Porsche 918 Buyer's Guide
Buying a Porsche 918? Our (Seriously In-Depth) Buyer’s Guide Covers Key Insights, Potential Issues, Market Values, Expert Tips, What To Expect & MUCH More.
Why A 918 / Market & Values / Driving One / Cost to Own / Common Problems / For Sale / FAQs
The Porsche 918 Spyder isn’t just a hypercar—it’s a technological masterpiece that redefined performance and hybrid innovation. As one of the three members of the "Holy Trinity" of hybrid hypercars—alongside the McLaren P1 and Ferrari LaFerrari—the 918 Spyder brought electrification to the supercar world without sacrificing Porsche’s legendary engineering and reliability. With a 887-horsepower hybrid powertrain, an all-wheel-drive system, and record-shattering acceleration, it quickly established itself as a dominant force, setting a Nürburgring lap record upon release. Unlike its rivals, the 918 offers unparalleled usability, with a plug-in hybrid system, removable roof panels, and a reputation for rock-solid reliability, making it the most livable of the three hypercar icons.
If you're considering adding a Porsche 918 Spyder to your collection, there’s never been a better time. With only 918 units ever built, the car’s value has continued to rise, proving to be a bulletproof investment in the world of high-performance automotive collectibles. Whether you're looking at Weissach Package models, rare color configurations, or understanding the key details to inspect before purchasing, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know before buying a Porsche 918 Spyder.
Don't forget our full in-depth guide to the Porsche 918 Spyder where we go super deep on this model.
Why the Porsche 918 is a Unique Car to Buy
The Porsche 918 Spyder is not just another hypercar—it’s a technological marvel that changed the automotive landscape. As one of the legendary “Holy Trinity” hypercars, alongside the McLaren P1 and Ferrari LaFerrari, the 918 was the only one with all-wheel drive and a plug-in hybrid system, giving it unmatched traction, efficiency, and usability.
Not only was it the first production car to break the Nürburgring’s 7-minute barrier, but it also manages to be one of the most reliable and user-friendly hypercars ever built, thanks to Porsche’s legendary engineering. What makes the Porsche 918 Spyder a must-buy isn’t just its insane performance—it’s also a bulletproof investment. With only 918 units ever produced, its exclusivity has cemented its status as a modern classic.
This isn't just some car to lock in your garage either. Unlike many hypercars that are temperamental and hard to drive, the 918 offers surprising practicality, featuring a removable roof, a hybrid drive mode for silent cruising, and Porsche’s renowned build quality. Whether you’re looking for an engineering masterpiece, a track-dominating hybrid, or a collector’s dream that will only appreciate in value, the Porsche 918 Spyder is one of the most unique and exciting cars you can own.
The Development and Critical Reception and Praise
The Porsche 918 Spyder was conceived as a showcase of Porsche’s cutting-edge hybrid technology, blending raw performance with electrification in a way that had never been seen before. Its story began in 2010, when Porsche unveiled the 918 Spyder Concept at the Geneva Motor Show. The overwhelmingly positive response from enthusiasts and the media led Porsche to greenlight the project for production. Developed by some of the same engineers behind the Carrera GT, the 918 was designed to push the boundaries of performance while embracing hybrid technology, proving that sustainability and speed could coexist.
Official production began in September 2013, with only 918 units built before the final car rolled off the line in June 2015. Unlike its Holy Trinity rivals—the McLaren P1 and Ferrari LaFerrari—which emphasized aggressive hybrid assist systems, the 918 Spyder was a true plug-in hybrid, capable of running purely on electric power for short distances. Its 4.6L naturally aspirated V8, derived from the RS Spyder LMP2 race car, combined with two electric motors, delivered a total of 887 horsepower and 944 lb-ft of torque. This allowed it to achieve mind-blowing performance figures, including 0-60 mph in just 2.2 seconds and a record-breaking 6:57 Nürburgring lap time.
