All 5 items at their locaton/time: 1. Water Pump 1:15 2. IMS 2:50 3. Window Regulators 5:55 4. Remote actuators for trunks 7:25 5. Coolant Reservoir Tank 9:10 Finishes with mentioning micro-switches and accuators and the ecu!
My 1997 Series One 2.5 has required the following: 1. Oxygen sensor - symptoms were rough idling, uneven acceleration and stalling. 2. IMS bearing - luckily caught in time. As well as the metal in the oil there is a fairly distinctive rattle from the engine on cold start up. Keep in mind that there are 4 variations of these bearings. Some are replaceable while other are apparently not. 3. Both convertible hood mechanisms - left and right. When one breaks there is no easy way to detach the hood from the mechanism to manually stow the hood as you take the car in for repairs so you end up either needing to be trucked there or driving with the hood partially open, not a good look. 4. Driver's airbag mounts. These deteriorate over time resulting in the horn sounding when you brake or when applying a lot of lock. None of the other issues mentioned in the video have raised their ugly heads, touch wood. Another fairly common issue that may be developing is failure of the seat belt retracting mechanism. Symptom is that pulling the belt a little quickly results in the mechanism locking and then not releasing even with copious belt jiggling. So far it has eventually released so I treat it carefully and keep my fingers crossed.
Agreed! Besides, its very disco club boy. And well, mechanical minded people generally rock! Also wouldn't include any negative things about Trump. A lot of us Americans voted for him out of desperation to get rid of career criminal politicians in both the so-called left and right. Appreciate your info. But Jeeze man, Trump is bringing back jobs, lowered taxes, pulled troops out of the Middle East, equalized trade deals and calmed North Korea. I occasionally watch mainstream news, so if you do all the time, I understand your confusion. Like the horrible music devoid of balls for instance. Sounds confused as opposed to Colin Furze channel that rocks....with no politics either. But I do appreciate the Porsche videos. Keep it up! Looking at a Boxster as my Porsche Fan Starter Kit.
I have a 99 Boxster. And yes I have had issues with the ignition switch, window regulator. Had my IMS bearing replaced as well. Just good insurance I guess. Put an after market exhaust on and love the sound. Now to my point. I get the feeling that a lot of people bash these cars. But I love the darn thing. It's such a pleasure to drive, on nice days with the top down it is fantastic. Handles great, not the fastest car ever but it's fun. Paint and finish are great IMO. Over all just a fun reliable car. It does wear out rear tires pretty fast though.
on IMS: According to the class action law suit - there is a 1% failure rate on Boxsters pre 2000, and 8% on Boxsters Post 2000. Due to Pre 2000 models using a dual IMS bearing, and 2000 and on models using a single IMS bearing. Agree, smaller problem than it is often made out to be, however, an 8% chance of failure that will essentially mean the end of your engine... is problematic. Most sources indicate that Boxsters with regular oil changes and drive MORE spirited will have LESS failure chance. Possibly due to the oil being forced in and around the bearing, keeping it well lubricated. At least that's the theory. Great video - Cheers.
Great comment here. I believe it's true the more the car is driven the less likely it is for the IMSB to fail. I have a 2003 Boxster S with the single bearing engine, my car has 127K miles on it with the original IMSB and never had any metal particles in my oil filter.
You hit on most of the things I have done to my '98 Boxster myself. Definitely would recommend the IMS because you don't want to be on the bad side of the stats for them going bad. When compared to the cost of an engine, it's actually cheap. The real issue with the IMS was when Porsche was building these Boxsters to save the company and they built many of them, Porsche contracted out for parts from places that had either different ways of measuring tolerances or used inferior materials/design and the IMS for these cars failed between 40-80k miles, especially if the car was not driven often and if the oil was not changed frequently. I replaced mine with double row hybrid ceramic bearings from LN Engineering. Another part that will break are the plastics ends on the convertible top frame. They simple get brittle over time. All in all, the Porsche Boxster is the BEST car for your money in getting into a pure sport car with amazing handling and performance characteristics. Thanks for the video.
Thank you, good video. Spot on. 1. Get a magnetic oil plug to trap any IMS shavings so you can easily see them and stop losing sleep. I agree, change the oil at least once a year. 2. The coolant tank is royal pain to do yourself, what a poor design by Porsche. Also the way they stuck it in there at the factory with no regard to later service. Still, I love this car. Thanks for the video.
Keep those drains clear. Porsche put the computer in a sub floor under driver's seat. Lowest point in car. Rugs were dry, but down below the motherboard got fried by rainwater. Replacing far more complicated than you might think, syncing key, rear electronics, type of trans, vin... etc, etc. Thought you might like to know. Boxster 2001.......Also, caught water pump early. Fortunately near famous Porsche Works.... expert told me some models the pump will shatter into fragments that has caused complete engine failure. FYI
hey Bud,good info.to add Info regarding the detecting IMS bearing going bad,I perform a test with my Durametric software I bought sometime ago.The test is called "Camshaft deviation".I do this test quite often and it's a breeze.If i get any deviation other than zero, can be a sign the car's internal drive chains are getting sloppy.I also upon doing a oil change take down the oil pan, which is the ultimate test for debris along with inspecting the oil filter.I know this might be "overkill" but I think it's the best preventive medicine to compensate the faulty design from Porsche installing a bearing that never sees new oil once it's installed in the engine.They use these bearings in copy machines.
Great video! I agree on all the above as on both my boxsters cumulatively I had to replace everything mentioned. Next is oil air separator and immobilizer was horrible on many of the 986s. Also here in California many of the AC compressors blow but most of the time it’s just clogged up or rusty. Oddly on my car the 24mm belt tension screw snapped when I was doing a belt change.
