In response to safety concerns, Porsche recently recalled over 8,000 units of its iconic 911 sports car. The cars, assembled between 2020 and 2024, have an issue with their front and rear windshields potentially detaching in the event of a collision. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), which disclosed the recall, said the fault lies with the adhesive that bonds the windshields and rear windows to the car. The recall began with a notification to dealers on March 13 and to customers on April 26.
The Recall
The recall impacts 8,101 Porsche 911s produced from 2020 through to 2024. The NHTSA documents did not specify the exact models or trims affected. The reason for the recall stems from an issue with the adhesive used to attach the front and rear windshields to the vehicles. During installation at the factory, it appears some of the 911s did not have surfaces that were completely clear of residue, leading to a weaker adhesive bond.
The Discovery
Porsche first became aware of the problem in November last year when they noticed “optically impaired windows in the field.” On inspection, they found that in these weaker areas, the glass could potentially become partially detached. In the event of an accident, the total bond could be insufficient to keep the windshield in place. This is potentially dangerous as dislodged glass could harm passengers or pedestrians.
Warranty Claims and Safety Concerns
Although the company received 15 warranty claims for 911s with “cloudy surfaces or other optical deficiencies,” they have not observed any cases of loose glass. Furthermore, they are unaware of any instance of the glass coming off, and there have been no reported accidents or injuries related to the issue.
Possible Signs of the Adhesive Issue
Common signs of possible adhesive failure include excessive wind noise or moisture in the car. Porsche advises that owners who notice these symptoms should get their cars inspected as soon as possible.
The Rectification Process
The solution to this adhesive problem is straightforward – both the front and rear glass will be inspected and replaced, if necessary. The new glass will be treated with an abrasive cleaning process to ensure a more secure bond. Porsche initiates the recall process by notifying dealers on March 13 and then customers on April 26. Concerned 911 owners can contact Porsche via their customer service for more information.