From the moment it hit the streets, the Porsche 918 Spyder was met with universal acclaim. Journalists and owners praised its blistering speed, all-wheel drive stability, and hybrid efficiency, making it the most versatile hypercar of its era. Top Gear, EVO Magazine, and Car and Driver all hailed it as a masterpiece of engineering, with many calling it the best all-around car of the Holy Trinity. Unlike the P1 or LaFerrari, which required careful handling, the 918 was a hypercar you could drive daily.
With only 918 units ever made, the 918 Spyder has become a sought-after collector’s car, with values steadily climbing. While it originally cost $845,000 when new, pristine examples today command well over $2 million at auction. Its unique combination of hybrid power, race-proven technology, and everyday usability ensures its place in history as one of the most groundbreaking Porsches ever built.
Porsche 918 Market Value & Pricing
When buying a Porsche 918, understanding market values and what drives pricing differences is crucial. Unlike more mass-produced classic cars, the 918 has always been rare and not many change hands. There just aren't that many 918s around, so finding one is hard, and when they do come up, they go for big money. The Porsche 918 is following the Carrera GT trajectory, where prices dipped briefly after production ended but have steadily increased as collectors recognize its significance. We expect to see steady appreciation, especially for low-mileage and Weissach models between now and 2027 and then by 2030+, as electrification fully takes over, the 918 will stand as the last great hybrid Porsche hypercar, further increasing its desirability.
What Are 918s Worth?
Standard 918: $1.6M – $2.0M+
...with Weissach: $2.0M – $2.5M+
...ultra-low-mileage: $2.5M+
Prices continue to climb, and the most desirable specs and well-preserved examples command a premium. You can't go wrong here, but it is important to understand what drives values in this market.
Limited Production & Rarity
One of 918 Units
Only 918 units of the 918 Spyder were ever built, making it rarer than many modern supercars. Weissach Package models are even more exclusive, with around 230 produced, making them the most sought-after. As with any limited-production Porsche, scarcity fuels desirability, keeping prices high.
Weissach Package Premium
$250K – $500K+ Added Value
The Weissach Package is the most desirable configuration, reducing the car’s weight by ~90 lbs and adding more aggressive aero, magnesium wheels, and extensive carbon fiber. These models command a significant premium over standard 918 Spyders— at least a $250,000+ premium
Condition & Mileage
Low Miles Add Big Value
Under 1,000 miles: $2.2M – $2.5M+ (Collector-grade premium)
1,000 – 5,000 miles: $1.9M – $2.2M (Desirable but not untouched)
5,000 – 10,000 miles: $1.6M – $1.9M (Miles means depreciation set in)
10,000+ miles: $1.5M – $1.7M (No longer in “investment-grade”, but a great buy nonetheless)
Ultra-low-mile examples are the most valuable, but well-maintained with more miles are still sought-after.
Original Paint & Special Colors
Unique Colors Can Add $100K+
Porsche offered a range of standard, metallic, and PTS (Paint-to-Sample)
Common colors: Liquid Silver, White, Black, Guards Red (Base resale values)
Rare factory colors: Acid Green, Riviera Blue, Voodoo Blue (Can add $50K – $150K+ in value)
Paint-to-Sample (PTS) cars: Rare; some add $250K+)
Cars with paint protection film (PPF) since new also hold value better also.
Originality & Documentation
$200,000 - $1 million+
Fully documented history and original parts matter:
Original window sticker & docs
Complete service records
Weissach Package verification
Original books, keys, and accessories (including charger, roof panels, and car cover) …are significantly more desirable.
A car missing its hybrid charger or with aftermarket modifications will often see a $100K – $300K+ hit.
Recent Porsche 918 Values & Market Sales Trends
Below, our friends at Classic.com chart recent sales and trends in the Porsche 918 market.
Porsche 918 Driving Experience & What to Expect
The Porsche 918 Spyder is an engineering masterpiece that offers an unparalleled blend of brutal acceleration, surgical handling, and hybrid sophistication. Unlike many hypercars that demand compromises, the 918 balances extreme performance with surprising ease of use, making it one of the most versatile hypercars ever built.