Just seen your comments about no 4Boot lid not opening Please note that later models do not have a cable they are solenoid operated I had this problem on my front boot and the CATCH was ceased I had to take my front PU off and uncease it. I actually had to PULL the PU of from under the front bonnet as it is fixed but it did very little harm. Removed front catch and reworked it MORAL of this is make sure its fully lubricated when you have the Bonnet/Boot open
I don’t understand why people buy cars like this just hoping they don’t break. Learn how to fix cars yourself! If getting something flashy like this for cheap is what you want, teach yourself how to fix it! Simple
This is the best Boxster s video in it's honesty and grit! Thanks for that. Gagging to own one. Just seeing if the Harley Davidson sells. I'll have one by next year hopfuly. Jay
hi. i have a 1998 boxster, bought it new, and now has 21,000 miles. stored all winter. fortunately i have not had any of the problems you mention - granted my mileage is quite low. i have had a relay switch for the seat belt go bad that had warning lights blinking on my dash. $1000 to fix because had to use oem part and had the dealer do it. the other is the driver window not going all the way up but it seemed to adjust and fix itself. the original set of tires lasted 8,000 miles and the second set (Michelin) after 4,000 miles one tire blew at about 60mph and shredded the sidewall. michelin determined it was a defective tire and replaced all four tires and i paid a reasonable amt to have this done - about $250 total.
If your getting plastic in your oil pan this could also be worn variocam chain guide wear ramps. which is also known to destroy early Porsche Boxster 986/996-997 engines as well.
Nice vid, thanks. I was thinking of one but ended up with an Audi S5 convertible. The actuator for the windows seems to be quite a common problem with many cars. As you said, it is a learning process at first but then it's a doddle. Hope you still have your boxter. All the best.....
I have a 2000 2.7L, 107k miles. I have seen the Help Me DIY channel who promotes the book 101 projects for your Boxster. I can tell you if I have to complete 101 projects I would rather drive something else. But I think there's a good list of preventative maintenance items that are very common annoying failure points, and are things I've had to replace. 1. The Immobilizer. it's a printed circuit board, and it's located in a decidedly non-waterproof case under the driver's seat, in a convertible. Not a particularly smart engineering decision as that area tends to accumulate water, and most of the car's circuitry runs through it, and it is constantly powered by the battery. Lots of times they will corrode, and weird electrical gremlins will crop up. Intermittent no-crank, power window fail, trunk pop fail, etc. Many issues can be traced back to this thing, and it's easy to replace but not cheap. ECU Specialists in Miami has a solution, but it's expensive. 2. Coolant expansion tank. You went over this one, and it's a very common high mileage failure, and there's not much to be done to prevent it. It's also a bear of a job. Very beneficial to have an entire kit of clamp pliers. 3. Air Oil Separator. I had problems with plug fouling and O2 sensor codes, and all kinds of poor running conditions before swapping out the AOS for a new one. It's a must-do for high mileage cars, but also another annoyingly difficult job. Definitely a good idea to swap out spark plugs and coil packs at the same time. After that it ran like a mostly new car. Chasing down these troubles I also replaced the starter, ignition switch, plugs and coil packs, MAF sensor, and air filter.
You forgot to mention the gear lever mechanism which wears over time causing difficulties engaging gears and one of the main ones which can also destroy the engine, which is the AOL separator this is a fairly cheap aftermarket part, look out for real loud screeching and black smoke , switch off and get it brought back to the garage a simple fix and DIY
uknovaaddict sorry I know I need to get better at this. It's never been my strong point. I use Sony Vegas and have followed a hundred tutorials on sound and it still fucks up. Going to try using something else.
Not only that, but the music is so feminine I felt my testosterone fall watching the video. WTF is up with all these vehicle channels playing these sissy ass sounding music in their videos?
Never use the metal impeller water pump. If and when the pump fails, the impeller can wobble and hit the engine case sending metal particles into your engine. Stick with the plastic impeller models. The Pierburg 99610601156 pump is an excellent replacement pump.
Had all these problems myself having a boxster for over a decade now... The IMS did not break I changed it for IMS DOF for peace of mind. At 80000km the IMS bearing looked in good condition
Couldn't watch the whole video because of the muddle sound. Made it worse with distracting background music. Is this a video about Porsche or about the music?
The 987S water pump was no better. I only got 25000km (15000 mi) out of mine. I replaced it twice in the 10 years I had it. 2nd time, you knew it was on the way out, very rough mechanical noise, loss of power. Only other issue I had in that time was a failed temperature sensor which caused overfuelling at startup when engine was hot and affected the cats. I kept getting check engine light warning due to poor cat performance. Installing cheap O2 sensor extenders fixed that issue rather than an expensive cat replacement. It was an awesome car though, sadly sold to buy a kitchen :-D
Thinking about buying a boxster. Thoughts? It'd be my first car. However I've been driving for a year and a half. I'm somewhat handy, a novice. But willing. deciding between this, a wrx, and a 300zx twin turbo
Liuses5 Gaming omg that's the exact same thing as me! I'm 17, been driving for about a year now. Currently I drive my dad's leased Cadillac CTS which is amazing, but I can never drive it cause we have to keep low miles. I'm looking at a brz, 370z, or a used boxster s (approx 20K) I'm really leaning towards this car currently but it keeps changing haha. I want to possibly mod my car as well and for that this is not the car (that would be the brz) good luck with your search BTW. I found a 2004 s with
If you get a Boxster as your first car, you will be spoiled forever. You will never have any fun in any other car. I recommend a 1965 Dodge Dart to start with.
Etmanning same! Im 17 amd about to get my first car which is the boxster it seems pretty cool, just drive carefully and not so speedy and ig things will hold better
My IMS bearing failed. The car ran fine the day before, then I got in it to start it the next day and it sounded exactly like running over rocks with a lawn mower. BAD. Had it towed to a Porsche shop and it was confirmed. They said this was the first real one they have seen....so I guess I got a "rare" one! So for now just sitting in the garage till I get the money saved up to replace!
