In a move that demonstrates Porsche’s dedication to both safety and customer satisfaction, Porsche Cars North America (PCNA) has announced a new initiative to address an important issue with its famed Carrera GT supercar. Following a recall and stop-drive order last year due to potential suspension failures caused by salt corrosion, Porsche is not only fixing the suspension, but also equipping all Carrera GTs with brand-new, custom-engineered Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tires.
The recall was initially triggered when Porsche discovered that suspension arms in some Carrera GTs could fail due to corrosion caused by exposure to salt. Although no accidents were reported as a result, the automaker took the issue seriously, developing an extensive solution over the course of a year. Owners of the 612-hp mid-engine supercar were advised to stop driving the car until the repairs could be made.
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Fast forward to today, and the fix is finally here—but it’s not just about addressing the suspension. Porsche is also fitting the Carrera GT with brand-new tires, which may actually be the more intriguing part of the recall.
Porsche has partnered with Michelin to develop a bespoke version of the Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tire specifically for the Carrera GT. This is a major step forward, especially considering that tire technology has significantly evolved since the car’s launch in the early 2000s. The original tires, the Michelin Pilot Sport 2s, were state-of-the-art at the time, but advancements in tire design and materials have led to vastly improved performance and safety.
One reason this tire upgrade is so important lies in the Carrera GT’s reputation for being a challenging car to drive. This high-powered, rear-wheel-drive machine lacks modern stability control systems, and it’s notorious for requiring skilled hands behind the wheel. Automotive YouTuber and Carrera GT owner Doug DeMuro points out that better, grippier tires could make a substantial difference in improving the car’s drivability. It’s a smart move on Porsche’s part, as it addresses an issue that has haunted the car’s legacy—particularly in light of high-profile accidents, such as the one that claimed the life of actor Paul Walker.
One of the most overlooked aspects of car maintenance is tire age. While many car enthusiasts obsess over engine performance or paint protection, they often neglect the fact that tires degrade over time. Even if the tread looks fine, old tires can become brittle and lose grip, especially on a high-performance car like the Carrera GT. This is especially problematic for rare supercars that often sit in climate-controlled garages, driven only sparingly.
DeMuro emphasizes that many Carrera GTs likely still have their original tires, which could be more than a decade old by now. Porsche’s decision to supply new tires as part of the recall is, therefore, a huge step forward in ensuring that these vehicles remain safe to drive, regardless of how infrequently they hit the road.
Beyond the obvious safety and performance improvements, this recall campaign also appears to be a smart business strategy. Many Carrera GT owners rely on independent shops for service, but this recall brings them back to Porsche dealerships. Additionally, Porsche is offering a $3,500 service credit, which could encourage future purchases or services within the brand’s ecosystem. DeMuro speculates that this could be part of a longer-term strategy for Porsche, perhaps even laying the groundwork for the promotion of its upcoming Mission X hypercar.
It’s clear that Porsche is sparing no expense when it comes to the Carrera GT recall. In addition to the new Michelin tires, the company is installing $109,000 worth of titanium suspension components to resolve the corrosion issue. Interestingly, only one car was found to have actual suspension damage, and that discovery was made during routine servicing, not as the result of a breakdown or accident. Nevertheless, Porsche is taking a proactive approach to ensure the safety of every Carrera GT on the road.
While the recall may seem unusually extensive—and expensive—for such a small issue, it shows how serious Porsche is about maintaining the Carrera GT’s reputation as one of the finest supercars ever built. It’s not just about fixing a problem; it’s about preserving the legacy of a car that holds a special place in automotive history.a
Porsche’s tire upgrade for the Carrera GT is more than just a recall fix—it’s a commitment to improving the driving experience for owners of this iconic supercar. By addressing both the suspension issue and the tires, Porsche ensures that the Carrera GT remains as safe as it is exhilarating to drive. And if it helps the brand strengthen relationships with its most passionate customers, that’s a win-win for everyone involved.
