Debating Purchase 2000 Boxster S
 

Hello. I have been lurking for a little while, trying to soak up as much information as I can. I have read the "what to look for" and similar threads.

Currently, I'm looking at, and debating the purchase of: a 2000 Boxster S, black, gray interior, 66k miles, listed for $12.9k. This particular vehicle has NOT had the IMS issue, nor has it had any preventative measures taken to avoid it. Also, this is listed for sale by a Porsche dealer. For a 17 year old car, that makes me a little more comfortable, as I don't think a Porsche dealer would sell a Porsche that is just junk.

The dealer of course stated they could install the Porsche "fix" to the IMS, however, it runs about $3k. I'm sure there is some wiggle room on the list price, however, adding in the IMS fix would undoubtedly make it go up.

Curious what people's thoughts are?

The car is local to my father, he is going to be going to take a look at it, and will be taking it to his mechanic (for 25+ years) for a good once over. I will then be making a decision from there.

For any IMS cures etc, can someone recommend a reputable mechanic who specializes in this (other than a Porsche dealer) in New England, preferably Boston Metro area, Southern NH, or Southern ME?



TL;DR version: looking at 2000 S, 66k miles, $12.9k list at Porsche dealer, no IMS issues (yet), no IMS fix/maintenance done. Go for it? Stay away?

I had Southshore autowerks do mine in Kingston Ma for 1800 last year. On LN's list. I ended up needing a clutch so the price can increase pretty fast. Very happy with their work. Justin the owner is a great guy from the few times I've talked to him.

"I don't think a Porsche dealer would sell a Porsche that is just junk. " Optimist !
So they will show you all the Service History for the car?
As an alternative I suggest visiting some local Indies recommended by Forum Members in your area. Ask them about cars for sale by their customers .
These can be very expensive cars to repair. Youl need a competent ,honest Indie first. Finding a good car after that is easy.

Optimist ha! I'm not normally one to be called that, however, your point is well taken.

You bring up good points, I will certainly be asking for the service history.

Thanks for the input.

This guy would disagree with that statement: https://rennlist.com/forums/997-forum/980824-introductions-my-911-dream-and-my-nightmare.html

For those not willing to read the whole post, here is the takeaway: "First mistake was not getting a PPI from an independent shop. I blindly trusted the dealer and their claims of having done an inspection."

My rule is never believe anything that a car seller says unless they can back it up in writing. That includes a dealer.


I wonder if the dealer sees the irony in this offer - they are asking the customer to spend $3,000 prevent a possible catastrophic failure mode that they designed into the car. Truly ironic.


Price seems a little high. KBB says that the car is worth $9,300 -$10,100 (dealer price). But KBB isn't always right so it might be worth more but I'd be careful not to overpay. If it was me, I'd offer to pay the full price if the dealer includes the IMS fix at no charge.

For comparison, check the final price on this car tomorrow (Monday) morning: http://www.ebay.com/itm/2000-Porsche-Boxster-S-/192201196308?hash=item2cc0158314:g:NpkAAOSwY3BZLEw x&vxp=mtr

I'd be looking to spend $10.5k on that car, and then budget $3-4k in preventative maintenance/suspension/etc.

There was a thread last year about a dealer doing an IMSB upgrade that messed up the entire engine because the technician tried to take a short cut. Luckily for that owner the dealer stepped up and paid for a rebuilt engine. If you are concerned about the IMSB, find a local independent specialist who has done plenty of them and you are confident that they know what they're doing. And that you like the IMSB upgrade brand (e.g. LN Engineering) they use.

Oh, and do a PPI with an independent before you buy the car!

Dealer just took a deposit on the vehicle. Which, in the end, is probably a good thing. You guys all brought up some good points, and I was really hemming and hawing over the IMS issue anyways.

My search will now consist of starting to look for a good independent garage in the area. DWBOX2000 has already suggested Southshore Autowerks in Kingston, MA. Anyone else in the New England area?

Boston Metro, Southern NH, Southern ME preferred.

Thanks again for all the input!

Yup I'm in MA. I go to Auto Sport in Stow. They are good. Been there for 50+ years. They stopped using the LN bearing though since it's only a temporary solution. They switched to using a DOF solution by tuners. Just an FYI. No desire to argue the merits of either as that subject has been killed on this forum. Good luck. PM me if you need any help.

They use the TuneRS DOF solution, which is the same as Pedro's.

My car has it installed.