Porsche has issued an urgent recall for nearly 1,000 luxury vehicles in the UK, warning owners to stop driving their cars immediately due to a risk of wheels falling off.
The German manufacturer has sent letters and emails to owners of specific high-end models, with the stark instruction "not to use your vehicle until further notice".
The recall, which is being monitored by the DVLA, affects hundreds of vehicles valued between £100,000 and £200,000.
The technical fault specifically affects Porsche models equipped with centre-lock wheels, which use a single bolt to attach the wheel to the axle, rather than the standard five-bolt system found on most vehicles.
The affected models include the Porsche 718 (982), 911 (992) and Panamera (G3) manufactured between 1 September 2023 and 23 October 2023.
The manufacturer has clarified that not all vehicles produced during this period are affected by the recall.
Porsche recalls nearly 1,000 cars
Getty ImagesThe defect involves wheel attachments that "do not meet the required specifications," which could lead to damage or breakage of the central locking nut.
In the notice sent to owners, Porsche warned: "This can lead to damage or even breakage of the central locking nut.
"As a result, the wheel attachment may become loose, which can result in a loss of the wheel and a loss of control over the vehicle."
One frustrated owner told The Times: "This is wheelgate. They have rushed out cars, very expensive cars, that are not up to scratch and there is no fix."
LATEST DEVELOPMENTS:Another owner expressed anger over the financial implications: "There are a lot of people who just want their money back.
"It's like they [Porsche] have sold a lemon. They should put their hands in their pockets as at the moment I don't know when I'll be able to drive my car again and all the while it needs insurance and taxing."
A Porsche spokesman said: "The safety of customers, passengers and third parties is Porsche's top priority.
"To ensure this, the affected vehicles should no longer be driven until the remedial measure has been implemented."
Porsche 718 Cayman GT4
GETTY IMAGES
The company confirmed that central screw connections must be inspected and replaced where necessary.
Porsche has indicated that replacement parts are expected to be available for the majority of affected UK vehicles by February.
The manufacturer has stated it is not aware of any cases of property damage or personal injury related to the defect.
This recall follows another recent safety issue where Porsche recalled 27,000 Taycans due to battery fire risks.
