IsItAGoodCar
Reliability Guide

Common Problems with the
2018 Porsche Macan

The first major facelift brought a distinctive full-width rear light bar and a much larger, modernized infotainment screen, alongside the controversial decision to drop the popular 3.0-litre V6 diesel engine.

What changed for 2018

  • •Exterior facelift featuring a full-width LED rear light bar.
  • •Introduction of a new 10.9-inch touchscreen PCM infotainment system.

Common MOT watch-outs

  • !Tyre wear on the inner edges due to aggressive factory geometry.
  • !Minor software glitches with the new infotainment system.
4
Known Issues
1
Serious
2
Moderate
1
Minor

All Known Issues

Transfer Case Judder

SeriousGearbox & Transmission

Wear in the transfer box causes a shuddering sensation. A very common Macan complaint.

Est. Repair Cost: £1,500–£3,000
Warning Signs:

Driveline vibration, Judder under light load

What to Inspect:
  • Drive the car slowly on full lock
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

Timing Cover Oil Leak (V6)

ModerateEngine

Aluminium bolts on the timing cover snap, causing oil to seep. Can be fixed with steel bolts or a full engine-out reseal.

Est. Repair Cost: £450–£8,000
Warning Signs:

Burning oil smell, Oil spots on driveway, Visible leak at engine front

What to Inspect:
  • Ask specifically if the timing cover bolt fix has been done
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

Front Suspension Arm Wear

ModerateSuspension & Chassis

The front lower control arms and coffin arms wear prematurely, especially on cars with larger 20-21 inch wheels. Causes clunking over bumps.

Est. Repair Cost: £400–£800 per side
Warning Signs:

Clunking over bumps, Loose steering feel, Uneven tyre wear

What to Inspect:
  • Check for play in front suspension arms
  • Listen for clunks over speed bumps
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

PCM Infotainment Glitches

MinorElectrics & Electronics

The PCM system on Macan models can suffer from screen freezes, slow response, and Bluetooth connectivity issues.

Est. Repair Cost: £0–£200 (Software update)
Warning Signs:

Screen freeze, Slow system response, Bluetooth disconnections

What to Inspect:
  • Ensure latest software is installed
  • Test all infotainment functions
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

Buying Tips for 2018 Porsche Macan

  • ✓With the diesel gone, the entry-level 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol became the big seller; ensure its performance is adequate for your needs compared to the V6 models.
  • ✓Check the PDK gearbox shifts smoothly; fluid changes at 40k miles are mandatory.
2015–20172019–2020
Check a 2018 Porsche Macan by Registration