Why the Pressure Accumulator Fails in Your Porsche

13 Apr, 18

Porsche vehicles are sought-after for their luxury, endurance, performance, and power. When any of these qualities are compromised it can do a great disservice to Porsche drivers, as the integrity of the vehicle is sacrificed. While performance issues are inevitable in any vehicle at one point or another, ongoing maintenance and regular servicing can greatly decrease the likelihood of encountering significant issues in your Porsche. However, some issues are more prevalent than others.

One of the common issues that Porsche drivers experience is a failing pressure accumulator. Automotive language can be difficult to keep up with, and it’s not necessary to understand all the details of how the pressure accumulator works in your car; however, as the driver of one of the most special vehicles in the world, it’s helpful to know a little bit of background information on why this part is so important for your car’s functioning and what you can do to prevent issues from arising. In this article we’ll briefly discuss the purpose of a pressure accumulator, common signs to look out for when it’s failing, the most likely causes of failure, and what you can do going forward.

What is the Purpose of a Pressure Accumulator?

A pressure accumulator is a hydraulic-based component that is present in various systems of your car which require fluid to perform normally. Systems such as: the fuel system, air conditioning system, brake system, clutch and transmission, and suspension systems all utilize fluid pressure which is saved and stored by the pressure accumulator. The accumulator releases pressure as-needed in these various systems to provide the stored-up power and energy it holds. The pressure accumulator takes the energy that your car doesn’t require during processes like slowing down or coasting and stores it for the instances when it does require power, such as acceleration and hard braking. The various components that make up the pressure accumulator can fail at any time, which include chambers, pistons, pumps, valves, hydraulic lines, and seals to name a few. When these parts fail, it can lead to troubling symptoms in your Porsche.

Common Symptoms of Pressure Accumulator Failure

Since your Porsche utilizes a hydraulic pressure accumulator for several different systems and components, the failure of such a part can greatly impact your vehicle’s performance. Depending on what system the accumulator is serving, you’ll notice a range of symptoms in different areas of your car. Here are a few of the most common symptoms associated with pressure accumulator failure.

Heavy Brake or Clutch Pedal

Pressurized brake or transmission fluid are critical for the operation of your vehicle, but also your safety while driving. If you notice that the brake or clutch pedal aren’t functioning properly or feel extra heavy to press down upon, it could be related to hydraulic pressure issues.

Decreased Cold Air Output in AC System

Another system that utilizes hydraulic pressure to operate is the air conditioning unit. When the pressure accumulator fails in this system, the air cannot be circulated properly in the cabin.

Suspension Issues

In your suspension system, hydraulic pressure is utilized to absorb some of the shock from road conditions. You might begin to notice that your car isn’t handling road impacts as well as it should.

Illuminated Warning Lights

There are various warning lights that may come on in your Porsche’s dashboard system that will let you know where the problem lies. Your check-engine light and brake light are a few of the most common warning signs. The codes emitted by these warnings can be read and diagnosed by a professional with the proper equipment.

The Likely Cause of Accumulator Failure

The most likely cause of pressure accumulator failure is pressure loss at one of the various components of the pressurized system. For instance, failed seals and valves can release hydraulic pressure or fluid, causing the accumulator to not be able to function properly.

What You Can Do to Address Pressure Accumulator Issues

Since there are so many systems in your Porsche affected by pressure accumulator failure, it’s critical to have a Porsche specialist perform a differential diagnosis to isolate the source of the problem. Here at Santa Barbara Autowerks, our German master technicians have diagnosed and serviced countless Porsche vehicles with symptoms of pressure accumulator failure with great success. Located in Santa Barbara, CA, we have a diverse Porsche clientele that helps us to expand our knowledge and expertise daily. Committed to perfection, we aim to prove our reliability, integrity, honesty, and quality of work to every client we meet. If you’re experiencing troubling symptoms in your Porsche, please contact us right away so that we can help you get safely back on the road.

* Both images credit goes to: Aflorin.