Porsche Panamera 970 buying guide
2009 to 2016. A 970 Panamera suits a buyer who wants a fast four seat grand tourer and will budget for air springs and brakes.
Big jobs
- Front air springs. Air springs leak, most often at the front because of the engine weight, and cars left standing for long periods are most prone. They are replaced in pairs, at least 2,000 pounds from a UK specialist.
Workshop jobs
- Fuel leaks. Fuel leaks come from an improperly attached fuel pressure sensor or a seeping injector rail.
- Front radiators and debris. Like the 911, the front radiators collect leaves and debris that can corrode the radiators and pipework, leading to costly failure.
- Drop links and lower arm joints. The heavy car wears drop links and lower arm joints, which creak and rattle.
- Brakes and tyres. A full set of discs and pads is about 1,400 pounds fitted, and carbon ceramics about 10,000 pounds at a dealer. The car is sensitive to which tyres are fitted.
Small jobs
- Turbo recall. A recall covers a faulty batch of turbochargers on Turbo models that could catch fire. A car that does not run smoothly or lacks power may have turbo trouble.
- PDK gearbox sump leak. The PDK is described as tough, but the sump can leak and probably needs a new cover at about 350 pounds.
Questions for the seller
- Which version is it: V6, diesel, S, 4S, GTS, S Hybrid or Turbo?
- Has the turbo recall been done on a Turbo?
- Have the air springs been replaced?
- Does it have carbon ceramic brakes?
- Is there a full Porsche or specialist service history?
Sources
Researched 2026-11-05. General guidance from owner and specialist sources. Check the specific car with an independent inspection.