Porsche Car Parts UK - Quality Used & Genuine Parts

How to Replace Porsche Headlights

Porsche headlight replacement varies between models but follows similar principles. Whether replacing standard units or upgrading to LED or bi-xenon headlights, this guide covers 911, Boxster, Cayman, Cayenne, and Macan models.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Open the bonnet and secure it safely. Locate the rear of the headlight assembly from within the engine bay. On 911 models, access is straightforward despite the rear-engine layout. On Cayenne and Macan SUVs, the higher bonnet line provides excellent clearance. Boxster and Cayman have accessible headlight mountings despite mid-engine configuration.
2. Disconnect all electrical connectors. Porsche headlights typically have 2-4 electrical connectors depending on specification. These include main beam, dipped beam, side light, and on bi-xenon models additional connectors for leveling motors and ballasts. Press the release tabs carefully and pull straight out. Handle xenon ballasts with care as they generate high voltage.
3. Remove the headlight mounting bolts. Most Porsche models use T20 or T25 Torx screws to secure the headlight assembly. On 911 models, there are typically 2-3 bolts along the top edge easily accessible once the bonnet is open. On Cayenne and Macan, expect 3-4 mounting bolts with clear access from above. Remove all mounting bolts completely and keep them organized.
4. Release any additional clips or retainers. Some Porsche headlights use supplementary plastic clips at various points for additional security. On 911 and sports car models, check for clips at the inner corner. On SUV models, look for clips at the bottom edge. Work carefully as clips can become brittle with age.
5. Carefully remove the headlight assembly. With all bolts and clips released, gently pull the headlight straight forward out of its mounting position. Porsche headlights slide forward on locating pins that ensure correct alignment. Support the weight as you pull to prevent dropping. If you feel resistance, stop and check for missed fixings rather than forcing.
6. Transfer components to new headlight if needed. If your replacement doesn't include bulbs, leveling motors, or ballasts for xenon systems, carefully transfer these from the old unit. When handling bulbs, wear clean gloves to avoid touching glass surfaces with bare hands as oils cause premature failure.
7. Install the new headlight assembly. Reverse the removal process by aligning the new headlight with mounting pins and push firmly into place ensuring all locating pins engage correctly. Refit all mounting bolts and tighten securely in a cross-pattern. Reconnect all electrical connections ensuring each clicks firmly. Test all lighting functions before final assembly including dipped beam, main beam, side lights, and indicators.

Important Notes: Porsche headlight replacement is straightforward on most models. When handling new headlights, never touch lens or reflector surfaces. Bi-xenon headlights may require coding to the ECU to avoid warning lights. Check headlight alignment after fitting using adjustment screws on the rear of the assembly. Proper alignment is crucial for optimal visibility and MOT compliance.

Browse Porsche Headlights →

How to Replace Porsche Front Bumper

Replacing a Porsche front bumper is achievable in 45-90 minutes depending on model. This process covers 911, Boxster, Cayman, Cayenne, and Macan models, though specific screw locations vary between generations.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Open the bonnet and secure it with the prop rod. Locate the upper bumper mounting fixings along the top edge just below the grille. Most Porsche models have 4-6 Torx screws or bolts securing the bumper. On 911 models, these are typically T20 or T25 Torx screws. On Cayenne and Macan SUVs, expect 6-8 fixings across the top. Remove all upper fixings systematically.
2. Access the wheel arch areas on both sides. Turn the steering wheel fully to maximize access to the wheel arch liner. Behind each front wheel, locate the plastic arch liner. Remove or release 2-4 plastic clips or screws securing the front section to expose side bumper mounting points. Porsche uses plastic push-in clips that release by pressing the center pin first. Repeat on both sides.
3. Remove the side mounting screws from both wheel arches. Behind each wheel arch liner, you'll find 2-4 screws or bolts securing each side of the bumper. These are usually T20 or T25 Torx screws on Porsche models. Remove all side fixings on both driver and passenger sides. Keep track of which fixings came from which side if they differ.
4. Remove undertray screws and lower bumper fixings. Get underneath the vehicle safely using ramps or jack stands. Locate and remove all screws and clips securing the engine undertray and lower edge of the bumper. Porsche typically uses 6-12 fixings along the bottom edge. These may be Torx screws or plastic push-in clips. You don't always need to remove the entire undertray.
5. Disconnect fog lights, sensors, and electrical connections. Reach behind the bumper and disconnect all electrical connectors including fog lights if fitted, parking sensor connections if equipped with parking assist, and any additional connections for cameras on newer models. Press release tabs carefully and pull straight out. Count how many connections you disconnect to ensure you reconnect them all during refitting.
6. Release the bumper side clips and mounting tabs. Porsche bumpers are secured by plastic clips or metal brackets on each side that slot into the wing panels. With all fixings removed, firmly but gently pull the bumper forward from one corner while supporting the opposite side. You may need to wiggle slightly to release the clips. Listen for clicks as clips disengage.
7. Remove the bumper completely from the vehicle. With all fixings removed and clips released, carefully pull the bumper straight forward away from the vehicle. Porsche bumpers are reasonably lightweight on sports car models but Cayenne and Macan bumpers benefit from a second person due to size. Place the removed bumper on a protected surface to avoid scratching the painted surface.
8. Prepare and fit the replacement bumper assembly. Before installation, transfer any brackets, trim pieces, or components from the old bumper if not fitted to your replacement. Align the new bumper with mounting points and push firmly into place ensuring all side clips engage properly. Reconnect all electrical connections including fog lights and parking sensors. Systematically secure with all screws and clips in reverse order. Test all electrical functions before final assembly. Check panel gaps are even on both sides.

