WORST Porsche Boxster Years To Avoid, as per Real Owner Complaints

Not all Porsche Boxsters are the same. Some years are better avoided if you want to steer clear of problems down the road.

The models from 1999 to 2003 and the 2016 version have a lot of issues. These include engine failures, oil leaks, and electrical problems.

Knowing why these years are troublesome can save you money and stress. Let’s look into what are the years to avoid and how you can choose a more dependable car.

Key Takeaways

• Steer clear of 1999-2003 Boxster models because of IMS bearing issues that can cause serious engine damage.
• 1997 and 1998 Boxsters have problems with cylinder block porosity and liner durability, often leading to engine replacements.
• 2003 Boxsters are plagued with many recalls, electrical problems, and general reliability issues.
• 2002 Boxsters also suffer from major IMS bearing problems, leading to expensive engine repairs and reliability worries.
• 2016 Boxsters are known to have various mechanical and electrical issues, which affect the car’s overall reliability.

First-Generation Overview

The first-generation Porsche Boxster (1997-2004) is well-known for having an engine similar to the 911 and for switching to water cooling. However, it has some issues. One major problem is the IMS bearing, which can cause the engine to fail, particularly in models made before 2009. This has led to several recalls and is something buyers should watch out for.

There’s also been recalls due to problems with the transmission’s safety. Despite these issues, the Boxster’s innovative design and engineering set a new standard for Porsche. If you’re thinking about buying one, keep in mind these mechanical problems and the potential repair costs.

Issues With 1997 Models

When looking at a 1997 Porsche Boxster, keep in mind that there were problems with the cylinder block and liner durability. Porsche fixed these issues by replacing bad engines under warranty, so cars with about 30,000 miles are probably fine or have had their engines swapped out.

Still, because of these known problems, it’s a good idea to be careful or think about avoiding the 1997 models altogether.

Cylinder Block Porosity Problems

Back in 1997, Porsche had big problems with cylinder block porosity in the Boxster, which led to many engines being replaced under warranty. The engines in the 1997 models had flaws because of this porosity, making the cylinder blocks weak. This often caused problems with the liners and engine failures.

Porsche fixed these issues by replacing the faulty engines, especially for cars with less than 30,000 miles that were still under warranty. If you’re thinking about a 1997 Boxster, be careful since these problems were very common. Many owners had their engines replaced by the factory, so it’s important to check if any replacements or warranty work were done.

To avoid potential issues and expensive repairs, it might be best to steer clear of the 1997 models.

Liner Durability Concerns

Many owners of the 1997 Porsche Boxster faced problems with the durability of the engine liners. These issues were caused by tiny holes in the cylinder block, leading to significant wear and tear. Because of this, Porsche issued factory recalls to fix the faulty engines. According to Panorama magazine, many engines were replaced under warranty, especially those with around 30,000 miles.

Here’s a summary of the problems:

Problem	Cause	Solution
Liner durability	Holes in the cylinder block	Factory recalls
Engine failure	Liner wear	Engine replacement
Warranty coverage	Faulty engines	Recalls & repairs
Media coverage	Panorama magazine	Awareness

Given these issues, it’s wise to avoid the 1997 model due to known durability concerns and possible engine problems.

Warranty Engine Replacements

The 1997 Porsche Boxster often needed engine replacements under warranty because of ongoing problems with the cylinder block and liners. These issues were serious enough that Porsche offered to replace the engines for free.

If you’re thinking about buying a 1997 Porsche Boxster, know that those with around 30,000 miles are probably reliable since they’ve either had their engines replaced or have held up well. However, due to the repeated problems with the cylinder block and liners, it might be best to avoid the 1997 model altogether.

Articles in Porsche Panorama magazine explained these problems in detail, offering more reasons to be cautious. It might be wiser to look at other model years for a better investment.

Problems in 1998 Models

Be careful with the 1998 Porsche Boxster models because they’ve some serious engine issues. Here’s what you need to know:

1. Cylinder block porosity: This problem caused coolant leaks and made the engine overheat.
2. Liner problems: These issues led to engine failures.
3. Warranty replacement: Many engines were replaced under warranty, but not all cars got new engines.
4. Mileage factor: Engines with around 30,000 miles might be okay or already replaced.

Porsche Panorama magazine has talked a lot about these problems and suggests being cautious. Avoiding the 1998 models could save you from a lot of trouble and expensive repairs.

Common 1999 Issues

When looking at the 1999 Porsche Boxster, you should know about some common problems. This model year often has issues like tiny holes in the cylinder block, frequent coolant leaks, and a history of engine replacements.