A dealership will never acknowledge a known problem regardless of how widespread the problem is. It will open the manufacturer up to liability and the factory paying for the repair. It also makes for bad press, so they won't do it.
Your ownership experience has been very different to mine. I have had my '02 S for 5 years and have not had any of your "top 5 things that will break" break. My top 5 things that WILL break - Catalytic convertors will fail, MAF sensor, Control arm bushes front and rear, lambda/O2 sensors, interior temperature sensor. other things to look out for - Seized calliper bolts, ignition switch failure and light switch failure. Great cars generally though
I'm thinking about getting a Boxtser and I might just change the IMS. I think having that in the back of my mind all the time that it MIGHT break randomly would stress me out.
Dont think that changing the IMS will make the Boxster motor bullet proof.......I changed my IMS, but the motor grenaded anyway. There are ALOT of things that can blow that particular motor. I only had 49k miles on my Boxster S. I will never trust/drive Porsche again. If you MUST have a Boxster make sure its no older than the 2010 model........you have been warned.
This was very very helpful, I’m in the market for a used Porsche Boxster as my second car ever. I’m definitely going to upgrade the IMS the minute I find (and buy) a black or dark grey manual Porsche with low miles.
Please always give us the mileage figures and years owned. It will give a better picture. Remove background sound. I can't comment too much but just that I have pure joy from my 1998 2.5 with 160k miles. Had a couple of top speed runs on track days with the P-club- great stuff. I only owe my second hand Porsche for 4 years and 12 000 miles. Just a bit of a problem recently developed with my 3rd gear's sincro .(One of my boys applied wrong technique) Since then just taught them to rev up on down shifts and problems solved. Thanks Germany! awesome car especially if you taught yourself to maintain basic issues.
I've dealt with 1 and 3 on your list. I've had problems with the top convertible top motor more than once. Like someone said, I would do something with your mic. It is hard to hear you compared to other youtubers!
Would you reccomend buying a $4000, 150k miles Boxter? At that mileage you would think everything major would've already been replaced, so it might not be that bad. What do you think?
Mine is a 2000. The car is 20 years old and sure doesn't look like it. But, then again, it's 20 years old. Things are going to break. For me, I repaired myself: Water pump horn/airbag holder A/C Foam IMS? No! Drive the crap out of it. Use the best oil possible. Change at regular intervals. Shouldn't be a problem. IMS is the Covid of Porsche!
HI Can you tell me what the various components are that are driven by the auxillary pump Dont think its the Water Pump or steering pump (as that woirks) Where is the alternator Thansk
Having owned several used Porsche and a BMW it’s safe to say unless you pay big bucks upfront for the factory extended warranty, you will be paying big bucks to fix things during your time of ownership. Probably, best to go to a Porsche or BMW owners website and read about the defects and problems before buying the car you’ve always wanted.
Cheers, good points even if a bit dragged out. Regarding IMS Bearings - Am I right in thinking this is not applicable to the 2.5 pre 2000 986 models as a they had some sort of double bearing?
These cars are like ticking time bombs so you must reset that clock monthly. But you can't beat the driving experience of a mid engine roadster from one of the best racing companies that have dominated GT racing. These cars are what Porsche become famous for. Fun Fun Fun! Curious if i could replace the transmission from a RSX or s2000? These manual transmissions are nothing to write home about. Chassis is amazing and the handling is on point or even better than the s2000 though. You can't find a mid engine sports car with this much performance at this price point.. Period.
As a nurse I could never afford to own a Porsche.I saved and saved however and bought a year 2000 BLue Boxter with 54K on the clock. It was the only car I have ever had a smile on my face so big as to simply go drive and feel the benefits that a Porsche can give you. A superb daily driver and mine was incredibly reliable. It would always turn heads and I decided to let my friends borrow it so they could see what the fuss was about. I let my best friend use it to take his daughter to her prom night after getting it detailed. My rationale is that a lot of my friends cant afford a Porsche so by letting them use it for a weekend or weekend break in the lake district or saunter round the city. After two years of driving it, I was forced to sell it to pay off my student debt. (I was a mature student studying nursing). Ill never get an opportunity to buy one again but the memories that I had with ,y little Boxter live on. I would recommend a lot of people try oe whether it be old or nearly new. Look in the mirror and see your happy grin. My one day I can get one. Fortuna Audaces Iuvat.
The 9A1 engine in the 2009 and up have eliminated the IMS problem entirely. The 2005 1/2 to 2008 (sometimes referred to as the "big bearing" models) have much less problems, but their IMS bearing is not lubricated sufficiently either. They are much less likely to fail, but when they do, you have to tear the engine down to properly replace the bearing. I have an '08 in the garage. I am in the market for a '14.
It's a shame, as the 05-08 Gen 1's are quite a lot cheaper than the 09-12 Gen 2's, so there is a genuine benefit for going for an earlier model. The 2.7 is less stressed than the 3.4, so I'd suggest that for a Gen 1 purchase. As you say, post 09 it's not a problem any longer, so buy what you like.