Top Tips: Porsche bumpers are designed for practical replacement. When refitting parking sensors, ensure each clicks firmly into its mounting hole and is correctly aligned flush with the bumper surface. On models with front-mounted cameras or radar for adaptive cruise control, these may require recalibration at a Porsche specialist after bumper replacement. Check all panel gaps between bumper and wings are even before final tightening. Porsche's manufacturing tolerances mean replacement parts typically fit well without extensive adjustment.

Browse Porsche Front Bumpers →

Common Porsche Parts Problems & Solutions

Porsche vehicles are renowned for engineering excellence and motorsport heritage. The brand ranked in the top 10 of all brands and second among premium brands in the 2024 J.D. Power Vehicle Dependability Study with a score of 175 versus 190 industry average. However, certain components can experience specific issues. Here are the most commonly reported Porsche parts problems based on verified data from UK owners, mechanics, and industry specialists.

IMS Bearing Failure (1997-2008 Models) - Critical Issue:

• Affected Models (M96 and M97 Engines): All 996-generation 911 models (1999-2005) excluding Turbo, GT2, and GT3, all 997-generation 911 models with naturally aspirated 3.6L M96/05 engines up to engine number 6950745, all 986 Boxster models (1997-2004), and 987 Cayman and Boxster models up to engine number 61504715. The IMS (Intermediate Shaft) bearing is a critical component supporting the intermediate shaft that drives the camshafts from the crankshaft. Porsche used sealed ball bearings instead of oil-fed plain bearings in these engines, and these sealed bearings are prone to premature failure.
• Failure Rates and Severity: Reliable sources report failure rates as high as 10% under warranty for single-row IMS bearings used from 2000-2005, with dual-row bearings from 1997-2000 having lower but still significant failure rates. Outside of warranty, failure rates are suspected to be considerably higher. Some IMS bearings have failed after just 3,000 miles while others have lasted 200,000 miles, making prediction impossible. When the IMS bearing fails, there is catastrophic loss of camshaft timing resulting in bent valves, significant debris contamination, and complete engine damage requiring total engine disassembly, rebuild, or replacement. Repair costs range from £1,200 to £6,500 depending on extent of damage and solution chosen.
• Warning Signs (Often None): The single-row bearing used 2000-2005 gives little or no warning before catastrophic failure, making early detection nearly impossible. Warning signs that may appear include metallic debris or fine flecks in oil filter during oil changes, oil leaks from the rear of the engine in the area of the rear main seal, and knocking or metallic sounds from the rear of the motor. If any of these symptoms appear, stop driving immediately and have the vehicle inspected by a trained Porsche specialist as continued driving will cause catastrophic engine damage.
• Prevention and Solutions: The only reliable prevention is proactive IMS bearing replacement with an upgraded bearing such as the LN Engineering IMS Retrofit kit or IMS Solution before failure occurs. The LN IMS Solution is the only permanent fix as it replaces the problematic ball bearing with an oil pressure-fed plain bearing. All other ball or roller bearing replacements have service intervals and require future replacement. For 1997-2005 models, the bearing is readily accessible with engine removal. For late 2005 and 2006-2008 models, Porsche used a larger non-serviceable bearing that cannot be replaced without complete engine disassembly, making these models higher risk. The best time to perform IMS bearing replacement is during clutch replacement or rear main seal work to take advantage of overlapping labor. Once an IMS bearing has failed, replacement is no longer an option and complete engine rebuild or replacement is required costing £5,000-£6,500+.
• Additional Preventative Measures: Change oil more frequently than Porsche's recommended intervals using high-quality oil to extend bearing life. Cars that sit idle, are driven infrequently, or travel only short distances are most susceptible to failure. Regular longer drives help keep bearings lubricated. Used oil analysis should be part of maintenance routine to detect early bearing wear. When buying used Porsche 911, Boxster, or Cayman from affected years, verify IMS bearing has been replaced with upgraded solution or factor replacement cost into purchase price. Models from 2009+ with 9A1 engines are not affected as they eliminated the intermediate shaft entirely.

