Are there any problems with the Porsche Boxster?

Below are listed some of the more common problems with Boxsters. An informal poll was conducted on Porsche Pete’s Boxster Board. The results of that poll are shown below. Diagnostic: Driver’s or passenger’s side door won’t open from the inside.

What causes a Porsche Boxster door handle to snap?

Cause: A cable inside the door of Model Year 1998 and later Boxsters seems to undergo some stress that causes it to snap. This causes the inside door handle to be disabled. It appears that it tends to happen after having been driven about 1000 to 2000 miles.

What are the diagnostic codes for a Porsche?

Porsche Diagnostic Trouble Codes DME 5.2.2 P0101 Mass air flow sensor P0102 Mass air flow sensor P0103 Mass air flow sensor P0112 Intake air temperature sensor P0113 Intake air temperature sensor P0115 Engine temperature sensor P0117 Engine temperature sensor P0118 Engine temperature sensor P0122 Throttle position sensor

Why is there a problem with my Porsche 911?

Crankcase vacuum exceeds the normal range in the engine under heavy acceleration and sucks in air damaging the rear main seal. This is commonly seen on Audi engines as well. A failing aos also causes too much oil to pass into the intake and will force the engine management to adjust fuel mixtures to compensate.

All models have their own unique set of problems, however, as the Boxster has matured, there are definitely less catastrophic potential problems with the later versions. That doesn’t mean ignore the early versions, it simply means more caution is required. The Boxster is easy to upgrade from both a performance or cosmetic stand point.

Are there any issues with the Porsche Boxster M96?

M96 engines fitted to the 986 and 987 Boxster can have issues with a bearing at one end of the engine intermediate shaft. The shaft connects the two ends of the engine timing gear. At one end, the shaft drives the oil pump and at the other, finishes in a sealed bearing.

Why does my Porsche Boxster make a knocking noise?

The M96 and M97 engines found in the Boxster are famed for cylinder scoring – deep gauges in the cylinder liner, usually associated with a knocking noise and eventually catastrophic engine failure. The root cause of this issue is open to discussion, however, wear in the piston rings and liners causes the piston to wobble.

Where are the sensors on a Porsche Boxster?

This photo shows the group of sensors located on the right rear of the engine. The purple arrow shows the crank angle sensor or flywheel sensor, which reads the toothed flywheel as it rotates past the sensor (harness plug shown by yellow arrow). The orange arrow shows the camshaft timing advance solenoid (red arrow is the connector).

How old is the first generation Porsche Boxster?

Emerging from a combination of “Boxer” engine and “Roadster,” the first-generation Porsche Boxster is heading for being 20 years old. However, the Boxster platform exists right up to the current production 718.

How much does a 1999 Boxster engine cost?

My 1999 Boxster was recently diagnosed with the apparently very common intermediate shaft failure (IMS failure). The big surprise came when I heard the only way to fix this, is a complete engine replacement; $12000 for the part alone! Add the hours needed to put it in, and this is more then the cars current value.

How much does a Porsche Boxster cost?

The base Boxster costs around $59,000, putting it on the high end of the lower range. The range-topping Boxster GTS starts at around $83,000. Check out our U.S. News Best Price Program for great savings at your local Porsche dealer.

How much horsepower does a Porsche Boxster have?

The Porsche Boxster S builds on the foundation of the standard Boxster and is powered by an exclusive, 3.2-liter, six-cylinder “boxer” engine that has been modified for the 2003 model year to provide 258 horsepower (SAE) and 229 lb.-ft. or torque.

What is the history of the Porsche Boxster?

The Porsche Boxster is a mid-engined two-seater roadster. It was Porsche’s first road vehicle to be originally designed as a roadster since the 550 Spyder. The first-generation Boxster (the 986) was introduced in late 1996; it was powered by a 2.5-litre flat six-cylinder engine.

Where is the lock cylinder on a Porsche Boxster?

The inner door handle housing, which contains the lock cylinder is shown in the lower left inset photo. Here’s the original door lock mechanism removed from the car. The yellow arrow shows the inside door handle cable attachment point.

