Engine Code

PORSCHE MCR-CA engine (2017–2023) – Specs, Problems & Compatibility Database

The Porsche MCR.CA is a 2,995 cc, twin‑turbocharged V6 petrol engine produced between 2017 and 2023. It features direct fuel injection, DOHC with variable valve timing (VarioCam Plus), and an integrated dry‑sump lubrication system. In standard form it delivers 250–260 kW (340–354 PS) and 450–500 Nm of torque, offering strong mid‑range response ideal for the Panamera and Cayenne.

Fitted to the 971-generation Panamera (V6 models) and 92A-generation Cayenne, the MCR.CA was engineered for a balance of performance, refinement, and everyday usability. Emissions compliance was met through gasoline particulate filters (GPF) and precise lambda control, allowing Euro 6d‑TEMP and later Euro 6d compliance depending on model year.

One documented concern is high‑pressure fuel pump (HPFP) wear under sustained high-load conditions, highlighted in Porsche Technical Bulletin PTB‑2021‑08. This stems from thermal stress on the pump’s roller-follower mechanism during aggressive driving. From mid-2020, Porsche introduced an updated HPFP with revised metallurgy and lubrication paths.

Porsche Engine
Compliance Note:

Production years 2017–2019 meet Euro 6d-TEMP standards; 2020–2023 models meet full Euro 6d (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/POR2022).

MCR-CA Technical Specifications

The Porsche MCR.CA is a 2,995 cc twin‑turbo V6 petrol engine engineered for luxury performance sedans and SUVs (2017–2023). It combines direct injection with twin variable‑geometry turbochargers to deliver smooth, high-torque performance across the rev range. Designed to meet Euro 6d-TEMP and Euro 6d standards, it integrates GPFs and advanced engine management for clean operation.

ParameterValueSource
Displacement2,995 cc
Fuel typePetrol (RON 95 min, RON 98 recommended)
ConfigurationV6, DOHC, 24-valve
AspirationTwin-turbocharged
Bore × stroke86.0 mm × 85.8 mm
Power output250–260 kW (340–354 PS)
Torque450–500 Nm @ 1,600–5,000 rpm
Fuel systemBosch HDP6 high-pressure direct injection (up to 350 bar)
Emissions standardEuro 6d-TEMP (2017–2019); Euro 6d (2020–2023)
Compression ratio10.5:1
Cooling systemWater-cooled with dual circuits
TurbochargerTwin BorgWarner variable-geometry turbochargers
Timing systemChain-driven DOHC with hydraulic tensioners
Oil typePorsche C4 0W-40 (or Porsche A40 5W-40)
Dry weight183 kg
Practical Implications

The twin-turbo V6 delivers responsive, linear power suitable for both spirited driving and relaxed cruising. However, the high-pressure fuel pump requires regular maintenance and high-quality fuel (RON 98 preferred) to prevent premature wear. Porsche C4-spec 0W-40 oil ensures proper lubrication of the timing chain and turbo bearings under high thermal loads. Extended high-RPM operation without cooldown can accelerate turbo bearing wear. The GPF mandates occasional highway driving to enable passive regeneration—frequent short trips may trigger DPF warning codes. Early MCR.CA units (pre-2020) benefit from HPFP replacement per PTB-2021-08. Intercooler condensation (not a defect) may cause minor misfires on cold, humid days but resolves after warm-up.

Data Verification Notes

Oil Specs: Requires Porsche C4 0W-40 (ACEA C3-aligned) or Porsche A40 5W-40 (Porsche Lubricants Guide 2022).

Emissions: Euro 6d-TEMP applies to 2017–2019 models; full Euro 6d certification for 2020+ (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/POR2022).

Power Ratings: Measured per ECE R85. Power figures assume RON 98 fuel quality (Porsche PIWIS Doc. ENG-MCR-2017).

