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Elixir, have you read the thread 'Thinking of Buying a Boxster' with a sticky at the top of General Discussions? If not, you should. Are Porsche's more reliable than other German cars? Not in my experience (and I have owned BMW's. VW's, Porsches and Audis).
Some of the parts you may have to replace include:
1. AOS (air oil separator); the part isn't particularly expensive - about $90 - 120. depending upon the year, although it is a bit of a labour headache as access is difficult to the lower hose.
2. MAF sensor - especially if the AOS goes, it will probably foul with oil.
3. Coolant expansion tank - about $300. and again, a bit of a labour nightmare (read scraped knuckle).
4. Ignition switch - fortunately you can get the Audi part for between $16.00 and $35.00 but again, a labour nightmare (unless you are patient, have a good back, small hands and a large screw driver you have cut down in size). A good shop shouldn't charge more than 1.5 hours labour, however.
5. Waterpumps - although some have gone over 200,000 miles. There are different theories on why some fail earlier than others, but if it needs replacement be sure to get an original Porsche part (about $300.00 at Suncoast).
6. Various microswitches - fortunately cheap and relatively easy to replace the ones for the top (except the top motor) and the doors.
7. Suspension arms - typically not required until 80 to 100,000 miles.
8. The dreaded IMS (intermediate shaft ) bearing.
You will be buying a car that is between 9 and 11 years old (they are already producing the 2014's) so you have to expect some issues. Service records are very important - try to find a car that has had oil changes more frequently than the factory recommendations (say, very 5,000 miles or one year, whichever comes first). And do get a PPI from a trustworthy local Porsche mechanic.
Good luck!
Brad
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