Models · Porsche
Porsche Panamera 970 buying guide
The first Panamera, built from 2009 to 2016, a four-seat hatchback with V6 and V8 petrol engines, twin-turbo V8s in the Turbo models and a V6 diesel from 2011. A 2013 facelift brought more power and a twin-turbo V6 to the S. Hybrid versions exist but aren't covered here.
The versions
- Panamera and Panamera 4: 3.6 V6, 300PS, then 310PS from 2013
- Diesel: 3.0 V6, 250PS, then 300PS after the facelift, with an 8-speed Tiptronic S
- S and 4S: 4.8 V8, 400PS, then 3.0 twin-turbo V6, 420PS from 2013; GTS: 4.8 V8, 430PS, then 440PS
- Turbo: 4.8 twin-turbo V8, 500PS, then 520PS; Turbo S: 550PS, then 570PS
- 7-speed PDK on most petrol models, with a 6-speed manual on some early V6 and S cars; rear or all-wheel drive
What to check on a 970 Panamera
3 model-specific things to look at when you view one. They're a starting point, not the full inspection.
Coolant leaks and overheating
What to look for: Check the coolant level with the engine cold. Look under the car, including where the engine meets the gearbox, for pink or white crusty residue or drips. On the drive, the temperature gauge should settle and stay put. Ask what cooling work has been done.
Why it matters: There were quite a few cases of overheating caused by failure of the auxiliary coolant pump, or by coolant leaking from the thermostat housing, water pump and associated pipework. Leaks near the gearbox joint can mean taking the engine out to fix, so paperwork showing the work has been done is valuable.
Camshaft adjuster recall
What to look for: On a 2010 to 2012 car, ask for evidence of recall work, or have a Porsche Centre check from the VIN.
Why it matters: Porsche recalled 2010 to 2012 model year Panameras, both V8 and V6, under campaign AH08 because the camshaft adjusters could come loose inside the engine and cause a stall. The fix replaces the fastening screws. It's a free fix and most have been done.
Fuel smell and Turbo recalls
What to look for: Sniff around the engine and under the car for petrol, before and after the drive. On a Turbo, ask for evidence that the turbocharger recall has been done.
Why it matters: Fuel leak recalls covered a fuel pressure sensor or injector rail, so any petrol smell needs checking against the recall record. Some Turbos were also recalled over a faulty batch of turbochargers that could catch fire. A Porsche Centre can confirm both from the VIN.
Also in the full guide
- PDK oil leaks and behaviour
- Air suspension, if fitted
- Suspension creaks and rattles
- Front radiators and air conditioning
- The cold start, test drive and paperwork checks for the exact version you're viewing
The full guide to the 970 Panamera
The CrankSight guide walks you round the car on your phone at the viewing, with every check for the exact version you're looking at: what to look for, where to find it, and what anything you find is likely to cost. As you go it builds an assessment of that car, and if you view more than one, it lines them up side by side.
£29 for the model, used on as many cars as you like, delivered within 72 hours or your money back.
Other generations
General points for the model, last checked October 2026. Every car is different, so treat this as a guide to what to look at, not a verdict on any car. CrankSight is independent and has no connection with Porsche.