Hi all, some great information on this forum. I have searched extensively and learnt a lot - thanks.

I'm considering purchasing a 2005 Cayenne S. Stunning condition even with higher mileage (180k km/~110k miles).

As you can imagine, I have my concerns regarding maintenance. I have a few questions:
1) I am unsure if the coolant pipe upgrade has been done. No service records (I know, not impressed). In your opinion, would a Cayenne last 180,000km without having the coolant pipes done?
2) Coolant pipe TSB: I am trying to locate an actual electronic copy of the coolant pipe TSB. Does anyone have a link or a copy they could provide?
3) Would the dealership pay (or contribute) for the coolant pipe upgrade given the fact there is a TSB? I called and they said no, what are your experiences with this? What leverage do I have?

I'm pretty much in love with the vehicle, and I'd just like to hear some opinions on the coolant pipe issue before I make a final decision.

Any other thoughts?

Thank you,
Cam.

 

Stock coolant pipes never last more than 75k/mi. TOPS. Take a cellphone photo of the backside of the intake manifold plenum, by the firewall. If you see a metal cross-brace spanning the base of the manifold....consider it upgraded.

 

My 04TT went right at 100k. The highest I've ever seen was around 110k miles. You're right around there, so it's possible the pipes are original, but unlikely. Regardless of mileage, I'd spend a few minutes with an inspection camera to make sure they were done. There are threads describing what to look for.

 

if you dont mind telling the price? the price is a large factor; I see you are from Calgary, I am from Vancouver, there are a few nice cayennes being sold locally here and Vancouver hasn't had snow in years so most vehicles are rust free. Vancouver to Calgary is only 1000kms drive about 12 hour drive totally doable!

I just picked up my first porsche (cayenne) at the very start of this month. 30 days ownership now!

 

Thanks all for the responses! Still not sure if it's been done, am going to take it in for an inspection before committing.

Zonnie: Sent you a PM.

 

Or you could get a borescope and run it in next to the throttle body. That's what I did on mine. Thankfully the PO got it taken care of.

 

AFAIK, PCNA extended the class action case with the coolant pipes (at least in the states) so they are paying a big chunk of it when the customer brings it into a dealer.

like Zuffen said, you can try to look with a cell phone or a boroscope for any signs of metal pipes.

That being said, I've also seen the top 3 coolant pipes changed out to metal pipes, but the lower large pipe was never changed (and is originally plastic) which was leaking....

 

I would avoid the Cayenne S unless you can find a really high mileage one. More miles equals more wear (more clearance) and less likely to get scored cylinders. If you can stretch the budget I would spend a little more and get a higher mileage turbo. Turbo engines have more clearance built into them and are less likely to get scored cylinders. Not only that the Turbo boost is one helluvae of a rush. Good luck in your search!

 

Thanks for all the input. Ended up buying the vehicle, the coolant pipes had been upgraded. Love the cayenne!

 

Looks good. Not a fan of the 18's but still better than hunting down reasonably priced 19's. You will like everything about this pig but the gas mileage. LOL.

 

Congrats! Looks well cared for.