When does remote key entry no longer work on Porsche Boxster?

If you have the remote key entry make sure that the key works in the driver’s door lock after you get the car back. To save the battery, after the car sits for about three days without being started, the remote key entry will no longer work.

Why does my Porsche Boxster not open from the inside?

The results of that poll are shown below. Diagnostic: Driver’s or passenger’s side door won’t open from the inside. Cause: A cable inside the door of Model Year 1998 and later Boxsters seems to undergo some stress that causes it to snap. This causes the inside door handle to be disabled.

Where is the handle on a Porsche Boxster?

The two yellow arrows point to the nuts that fasten the door handle to the rear assembly, and the green arrows show the two clips that hold the assembly inside the door. With the door lock mechanism disconnected, you should be able to pull it out of the door.

Is there a power lock on a Porsche Boxster?

The integrated lock assembly also contains all of the motors for the power locks, which also tend to fail over time. With the door panel removed, you can easily access the door lock mechanism.

The Boxster is known to have problems with broken coil springs and you can spot this quite easily be looking at how the car sits and whether you’ve noticed a different feeling to cornering at higher speeds. Also, a knocking sound that appears to come from the wheels is a sign that these will need to be replaced.

Which is the fastest model of Porsche Boxster?

This Boxster S is (perhaps predictably) the fastest of all the Boxster models. It’s also the angriest. If you get an opportunity to drive one, do so. You see, for me, it wasn’t the sturdy German engineering or its classic looks that made me fall for it…it was the sound. Above about 3,000 rpm it starts to growl like a very annoyed, angry thing.

How much does it cost to replace the roof on a Porsche Boxster?

You can just replace the plastic with a glass version for around $700 or alternatively, you can just replace the whole roof with a new one for around $1500-$2000, which is probably a better option. There are some other problems that can come up with the Boxster, like any car though. The above are just the more typical ones.

What kind of car is a Porsche Boxster?

Maintenance and running costs are at the low end of the Porsche ownership scale. Mechanically, the design is generally solid, with the exception of a few items highlighted below. In the used car market, you’ll find Boxster 986 (1997-2004), 987 (2005-2012), 981 (2012-2016) and current 718 versions available.

What causes IMS failure on Porsche Boxster 986?

Intermediate Shaft (IMS) bearing failure can afflict all 986s: driven from the crank, this shaft goes on to drive the cams. Walk away if you can hear knocking or grinding from the back of the engine: a full rebuild is essential.

How many litres does a Porsche Boxster 986 have?

The engine grew to 2.7 litres, with a 3.2 ‘S’ alternative, in ’99. While the 2.5 is currently the bargain basement, the 2.7 is seen as the ultimate everyday Porsche, easy to drive, with lively throttle response and great road manners. The 3.2 S is a more focused package, with a firmer ride and enough power to get into trouble.

What’s the difference between a Porsche Cayman and a Boxster?

The nomenclature, Boxster, is a portmanteau of two words: a Boxer engine (as in a flat engine) and Roadster, as in a compact and convertible two-seater sportscar. Now in its fourth generation, the Porsche Boxster is the Cayman’s mechanic twin, but for its convertible roof options to the Cayman’s fixed metal roof.

Why is the oil leaking from my Porsche Boxster?

The seal does dry over time and can leak, however, there are other potential issues that could also cause the seal to leak (see Air Oil Separator below). Causes of the seal failure should be checked thoroughly by a competent shop before you proceed to replace the seal. Porsche Boxsters have a number of common sources for leaking oil.

Are there any problems with the Porsche 997?

Consequently, aficionados were relieved when the 997 was introduced in 2012. Although the updated Porsche is more mechanically sound than its predecessor, it does have some known issues. For one thing, the dreaded IMS bearing problem carried over into early models (pre-2006).

It’s either not very popular or it’s very, very good. The 2003 Porsche Boxster has the most overall complaints, & we also rate 2003 as the worst model year ranked on several factors such as repair cost & average mileage when problems occur. The most-reported problem is with the 2002 Porsche Boxster for ims failure.

