Need advise purchasing a used boxster
 

I am new member to the forum everyone.

I am interested in purchasing a used Boxster and wanted to find out what year I should start and what year model I should avoid?

Other than searching at Autotrader, Cars.com and etc. what other source should I look when purchasing a used Boxster?

Is it a good idea to have a certified Porshe mechanic or will a regular mechanic do before I purchase the vehicle?

And last what other advise would everyone have for me when purchasing a used Boxster? Thank you everyone and I look forward to this forum.

:dance:

Hi Alvin,

use the search option on this forum and lots to advice on youtube also,

Happy hunting.

Thank you Alan, I have been reading the information and it definitely is helping me narrow things down.

The Classified Ads section of this forum is often a good place to look for an enthusiast-owned car for sale and you can often look back (search) the history of posts from the seller:
Boxsters for sale or wanted - 986 Forum - for Porsche Boxster Owners and Others

Craigslist is a good tool to see regional/seasonal prices and how many are on the market. Here's a shot of the current LA market. (I set max price to $25,000, highest odometer to 180,000 miles, and newest year to 2009)
http://986forum.com/forums/uploads02...1476674293.jpg
los angeles cars & trucks "boxster" - craigslist

These cars have a lot of differences from your average car. Have a pre-purchase inspection done by a mechanic who knows Porsches. We can help you find a shop in the area if you have trouble finding one:
http://986forum.com/forums/general-discussions/9615-find-your-local-mechanic-porsche-specialist.html

Read the forum and check out the Boxster related videos on Youtube. Don't rush to buy, there are plenty on the market and there will always be a better deal next week.
:cheers:

Very big point missed in your post - what's your budget?

These are high-end sports cars. Older ones may have a reduced value, but they can be costly to maintain. Newer ones will be cheaper to run, but much more costly upfront.

I would recommend getting the newest one you can afford that's in good condition.

Budget will be directly tied to your DIY abilities
Be careful about all the scary reading out there. These cars can be seen as the Plague of the earth - - There not but you do need to know what your getting into

Thank you Giller. My budget is around 25K

This is some good stuff, thank you so much. I will definitely look into this.

Thank you so much, this very helpful.

If I was in the market I'd seriously consider Jaay's 3.4.

You certainly could get into a 987 or a Cayman

For 25 k you could get into a 06 or 07 987 with under 50k miles if you look around I picked up a 06 Cayman S last year with 51k on the clock for less than 25 k One owner all service done at Porsche dealer. It also depends on if this is a daily or not. I have 3 cars so my porsches dont get a ton of miles put on them this helps with maintenance cost a little bit. Keep in mind these cars eat tires most get 12 to 15 k on the rears at best and a oil change even DIY is a 100 bucks.

I actually like the boxster convertible. It's going to be my weekend car. I'm thinking an 05 Boxster on... I saw one today, it's on 04 with 28k miles for $18 at a dealership.

What's the difference with the 986 model with boxster?

Drive 986 and 987 cars and you'll know instantly. ;)

Regards, Markus

I would go with a 06 or better to get up to the more robust IMSB bearing.
I am not one to shout fire on these bearings but why try and save a few bucks upfront for the possibility of massive back end cost. These cars do cost more on avg for maintenance but the smile on your face is well worth it. I have a hard time putting my cars up and then driving my truck once you own one you will understand :cheers:

Great advice here. That's what I was looking for, thank you.

25k budget includes money for repair?
If you have 25k for a car plus a few thousands for repairs,I would recommend a 2009+ Boxster Base.