With a combined 887 horsepower from its 4.6L naturally aspirated V8 and dual electric motors, the 918 delivers instant torque and a relentless surge of power, launching from 0-60 mph in just 2.2 seconds. The all-wheel-drive system and massive rear tires provide unwavering grip, making the 918 feel composed and confidence-inspiring, even under full throttle. The car’s hybrid system allows for silent electric driving, but when the V8 kicks in, it delivers a ferocious, race-car-like exhaust note.
The steering is razor-sharp, providing an immediate connection to the road, while the chassis, tuned with Porsche’s motorsport expertise, remains incredibly stable yet playful, allowing for precise cornering and effortless control. With multiple drive modes—from pure electric to full-power Race Mode—the 918 adapts to any driving situation, making it equally at home cruising through city streets or attacking the Nürburgring.
Don't take our word for it, here are some of our favorite automotive journalists and their take on driving the 918 Spyder.
Chris Harris (Top Gear / Formerly EVO)
"The 918 is an absolute freak of engineering. It has torque-vectoring trickery, all-wheel drive traction, and a naturally aspirated V8 that sings. And yet, you can drive it every day in silence if you want to. It’s truly one of the most complete hypercars ever built."
Henry Catchpole (Carfection / EVO Magazine)
"The way the 918 deploys its power is surreal. The electric motors give instant torque, and then the V8 takes over, screaming to redline with a raw, almost old-school mechanical feel. And through corners? It just sticks—it’s confidence-inspiring in a way that no 900-horsepower car should be."
Car and Driver (First Drive Review)
"No other hypercar delivers this level of composure while still being absurdly quick. The 918 can be whisper-quiet, but at full attack, it transforms into a technological beast, offering a driving experience that feels both organic and futuristic at the same time."
Motor Trend (Best Driver’s Car Review)
"The most shocking thing about the 918 isn’t just its speed—it’s how easy it is to drive. Porsche has built a hypercar that feels natural at the limit, making you feel like a hero behind the wheel. It’s blisteringly quick, but never intimidating."
Jeremy Clarkson (The Grand Tour / Formerly Top Gear)
"I expected the 918 to be too complicated with all the hybrid tech, but it turns out to be a masterpiece. It’s mind-blowingly fast but also practical. The fact that it can do everything from track days to electric city driving is just staggering."
A Hypercar for Every Occasion
The Porsche 918 Spyder isn’t just about mind-numbing speed—it’s a true driver’s car that blends motorsport pedigree with cutting-edge hybrid innovation. It offers the thrill of a race car, the grip of all-wheel drive, the precision of Porsche engineering, and the usability of a grand tourer. As journalists and experts have consistently said, the 918 is an engineering marvel, delivering one of the most rewarding and accessible hypercar experiences ever created.
Getting Real - 918 Costs to Own & Maintenance
If you are on this page and you are seriously in the market for a Porsche 918, then you know this thing ain't going to be cheap to own. Let's just get it out of the way now. Its not just about the multi-million dollar initial purchase price—it also comes with maintenance, insurance, and upkeep costs that reflect its status as a hybrid hypercar. While the 918 is known for being more reliable and easier to maintain than some of its rivals (like the McLaren P1 or Ferrari LaFerrari), its limited production, complex hybrid system, and specialized parts mean that ownership isn’t cheap. This is what we could find, but we'd expect this only scratches the surface of costs. Our guess, it you should plan to spend $20k+ per year to maintain and keep this car and that's only going to grow over time. Here’s a breakdown of the key costs you can expect when owning a Porsche 918 Spyder.
Annual Maintenance Costs
Compared to other hypercars, the Porsche 918 is relatively low maintenance, but that doesn’t mean it’s inexpensive. Basic annual service at an authorized Porsche dealer can cost between $5,000 – $10,000, depending on what’s needed. Given my 991.1 GTS costs $1,000 to basically park outside the service center, we'd say that $10,000 for a car costs 20x as much is a steal.
