IsItAGoodCar
Reliability Guide

Common Problems with the
2012 Porsche 911 (991)

The 2012 launch of the 991 generation brought a longer wheelbase and an entirely new, aluminium-intensive chassis. It felt more like a grand tourer than previous 911s but offered immense capability and a huge jump in interior refinement.

What changed for 2012

  • •Debut of the all-new 991 generation on a longer, wider platform.
  • •Introduction of electric power steering (EPS), a first for the 911.

Common MOT watch-outs

  • !Suspension wear, particularly front control arm bushes.
  • !Minor software glitches affecting the PCM (Porsche Communication Management) system.
4
Known Issues
1
Serious
3
Moderate
0
Minor

All Known Issues

PDK Distance Sensor Failure

SeriousGearbox & Transmission

Internal sensor failure in the PDK gearbox. While Porsche usually recommends a full transmission replacement (£25,000+), UK specialists like Ninemeister can repair the internal sensor (typically a T-Design9 upgrade) for a fraction of the cost.

Est. Repair Cost: £4,500–£6,500 (Specialist Repair)
Warning Signs:

Transmission fault warning, Loss of specific gears, Stuck in one gear, Codes P1731-34

What to Inspect:
  • Scan for fault codes P1706 / P1731-34
  • Verify service history for PDK oil changes
  • Check if a specialist repair has already been performed
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

Dynamic Engine Mount (PADM) Failure

ModerateSuspension & Chassis

The electromagnetically controlled engine mounts fail internally, triggering a dashboard warning.

Est. Repair Cost: £1,000–£1,400 per side
Warning Signs:

PADM Fault message, Increased vibration at idle

What to Inspect:
  • Check for active fault codes
  • Listen for engine movement during gear changes
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

Water Pump Failure

ModerateCooling System

The water pump bearing or impeller can fail, causing coolant loss and overheating. The 991.2 has an extended warranty from Porsche for this issue.

Est. Repair Cost: £600–£1,000
Warning Signs:

Coolant leak, Overheating warning, Grinding noise from engine bay

What to Inspect:
  • Check for coolant residue around pump area
  • Inspect water pump pulley for play
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

Cracked Ignition Coil Packs

ModerateEngine

Coil packs can crack and fail, causing misfires. Common across all 991 variants and relatively inexpensive to fix.

Est. Repair Cost: £200–£400
Warning Signs:

Engine misfire, Check engine light, Rough idle

What to Inspect:
  • Scan for misfire codes
  • Visually inspect coil packs
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

Buying Tips for 2012 Porsche 911 (991)

  • ✓Listen for 'change over valve' (COV) failures, which control various vacuum systems including the sports exhaust and heater; failure causes a lack of heat or exhaust sound change.
  • ✓The early EPS steering was criticized for a lack of feel, but reliability is generally excellent.
2013–2015
Check a 2012 Porsche 911 (991) by Registration