Are there any mechanical problems with my Porsche 911?

Listed below are Porsche 911 common mechanical problems with their likely resolutions. These are the most frequent 911 problems diagnosed by our repair shops over the years. An accurate diagnosis of an issue by a Porsche mechanic typically saves you time and money – see our guide to local independent Porsche repair shops that can help.

Why is it bad to buy a Porsche?

A lot of people will have to pay more for a new engine than their car is worth. Because Porsche has not addressed this issue publicly and will not grant potential victims an extended warranty or a free mechanical fix of the problem, many otherwise good used cars are now tainted. It is certainly affecting resale value.

Why does my Boxster have an air conditioner problem?

Some people have a direct correlation with the air conditioner being on, whereas other people have had the problem with the air conditioner off. Only some Boxsters have this problem. Some people think it might be a bug in the Boxster’s computer controlled electronics.

What causes the inside door handle to be disabled on a Boxster?

This causes the inside door handle to be disabled. It appears that it tends to happen after having been driven about 1000 to 2000 miles. This doesn’t seem to be effecting 1997 model year Boxster, because they don’t have the side airbags.

How often should I clean my Porsche Boxster engine?

Notes: Some of these problems have been resolved in the manufacturing process and should not recur in new engines. The Boxster should not eat much oil (maybe a quart every 7500 miles), and should never drip oil underneath the car. If you have an oil leak repaired, make sure the dealer thoroughly cleans the engine.

One big problem with the Porsche Boxster is caused by its defining feature: that convertible roof. The soft top needs regular maintenance, just like the rest of the car. Even in the UK’s water-dominated climate, a Boxster’s convertible roof sees regular use and is exposed to plenty of stress.

Why did my Porsche Boxster start leaking water?

When the car started leaking water, the owner brought it in for a look. The water had entered the car due to blocked roof drains, but only on the right side, missing the expensive control boxes (phew). The roof box was checked and the problem was found.

Why does my Porsche Boxster have oil in it?

This typically starts out as an oily film and continues to get worse over time. There are many potential problems associated with this sign – oil could be getting in to the coolant from a blown head gasket, from a crack in the cylinder head, a crack in a cylinder liner or through the oil cooler.

Why is coolant coming out of my Boxster?

There are many potential problems associated with this sign – oil could be getting in to the coolant from a blown head gasket, from a crack in the cylinder head, a crack in a cylinder liner or through the oil cooler. For sure, coolant in the oil and visa versa is a bad sign, the question is how lucky will you be as to where the problem is?

What causes airbag idiot light on Porsche Boxster?

Details: If the airbag idiot light appears on the dash, the most frequent cause is a fault in the relay in the seat belt. The Boxster has a relay that detects and records whether the seat belt was being worn if the airbag deploys. The solution is to replace the seat belt buckle receptacles.

Are there any problems with the 986 Boxster?

The upgraded aos features a doubling in size of capacity for scavenging and is less prone to sucking up oil during high speed cornering. M96 engines fitted to the 986 and 987 Boxster can have issues with a bearing at one end of the engine intermediate shaft. The shaft connects the two ends of the engine timing gear.

Can a Porsche Boxster 996 engine be replaced?

Replacement is relatively easy and is performed from underneath the car. The oil pan may leak over time – learn how to reseal this and also consider installing a deep sump engine kit at the same time. The Boxster and 996 engines are not necessarily known for being bulletproof.

Why does my Porsche Boxster have an AOS problem?

The AOS has caused numerous issues on Porsche engines and is an item to be closely monitored. As the membrane in the AOS fails, oil is sucked into the air intake. Initially this can show up as a check engine light for fuel adaptations with oil being deposited on the o2 sensors causing emission faults.

Using our PainRank ™ system we’ve ranked it second to last in overall reliaibility, with significant engine and electrical concerns. A list of some of the most common issues Boxster owners have to deal with.

How many generations of the Porsche Boxster are there?

