Might get a 986/987, what to look for?

[Oofie]

^ Thanks! I was reading on here for a bit now and became somewhat concerned that the engine can't be rebuilt (?), and once an engine fails, it needs to be replaced. Is this problem common to a specific engine in the 986/987? It is alarming to know that once and engine has the IMS failure, replacing it is the only solution.

[jmatta]

These engines can be rebuilt to higher standards than the factory produced...refer to board sponsor www.flat6innovations.com for answers.

Years ago, Porsche did not want to rebuild the engines and would replace defective ones with remanufactured. The engines still had the inherit problems of the original, so all you were doing is swapping for another period of time. Jake Raby's rebuilds address all these weaknesses and provide a solid engine from day one. Of course, Porsche produced thousands of the M96 for both the 986, 996 and newer cars; the failure rate is quite low, though not without disregard.

The key to these engines is frequent oil changes; do not follow the extended schedules as originally published. If oil is changed every 5-6k miles, many of the failures associated with oil breakdown/contamination should be reduced.

[944boy]

Wow, the price has dropped a lot! I bought my '05 with 52K miles for 26K. I have put 10K miles in 6 mo. and its still running strong. I would look for dealer stamps in the owners manual and or receipts from previous owners.

check out tires and brakes for wear. I have replaced Brake pads, fluid, serp. Belt, oil + filter. I will be finishing the 60K maintenance with plugs, air filter and I also need tires.

All in all I don't think that's too much to ask for 60K+ miles.

I daily driven car seems to be happy motor wise. Mine loves to run to redline and dyno'd at very healthy numbers.

Your costs would include 60K maintinence, possibly brakes and tires and fluids. A PPI would clear up exactly what will need to be replaced in the near future. It can get expensive if you take it to the dealer, but can also be used as negotiation when buying.

I personally tend towards higher milage cars. As long as they feel tight and were well taken care of miles just come with the territory. Besides... I don't feel bad daily driving 60+ miles a day on a pristine low milage car.