Works for me as the 09 is still depreciating, and I'm still saving. So I'll just wait for those lines on the graph to cross over in a year or 2, and then buy one :)
if honda made civics with water pumps that would break after 30k's, there would be a huge uprising in the media and the car world.. if porsche make cars that break this often, shame on them i have a honda element.. 200 000 k's and the only things i've changed are the little thingnies at the end of the anti sway bars and 1 ball joint and 2 wheel bearings..and that is because i live in pothole city, canada!! otherwise, the 2.4 litre motor is strong as hell.. never even changed the muffler..and i battery (forgot that one)
No problem, just drive around with a spare expansion tank and water pump and electric window mechanism in the boot, or bonnet, as for the IMS, maybe drive it slowly
Bought my first Porsche, a used 97 Boxster, in 2000, had about 88K KM on it. Worst decision ever. I put about 5K KM on it, and the IMS Bearing disintegrated ! $13K to rebuild it. Put another 5K KM and the Auto started slipping. Another $8K. Then the Shifts were slipping ocassionally, and they could not fix it. Was in the shop for months. Not mentioning smaller problems. Fantastic car to drive, but rubbish, in terms of quality. Sold it while it still moved. Will never touch another Porsche unless in factory warranty, and will get rid of it, before the warranty expires.
I had IMS failure at 21K!!!!! I purchased car new...oil changes were done regularly and I cut the filter open and had magnetic drain plug. Never saw a problem...had the failure about 800 miles after oil change. Had Flat Six install the plain bearing with direct oil feed. The IMS is a terrible design....period!!!!
In my opinion nothing should be breaking at 30k new car. 2 things that discouraging me to buy a Porshe boxster. Location of the engine and seems like there’s a reliability issues.
1 your bank account..2 ims bearing..3 your spirit..4 water pump. 5 your radiator..the whole car is plastic..ims is only out of proportion if it didn't happen to you..dont forget the bypass valve..
AND this is why a decently maintained 1998 Miata is a better value. No, it is no Porsche, but YES, it is 90+ % of the fun AND the Reliability of the 1.8 is second to none. Just change those gaskets and maintain the plumbing clean and with good hoses. I mean, why could Mazda figure out then what Porsche couldn't? If you are going to tell me it is because the Porsche is higher performing then I'll tell you that is why you pay more for it!
Using your logic, the MR2 spyder would be an even better value than the miata and if you take it a step farther, I can get a geo metro convertible for probably $500 that will be cheaper than a 98 miata and just as cheap to operate...it's a convertible so it has to be the same right?
![Driving My 'Cheap' Porsche Boxster Across America! [Part 1]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/K4SvnieYQ8A/mqdefault.jpg)
Thanks for watching. If you need any diagnostics for your Porsche please visit www.diagnostic-world.com/
Driver 81 what’s the opening song
All 5 items at their locaton/time:
1. Water Pump 1:15
2. IMS 2:50
3. Window Regulators 5:55
4. Remote actuators for trunks 7:25
5. Coolant Reservoir Tank 9:10
Finishes with mentioning micro-switches and accuators and the ecu!
Moe Sizlac thanks Moe. Very handy 👌😎
Its not that expensive... soo i dont care😂
Pretty much everything could break on these cars.
Funny as this is all the same things that go wrong on old VWs, audis etc (minus IMS)
My 1997 Series One 2.5 has required the following:
1. Oxygen sensor - symptoms were rough idling, uneven acceleration and stalling.
2. IMS bearing - luckily caught in time. As well as the metal in the oil there is a fairly distinctive rattle from the engine on cold start up. Keep in mind that there are 4 variations of these bearings. Some are replaceable while other are apparently not.
3. Both convertible hood mechanisms - left and right. When one breaks there is no easy way to detach the hood from the mechanism to manually stow the hood as you take the car in for repairs so you end up either needing to be trucked there or driving with the hood partially open, not a good look.
4. Driver's airbag mounts. These deteriorate over time resulting in the horn sounding when you brake or when applying a lot of lock.
None of the other issues mentioned in the video have raised their ugly heads, touch wood.
Another fairly common issue that may be developing is failure of the seat belt retracting mechanism. Symptom is that pulling the belt a little quickly results in the mechanism locking and then not releasing even with copious belt jiggling. So far it has eventually released so I treat it carefully and keep my fingers crossed.
Makes me not want to buy one now hearing all these problems..
Love/Hate: You are great. The loud music is the pits. Please drop it, man.
Bill Nastali Agreed! Too loud, poor choices.....
It sucks..
Bill Nastali absolutely. I’ve sorted it on newer videos. Sorry everybody - I’m slowly learning😁
Agreed! Besides, its very disco club boy. And well, mechanical minded people generally rock! Also wouldn't include any negative things about Trump. A lot of us Americans voted for him out of desperation to get rid of career criminal politicians in both the so-called left and right. Appreciate your info. But Jeeze man, Trump is bringing back jobs, lowered taxes, pulled troops out of the Middle East, equalized trade deals and calmed North Korea. I occasionally watch mainstream news, so if you do all the time, I understand your confusion. Like the horrible music devoid of balls for instance. Sounds confused as opposed to Colin Furze channel that rocks....with no politics either. But I do appreciate the Porsche videos. Keep it up! Looking at a Boxster as my Porsche Fan Starter Kit.
Bill Nastali please kill the bloody music. it is ok between segments, not ok when you are talking
I have a 99 Boxster. And yes I have had issues with the ignition switch, window regulator. Had my IMS bearing replaced as well. Just good insurance I guess. Put an after market exhaust on and love the sound. Now to my point. I get the feeling that a lot of people bash these cars. But I love the darn thing. It's such a pleasure to drive, on nice days with the top down it is fantastic. Handles great, not the fastest car ever but it's fun. Paint and finish are great IMO. Over all just a fun reliable car. It does wear out rear tires pretty fast though.
I was thinking about getting a 98 with 44K miles but after hearing all the bad things that could go wrong..
on IMS: According to the class action law suit - there is a 1% failure rate on Boxsters pre 2000, and 8% on Boxsters Post 2000. Due to Pre 2000 models using a dual IMS bearing, and 2000 and on models using a single IMS bearing. Agree, smaller problem than it is often made out to be, however, an 8% chance of failure that will essentially mean the end of your engine... is problematic. Most sources indicate that Boxsters with regular oil changes and drive MORE spirited will have LESS failure chance. Possibly due to the oil being forced in and around the bearing, keeping it well lubricated. At least that's the theory. Great video - Cheers.
