By Josh Rosenberg
Is an older Porsche Boxster worth considering in today's extremely high-priced car market?
True, it had a lot going for it back in the day. But today, people who are looking for "older" vehicles that better fit their budgets need to know how it has actually performed in the real world over its history.
In other words, essentially, has it aged well?
And by "older", I'm generally referring to 10+ year-old Boxsters, so those produced during its second generation, produced from 2005 - 2012. Going back further may raise the risk a bit too much, although to Porsche's credit, there are still well-maintained Boxsters from the first generation on the road.
So here, ...
- We'll take a look at the established reliability of these older Boxster models all these years later.
- Then we'll list areas of owner-reported mechanical problems that should be checked before buying one today.
- And then we'll do an overview of the vehicle's features and options that can be found on these models.
But first, two important suggestions ...
1. Know How To Get The Lowest Used Car Price:
Get Dealers To Compete For your Business: When you are searching vehicles to possibly purchase, the following is the absolute best way to get the lowest price, and it is extremely easy and stress-free.
Just go to a national car listing site, (I happen to prefer CarsDirect.com for their massive dealer participation and ease of use, although others will get the job done as well) and find several listed vehicles that you may be interested in.
Then write something like the following in the "Check Availability" box or "Contact Dealer" box or whatever the site you are using uses.
"Hello, I've contacted several dealers about cars I am interested in and am looking for the best value. I am also a serious buyer planning to make a decision soon. Please send me your best out-the-door price. Thank you.
After receiving the offers, follow up by explaining that based on the price, you're leaning in another direction but still really like their car and would certainly consider another offer. When dealers drop out, you'll know you're at the best price.
Using the internet to get dealers to compete for your business is extremely important. More details on this and how to intereact with the dealers can be found here at Best Used Car Buying Techniques.
2. Things To Do When Considering An "Older" Vehicle:
Locate Lower Mileage Vehicles: They are certainly out there to be found with careful and patient shopping. Be willing to drive a distance if you have to.
Vehicle History and Maintenance: Ask for the vehicle history report (CarFax or AutoCheck) as well as documented maintenance and repair records. If not provided by the dealer or private seller, it's best to move on.
Pre-Purchase Inspection: Have the vehicle independently inspected before making a final decision. This usually will cost in the $150-$200 range but is well worth it given the potentially thousands in savings over the long term.
Second Generation Porsche Boxster Reliability
The 987 Boxster has a solid reliability reputation among Porsche enthusiasts and owners. It is considered more reliable than earlier models, such as the 986, particularly because it benefits from improvements in engineering and manufacturing processes.
Engine: The flat-six engines in the 987 are known for their robustness. Regular oil changes, proper warm-up routines, and avoiding over-revving can help maintain engine health.
Transmission: Both the manual and automatic transmissions are reliable with proper care. Regular fluid changes and avoiding aggressive shifting help extend their lifespan.
Suspension and Brakes: Regular inspections and replacements of wear-and-tear components, such as brake pads, rotors, and suspension bushings, are essential for maintaining performance and reliability.
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Longevity: With proper maintenance, the life expectancy of 987 Boxsters can easily surpass 100,000 miles, while some well-maintained examples have reached 150,000 to 200,000 miles.
Durability: The build quality and engineering of the 987 contribute to its durability. Key factors include regular maintenance, avoiding harsh driving conditions, and addressing issues promptly.
Availability: There are still many 987 Boxsters on the road today, which is in itself a positive indication of its reliability.
Overall, this Boxster version is a reliable sports car when maintained properly. Its strong build quality, coupled with regular maintenance, has enabled it to often enjoy a long lifespan.
2005 - 2012 Porsche Boxster Mechanical Problems
The second generation Boxster has proven to be generally reliable, but like any vehicle, it has a few common mechanical problems that owners have reported and which should therefore be included in an inspection before buying.
IMS Bearing Failure: One notable issue is the IMS bearing failure, which supports the intermediate shaft that drives the camshafts. Failure of this bearing can lead to catastrophic engine damage, often indicated by metal shavings in the oil, unusual engine noises, or complete engine failure.
