling, especially without stability control, driving on outdated tires could be hazardous. In 2013, actor Paul Walker's fatal crash in a Carrera GT highlighted the dangers of worn-out tires, though the exact role of old rubber in that incident remains uncertain. Now, Porsche is equipping all recalled Carrera GTs with Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tires, a modern and much safer alternative designed specifically for the supercar.

Not Just a Recall

While owners of the Carrera GT benefit from the new suspension and tire upgrades, Porsche also sees an opportunity. Many owners have their cars serviced at independent garages, meaning Porsche lacks direct communication with them. By bringing these cars back into dealerships, Porsche not only ensures the safety of these rare supercars but also strengthens its relationship with owners. Additionally, a $3,500 service credit offered to each owner could encourage future business and build goodwill. This recall, while expensive for the company, may also serve as a marketing opportunity, potentially paving the way for the sale of Porsche's next-generation hypercar, the Mission X.

Ensuring Legacy and Trust

Porsche's commitment to the Carrera GT's safety and performance goes beyond what most automakers would do in a recall. Despite the minimal risk of corrosion in most cars, the company opted for an expensive and thorough solution, illustrating its care for this iconic supercar. The combination of new suspension components and state-of-the-art tires ensures that the Carrera GT remains a symbol of Porsche’s engineering excellence, while also addressing potential risks that could harm both its drivers and its legacy.

>>Join the conversation about this recall right here at Rennlist.com.

>>For help with your do-it-yourself maintenance and repair projects, please visit our how-to section.