Major Service Intervals & Costs
The following are some high level known service schedule items you will need to cover with the 918. While routine maintenance is straightforward, specialized parts and Porsche’s hybrid diagnostic equipment mean that servicing must be done at Porsche dealers or specialist workshops, adding to costs.
Oil Change (Every 5,000 miles or annually) – $1,000 – $2,000
Brake Fluid Flush (Every 2 years) – $1,500 – $2,500
Tire Replacement (Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2s) – $5,000 – $7,000 for a full set
Brake Pad & Rotor Replacement (If Needed) – $15,000 – $30,000
Hybrid Battery Inspection (Every 4-5 years) – $2,000+
Hybrid Battery Replacement (Not Required Yet) – Estimated $50,000 – $80,000 (if ever needed in the future)
Parts Availability & Pricing
Because only 918 units were built, parts availability is a challenge. Most replacement parts must be sourced through Porsche, and some require long wait times. Porsche does an excellent job of supporting limited-production cars, but since the 918 Spyder was built in small numbers, some parts must be custom-ordered from Porsche’s factory, leading to longer wait times and high costs. Here are some common replacement part costs:
Front & Rear Carbon Fiber Body Panels – $10,000 – $20,000 per panel
Headlight Assembly – $8,000 – $12,000 per unit
Carbon Ceramic Brakes (Full Set) – $25,000 – $40,000
Replacement Hybrid Battery Pack (future potential cost) – $50,000 – $80,000
Exhaust System Replacement (Weissach Package Models) – $15,000 – $25,000
Insurance Costs for a Porsche 918 Spyder
We asked a few brokers in the Long Island New York area about what the 918 Spyder would cost to insure and we heard that it would be anywhere between $15,000 – $30,000+. Obviously this varies by location, driver profile, and coverage level, but at this level, don't expect to spend any less than this. Insuring a Porsche 918 Spyder is expensive but varies based on factors like location, driving history, and usage. Some key factors that affect insurance costs include how urban the area is, with higher theft/vandalism rates drive up premiums. A clean driving record significantly reduces rates, as does the age of the driver and lower mileage (collector insurance policies) can reduce premiums. In most case you're talking about getting an agreed value insurance agreement, which ensures that the full market value ($2M+) is covered in case of loss. Most 918 owners opt for specialized collector car insurance, which limits mileage and provides agreed value coverage, often reducing costs compared to standard high-performance car insurance.
Some Common Porsche 918 Problems & Things to Look For
Ensuring Performance, Authenticity, and Long-Term Enjoyment
While the Porsche 918 Spyder is known for being one of the most reliable and well-built hypercars of its era—especially compared to the McLaren P1 and Ferrari LaFerrari—it is not without its faults. Below are some known issues and areas of concern for current and prospective 918 owners.
Battery System & Hybrid Component Concerns
The Porsche 918 Spyder’s hybrid system combines a 4.6L naturally aspirated V8 with two electric motors to produce a staggering 887 horsepower. While this setup provides instant torque, improved efficiency, and all-wheel drive capability, it also introduces long-term ownership considerations, particularly concerning the high-voltage lithium-ion battery and associated hybrid components.
At the core of the system is a 6.8 kWh lithium-ion battery pack, which enables the 918 to run in full-electric mode for short distances and provides additional power in hybrid and performance modes. While Porsche engineered the battery for durability, all lithium-ion packs degrade over time, especially if not properly maintained. This is also a rare, low production unit so its unlikely to be easy to repair or replace when something goes wrong. Unlike internal combustion engines, hybrid systems require consistent charging cycles to maintain longevity. A 918 that sits unused for extended periods without being plugged in may experience accelerated battery degradation.
Although we haven't heard of any Porsche 918s having yet required a full battery replacement, experts estimate that when the time comes, a new 918 battery pack could cost up to $80,000. Owners should also be aware of hybrid system fault codes or software glitches, which occasionally require a dealer reset or software update. Additionally, while Porsche has a strong track record of supporting its limited-production cars, sourcing replacement hybrid components in the future could be costly and time-consuming due to the car’s exclusivity.
