Pre-purchase inspection checklist — 2004 Porsche Cayenne S
The 2004 Porsche Cayenne S has some concerns highlighted by nine recall campaigns and 48 owner complaints documented with the NHTSA. Noteworthy issues involve the power train, engine cooling, and electrical systems, though the data is somewhat sparse, making it essential for prospective buyers to conduct a thorough inspection. Generally, the Cayenne S is a high-performance vehicle that requires careful maintenance.
NHTSA data on file today
The 2004 Porsche Cayenne S has 9 NHTSA recall campaigns and 48 owner complaints on file as of . Recall data is refreshed daily from NHTSA.
Recall campaigns on file
- NHTSA #22V656000 Headlight Adjustment Screw Missing Cover/FMVSS 108 NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #19V446000 Unintentional Rollaway Due to Detached Shift Cable NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #17V576000 Fuel Pump Flange May Crack Causing Fuel Leak NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #04V593000 PORSCHE/FMVSS 208/SEAT BELT RETRACTOR NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #04V231000 PORSCHE/SEAT BELT LATCH ATTACHMENT BOLT NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #04V069000 PORSCHE/WIRING HARNESS ROUTING NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #04V072000 PORSCHE/DRIVER'S SEAT FRAME NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #04V071000 PORSCHE/TRANSFER CASE FRACTURE NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #03V351000 PORSCHE/CERTIFICATION LABEL INCORRECT NHTSA notice
Most-cited components in owner complaints
- Power Train 14 complaints
- Engine and Engine Cooling 11 complaints
- Electrical System 7 complaints
- Fuel/Propulsion System 7 complaints
- Engine 6 complaints
- Latches/Locks/Linkages 4 complaints
Of the 48 complaints on file, 2 report a crash; across all 48 complaints, owners report 2 injuries (owner-reported, not verified by NHTSA).
Known issues to inspect
Engine cooling problems
How to check: Inspect for coolant leaks and check temperature gauges.
Transmission gear indication fault
How to check: Ensure the gear position indicator operates smoothly.
Wiring harness incorrectly routed
How to check: Check for electrical system wear and exposed wires.
Test-drive walkthrough
- 01
Cold start
What to check: Listen for unusual engine noises.
Red flag: Knocking or continuous ticking
- 02
First minute idling
What to check: Watch for warning lights on dashboard.
Red flag: Check engine light stays on
- 03
Initial acceleration
What to check: Observe smooth and prompt gear shifts.
Red flag: Hesitation or slippage in gears
- 04
Normal driving
What to check: Monitor steering responsiveness and alignment.
Red flag: Pulling to one side
- 05
Braking
What to check: Feel for consistent braking force without pulsation.
Red flag: Vibration or unusual noises
- 06
Highway acceleration
What to check: Check the acceleration is smooth and steady.
Red flag: Engine hesitates or surges
- 07
Return to idle
What to check: Ensure idle is steady without fluctuation.
Red flag: Fluctuating or rough idle
Questions for the seller
Use this exact phrasing.
- Has the fuel pump been replaced?
- Were all recall issues addressed?
- Is there a history of electrical problems?
- Does the transmission have any issues?
- What regular maintenance has been done?
Documents to request
Don't sign anything until you have these.
- Maintenance records
- Recall repair receipts
- Vehicle history report
- Title and registration
- Warranty documentation
Generated by gpt-4o on from the NHTSA recall campaigns and owner-complaint counts on file for the 2004 Porsche Cayenne S at the time. AI output can be wrong; confirm anything you find with a mechanic.
Next step
Looking at a specific 2004 Porsche Cayenne S? Check the actual car
This checklist covers the model. From your free try.vin dashboard you can go further — paste the seller's listing for a deal score, or drop their photos for an AI condition report.