Cayenne Coolant Pipe Leaks (2003-2006 V8 Models):

• Plastic Coolant Pipe Failure: Early Cayenne V8 models from 2003-2006 (manufactured January 2002-December 2006) came with defective plastic coolant pipes located in the V of the engine beneath the intake manifold. These plastic pipes become brittle from heat exposure and are prone to cracking, leading to coolant leaks and potential engine overheating. The rate of failure means it's not if they will leak but when. A class action lawsuit was filed against Porsche for this issue which also affected 911 GT3 models.
• Symptoms and Risks: Pink or reddish coolant fluid pooling under the vehicle, low coolant level warning light, coolant filling the valley in the center of the engine before appearing visibly, and starter motor problems caused by coolant dripping onto starter. If unnoticed, coolant leaks can cause engine overheating leading to blown head gaskets or cracked engine blocks. Coolant spraying everywhere during failure increases crash risk if it gets on tires or roadway.
• Solution and Prevention: Porsche has updated these parts with cast-aluminum coolant pipes to replace the leaky plastic originals. The updated aluminum kit permanently resolves the problem. Repair costs range from £800-£3,200 depending on extent of work and whether additional components like water pump are replaced preventatively. Any V8 Cayenne from affected model years that still has original plastic pipes should have this update performed as prudent preventative maintenance before failure occurs. The aluminum upgrade eliminates repeated leakage and provides lasting integrity.

Macan Coolant Pipe Issues (2015-2018 Models):

• Cracked Coolant Pipes: An extremely prevalent problem with 2015-2018 Macans is cracked coolant pipes. The plastic pipes located under the intake manifold become brittle over time, and pressure plus heat cause them to develop leaks. Symptoms include coolant escaping leading to overheating, pink fluid under vehicle, and low coolant warnings. Repair requires removing intake manifold, throttle body, and fuel injection pipes to access the hose, making labor intensive. Costs range from £550 to £3,260 depending on dealership versus independent specialist. The solution is installing upgraded aluminum coolant pipes to prevent future issues.

Air Suspension Problems (Cayenne and Macan with PASM):

• Air Suspension Failures: Models equipped with Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM) air suspension can experience air compressor failures, leaking air struts, and uneven ride height. Symptoms include sagging suspension especially after parking, warning lights indicating suspension system problems, and harsh uncomfortable ride. Air suspension issues affect ride comfort and lead to costly repairs if not addressed. Repairs involve replacing individual struts, compressors, or complete system overhauls. Factory defects contribute to premature failures though later models have improved components. Air suspension remains problematic over time even with improvements.

Transfer Case Issues (2011-2018 Cayenne):

• Transfer Case Leaks and Wear: The transfer case sending power to front and rear axles in AWD Cayennes can develop internal wear over time. Common on models over 60,000 miles. Symptoms include jerky or stuttering behavior at low RPMs, hesitation when accelerating, and gear oil leaks from worn seals. Repairs involve replacing leaky seals and gaskets or complete transfer case replacement or rebuild. Regular fluid changes every 50,000 km extend transfer case life as cheap insurance against expensive failure.

