Porsche recalls 911 for windshields that may detach

Porsche recalls 8,101 Porsche 911 cars whose windshields may detach in an accident.  The exposed 911 sports cars are strictly 992-gen models.  Affected 911s span model years 2020 through 2024 that were manufactured between July 8, 2019, and October 30, 2023.  According to Porsche and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the recall concerns the possibility that potential improperly secured front windshields and rear windows may detach in an accident.  Specific trim levels were not disclosed. 

Porsche 911 Windshield Detach Recall — Summary of Details

The recall stems from the potential faulty bonding of the car’s windshields and rear windows to the car body.  More precisely, the conditions at the time the adhesive was applied may be the underlying culprit.  

According to initial documentation obtained, the contact surfaces of the 911 models in question were not completely scrubbed of residue prior to factory installation.  Consequently, a weaker, compromised adhesive bonding between the contact surfaces may be the result.

The problem first surfaced last November 2023 when Porsche was notified about “optically impaired windows in the field.” 

Further inspection revealed that, at these weaker adhesive contact points, the windshield and rear window, supplied by UK-based Pilkington San Salvo, posed the risk of becoming partially detached.  In addition, closer scrutiny revealed potassium salt bath residues in the primer area, which may have compromised normal adhesion.

Worst case scenario, these compromised bonds could catastrophically detach in an accident — especially the front windshield during an airbag deployment event. 

Recall documentation specified that fifteen (15) warranty claims were issued for 911 sports cars.  That is, these instances shared evidence in common of “cloudy surfaces or other optical deficiencies.”  

However, Porsche states that there have been no reports of actual glass detachments, nor of any injuries or accidents related to this recall. 

The Stuttgart-Zuffenhausen auto manufacturer does warn of excessive cockpit moisture or wind noise, which could be indicative of problematic glass adhesion. 

Porsche 911 Detached Windshield Recall — Remedy

Porsche assures concerned owners that all Porsche Cars North America (PCNA) dealers will inspect and replace the windshield and rear window as necessary, free of charge. 

PCNA expects to mail out owner notification letters on or about April 26, 2024.

In the meantime, Porsche encourages owners to contact Porsche customer service at 1-800-767-7243 for further information.  Be sure to reference Porsche Recall No. ARA3.

Additionally, 911 owners can contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153). Owners can also go to https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls, where you can punch in your car’s VIN to see if your car is affected or for the latest details.