Do you notice that your Porsche has suddenly lost its usual responsiveness? If so, the problem could be with the pressure accumulator of your car. The pressure accumulator can be best described as a hydraulic pressure storage vessel. It is usually charged with nitrogen gas and functions hand in hand with the hydraulic fluid in the system of your Porsche.
The accumulator stores extra pressure so your Porsche can respond immediately whenever the hydraulic system is needed for something like applying the brakes. For instance, when driving, this component makes it possible to avoid any lag when the driver suddenly brakes, or shifts gears. However, without such options, your vehicle might slow down or be erratic in its performance. Let’s see some of the signs of a malfunctioning pressure accumulator and this component can be repaired or replaced in your Porsche.
Symptoms That Suggest Your Porsche Needs Pressure Accumulator Service
- Leaking Hydraulic Fluid: One of the signs of a damaged pressure accumulator is leakage in the hydraulic system. If there is any form of fluid, be it under your car or around the hydraulic part, then it needs to be checked.
- Unresponsive Brakes: A change in brake feel is also likely to be a sign that the pressure accumulator is failing. If your brakes feel mushy or are soft or you have to pump the brake pedal to engage then it is likely that the accumulator does not retain enough hydraulic pressure.
- Warning Lights on the Dashboard: The new generation cars that Porsche produces have computerized systems that inform drivers of the state of certain components. If the pressure accumulator is worn out or faulty, chances are you may receive warning signals that point to failure of the brake or hydraulic pressure.
- Noisy Operation: Any kind of noise that comes out of the device including squeaking, hissing or even clicking sound is a sign that the accumulator is unable to build pressure or that there is leakage of gas within the unit.
- Delayed Gear Shifts: Some Porsche models include the pressure accumulator in the transmission system as well. A faulty accumulator causes slow or rough shifting of gears.
Porsche Pressure Accumulator Repair or Replacement
- Finding the Problem: The first thing the mechanic does is to play detective and try to figure out what’s wrong. They examine the hydraulic system for leaks, and how well the accumulator is working, using special tools. They know if there’s not enough pressure, there’s a problem.
- Checking the Fluid: Hydraulic fluid is also very important — it’s what makes everything run smoothly. If the fluid is old or contaminated the mechanic will drain the fluid and clean the system, then refill it with fresh clean fluid. They might also change the filter so dirt can’t get in.
- Fixing Small Problems: Sometimes, only a small part of the accumulator such as seals or gaskets is broken. If these little parts can be replaced, then the mechanic replaces them instead of replacing the entire accumulator.
- Replacing the Pressure Accumulator: If the accumulator is bad beyond repair or if it is too old to operate, then it has to be replaced. The mechanic then swaps the old one out with a new one and checks that everything is well connected.
- Testing Everything: After the work is done, the mechanic checks everything to see if it’s working as it should. They then test factors like the brake force and the suspension also known as ride quality.
Why Should You Hire Autobahn Automotive for Your Porsche Repair Services?
At Autobahn Automotive, our Porsche technicians know the characteristics of the hydraulic systems and have the equipment and experience to fix pressure accumulator issues. If your brakes feel spongy, the suspension is rough or the gear shift is slow or hesitant, we will assist you in getting your Porsche back to its best. We have been in business for several years and we have made it our business policy to ensure that we offer quality services to clients who are drivers in San Antonio, TX, and its environs. Come to Autobahn Automotive for your next service appointment and let us get your Porsche performing as it needs to!
* Porsche 911 Turbo S Car image credit goes to: Brandon Woyshnis.