A limited number of 2024 Taycan electric vehicles have been recalled due to incorrect headlight control module software. The software, designed for European markets, doesn’t adhere to US safety standards, potentially compromising visibility. While the recall doesn’t affect essential lighting functions like low beams, high beams, turn signals, or hazard lights, it can impact parking lamp performance, increasing the risk of accidents.
Porsche has attributed the error to its supplier, ZKW. The supplier, ZKW Lichtsysteme GmbH, is based in Austria and is a subsidiary of the ZKW Group. Porsche discovered the potential noncompliance condition in April 2024 and launched an investigation. The supplier corrected the issue on March 3, 2024, and Porsche finalized its investigation on August 28, 2024.
To rectify the problem, Porsche will provide a software update through the car’s OBD-II port. This update will correct the headlight control module software, ensuring compliance with US safety standards and restoring proper parking lamp functionality. The recall is a precautionary measure to prevent potential safety risks and maintain the Taycan’s reputation for quality and reliability.
Porsche is recalling certain Taycan electric vehicles due to a software issue that could affect their headlights. The recall affects vehicles produced between October 18, 2023, and March 8, 2024, at the Stuttgart-Zuffenhausen plant. Dealers will be informed of the recall on or around September 16, and customers will be notified by mail no later than November 1.
The recall comes as Porsche has scaled back production of the Taycan due to declining demand for electric vehicles, particularly in Germany, where government subsidies for EVs were discontinued at the end of 2023. The Taycan, which was previously the only electric vehicle in Porsche’s lineup, has now been joined by the second generation Macan, known as the Macan Electric.
The Macan Electric is built on the Premium Platform Electric (PPE) architecture, developed by Porsche and Audi, which will also underpin an electric version of the Cayenne. The internal combustion Cayenne will continue to be available with gas and hybrid powertrains well into the 2030s.
Porsche delivered 155,945 vehicles worldwide in the first half of 2024, representing a 7% decline from the same period in 2023. However, deliveries in Germany increased by 22% during this time. Sales in North America, China, and overseas and emerging markets decreased by 6%, 33%, and 2%, respectively.
