IsItAGoodCar

Common Problems with the
2012–2016 Porsche 911 (991)

We've identified 4 known issues that can affect the 2012–2016 Porsche 911 (991). 1 of these are serious faults that could be expensive to repair.

4
Known Issues
1
Serious
3
Moderate
0
Minor

The 2012–2016 period has 2 more issues than the Porsche 911 (991) average across all year periods.

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.

Most affected: 991.1 Carrera / S / GT3

Estimated cost: £4,500–£6,500 (Specialist Repair)Affects: 2012–2016Often appears around: 30k-60k miles

Typical symptoms

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

What to inspect before you buy

  • ✓Scan for fault codes P1706 / P1731-34
  • ✓Verify service history for PDK oil changes
  • ✓Check if a specialist repair has already been performed

Dynamic Engine Mount (PADM) Failure

ModerateSuspension & Chassis

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

Most affected: Models with Sport Chrono package

Estimated cost: £1,000–£1,400 per sideAffects: 2012–2019Often appears around: 20k-50k miles

Typical symptoms

  • •PADM Fault message
  • •Increased vibration at idle

What to inspect before you buy

  • ✓Check for active fault codes
  • ✓Listen for engine movement during gear changes

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.

Most affected: All models

Estimated cost: £600–£1,000Affects: 2012–2019Often appears around: 30k-60k miles

Typical symptoms

  • •Coolant leak
  • •Overheating warning
  • •Grinding noise from engine bay

What to inspect before you buy

  • ✓Check for coolant residue around pump area
  • ✓Inspect water pump pulley for play

Cracked Ignition Coil Packs

ModerateEngine

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

Most affected: All models

Estimated cost: £200–£400Affects: 2012–2019Often appears around: 30k-60k miles

Typical symptoms

  • •Engine misfire
  • •Check engine light
  • •Rough idle

What to inspect before you buy

  • ✓Scan for misfire codes
  • ✓Visually inspect coil packs

Buying Tips for the 2012 Porsche 911 (991)

  • ✓Check for "PADM Fault" messages; the active engine mounts are a frequent failure point.
  • ✓Inspect the door panels for warping; the trim can lift away from the window line.
  • ✓Ensure the radiator fans are silent; they can become noisy if debris is trapped.
2017–2019 Porsche 911 (991)

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Other Porsche 911 (991) Year Periods

2012–20162017–2019

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