Wanting to buy Porsche Boxster... rebuilt engine

[capncabes]

I'm looking at a 99 Porsche Boxster online that says, quote: "Car was totally rebuilt about 3 years ago". It seems like a good deal for $5500 with everything in "excellent condition" but I'm not sure if the word "rebuilt" means the engine went dead and had to be rebuilt or it got in a wreck and was replaced. Even if it was a good engine is it trustworthy to buy being "rebuilt"?

[78F350]

Even if it was a good engine is it trustworthy to buy being "rebuilt"?

You really don't have enough information to know yet. As you stated, "rebuilt" can mean a lot of things. In most US states, any car which has been in a serious wreck, or damaged by flood or hail will carry a "rebuilt" brand on the title after it has been repaired. A seller saying that a car is totally rebuilt could just mean that the suspension has been replaced and the engine has had maintenance done.

Ask the seller for details. Strongly consider a PPI before committing to buying the car, unless you like surprises. $5,500 is not uncommon any more for a '99.

It may be a good deal if it has a professionally rebuilt engine and is well maintained, or it could be a scary piece of junk.

[thstone]

Excellent advice from F350. Contact the seller and get the details about what has been replaced and what hasn't.

Expect to spend about $2,000 per year to keep a Boxster running and in decent shape. Might be more in some years and less in others. Budget for that and you shouldn't be surprised (or manically depressed when a couple of $850 repairs bills come rolling in...)

On the positive side, the Boxster is one of the most fun and enjoyable cars around and is guaranteed to put a smile on your face every time you get in the drivers seat.

[BYprodriver]

quote: "Car was totally rebuilt about 3 years ago". $5,500.

Info available to us indicates nothing was done to engine.

$5,500 is entry level price for a semi-dependable Boxster I would be surprised if this was more than that.

[capncabes]

Thank you for the information and tips! I will ask about the "rebuilt" details and get back with you!