Above Average Reliability

2016 Porsche Cayman Pre-Purchase Inspection Checklist

981 · 2.7L Flat-6 (275hp) / 3.4L Flat-6 (325hp S) · $44,000 - $64,000

Known Issues — 2016 Porsche Cayman

CRITICAL

Bore scoring on naturally aspirated flat-six engines

MODERATE

Coolant seepage from heat exchanger area

MODERATE

PDK valve body wear on aged units

MINOR

HVAC blend door failure

MODERATE

Track-use clutch wear on manual variants

MINOR

Carbon buildup on throttle body

What to Inspect

  • Compression/leakdown test — critical for 981 NA engines
  • Heat exchanger coolant leak inspection
  • PDK function at all speeds
  • Manual clutch wear assessment if applicable
  • Verify complete service records from reputable shop
  • Check for track use history

Expected Maintenance Costs

ServiceIntervalCost
Engine oil serviceevery 10,000 miles$180-$300
Major service (plugs, filters, fluids)every 30,000 miles$700-$1,100
PDK transmission fluidevery 40,000 miles$250-$450
Clutch replacement (manual)as needed$1,500-$2,500
Brake pad/rotor replacementevery 25,000-40,000 miles$600-$1,000
Tire replacementevery 20,000-30,000 miles$800-$1,400

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