Great comment here. I believe it's true the more the car is driven the less likely it is for the IMSB to fail. I have a 2003 Boxster S with the single bearing engine, my car has 127K miles on it with the original IMSB and never had any metal particles in my oil filter.
You hit on most of the things I have done to my '98 Boxster myself. Definitely would recommend the IMS because you don't want to be on the bad side of the stats for them going bad. When compared to the cost of an engine, it's actually cheap. The real issue with the IMS was when Porsche was building these Boxsters to save the company and they built many of them, Porsche contracted out for parts from places that had either different ways of measuring tolerances or used inferior materials/design and the IMS for these cars failed between 40-80k miles, especially if the car was not driven often and if the oil was not changed frequently. I replaced mine with double row hybrid ceramic bearings from LN Engineering. Another part that will break are the plastics ends on the convertible top frame. They simple get brittle over time. All in all, the Porsche Boxster is the BEST car for your money in getting into a pure sport car with amazing handling and performance characteristics. Thanks for the video.
how much $ per year on repairs?
good info thanks,,but loose the background music, too loud and not helpful.
Thank you, good video. Spot on.
1. Get a magnetic oil plug to trap any IMS shavings so you can easily see them and stop losing sleep. I agree, change the oil at least once a year.
2. The coolant tank is royal pain to do yourself, what a poor design by Porsche. Also the way they stuck it in there at the factory with no regard to later service.
Still, I love this car.
Thanks for the video.
Keep those drains clear. Porsche put the computer in a sub floor under driver's seat. Lowest point in car. Rugs were dry, but down below the motherboard got fried by rainwater. Replacing far more complicated than you might think, syncing key, rear electronics, type of trans, vin... etc, etc. Thought you might like to know. Boxster 2001.......Also, caught water pump early. Fortunately near famous Porsche Works.... expert told me some models the pump will shatter into fragments that has caused complete engine failure. FYI
That immobilizer is a crazy design. I did replace it through ECU Specialists in Miami but it cost around $1600 with the upgraded case and new keys.
Great video...I also had my top replaced with the glass window that can make use of the defrost button on the dash.
hey Bud,good info.to add Info regarding the detecting IMS bearing going bad,I perform a test with my Durametric software I bought sometime ago.The test is called "Camshaft deviation".I do this test quite often and it's a breeze.If i get any deviation other than zero, can be a sign the car's internal drive chains are getting sloppy.I also upon doing a oil change take down the oil pan, which is the ultimate test for debris along with inspecting the oil filter.I know this might be "overkill" but I think it's the best preventive medicine to compensate the faulty design from Porsche installing a bearing that never sees new oil once it's installed in the engine.They use these bearings in copy machines.
Tom, I've been reading about these IMS bearings and wonder why they are sealed. Why not open so that engine oil can get at them?
Great video! I agree on all the above as on both my boxsters cumulatively I had to replace everything mentioned. Next is oil air separator and immobilizer was horrible on many of the 986s. Also here in California many of the AC compressors blow but most of the time it’s just clogged up or rusty. Oddly on my car the 24mm belt tension screw snapped when I was doing a belt change.
Just seen your comments about no 4Boot lid not opening
Please note that later models do not have a cable they are solenoid operated
I had this problem on my front boot and the CATCH was ceased I had to take my front PU off and uncease it.
I actually had to PULL the PU of from under the front bonnet as it is fixed but it did very little harm. Removed front catch and reworked it
MORAL of this is make sure its fully lubricated when you have the Bonnet/Boot open
I don’t understand why people buy cars like this just hoping they don’t break. Learn how to fix cars yourself! If getting something flashy like this for cheap is what you want, teach yourself how to fix it! Simple
Exacly easy fix to the water pump going is when it dose go put an aftermarket pump on it might be cheaper and no labour cost
Your a furry
Agree. Dont spend too much. Do your own. Or. be rich, still don't spend too much - enjoy.
This is the best Boxster s video in it's honesty and grit!
Thanks for that. Gagging to own one. Just seeing if the Harley Davidson sells.
I'll have one by next year hopfuly.
Jay
hi. i have a 1998 boxster, bought it new, and now has 21,000 miles. stored all winter. fortunately i have not had any of the problems you mention - granted my mileage is quite low. i have had a relay switch for the seat belt go bad that had warning lights blinking on my dash. $1000 to fix because had to use oem part and had the dealer do it. the other is the driver window not going all the way up but it seemed to adjust and fix itself. the original set of tires lasted 8,000 miles and the second set (Michelin) after 4,000 miles one tire blew at about 60mph and shredded the sidewall. michelin determined it was a defective tire and replaced all four tires and i paid a reasonable amt to have this done - about $250 total.
your car is really beautiful
I believe the skirts detract from the lines?
but that's my opinion, and no doubt the paint and interior are gorgeous : )
The extremely loud music that plays for no good reason before you begin speaking in a whisper quiet voice?
If your getting plastic in your oil pan this could also be worn variocam chain guide wear ramps. which is also known to destroy early Porsche Boxster 986/996-997 engines as well.
Nice vid, thanks. I was thinking of one but ended up with an Audi S5 convertible. The actuator for the windows seems to be quite a common problem with many cars. As you said, it is a learning process at first but then it's a doddle. Hope you still have your boxter. All the best.....
I have a 2000 2.7L, 107k miles. I have seen the Help Me DIY channel who promotes the book 101 projects for your Boxster. I can tell you if I have to complete 101 projects I would rather drive something else. But I think there's a good list of preventative maintenance items that are very common annoying failure points, and are things I've had to replace.
