IsItAGoodCar
Reliability Guide

Common Problems with the
2016 Porsche 911 (991)

The 'Generation 2' (991.2) facelift marked a seismic shift for the Carrera models, dropping the naturally aspirated engines in favour of a new 3.0-litre twin-turbo flat-six, dramatically increasing mid-range torque.

What changed for 2016

  • •Introduction of the 3.0-litre twin-turbo flat-six engines across all Carrera models.
  • •Exterior styling updates including new headlights, taillights, and active aerodynamics.

Common MOT watch-outs

  • !Wear on the rear tyres, exacerbated by the massive increase in torque.
  • !Minor issues with the active aero front flaps sticking.
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
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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
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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
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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 2016 Porsche 911 (991)

  • ✓Check the turbochargers for any signs of oil weeping or unusual whistling noises.
  • ✓Ensure the water pump has been checked or replaced, as 991.2 models are known for premature water pump failure leading to coolant leaks.
2013–20152017–2018
Check a 2016 Porsche 911 (991) by Registration