RMS (Rear Main Seal) Leaks: Another somewhat common problem is the rear main seal (RMS) leak, where the seal can develop leaks, leading to oil dripping from the back of the engine. This is typically observed as oil spots under the car, oil loss, and potential clutch contamination, necessitating seal replacement, often done concurrently with clutch replacement to save on labor costs.
Coolant System Issues: Coolant system issues were also reported, with radiators and coolant expansion tanks developing leaks over time. Symptoms include coolant loss, overheating, and visible coolant leaks, which can be addressed through regular inspection and replacement of leaking radiators, hoses, and expansion tanks.
Water Pump Failure: Additionally, the water pump can fail, causing overheating and potential engine damage, often signaled by coolant leaks, whining noises from the engine, and rising engine temperatures. Timely replacement of the water pump is usually recommended at 60,000 to 80,000 miles.
AOS (Air-Oil Separator) Failure: The Air-Oil Separator (AOS) can fail as well, leading to oil mixing with the intake air and creating smoke from the exhaust. This is often identified by the exhaust smoke, rough running, and oil consumption, requiring the AOS unit to be replaced when symptoms are noticed.
Convertible Top Issues: Convertible top issues are also somewhat common, with the mechanism, including the motors and cables, wearing out or failing, causing the top to not open or close properly and producing noises during operation.
Suspension Wear: Suspension wear is another issue, with bushings, control arms, and other components wearing out over time, resulting in noises over bumps, uneven tire wear, and poor handling. Regular inspection and replacement of worn suspension components are essential.
Electrical Issues: Electrical issues are also a concern in older 987s, including problems with the ignition switch, window regulators, and instrument cluster, which can manifest as intermittent electrical failures, warning lights, and malfunctioning controls.
Older Porsche Boxster Overview
The Boxster was redesigned for the 2005 model year. It got a new interior, some revised styling and more power. Both base and S trims came with a power soft top and heated glass rear window.
The base model kept the 2.7-liter engine, but output was increased to 240 horsepower versus the previous 228. The S model again sported a 3.2-liter engine, and again, horsepower was increased to 280 from 258.
The base model was equipped with a 5-speed manual as the standard transmission, with a choice of an optional 6-speed manual or 5-speed automatic with manual-shift capability. A 6-speed manual was standard on the S, which also offered the optional 5-speed automatic.
ABS was standard on both models, as was traction control and antiskid control.
Base models got standard 17-inch wheels (up from 16) with 18-inchers available as an option. The S was equipped with 18s, while 19s were optional on both.
Also added were front torso side airbags, as well as door-deployed side airbags.
Available optional features to be found on some models include a leather interior and navigation. You'll find some of these Boxsters with the Sport Chrono Package which included a dashboard stopwatch and controls that modified throttle, suspension systems, and traction.
Another option was Porsche Active Suspension Management with normal and sport settings. And ceramic composite brakes were offered as an option on S models.
It should be noted that the Boxster was updated for the 2009 model year: Both engines were given a power boost with the base model outfitted with a horizontally opposed 2.9-liter six-cylinder engine that's good for 255 horsepower and 214 pound-feet of torque, while the Boxster S was given a 3.4-liter version rated at 310 horsepower and 266 lb-ft.
Also making its debut was the optional 7-speed dual-clutch automated manual called PDK, while the base model's manual transmission was upgraded to a 6-speed.
The exterior was given a minor styling refresh and the available navigation system was also revised with a larger screen and more user-friendly controls. Some 2009 Boxsters can also be found with new available features such as a heated steering wheel, ventilated seats, satellite radio, and an iPod interface.
Also, Always Know The Value Of Your Trade-In
Whether you are trading or selling on your own, it's just a good idea ... even whether you are in the market or not at the moment. You can then use this important information for a number of purposes ... to negotiate with a dealer, or to know how to price your car in the retail market, or simply to know the value of one of your assets, which is always a good idea.
Getting trade-in values online tend to vary a lot from site to site. But I've found the one at Edmunds Trade-In Quotes is particularly comprehensive and accurate.
It's free and just takes a couple of minutes. I think what helps its accuracy is the inputs will include either your plate# or VIN# followed by many simple, but specific, yes/no questions. It really focuses in on the detail of the specific vehicle.