Fixing the Pressure Accumulator Failure in Your Porsche
by europewpadmin November 18, 2019As Porsche represents the very pinnacle of top-tier motoring, anything which impacts its impressive performance, endurance, or power should not be tolerated. However, given time, and with potential design flaws added into the mix, standards can start to slip. While German manufacturer Porsche does offer the very best in motoring, no brand is ever perfect. When it comes to Porsche’s vehicles, there are a few part failures synonymous with the brand. One such part failure commonly experienced by Porsche drivers is the failure of one of the many pressure accumulators used within their vehicles.
It is essential as a dedicated Porsche driver to make sure you know the signs and symptoms of common parts failures for the make and model of your Porsche. In this article, we’ll be taking a closer look at the pressure accumulator, learning what it does, and discussing what may cause failure. Learning these warning signs will help you fix pressure accumulator problems quickly and efficiently.
What is the role of a pressure accumulator?
There are several pressure accumulators throughout your Porsche. They are a hydraulic component which is responsible for providing your car’s fluids the pressure needed to perform their jobs correctly. Some of the systems of your Porsche which will have pressure accumulators include the air conditioning, the brakes, the fuel system, the clutch assembly, the transmission, and the suspension.
The accumulator is able to provide the power to the fluid as needed because it is able to store energy when the car doesn’t need it, such as when your vehicle is coasting or idling. It can then provide the energy when needed, such as when braking or accelerating.
The pressure accumulator is a system with many parts such as chambers, pistons, pumps, valves, and hydraulic lines. Therefore, the overall failure of the pressure accumulator can be due to the failure of any one of these parts. How the problem should be fixed will depend on the part in question.
Signs of a Failing Pressure Accumulator
As pressure accumulators support a variety of systems throughout your Porsche, there can be a wide range of symptoms which drivers experience. We’ve narrowed down the top four that drivers experience and listed them below.
1. Low Clutch or Brake Function
The pressurization of brake and transmission fluid is essential to a working clutch and brake system. If the clutch seems hesitant, or more worryingly, your brakes don’t seem to be functioning properly, then you’ve probably got a pressure accumulator problem that should be fixed immediately.
2. A/C isn’t Cold
Your A/C needs hydraulic pressure to give cold air output. If the pressure isn’t created, then you’ll be left with low air flow that doesn’t circulate through the cabin.
3. Suspension Troubles
Porsche vehicles use hydraulic pressure to absorb shock from the road, giving drivers a smooth ride. When the accumulator fails, drivers will notice the ride becomes much more bumpy.
4. Warning Lights
Warning lights such as the check engine light or brake light can illuminate because of pressure accumulator failure. Never ignore these lights as they are designed to keep your car safe by producing error codes which a qualified mechanic can easily diagnose.
Why does pressure accumulator failure happen?
Pressure loss is the main reason why pressure accumulator failure happens. Pressure loss is most commonly caused by leaks in the system, usually around seals, valves, and hydraulic lines. These leaks will reduce the amount of pressure that is stored as well as reduce overall performance and ultimately lead to part failure.
How to Fix the Problem
Due to being integral to safety systems of your car, such as the brakes, pressure accumulator failure should never be fixed by inexperienced hands. Sometimes the accumulator can be difficult to access and is often connected to delicate parts and systems. These can easily be damaged by clumsy hands. Instead, your best way to fix the problem is to seek professional repair services from an expert mechanic.
European Auto Tech
At European Auto Tech, your Porsche will always be treated with the respect and care it deserves. We service the communities of Allen, Dallas, Flower Mound, Frisco, Highland Park, McKinney, Park Cities, Richardson, Southlake, University Park, and Plano, TX. Call us today for an appointment or come by for a consultation.