The Boxster has 3 generations, each with their own issues. Using the same PainRank™ system we’ve determined that you’re better off avoiding the 1st generation (1997–2004). Documenting the process of troubleshooting common problems. Time-sensitive, free repairs for widespread safety problems.

How often should you change the oil on a Porsche Boxster?

Standard Porsche service calls for oil changes every 10,000 miles, however for the best engine performance, Boxster owners should change the oil every 5,000 miles. If you live in Central Texas and need Porsche service or repair for your Boxster, German Auto Center can help.

What to do if IMS fails on Porsche 911?

The design, materials, engineering, and serviceability of the LN IMS Retrofit upgrade virtually eliminates the risk of IMS bearing failure and the consequent gargantuan repair costs. For 911 owners, our recommendation is to find a qualified Porsche repair specialist and have the IMS bearing upgrade performed on your car.

When did Porsche stop using the IMS bearing?

The IMS bearing for these engines went through multiple design revisions from 1999 – ’06, including both single- and dual-row bearing designs, without ever adequately resolving the issue.

Is the Porsche Boxster 718 a good car?

However, the Boxster platform exists right up to the current production 718. As a result, there’s extensive knowledge available of common mechanical problems with these cars. The good news is the Boxster is generally reliable and has aged gracefully.

When is the best time to buy a Porsche Boxster?

Late used 987 versions are selling in the late teens for vehicles with lower mileage. This is a lot of car for the money – most of the issues with the Boxster were worked out of the design by the time the late 987 reached the showroom.

When did the Porsche Boxster 986 come out?

If you want to be a part of the elite club of Porsche owners and still want to have fun with your drive, the Boxster is the way to do it. The very first generation, the 986, was introduced in 1996, the second 987 came in 2005, while the third generation, the 981, arrived in 2012.

What’s the top speed of a Porsche 718 Boxster?

With Porsche Doppelkupplung (PDK), the 718 Boxster and 718 Cayman accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.9 secs, and have a top track speed of 170 mph. The 2.5-liter turbocharged horizontally opposed engine. The S models have a 2.5-liter displacement. The result is 350 hp at 6,500 rpm. Maximum torque: 309 lb-ft.

When did Porsche start using Hood fitters for cars?

Porsche car hood fitters since 1992. We fit most of the range, including 911’s, Boxster’s and vintage classics.

How does the hood work on a Boxster?

This function should be there on all Boxsters. It certainly is on my 2002 (pre-facelift) and as the previous owner told you, it used to work! There is a microswitch in the header rail the knows when the hood is locked in the closed position.

Why is the hood of my Porsche Boxster flooding?

If the roof cables are left unadjusted, the mechanism invariably starts to malfunction. This would not be such a serious issue, except that if the roof is left without attention for a prolonged length of time, the drain tubes for the hood box that the roof folds into can get blocked by dirt and debris.

How much does a Porsche Boxster tire cost?

The Boxster has quite large tires. If the car you buy has 19-inch rims, you’ll be looking at approx. $1k for a set of 4 tires. The rear tires will wear quicker than the fronts on the Boxster due to suspension setup.

Is it good to buy a 20 year old Boxster?

In 20 year old cars, higher mileage is not necessarily a bad thing. In fact, a Boxster that has been effectively used, could be in a more superior condition than one that has an attractively low mileage reading. Low mileage cars can have hidden issues, so you’ll want to take a good look through any documented history available.

How to repair a Porsche Boxster convertible top?

When you get the new rod, line it up to the old one, and make sure that the two are exactly the same length. Alter the two adjustment points on the rod if necessary. To install the rod back onto the convertible top linkage, use a screwdriver wedged up inside the mechanism to obtain the necessary leverage to snap it on.

Where is the pivot ball pin on a Porsche Boxster?

The pivot ball pin (shown in inset) would normally be attached to end of the control lever (yellow arrow), but due to the top getting stuck, it has been broken off. In this case, the top transmission, the lever, and the convertible top push rod needed to be replaced with new parts.

Why is my Porsche Boxster convertible top not working?

