Shortlived Boxster engines survey - 986 Forum - The Community for Porsche Boxster & Cayman Owners

ponyster · 02-12-2009, 10:14 PM

I purchased my 02 Boxster S from my boss! Everyone thought it was brand new because he had taken such good care of the car, even my mechanic wondered about the cleanliness under the convertible cover and how well the engine and all other mechanicals had been maintained.

I started with 32K miles, and now after about a year at about 42K; the car just stopped on a neighborhood street with the check engine light on. Mechanic says error codes indicate 3 cylinders on passenger side not functioning; likely needs new engine. Total expected damage is $10K for engine and $2K for labor. No indication of problem with intermediate shaft or RMS, exterior is free of oil. Could it be the vario-timing cam?

I love my new baby, but it is costing way too much.

jcb986 · 05-02-2009, 06:21 PM

I just bought my first Boxster, a 2000 S. Grey metallic with red leather, carbon package, 18" turbo wheels. A one owner with 67,000 miles. I read about the engine problems, but heck, I never would buy a first year production model or second year. Usually the third year they have everything under control. Any way, it's a one owner and well maintained. Love it.

smiledrs · 05-05-2009, 04:49 PM

Add me to the list of early blown engines. 1998 Boxster with just 16,500 miles engine went dead over a year ago. Sent to Todd and he put a 3.4L 996.

Bobiam · 05-05-2009, 05:45 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by smiledrs

Add me to the list of early blown engines. 1998 Boxster with just 16,500 miles engine went dead over a year ago. Sent to Todd and he put a 3.4L 996.

What was the specific failure and cause of your misfortune? And, if you don't mind, to be curious, what did that great upgrade to 3.4 cost you?

Paul · 07-10-2009, 08:50 PM

Porsche's new design of our motors has no liners, no IMS, and no crank carrier; very much like a 944 motor. (From a tech session at this year's Parade.)

chitowndad · 07-11-2009, 04:37 PM

I know I should know the answer to this question but what year did they redesign the Boxster engine to remove the IMS etc., 2005?

-Steve

Paul · 07-11-2009, 07:46 PM

2009 as far as I know.

Lawdevil · 08-07-2009, 02:03 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by chitowndad

I know I should know the answer to this question but what year did they redesign the Boxster engine to remove the IMS etc., 2005?

-Steve

THe IMS went away with the 2009 MY

Jake Raby · 01-30-2010, 08:15 AM

Lots of people can afford to buy a Boxster and even a 911 these days... But many of those can't afford to properly maintain or repair it.

Always think about that...