To prolong battery life and ensure the hybrid system remains in peak condition, owners should keep the battery regularly charged (avoid prolonged storage with low battery levels) and make sure to exercise the hybrid system regularly—drive the car at least once a month to keep components active. Ensure software updates are applied at an authorized Porsche service center and always monitor hybrid system warning lights and address issues early to avoid costly repairs.
Rear Suspension Control Arm Recall (2015)
In 2015, Porsche issued a recall for the 918 Spyder’s rear suspension control arms after identifying a potential structural weakness that could compromise the vehicle’s handling and safety. The recall affected a portion of 918 units built between 2013 and 2015 and was considered a proactive safety measure to prevent possible failures under high-load driving conditions. Given the extreme performance capabilities of the 918—capable of generating immense cornering forces and acceleration loads—Porsche engineers found that some rear suspension components could weaken over time, particularly in cars subjected to frequent high-performance driving or track use.
The issue stemmed from control arms that were not meeting Porsche’s strict durability standards, and while no widespread failures were reported, Porsche took immediate action to replace the affected parts at no cost to owners. The repair process involved inspecting and replacing the control arms with reinforced components, ensuring that the 918 Spyder’s suspension remained capable of handling its extreme hybrid powertrain and track-ready dynamics.
If you are considering purchasing a Porsche 918 Spyder, it is essential to verify that this recall was completed. Cars serviced under the recall will have updated suspension components, which eliminate any potential concerns. The recall does not negatively affect the collectibility or long-term value of the 918 Spyder.
Coolant Pipe Bonding Issue (2016 Recall)
In 2016, Porsche issued a recall for the 918 Spyder due to a potential issue with the bonding of its coolant pipes. The recall affected specific vehicles manufactured between 2013 and 2015, with Porsche engineers identifying that some coolant pipes within the engine bay may not have been properly bonded to their mounting points. This raised concerns that under extreme driving conditions—such as high-performance use or heavy track driving—the pipes could detach, leading to a coolant leak and potential engine overheating.
Given the 918 Spyder’s high-performance hybrid powertrain, its cooling system plays a critical role in maintaining the optimal operating temperatures for both the 4.6L V8 engine and the electric motors. Any coolant loss could result in reduced performance, engine overheating, or even long-term mechanical damage if left unaddressed. While no major incidents were reported due to this issue, Porsche took a proactive approach and issued a global recall to inspect and reinforce the affected components. The recall involved removing and re-bonding or replacing the coolant pipes to meet Porsche’s high durability standards, ensuring that all affected vehicles were properly secured for high-performance use.
For current and prospective Porsche 918 Spyder owners, it is essential to verify that this recall has been completed. Porsche covered the repair cost under warranty, and most authorized dealers have already addressed the issue on affected cars. Any 918 Spyder without documented proof of the recall service should be inspected by a Porsche dealer to confirm that the cooling system is functioning correctly.
Software & Charging System Glitches
As one of the most technologically advanced hypercars of its time, the Porsche 918 Spyder features a complex hybrid powertrain control system, integrating a 4.6L V8 engine with two electric motors and a lithium-ion battery pack. Some owners have reported occasional software-related glitches affecting the charging system and hybrid operation.
Some of the most frequently observed issues include:
Hybrid System Fault Codes – The 918’s onboard diagnostics sometimes trigger fault codes related to the hybrid system, often requiring a software reset. These are usually non-critical and resolved via software updates at a Porsche dealer.
Charging Malfunctions – A few owners have experienced intermittent charging failures, where the vehicle does not properly recognize the OEM charging cable. This can often be resolved by ensuring that the charger and car’s software are updated.
Drive Mode Transition Errors – Occasionally, the 918 may experience glitches when switching between drive modes (E-Power, Hybrid, Sport, and Race Mode), where the electric system does not immediately engage or disengage as expected.
