Posters...my 04 Porshe Cayenne S (65K miles) is burning coolant and the repair shop thinks that the head-gaskets is blown. What would the repair cost? Should I get it fixed or cut my loses?

Please advise.

 

Have your plastic coolant pipes been replaced with aluminum ones yet? If it was a head gasket, it would be a very noticeable loss in power, clouds of smoke out of your exhaust, and milky oil. Coolant pipes in all V8 models are known to crack, mine busted just a couple of weeks ago. Do a search on here regarding "coolant pipes" and you should get a lot of info on the matter. Hope this helps.

 

Yes...coolant pipes have been replaced. I am going to take it for a second opinion. Hopefully it's something else...head repair is gonna cost a fortune.

 

There is a kit to test for combustion gasses in the coolant. Should be available at your local parts store. Peace of mind to know for sure rather than getting an "opinion".

 

Is this thread a double post? I thought I remember recently responding to this thread? In any event, I would recommend draining the oil and checking for coolant contamination and and a cylinder leak down test.

 

I do 'to know what you have invested in your Cayenne, but it would be rare that "cutting your losses" would be a smart way to go. At minimum, repair the problem then sell it if you aren't ready to do all necessary repairs and upkeep.