1. The Immobilizer. it's a printed circuit board, and it's located in a decidedly non-waterproof case under the driver's seat, in a convertible. Not a particularly smart engineering decision as that area tends to accumulate water, and most of the car's circuitry runs through it, and it is constantly powered by the battery. Lots of times they will corrode, and weird electrical gremlins will crop up. Intermittent no-crank, power window fail, trunk pop fail, etc. Many issues can be traced back to this thing, and it's easy to replace but not cheap. ECU Specialists in Miami has a solution, but it's expensive.
2. Coolant expansion tank. You went over this one, and it's a very common high mileage failure, and there's not much to be done to prevent it. It's also a bear of a job. Very beneficial to have an entire kit of clamp pliers.
3. Air Oil Separator. I had problems with plug fouling and O2 sensor codes, and all kinds of poor running conditions before swapping out the AOS for a new one. It's a must-do for high mileage cars, but also another annoyingly difficult job. Definitely a good idea to swap out spark plugs and coil packs at the same time. After that it ran like a mostly new car.
Chasing down these troubles I also replaced the starter, ignition switch, plugs and coil packs, MAF sensor, and air filter.
You forgot to mention the gear lever mechanism which wears over time causing difficulties engaging gears and one of the main ones which can also destroy the engine, which is the AOL separator this is a fairly cheap aftermarket part, look out for real loud screeching and black smoke , switch off and get it brought back to the garage a simple fix and DIY
thank you for your time, I just picked up a Porsche, 1998, that appears to have everything you just mentioned wrong with it. Wonderful...lol
I can barely hear the narration, over the music ! Why add it ?
Please fix sound levels. Your speaking voice is always too quiet compared to other TH-cam channels and the intermission music is Way Too LOUD.
uknovaaddict sorry I know I need to get better at this. It's never been my strong point. I use Sony Vegas and have followed a hundred tutorials on sound and it still fucks up. Going to try using something else.
I'd be willing to help with that :)
Not only that, but the music is so feminine I felt my testosterone fall watching the video. WTF is up with all these vehicle channels playing these sissy ass sounding music in their videos?
The Porsche water pump has a plastic impeller that tends to fly apart. There is an aftermarket water pump that has a metal impeller!
Never use the metal impeller water pump. If and when the pump fails, the impeller can wobble and hit the engine case sending metal particles into your engine. Stick with the plastic impeller models. The Pierburg 99610601156 pump is an excellent replacement pump.
Had all these problems myself having a boxster for over a decade now... The IMS did not break I changed it for IMS DOF for peace of mind. At 80000km the IMS bearing looked in good condition
Couldn't watch the whole video because of the muddle sound. Made it worse with distracting background music. Is this a video about Porsche or about the music?
At the beginning you can hear him better. IDK what he did to his settings. I can hear him but it is a strain.
Very informative thanks
Do you do a report on the Audi TT
I think he only does sports cars
The 987S water pump was no better. I only got 25000km (15000 mi) out of mine. I replaced it twice in the 10 years I had it. 2nd time, you knew it was on the way out, very rough mechanical noise, loss of power. Only other issue I had in that time was a failed temperature sensor which caused overfuelling at startup when engine was hot and affected the cats. I kept getting check engine light warning due to poor cat performance. Installing cheap O2 sensor extenders fixed that issue rather than an expensive cat replacement. It was an awesome car though, sadly sold to buy a kitchen :-D
Thinking about buying a boxster. Thoughts? It'd be my first car. However I've been driving for a year and a half. I'm somewhat handy, a novice. But willing. deciding between this, a wrx, and a 300zx twin turbo
Liuses5 Gaming omg that's the exact same thing as me! I'm 17, been driving for about a year now. Currently I drive my dad's leased Cadillac CTS which is amazing, but I can never drive it cause we have to keep low miles. I'm looking at a brz, 370z, or a used boxster s (approx 20K) I'm really leaning towards this car currently but it keeps changing haha. I want to possibly mod my car as well and for that this is not the car (that would be the brz) good luck with your search BTW. I found a 2004 s with
If you get a Boxster as your first car, you will be spoiled forever. You will never have any fun in any other car. I recommend a 1965 Dodge Dart to start with.
Etmanning same! Im 17 amd about to get my first car which is the boxster it seems pretty cool, just drive carefully and not so speedy and ig things will hold better
DONT DO IT ......YOU HAVE BEEN WARNED !
Why not?
Sunniside and Marley hill ! Thought I recognised the surrounding area lol great video mate
My IMS bearing failed. The car ran fine the day before, then I got in it to start it the next day and it sounded exactly like running over rocks with a lawn mower. BAD. Had it towed to a Porsche shop and it was confirmed. They said this was the first real one they have seen....so I guess I got a "rare" one! So for now just sitting in the garage till I get the money saved up to replace!
A dealership will never acknowledge a known problem regardless of how widespread the problem is. It will open the manufacturer up to liability and the factory paying for the repair. It also makes for bad press, so they won't do it.
Sucks bro, very unlucky
Bummer.
Sorry man
The first real one they had seen..... that week. Heeee Heee. One damn part screws the pooch.
Your ownership experience has been very different to mine. I have had my '02 S for 5 years and have not had any of your "top 5 things that will break" break. My top 5 things that WILL break - Catalytic convertors will fail, MAF sensor, Control arm bushes front and rear, lambda/O2 sensors, interior temperature sensor. other things to look out for - Seized calliper bolts, ignition switch failure and light switch failure. Great cars generally though
Awesome vid! What's the song at 2:30 ?
I also love most of the music...who is the singer?? What is the song around 6:00?? Thank you....