Porsche has continuously refined the 918’s software, releasing multiple updates since its launch to optimize the hybrid power management and charging logic. Many software-related issues are resolved during routine servicing, where dealers install the latest firmware updates. Owners should: ensure the latest software updates have been installed at Porsche dealers and in the case of such a rare car, use only Porsche-approved charging equipment to prevent communication errors. Regularly exercise the hybrid system by cycling through all drive modes to keep the software calibrated.
While software and charging glitches have been occasional concerns for some 918 owners, they are generally minor and easily resolved with dealer updates or resets. Compared to its Holy Trinity rivals the 918’s hybrid system is considered more reliable and user-friendly, making it the most practical of the three.
Carbon Ceramic Brake Wear & Expensive Replacements
The Porsche 918 Spyder comes equipped with Porsche Carbon Ceramic Brakes (PCCB), which provide exceptional stopping power, reduced weight, and fade resistance under extreme conditions. Carbon ceramic brake systems have inherent drawbacks, including high replacement costs and specific wear characteristics.
While Porsche’s PCCB system is incredibly durable for road use, aggressive track driving, frequent high-speed braking, or improper use (such as braking when cold) can lead to accelerated wear. Unlike traditional steel brakes, carbon ceramic rotors cannot be resurfaced—once they wear beyond Porsche’s recommended limits, they must be replaced entirely. Owners who track their 918s frequently may notice uneven rotor wear or increased brake pad consumption, which can lead to earlier-than-expected replacements.
One of the biggest challenges with carbon ceramic brakes is that they are sensitive to improper use. If the brakes are used lightly for prolonged periods (such as in city driving), the pads may not transfer material onto the rotors properly, leading to uneven wear. On the flip side, hard track use with repeated high-temperature cycles can cause surface micro-cracking, reducing long-term durability.
If a full brake system replacement is required, owners should be prepared for substantial costs:
Carbon Ceramic Brake Rotors (Full Set) – $40,000+
Brake Pads (Full Set) – $5,000+
Labor for Installation – $3,000+
This means a complete brake job on a Porsche 918 Spyder can exceed $50,000, making it one of the most expensive wear items on the car. Some owners who track their cars opt for aftermarket steel rotors for track use, reserving the PCCB system for road driving to preserve longevity.
Limited Parts Availability & High Replacement Costs
As a limited-production hypercar, the Porsche 918 Spyder presents unique challenges when it comes to parts availability and replacement costs. With only 918 units produced between 2013 and 2015, many of its specialized components were manufactured in small quantities, meaning that replacement parts can be scarce, expensive, and subject to long wait times. Unlike mass-produced Porsche models, the 918’s hybrid powertrain, carbon fiber body panels, and advanced electronics were engineered specifically for this hypercar, making sourcing certain parts both difficult and costly.
Many Porsche 918 parts are exclusive to the model, meaning they cannot be easily sourced from other Porsche vehicles. Owners should be aware of the following notably expensive replacement costs:
Front Carbon Fiber Body Panels – $10,000 – $20,000 per panel
Rear Carbon Fiber Bumper – $15,000+
Headlight Assembly – $8,000 – $12,000 per unit
Exhaust System (Weissach Package) – $15,000 – $25,000
Carbon Ceramic Brake Rotors (Full Set) – $25,000 – $40,000
Hybrid Battery Pack (Potential Future Replacement) – Estimated $50,000 – $80,000
Even routine wear items like tires and brake pads are costly due to the 918’s ultra-high-performance specifications, with Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tires costing around $5,000 – $7,000 per set.
Because the Porsche 918 Spyder was hand-assembled, some replacement components are not readily available and may require custom orders directly from Porsche. This means that if a critical part needs to be replaced, owners could face weeks or even months of wait time. Porsche has an excellent track record of supporting its limited-production models, but some parts may only be manufactured in small batches, leading to supply-chain delays.
Buying A Porsche 918 FAQs
Here are all the questions we've received from readers considering a Porsche 918 for their garage
How much does a Porsche 918 Spyder cost today?