Transmission Issues (Various Models):

• Rough Gear Changes and Grinding: Some Cayenne and Panamera models experience rough gear changes and grinding noises from the transmission. PDK dual-clutch transmissions are generally reliable but can develop issues on higher-mileage examples. Symptoms include harsh shifting, grinding during gear changes, and delayed engagement. Transmission repairs can be expensive. Regular transmission fluid changes and using correct Porsche-approved fluid helps prevent issues.

Ignition Coil Failures (Cayenne V6 Models):

• Ignition Coil and Spark Plug Issues: The 3.2L and 3.6L V6 Cayenne models can experience ignition coil failures. Symptoms include engine misfires causing rough idle and loss of power, check engine light illuminated with misfire codes, and increased fuel consumption. Ignition coils convert battery voltage to high voltage needed to ignite fuel-air mixture. Replacement of failed coils and spark plugs typically resolves issues. Preventative replacement of aging coils on higher-mileage vehicles recommended.

Dashboard Glare (2007-2016 Light Interiors):

• Interior Dashboard Reflection: Cayenne and Panamera models with light-colored interiors built 2007-2016 can create distracting dashboard glare in sunlight. A class action lawsuit was filed over this issue. While not a mechanical fault, it affects driver visibility and comfort. Solutions include dash mats, sunglasses, or darker interior color selection when purchasing. Test drive in sunny conditions before buying affected models.

Premature Water Pump Failure (Macan 2015-2018):

• Water Pump Issues: Premature water pump failure is common on Macan models, especially 2015-2018 with the 3.0L V6. Warning signs include coolant leaks, overheating, and loud whining noise from pump. Repairs require draining coolant, removing fan, swapping pump components, and refilling system. Allowing overheating damages engine severely so address water pump issues immediately.

Brake Noise (Macan Models):

• Brake Squealing When Cold: Porsche Macan brakes often emit loud squealing or screeching noises when cold. This vibration stems from glazed rotors or inadequate pad cushioning. Resurfacing rotors, installing fresh pad hardware, and lubricating contact points typically solves the issue. Allowing brake noise to continue wears pads unevenly and reduces stopping effectiveness.

Porsche Reliability Assessment:

Overall Excellent Reliability with Known Issues: Porsche's reliability is excellent compared to other premium brands. In the 2024 J.D. Power Vehicle Dependability Study, Porsche scored 175 versus 190 industry average, finishing in the top 10 of all brands and second place among premium brands, ranking higher than BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Audi, and other luxury competitors. Three Porsche models won Most Dependable awards: Macan (Compact Premium SUV), Cayenne (Upper Midsize Premium SUV), and 718 Boxster/Cayman (Midsize Premium Sporty Car). However, RepairPal data shows Porsche has average annual repair costs of $1,192 versus $652 industry average, with 0.8 shop visits per year versus 0.4 industry average, and 21% severe repairs versus 12% industry average. This indicates that while Porsche vehicles are reliable, when repairs are needed they are expensive due to premium parts and specialized labor.

IMS Bearing Exception: The IMS bearing issue affecting 1997-2008 models with M96 and M97 engines represents Porsche's biggest reliability concern. The 10% failure rate and catastrophic consequences make this a critical consideration when buying used Porsche 911, Boxster, or Cayman from affected years. Always verify IMS bearing has been replaced with upgraded solution or factor £1,200-£6,500 replacement cost into purchase price. Models from 2009+ with 9A1 engines eliminated the intermediate shaft and are not affected.

Prevention and Maintenance: To maximize Porsche reliability, follow these recommendations. Adhere strictly to Porsche service schedules without extending intervals. For affected models, perform proactive IMS bearing replacement with upgraded solution before failure. Address coolant pipe updates on 2003-2006 Cayenne V8 models preventatively. Inspect air suspension systems regularly on PASM-equipped vehicles. Change transfer case fluid every 50,000 km on Cayenne models. Use only Porsche-approved fluids and quality parts. When buying used Porsches, prioritize post-2009 models for sports cars to avoid IMS bearing issues, verify full service history, and have pre-purchase inspections performed by Porsche specialists. Despite known issues, Porsche remains one of the most reliable premium brands with exceptional engineering and motorsport-proven durability.

Find Replacement Porsche Parts →