I have had to replace the coolant pump twice, once at 120KKm and 240KKm. At least they are consistent.
Me too, 65k miles and 130k miles
I'm thinking about getting a Boxtser and I might just change the IMS. I think having that in the back of my mind all the time that it MIGHT break randomly would stress me out.
Dont think that changing the IMS will make the Boxster motor bullet proof.......I changed my IMS, but the motor grenaded anyway. There are ALOT of things that can blow that particular motor. I only had 49k miles on my Boxster S. I will never trust/drive Porsche again. If you MUST have a Boxster make sure its no older than the 2010 model........you have been warned.
Your better off with a Miata MX 5. Porsche, a russian roulette of
expensive repairs. Sorry Porsche fans!
How about alternator - voltage regulator issues? I’m experiencing battery code issues even with a new battery install!
Informative vid thanks. As a 1st time viewer of your channel I'd say there's no need for the casey music, glasses and your logo rip.
This was very very helpful, I’m in the market for a used Porsche Boxster as my second car ever. I’m definitely going to upgrade the IMS the minute I find (and buy) a black or dark grey manual Porsche with low miles.
Is the expansion tank also responsible for the horn going off while braking - specially suddenly , and /or turning the steering wheel to the right?.
Please always give us the mileage figures and years owned. It will give a better picture. Remove background sound. I can't comment too much but just that I have pure joy from my 1998 2.5 with 160k miles. Had a couple of top speed runs on track days with the P-club- great stuff. I only owe my second hand Porsche for 4 years and 12 000 miles. Just a bit of a problem recently developed with my 3rd gear's sincro .(One of my boys applied wrong technique) Since then just taught them to rev up on down shifts and problems solved. Thanks Germany! awesome car especially if you taught yourself to maintain basic issues.
Alexander, admire Porsche design. Ownership must be a russian roulette!
I've dealt with 1 and 3 on your list. I've had problems with the top convertible top motor more than once. Like someone said, I would do something with your mic. It is hard to hear you compared to other youtubers!
I think it's funny that for a car that was as expensive as it was from the dealer that it has these issues. Kind of unacceptable in my book.
Would you reccomend buying a $4000, 150k miles Boxter? At that mileage you would think everything major would've already been replaced, so it might not be that bad. What do you think?
Very helpful video. I'd like to see a 987 or 981 version of this video if there is one. Thanks
Mine is a 2000. The car is 20 years old and sure doesn't look like it. But, then again, it's 20 years old. Things are going to break.
For me, I repaired myself:
Water pump
horn/airbag holder
A/C Foam
IMS? No! Drive the crap out of it. Use the best oil possible. Change at regular intervals. Shouldn't be a problem. IMS is the Covid of Porsche!
HI
Can you tell me what the various components are that are driven by the auxillary pump
Dont think its the Water Pump or steering pump (as that woirks)
Where is the alternator
Thansk
Good info, from my experience with a 14 year old 986 I would add 'air con condensers' to the list of common problems
Having owned several used Porsche and a BMW it’s safe to say unless you pay big bucks upfront for the factory extended warranty, you will be paying big bucks to fix things during your time of ownership. Probably, best to go to a Porsche or BMW owners website and read about the defects and problems before buying the car you’ve always wanted.
The first 2 things you mentioned scared me a bit away of the Boxster, but never the less it is an awesome cheap used car :3
Cheers, good points even if a bit dragged out. Regarding IMS Bearings - Am I right in thinking this is not applicable to the 2.5 pre 2000 986 models as a they had some sort of double bearing?
It can still happen to the dual bearing engines, but they are less likely to fail, around a 1% failure rate.
Does it happens to all the boxters? The window thing ...greetings from California
And the coolant tank ?
These cars are like ticking time bombs so you must reset that clock monthly. But you can't beat the driving experience of a mid engine roadster from one of the best racing companies that have dominated GT racing. These cars are what Porsche become famous for. Fun Fun Fun!
Curious if i could replace the transmission from a RSX or s2000? These manual transmissions are nothing to write home about. Chassis is amazing and the handling is on point or even better than the s2000 though. You can't find a mid engine sports car with this much performance at this price point.. Period.
As a nurse I could never afford to own a Porsche.I saved and saved however and bought a year 2000 BLue Boxter with 54K on the clock. It was the only car I have ever had a smile on my face so big as to simply go drive and feel the benefits that a Porsche can give you. A superb daily driver and mine was incredibly reliable. It would always turn heads and I decided to let my friends borrow it so they could see what the fuss was about. I let my best friend use it to take his daughter to her prom night after getting it detailed. My rationale is that a lot of my friends cant afford a Porsche so by letting them use it for a weekend or weekend break in the lake district or saunter round the city.
After two years of driving it, I was forced to sell it to pay off my student debt. (I was a mature student studying nursing). Ill never get an opportunity to buy one again but the memories that I had with ,y little Boxter live on. I would recommend a lot of people try oe whether it be old or nearly new. Look in the mirror and see your happy grin. My one day I can get one. Fortuna Audaces Iuvat.
I've had #'s 1, 3, and 4. #3 was the cheapest/easiest. #1 was cheap parts, but difficult to install. Haven't been able to sort out #4 yet.
Is it true that the Cayman S doesn't have IMS issues even in early ones? Or should I buy an 09 or later to avoid the possibility completely.?
Chris Winter pretty sure they all suffer ims and RMS. Scored bores are worse on the S and that's an expensive fix, so I'd go 2.7 or ideally post 09.
The 9A1 engine in the 2009 and up have eliminated the IMS problem entirely. The 2005 1/2 to 2008 (sometimes referred to as the "big bearing" models) have much less problems, but their IMS bearing is not lubricated sufficiently either. They are much less likely to fail, but when they do, you have to tear the engine down to properly replace the bearing. I have an '08 in the garage. I am in the market for a '14.