When your roof is not opening or closing correctly, then one or more of the components in the mechanism are probably worn out or damaged. Follow the photo array in this article to learn about each of these components and how to replace them.

What kind of Boxster top will go up or down?

986 Series (Boxster, Boxster S) (MY1997 – 2004) 986 Series (Boxster, Boxster S) 986 Boxster Convertible Top Issues and Solutions

What’s the Smart top on a Porsche Boxster?

One of the first things I installed in my wife’s Boxster was the SmartTop controller that allows you to open and close the roof with one-touch operation (see Pelican Technical Article: Smart Top Roof Control Installation ). This is a neat feature, except that there are no safeguards built into the unit.

What does PASM do on a Porsche 718 Boxster?

Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM). The optional PASM is an electronic damping control system. The system continuously adjust the damping force on each wheel, based on driving style and current road conditions. The body is also lowered by 10 mm (0.39 in).

How did the Porsche Boxster convertible top get stuck?

In addition, the mechanism for lifting the rear metal cover has completely sheared off as well. The pivot ball pin (shown in inset) would normally be attached to end of the control lever (yellow arrow), but due to the top getting stuck, it has been broken off.

When do you turn off the battery on a Porsche Boxster?

The procedure is very straightforward and very similar to other cars. The Boxster has a few power-saving stand-by modes that it will enter after certain periods of time. If the ignition key is removed, accessories such as the trunk lamp, interior lamp, radio, etc will be switched off automatically after approximately two hours.

What happens when you pull the handle on a Boxster?

Normally when the switch is pulled, the windows lower about an inch. If, however, the switch is defective, the car thinks the handle is still pulled and will cause the windows to act strangely, lowering at odd moments or refusing to go all the way up.

Is there a problem with the central locking system on a Boxster?

Since then everything has worked normally. Perhaps a dealer with a Porsche diagnistic computer could pin the problem down to the precise part by acutating the locking system components one component at a time and look for what piece triggers a fault.

What are the most common problems with a Porsche Boxster?

Listed below are Porsche Boxster common mechanical problems with their likely resolutions. These are the most frequent Boxster problems diagnosed by our repair shops over the years. An accurate diagnosis of an issue by a Porsche mechanic typically saves you time and money – see our guide to local independent Porsche repair shops that can help.

When did I buy my first Porsche Boxster?

HiI’ve just bought my first Porsche, a 1997 2.5 Boxster Manual UK RHD spec. It has got a few problems that I suspect are linked but don’t know how to solve.

Why does my Porsche Boxster have smoke coming from the engine?

A quick puff of smoke as you start a cold engine is not uncommon, especially on the Porsche flat six engine in the Boxster. There are many theories and various thoughts as to why this happens – none are proven.

What kind of gas mileage does a Porsche Boxster get?

On the 2008 Porsche Boxster S, the fuel economy numbers are 18/25 mpg for the automatic and 18/26 mpg for the six-speed manual. The true performance potential of the Boxster is unleashed when the road starts to twist.

When did the Porsche Boxster’s come out?

Is the Porsche Boxster A Future Classic? The Porsche Boxster is a mid-engined, two-seater roadster manufactured by Porsche between 1996 and 2004. Initially launched with a 2.5-liter engine, in 2000 this was upgraded to provide an option for either a 2.7-liter or a 3.2-liter engine (in the Boxster S model).

How long does it take a Porsche Boxster to get to 60 mph?

Its acceleration to 60 mph with the manual is just 5.1 seconds; with the automatic, it takes 5.8 seconds. There’s also a 303-hp special edition of the Boxster S, dubbed the RS 60, available this year. Fuel economy is 20/29 mpg with the base car, and 18/25 mpg with the Boxster S automatic.

What are the specs of a 2008 Porsche Boxster?

Both Boxsters got Porsche’s VarioCam Plus system, which provides variable intake valve timing and lift control. For 2008, the Boxster continues a series of yearly tweaks with new optional folding bucket seats, a new interior leather color and a new exterior body color. Rivals include the Audi TT, BMW Z4, Honda S2000 and Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class.

