The Porsche DCKA is a 3,396 cc, twin‑turbocharged V6 petrol engine produced between 2013 and 2017. It features direct fuel injection (DFI), variable valve timing (VarioCam Plus), and dry-sump lubrication. In standard form it delivered 243 kW (330 PS) and 450 Nm of torque, offering strong low-end response and smooth high-rpm power typical of Porsche’s mid-range units.
Fitted primarily to the 981-generation Porsche Cayman S and Boxster S, the DCKA was engineered for balanced performance, driver engagement, and daily usability. Emissions compliance was achieved via a combination of high-efficiency catalytic converters, exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), and precise lambda control, enabling Euro 6 compliance across all markets from launch.
One documented concern is carbon buildup on intake valves due to the direct injection system, which lacks fuel-wash cleaning. This issue, noted in Porsche Technical Service Bulletin TSB‑981‑14‑07, can lead to rough idling and power loss if left unaddressed. Later engines received revised PCV routing and updated valve cover baffling to mitigate oil ingestion.
All production years (2013–2017) meet Euro 6 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/3396).
The Porsche DCKA is a 3,396 cc V6 twin-turbo petrol engine engineered for sports coupes and roadsters (2013–2017). It combines direct fuel injection with twin variable-vane turbochargers to deliver responsive torque and high-revving power. Designed to meet Euro 6 from inception, it balances track capability with emissions compliance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 3,396 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | V6, DOHC, 24‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Twin-turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 94.0 mm × 81.6 mm | |
| Power output | 243 kW (330 PS) @ 6,400 rpm | |
| Torque | 450 Nm @ 1,800–5,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Direct fuel injection (DFI), 200 bar | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 6 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled with additional oil cooler | |
| Turbocharger | Twin variable-vane turbochargers (Honeywell) | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven DOHC with VarioCam Plus | |
| Oil type | Porsche C4 5W‑40 full synthetic | |
| Dry weight | 185 kg |
The DCKA’s twin-turbo V6 layout provides linear torque from just 1,800 rpm, ideal for responsive road driving. However, its direct injection system is prone to intake valve carbon buildup due to lack of fuel detergent action. Regular use of high-detergent 98 RON fuel and periodic walnut blasting (recommended every 80,000–100,000 km) help maintain performance. Porsche C4 5W‑40 oil is essential for turbo and chain longevity. The dry-sump system demands correct oil level checks via the instrument cluster—not the dipstick—to avoid over- or under-filling.
Oil Specs: Requires Porsche C4 5W‑40 full synthetic oil (Porsche SIB TSB‑981‑14‑07). ACEA C3 oils may be used if Porsche C4 is unavailable, but long-term chain wear risk increases.
Emissions: Euro 6 certification applies to all model years (2013–2017) per VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/3396.
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Power output assumes 98 RON fuel and optimal boost pressure (Porsche TIS Doc. 981‑PERF‑12).
Porsche Technical Information System (TIS): Docs 981‑ENG‑05, 981‑TURBO‑08, TSB‑981‑14‑07
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/3396)
DIN 70020 Engine Power Certification Standard
The Porsche DCKA was used exclusively in Porsche's 981 platform with mid-engine, longitudinal mounting and no external licensing. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—integrated exhaust manifolds and revised oil pan baffling—and from 2015 the GTS variants used a higher-output derivative (DCLA), creating minor interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
The engine type is stamped on the left cylinder bank near the exhaust manifold flange (Porsche TIS 981‑ID‑04). The 10th VIN digit indicates model year; 981 VINs begin with WP0ZZZ98. Early engines (2013–2014) feature silver valve covers with “3.4” casting marks; 2015+ units have black covers. The DCKA is visually identical to the 2.7L MA1 engine but distinguished by twin intercooler pipes and exhaust manifolds cast into the cylinder heads. Do not confuse with DCLA (GTS) without verifying ECU calibration and turbo boost maps.
The DCKA's primary reliability risk is carbon buildup on intake valves due to its direct injection architecture, with elevated incidence in low-mileage or short-trip driving. Porsche internal service logs show ~12% of 2013–2014 engines required intake cleaning before 70,000 km, while UK DVSA MOT data links misfire-related failures to this issue. Extended idling and low-RPM urban use accelerate deposits, making fuel quality and maintenance critical.
Analysis derived from Porsche technical bulletins (2013–2017) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2015–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about PORSCHE DCKA.
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