The fix is a simple software update, but owners will still have to bring their vehicle in to the dealership to have it repaired
- Porsche is recalling certain Macan EVs due to headlights that are too bright
- Nothing needs to be replaced, but an update to the headlight software requires a dealership visit
- Bright headlights can reduce visibility for oncoming drivers
The affected model years include 2024 and 2025, while the non-electric models are not affected by this recall or bright headlight issue. As per documents provided to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), all Macan Electric vehicles – as in the full 100% of them being recalled – will need the fix.
Porsche says there’s a software error in which the affected vehicles are incorrectly programmed and the “upper beam photometry requirements exceed maximum threshold specified in Table XVIII of FMVSS [Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard] No. 108.” The EVs were conformed to specs based on the Economic Commission for Europe (ECE), and do not currently meet FMVSS requirements.
Unfortunately, there isn’t a way for owners to identify the issue, as there’s no warning that will appear within the SUV; however, if you repeatedly notice oncoming drivers that look to be blinded by your car’s headlights, that may be a fairly decent identifier. The bright light can put others at risk as it can affect the vision of other drivers and potentially cause a crash.
Owners will be notified by mail, and while the affected vehicles won’t need any replacement parts or repairs, it will still need to be taken to a Porsche service centre to reprogram the headlight control unit software to confirm it complies with safety regulations in the U.S.
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