2016 Porsche Cayenne S E- HybridRecalls, problems, MPG & safety
NHTSA lists 0 safety recalls and 33 owner complaints for the 2016 Porsche Cayenne S E- Hybrid. Most complaints involve power train (7) and air bags (6). The EPA rates it 22 mpg combined.
Safety recalls
Owner complaints by component
- Power train7
- Air bags6
- Exterior lighting6
- Engine5
- Fuel/propulsion system4
- Electrical system3
- Lane departure1
- Vehicle speed control1
- Tires1
Complaints are unverified owner reports to NHTSA and are not normalized for sales volume. One complaint can cite several components.
What owners report most
Power train
“While driving vehicle, noticed some slippage/clunking when turning. Took vehicle to Porsche dealer, they said transfer case needed to be replaced. Car has 12,600 original miles on it. Dealer said there was an extended warranty on the transfer case that had expired. In researching, it became obvious that there is a Porsche design problem that affected several model years for the Cayenne. As a mechanical engineer I am concerned that a transfer case failure at freeway speeds could be dangerous. Separately an auto mechanic shop opined that driving without replacing could be a safety concern. In my opinion there should have been a recall rather than a extended warranty.”
Air bags
“Porsche dashboard leather shrunk and staples pulled out. I was told that if the vehicle was in an accident the airbag might not deploy correctly. The Porsche dealer looked at it and recommended replacing it. This is a very common issue.”
Exterior lighting
“**Subject**: Urgent Safety Concern: Headlight Condensation and Water Damage in 2015-2018 Porsche Cayenne 958.2 Dear NHTSA, I am writing to report a serious safety issue with the LED matrix headlights on my 2016 Porsche Cayenne GTS (958.2). The problem involves severe condensation buildup within the headlight assembly, leading to water damage and electrical failures. This defect has caused my headlights to fail, particularly during nighttime driving in heavy rain, which significantly reduced visibility. This failure could have resulted in a major accident, putting my life and the lives of others at risk. The vehicle is available for inspection upon request. The issue first became noticeable after a rainstorm, where condensation started to build up inside the headlights. Despite multiple visits to my local Porsche dealership, where they confirmed the problem and attempted repairs, the issue continues to persist. I also notified Porsche corporate directly, but neither the dealership nor Porsche offered any assistance or permanent resolution. Both have failed to take responsibility for what I believe is a widespread defect, as I have found numerous similar reports…”
Engines, transmissions & drive
- EPA class
- Standard Sport Utility Vehicle 4WD
- Engines
- 3.0L 6-cyl supercharged plug-in hybrid
- Transmissions
- Automatic (AM8)
- Drive
- All-Wheel Drive
- Fuel
- Premium Gasoline
- EV range
- 480 mi (EPA)
Towing, payload and dimensions aren’t in the EPA or NHTSA data, so we don’t list them.
EPA fuel economy by version
| Version | City | Hwy | Comb. | Fuel / yr | CO₂ g/mi |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cayenne S e-Hybrid Auto (AM8), 6 cyl, 3.0 L, Sup Charg · All-Wheel Drive | 21 | 24 | 22 | $3,600 | 260 |
- 22mpg comb.
NHTSA 5-Star Safety Ratings
Maintenance basics
| Item | Miles | Time | Note |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine oil & filter | 5,000–10,000 mi | 6–12 months | Follow the oil-life monitor if fitted |
| Tire rotation | 5,000–7,500 mi | Every oil change | Check pressure monthly |
| Engine air filter | 15,000–30,000 mi | 1–2 years | Sooner in dusty areas |
| Cabin air filter | 15,000–25,000 mi | 1–2 years | |
| Brake fluid | — | 2–3 years | Absorbs moisture over time |
| Coolant | 60,000–100,000 mi | 5–10 years | Long-life coolants last longer |
| Spark plugs | 60,000–100,000 mi | — | Iridium/platinum plugs at the long end |
| 12V battery | — | 3–5 years | Heat shortens battery life |
- Engine oil & filter5,000–10,000 mi
6–12 months - Tire rotation5,000–7,500 mi
Every oil change - Engine air filter15,000–30,000 mi
1–2 years - Cabin air filter15,000–25,000 mi
1–2 years - Brake fluid—
2–3 years - Coolant60,000–100,000 mi
5–10 years - Spark plugs60,000–100,000 mi
— - 12V battery—
3–5 years
2016 Cayenne S E- Hybrid questions
How many recalls does the 2016 Porsche Cayenne S E- Hybrid have?
0 recalls found in NHTSA data as of Oct 29, 2026.
What are the most common 2016 Porsche Cayenne S E- Hybrid problems?
Owners filed 33 complaints with NHTSA. The most-cited components are power train (7), air bags (6), exterior lighting (6). Complaints are unverified owner reports and aren't adjusted for how many cars were sold.
What MPG does the 2016 Porsche Cayenne S E- Hybrid get?
The EPA rates the 2016 Porsche Cayenne S E- Hybrid at 22 mpg combined, depending on engine and drivetrain (1 version rated).