It's a shame, as the 05-08 Gen 1's are quite a lot cheaper than the 09-12 Gen 2's, so there is a genuine benefit for going for an earlier model. The 2.7 is less stressed than the 3.4, so I'd suggest that for a Gen 1 purchase. As you say, post 09 it's not a problem any longer, so buy what you like.
Works for me as the 09 is still depreciating, and I'm still saving. So I'll just wait for those lines on the graph to cross over in a year or 2, and then buy one :)
I'm waiting for the '14s to depreciate and saving my pennies too!
Cheers @driver 81 you have given me confidence to buy one !
Preowned 2008+ :)
Good video but the volume is so low i turned my speakers up by double on my tv and when the music hit it almost blew my head off
if honda made civics with water pumps that would break after 30k's, there would be a huge uprising in the media and the car world..
if porsche make cars that break this often, shame on them
i have a honda element.. 200 000 k's and the only things i've changed are the little thingnies at the end of the anti sway bars and 1 ball joint and 2 wheel bearings..and that is because i live in pothole city, canada!!
otherwise, the 2.4 litre motor is strong as hell.. never even changed the muffler..and i battery (forgot that one)
No problem, just drive around with a spare expansion tank and water pump and electric window mechanism in the boot, or bonnet, as for the IMS, maybe drive it slowly
What bumper and skirts are they on your Boxter please?
What Year is that boxster
Love your videos mate, you've had some nice cars.. I love the way you have the same logo as Salomondrin ;)
From what you are saying the prices in australia are about 5 times the price for parts and about triple to buy the car not happy!
Thinking about getting a boxster 2.5 , does anyone have any tips on what to look for when buying one of these cars ?
That factory aero kit is so rare! Never see them here.
I just bought a 2002 Boxster today.I wish i would have seen this video before i closed the deal.ty
Bought my first Porsche, a used 97 Boxster, in 2000, had about 88K KM on it. Worst decision ever. I put about 5K KM on it, and the IMS Bearing disintegrated ! $13K to rebuild it. Put another 5K KM and the Auto started slipping. Another $8K. Then the Shifts were slipping ocassionally, and they could not fix it. Was in the shop for months. Not mentioning smaller problems. Fantastic car to drive, but rubbish, in terms of quality. Sold it while it still moved. Will never touch another Porsche unless in factory warranty, and will get rid of it, before the warranty expires.
Porsche, with IMS Bearing issues at 8K, WTF? Terrible design flaws
make ownership a russian roulette of repairs.
Good video, you’ve just drove past my house (Sunniside) 😬
I had IMS failure at 21K!!!!! I purchased car new...oil changes were done regularly and
I cut the filter open and had magnetic drain plug. Never saw a problem...had the failure about 800 miles after oil change. Had Flat Six install the plain bearing with direct oil feed. The IMS is a terrible design....period!!!!
Think i should buy the car or no?
Very informative as thinking of getting one 👍🏻
Crikey a TH-cam video with decent sound! Why not go the whole hog to audio perfection and hide the mic. cable as well?
great video, thanks for this info
The main things. Thanks. Great comments section also.
Keep in mind., mid-mount engine, make it difficult to access for repairs.
Highly probable, repairs will be costly for Porsche.
thanks buddy. straight to the point.
Good to know all
The issues
In my opinion nothing should be breaking at 30k new car. 2 things that discouraging me to buy a Porshe boxster. Location of the engine and seems like there’s a reliability issues.
You forgot the biggest issues, the ignition key lock, that should have been #1 on your list.
IMS, not a high percent of failure until if happens to you😁. Nothing like some good plastic inside a metal motor.
We just want the information lose the music.
parts don't get "fitted". they get replaced !!! fitted means adjustment and there are none . You remove the old one and install the new one!
Fitted has more than one meaning.
in some parts of the world they just say fitted
in the uk i know they say it a lot and here where i live in america people always say replaced
Forgot to mention battery and alternator too common problems
thank you for the info. There is absolutely no need for the music, the background or the intro music.
You completely missed the gearbox; specifically 2nd gear syncros and the gear train raising the lower the top.
I think I'm gonna buy this car, sell my motorcycle and save for a Viper too.
Any good news?
hello, check your sound its very low in a lot of your video's like this one
I had an IMS failure after 6000 miles in 2016 Boxter. Not cool at all.
Failure at 6k miles? I thought after 2009 the IMS and bore scoring was addressed and resolved.
Thanx from USA
1 your bank account..2 ims bearing..3 your spirit..4 water pump. 5 your radiator..the whole car is plastic..ims is only out of proportion if it didn't happen to you..dont forget the bypass valve..
My Boxster S motor blew up on me last week. Only had 49k miles. Even had an IMS upgrade PORSCHE SUCKS
Great vid ...and I liked the music!
One more thing item 6 the AOL separator..
EXPANSION TANK IS NOT $65 QUID IN THE STATES. IT'S MORE LIKE $250
AND this is why a decently maintained 1998 Miata is a better value. No, it is no Porsche, but YES, it is 90+ % of the fun AND the Reliability of the 1.8 is second to none. Just change those gaskets and maintain the plumbing clean and with good hoses. I mean, why could Mazda figure out then what Porsche couldn't? If you are going to tell me it is because the Porsche is higher performing then I'll tell you that is why you pay more for it!
Miata MX 5, proven build. This roadster made for driving, easy too
maintain without being worried about constant repairs, like the
Porsche.
Using your logic, the MR2 spyder would be an even better value than the miata and if you take it a step farther, I can get a geo metro convertible for probably $500 that will be cheaper than a 98 miata and just as cheap to operate...it's a convertible so it has to be the same right?
Porsh-A. please
boxster is my favorite porsche