Mechanic Struggling

[thstone]

The mechanic is doing the best that he can and is probably being honest, but the bottom line is that he doesn't know Boxster's very well.

A check engine light and its associated failure code only describe what general subsystem is out of tolerance or may have failed. It does not tell the mechanic exactly what part to replace. In other words, do not confuse a CEL or code with a true diagnostic test.

It is pretty common for non-expert mechanics and backyard DIY'ers (like myself!!) to replace several parts in order to solve a single CEL. This is often called "throwing parts at the problem until its fixed".

I often do this on my own and accept it because it is often still cheaper for me to replace 2-3 parts rather than pay the labor cost for a proper diagnostic and part markup that a shop will charge.

However, most customers won't accept this approach from a professional mechanic because the reason you're paying the high labor cost is to get someone who should know how to perform a proper diagnostic to determine exactly which part failed and is causing the CEL.

With all of that being said, I don't think that you're mechanic is cheating you; but you would be better served by using an experienced Porsche mechanic.

[cas951]

I totally agree with thstone comment. Your mechanic is just not familiar with the Boxster or Porsche and does not have the proper diagnostic equipment needed to troubleshoot your issue. I went through the issues you're going through about 6 months ago. The 1st shop I brought it to was a independent Porsche repair shop. I asked the to see if they can find the leak but no luck. I tried to avoid the dealer. I then took the car to a shop that specializes in smog issues. He owns a Smog Test only shop and a repair shop next door to it. I asked him to do a smoke test and try to pinpoint the issue. He had the car for a while afternoon and could not find the leak. Lucky for me he was honest and admitted he just didn't have the proper tools to diagnose and did not charge me a any labor. He recommended for me to take it to the dealer which I did.

The dealer ended up identifying and changing three components of the Evan system. To me the dealer was being cautious and did all three and I told them that I felt they were guessing. But in their defense they were probably right in saying that the age of the car the other components is likely to fail in a short period after leaving the shop. I went ahead and had them replace all three components.