What kind of transmission does a Porsche Boxster have?

The 2008 Porsche Boxster is also available with three different transmission choices: one automatic and two manuals.

How are the brakes on a Porsche Boxster 987?

The brakes on the Boxster 987 are excellent, although you may not think so the first time you drive one. Porsche braking systems are not as heavily servo assisted as those in most cars and your unfamiliarity with them may lead you to assume the response is poor.

What to know about buying a used Porsche Boxster?

If you’re in the market for a used Porsche Boxster, our guide will help you find the bargain and avoid the bad investment. There’s no fluff or niceties here – there are plenty of resources online that bash on about horse power, cosmetic variants, historical significance and the niceties of the Boxster.

Is there an IMS bearing problem on a 2000 Boxster?

Bernie: Well it is. So the intermediate shaft bearing on this Boxter failed which is a common issue on many of these early 2000 and mid 2000 Porsche engines. Yes, so yeah definitely a very serious issue.

What’s the value of a 2000 Porsche Boxster?

2000 Porsche Boxster appraisal values can range from $2,320 – $6,651. Find out what your car is really worth in minutes. Owning a Boxster has been everything I thought it would be and more.

Which is the best review of a Porsche Boxster?

Edmunds’ expert review of the Used 2000 Porsche Boxster provides the latest look at trim-level features and specs, performance, safety, and comfort. At Edmunds we drive every car we review, performing road tests and competitor comparisons to help you find your perfect car. Read the full in-depth review of the Used 2000 Boxster at Edmunds.

What to do if your Boxster engine has no heat?

If you find that the level dropped, you have most likely hit on the solution to your lack of heat problem. Do not open the coolant fill cap while the engine is hot, you could get scalded. Put a rag over the cap as you are unscrewing it for extra safety.

What happens when you shut off the a / C in a Porsche?

When the a/c electrical circuit to the clutch is excited with 12 volts and enough current the clutch’s magnet pulls the clutch hub into the pulley. Friction takes over and the two pieces turn in unison. So, let’s shut off the engine and locate the clutch’s wire.

When do side airbags need to be replaced on Porsche Boxster?

It appears that it tends to happen after having been driven about 1000 to 2000 miles. This doesn’t seem to be effecting 1997 model year Boxster, because they don’t have the side airbags. The cable will have to be replaced under warranty Time in Shop: Several hours. Repair Instructions: Requires a warranty repair.

Is there a problem with the Boxster 3.4 engine?

It can be a problem on the 3.4, but in our experience it is much more common in the Cayman engine than the Boxster.

What causes oil starvation in a Porsche Boxster?

Oil starvation due to built-in oil sump – The new design of the Boxster’s oil sump had a lower holding capacity, which led to numerous issues. Rear main seal leaks – This was an issue for earlier models and is more of a cosmetic issue than a performance issue. Rod bolt failure – Particularly a problem in high mileage Boxsters that are revved often.

How fast can a Porsche Boxter go?

According to Porsche, the base-trim Boxster can reach a top speed of 163 mph with the manual transmission and accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 5.3 seconds with the PDK. Even faster, the Boxster S has…

Does a Porsche Boster have a timing belt?

The Boxster doesn’t have a timing belt- it utilizes a timing chain, and you’re not going to have to replace that. What you do need to change is the polyrib serpentine belt which operates the engine’s accessories like the water pump, a/c, alternator, etc. Porsche recommends changing this belt at the 60K mile service interval.

What is top speed of Porsche Boxter?

Performance on the road has improved accordingly, the Boxster now requiring a mere 6.2 seconds for the standard sprint from 0 – 60 mph and achieving a top speed of 159 mph. The second-generation Porsche Boxster comes with even more self-assertion, more power and more performance.

Where is the engine on a Porsche Boxster?

The Porsche Boxster and Cayman are pure mid-engined sports machines, meaning the engine is installed just behind the cabin, unlike the the engine in the Porsche 911 that’s fitted behind the back By all measures the Porsche Boxster was a brilliant car.

Navigation