HELP! Possessed '06 Boxster S

[Cebu]

When my alternator started going out I had a bunch of panel light warnings come on too. There were lights coming on I never knew existed. Long story short, I read the forums and symptoms and decided to replace the alternator.

There is one cable most instructions I read required removal. The access to the cable is from the top engine cover. Instead of doing that I disconnected my battery and went about the normal alternator replacement process. A few notes..

- I did not remove the top engine cover
- I did not remove the passenger seat to access the panel. I'm a fairly big guy and I was able to maneuver around
- I did not buy an original Bosch alternator, I bought one from O'Reilly for about $160
- I did not go the route of replacing the regulator only
- I did not give up when I thought somebody cruelly welded the alternator in place
- I did sigh in relief when the automotive parts store verified my alternator was bad

The alternator was my first dive into the Porsche engine and if you have or can borrow a few tools it's a good confidence builder. At least it was for me.

Good luck and let us know how it goes!

[Pdwight]

Im not sure how the alternator or AC Generator on the Boxster is much different than any other late model car. Before you do anything (except check for water under the seat on the ECU) with the car running get a VOM and check the voltage across the battery....if it is 13.8 to 14.4 volts or so your alternator is most likely working properly. This will only take a few minutes to do. If you do not have a VOM (Volt Ohm Meter) go buy one at Walmart, Lowes, Home depot or even Harbor Freight.....every car/home owner needs a VOM and know it's most basic functions.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bF3OyQ3HwfU

[ryanneeley]

I didn't think to check the voltage before it went to the shop, kicking myself for that now. My first guess was the ECU, and I was surprised when my mechanic said alternator. What does worry me is that if the alternator was putting out enough power to run things like heated seats (I tried turning them off while it was going crazy), it should have enough output to run the computer.

While I didn't take out the seats or anything, I did check the interior for any signs of leaks and the floors were dry.

Hopefully I will find out more in the morning, if they can find a way to get into the convertible hatch... I will post as soon as I hear something.

Thanks everyone!

Originally Posted by Pdwight

Im not sure how the alternator or AC Generator on the Boxster is much different than any other late model car. Before you do anything (except check for water under the seat on the ECU) with the car running get a VOM and check the voltage across the battery....if it is 13.8 to 14.4 volts or so your alternator is most likely working properly. This will only take a few minutes to do. If you do not have a VOM (Volt Ohm Meter) go buy one at Walmart, Lowes, Home depot or even Harbor Freight.....every car/home owner needs a VOM and know it's most basic functions.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bF3OyQ3HwfU