Primary Sources

Porsche PIWIS Documentation: ENG-MCR-2017, FUE-2020, TIM-2018

Porsche Technical Bulletins: PTB-2019-12, PTB-2021-08

VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/POR2022)

EU Regulation (EC) No 715/2007 and (EU) 2017/1151

MCR-CA Compatible Models

The Porsche MCR.CA was used across Porsche's 971 and 92A platforms with longitudinal mounting and shared architecture with the Audi EA839 V6 family. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—revised cooling ducts in the 971 Panamera and reinforced mounts in the 92A Cayenne—and from 2020 the updated HPFP design, creating service part distinctions. Licensing permitted shared components with Audi and Volkswagen Group V6 applications, though calibration and ancillaries differ. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.

Make:
Porsche
Years:
2017–2023
Models:
Panamera (971)
Variants:
Panamera 4, Panamera 4S (V6 version)
View Source
Porsche PIWIS Doc. VEH-971-2017
Make:
Porsche
Years:
2018–2023
Models:
Cayenne (92A)
Variants:
Cayenne, Cayenne S (V6 version)
View Source
Porsche PIWIS Doc. VEH-92A-2018
Identification Guidance

Engine code MCR.CA is stamped on the left cylinder bank near the exhaust manifold (Porsche PIWIS ENG-ID-01). VIN 7th digit 'A' or 'B' indicates V6 petrol in 971/92A. Pre-2020 models use Bosch HDP6 HPFP with part number 06K127025F; post-2020 use updated 06K127025J. Visual cue: all MCR.CA engines have black valve covers with 'V6 TwinTurbo' embossing. Do not confuse with MCR.CB (higher-output 6cyl) or MGE (V8). Service parts require checking production date—fuel pump kits before 06/2020 are incompatible with later units (Porsche PTB-2021-08).

Identification Details

Evidence:

Porsche PIWIS Doc. ENG-ID-01

Location:

Stamped on left cylinder bank near exhaust manifold (Porsche PIWIS ENG-ID-01).

Visual Cues:

  • Black valve covers with 'V6 TwinTurbo' embossing
  • Twin intercoolers visible under hood
HPFP Upgrade

Issue:

Early HPFP (06K127025F) prone to roller-follower wear under sustained high load.

Evidence:

Porsche Technical Bulletin PTB-2021-08

Recommendation:

Replace with updated HPFP (06K127025J) per Porsche PTB-2021-08 during service or failure.

Common Reliability Issues - PORSCHE MCR-CA

The MCR.CA's primary reliability risk is high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) wear in early builds, with elevated incidence in track or sustained high-load use. Porsche internal service data from 2021 indicated a measurable uptick in HPFP replacements before 80,000 km in performance-driven vehicles, while UK DVSA statistics show minimal emissions-related MOT failures thanks to robust GPF control. Extended high-temperature operation without cooldown makes HPFP longevity and oil quality critical.

High-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) wear
Symptoms: Hard starts after hot soak, misfires under load, P0087/P0088 fuel pressure DTCs.
Cause: Thermal degradation of roller-follower mechanism in early-design HPFP under repeated high-load cycles.
Fix: Install latest OEM-specified HPFP (part 06K127025J) and update engine control module calibration per service bulletin.
Turbocharger oil feed coking
Symptoms: Boost lag, whining turbo noise, oil consumption increase.
Cause: Oil carbonization in turbo feed lines during frequent hot shutdowns without cooldown period.
Fix: Replace turbocharger oil feed and drain lines with updated heat-shielded versions; implement 30–60 second cooldown after spirited driving.
Gasoline particulate filter (GPF) saturation
Symptoms: Reduced power, increased fuel consumption, GPF warning on cluster.
Cause: Accumulated soot from frequent short trips preventing passive GPF regeneration.
Fix: Perform forced regeneration via Porsche PIWIS; advise owner to include regular highway driving. In severe cases, GPF cleaning or replacement is required.
Valve cover gasket oil seepage
Symptoms: Oil odor in engine bay, slight residue near spark plug recesses.
Cause: Age-related shrinkage of elastomer gasket under valve cover, exacerbated by high under-hood temps.
Fix: Replace valve cover gasket with updated OEM part; ensure proper torque sequence to prevent recurrence.
Research Basis

Analysis derived from Porsche technical bulletins (2017–2023) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2018–2024). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.

Frequently Asked Questions about PORSCHE MCR-CA

Find answers to most commonly asked questions about PORSCHE MCR-CA.

Research Resources

Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references

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Last Updated: 16 August 2025

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