Summary
The Porsche 928 has 13 recalls spanning the 1978 through 1991 model years, with the most serious being a 1990 model year fuel gauge sending unit whose mounting nut can crack, allowing fuel to leak from the tank and ignite on the hot exhaust system, causing a vehicle fire.
The 1991 model year has a recall covering the automatic transmission, where a plastic filler piece installed without adequate support can shift under hydraulic pressure and prevent the transmission from downshifting when the accelerator is pushed hard. The result is that the expected burst of acceleration does not occur, which can be a problem when attempting to pass.
The 1987 model year has fuel return hoses that can crack over time and leak fuel into the engine compartment, creating a fire risk. Going back to 1985, there are two separate issues: a faulty weld on the engine carrier bracket that can break and cause the steering to lock up, and an inadequate heat shield above the catalytic converter that, when the engine misfires and overheats the converter, can ignite nearby automatic transmission fluid lines and start an underbody fire.
The 1982 model year has front brake hoses that may have been routed incorrectly at the factory, allowing them to rub against the wheel rim and eventually wear through, which can cause brake fluid loss and reduce braking ability. The 1980 model year has a brazed joint on a metal fuel line that can leak and start a fire, and front shock absorber mounting eyes that may be improperly welded and can separate on rough roads, affecting steering and handling.
The earliest production years carry a cluster of issues. On 1978 models, the steering shaft universal joint can work loose and cause excessive play in the steering wheel, front axle alignment adjusters can crack and allow the wheels to fall out of alignment, and rear brake hoses may be twisted or chafe and develop leaks.