Standard 918 Spyder: $1.6M – $2.0M+
918 Spyder with Weissach Package: $2.0M – $2.5M+
Ultra-low-mileage, delivery-mile cars: $2.5M+
Prices vary based on mileage, condition, and specification, with Weissach Package models commanding the highest values due to their rarity and weight savings.
Is the Porsche 918 Spyder a good investment?
Yes. The 918 Spyder has already proven to be a strong investment, with values significantly exceeding its original MSRP of $845,000. Unlike some hypercars that have fluctuated in value, the 918 remains highly desirable due to its limited production (918 units), technological significance, and position as part of the Holy Trinity (alongside the McLaren P1 & Ferrari LaFerrari). Given its record-breaking Nürburgring pedigree, hybrid powertrain, and Porsche’s engineering excellence, the 918 Spyder is expected to continue appreciating over time, much like the Carrera GT has.
What should I check before buying a used 918 Spyder?
Recall History – Ensure rear suspension control arms (2015 recall) and coolant pipe bonding issue (2016 recall) been addressed.
Hybrid Battery Health – Ask for a diagnostic report on the lithium-ion battery; replacements could be costly in the future
Brake Condition – Carbon ceramic rotors cost $25,000 – $40,000 to replace; verify remaining life.
Service History – Ensure all software updates have been applied and that the car has been regularly serviced.
Original Accessories – Verify the charger, roof panels, books, and keys are included; missing items reduce resale value.
How much does it cost to maintain a Porsche 918 Spyder?
Estimated Annual Maintenance: $10,000+
Major Service Costs:
Oil Change (Annually or 5,000 miles) – $1,000 – $2,000
Brake Fluid Flush (Every 2 years) – $1,500 – $2,500
Tires (Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2s) – $5,000 – $7,000
Brake Replacement (PCCB Rotors & Pads) – $25,000 – $40,000
Hybrid Battery Inspection (Every 4-5 years) – $2,000+
Compared to its Holy Trinity counterparts (P1 & LaFerrari), the 918 Spyder is considered the most reliable and easiest to maintain, but costs are still high due to its limited production and hybrid technology.
How reliable is the Porsche 918 Spyder?
Exceptionally reliable for a hypercar. Unlike many high-performance exotics, the 918 benefits from Porsche’s legendary engineering, making it one of the most robust hypercars ever built.
Known Issues to Watch For:
Software & Charging Glitches – Occasionally requires dealer resets or software updates.
Battery Maintenance – Must be regularly charged and exercised to prevent degradation.
Recall Fixes – Ensure suspension and coolant pipe recalls were performed.
Many owners report thousands of trouble-free miles, and the hybrid system has proven durable when properly maintained.
What is the difference between the standard 918 and the Weissach Package?
The Weissach Package is a lighter, more track-focused version of the 918 Spyder, featuring:
- ~90 lbs weight reduction via magnesium wheels, lightweight interior materials, and additional carbon fiber.
- Aerodynamic enhancements, including a larger rear wing and deleted glovebox.
- More aggressive tuning for maximum performance on track.
Weissach Package models command a $250K – $500K+ premium over standard 918s due to their rarity and desirability.
What are the most expensive parts to replace on a 918 Spyder?
Key Replacement Costs:
Hybrid Battery Pack (Estimate) – $50,000 – $80,000
Carbon Ceramic Brake Rotors (Full Set) – $25,000 – $40,000
Headlight Assembly – $8,000 – $12,000 per unit
Front Carbon Fiber Body Panels – $10,000 – $20,000 per panel
OEM Exhaust System (Weissach Package) – $15,000 – $25,000
Parts availability is also a challenge, as Porsche only produced limited spares for this low-production hypercar.
Will Porsche continue to support the 918 with parts and service?
Yes, but with some challenges. While Porsche has an excellent track record of supporting limited-production models, some 918-specific parts (hybrid components, carbon fiber body panels, exhaust systems) are already difficult to source. It is expected that Porsche Classic may eventually take over long-term support, similar to what they have done for the Carrera GT and older 911 models.