These problems can lead to mechanical failures and expensive repairs, making the 1999 Boxster a year to steer clear of.

Cylinder Block Porosity Problems

In 1999, Porsche Boxster cars often had problems with tiny holes in the cylinder block, leading to oil leaks and engine breakdowns. Porsche did offer warranty replacements for engines with this issue, but you might still face problems.

Here’s how to avoid them:

1. Check for warranty replacements: Make sure the engine has been replaced under warranty.
2. Inspect mileage: Engines with around 30,000 miles are likely either replaced or working fine.
3. Review maintenance history: Look for records of engine repairs or replacements.
4. Consider other years: Since 1999 Boxsters are known for this problem, you might want to avoid that year.

Coolant Leak Concerns

While cylinder block porosity is a concern, 1999 Porsche Boxster owners often face coolant leak issues too. These leaks usually come from bad coolant hoses and parts, causing the coolant system to fail frequently.

If you don’t fix these leaks soon, your car could overheat and get serious engine damage. As a 1999 Porsche Boxster owner, it’s crucial to regularly check and maintain your coolant system to catch and fix problems early.

Taking care of the coolant system can save you money on repairs and make your car last longer. Ignoring these issues can lead to major engine damage, so it’s important to watch out for any signs of coolant leaks.

Engine Replacement History

Early Porsche Boxster models, especially those from 1999 to 2003, are well-known for engine problems like issues with the cylinder liners and frequent engine failures. These problems often led to factory recalls and engine replacements.

If you’re thinking about buying a 1999-2003 Boxster, here are some common issues to watch out for:

1. Engine problems: These are frequent and serious, often due to cylinder liner issues.
2. Cylinder liner issues: These can cause major engine failures.
3. Engine failures: These commonly happened around 30,000 miles and sometimes required completely new engines.
4. Factory recalls: These were issued to fix these problems, but not all cars were covered.

Owners of these models often had to deal with significant maintenance challenges, so it’s important to check if any engine replacements or repairs have been done before you buy.

2000 Model Year Concerns

When looking at Porsche Boxster models, be careful with the ones from 1999-2003 and 2016 because they’ve big engine and electrical problems.

The 1999-2003 models often had engine failures and oil leaks, making them unreliable. The 2003 model also had lots of recalls and serious electrical issues.

The 2016 model had various mechanical and electrical problems that hurt its reputation.

2001 Boxster Problems

Some Porsche Boxster models from certain years are well-known for having specific problems. Common issues include IMS bearing failures that can cause severe engine damage, engine oil leaks, and ongoing problems with the coolant system.

These issues can greatly affect how reliable the car is and how much it costs to maintain.

IMS Bearing Failures

Many Porsche Boxster fans know that IMS bearing failures, especially in models from 1999 to 2003, can cause severe engine damage and high repair costs. If you’re looking to buy a used Boxster, it’s crucial to check if there have been any IMS bearing issues in its service history.

Taking care of this problem early can save you from expensive repairs, which usually cost around $3,000. Talking to reliable mechanics and experienced Porsche owners can give you useful tips on handling IMS bearing failures.

Here are four important steps:

1. Check the service history for any IMS bearing work.
2. Talk to trusted mechanics who know Porsche Boxsters well.
3. Think about upgrading the IMS bearing as a precaution.
4. Set aside some money for possible repairs if you’re buying a 1999 to 2003 model.

Engine Oil Leaks

Engine oil leaks are a common problem in Porsche Boxsters, especially in older models. These leaks usually come from worn-out gaskets and seals or from a damaged oil pan. If you don’t fix these leaks quickly, they can cause serious engine damage, affecting your Boxster’s performance and lifespan.

Regular maintenance and check-ups are crucial to spot and prevent these leaks early. By looking at your gaskets and seals during routine maintenance, you can find potential issues before they get worse. Fixing oil pan damage right away is also important.

Taking these simple steps can help keep your Porsche Boxster in top shape, giving you a reliable and enjoyable driving experience.

Coolant System Issues

Problems with the coolant system are common in various Porsche Boxster models. These issues can show up as overheating, leaks, and low coolant levels, and they can cause serious engine damage if not fixed quickly. Regular checks and maintenance are key to avoiding these problems.

Here are some signs to look out for:

1. Overheating: The engine temperature gauge goes higher than normal.
2. Coolant Leaks: You see puddles under the car or notice the coolant level dropping.
3. Low Coolant Levels: You frequently need to add more coolant.
4. Engine Damage: Overheating can warp engine parts, leading to expensive repairs.

Troubles in 2002 Models

The 2002 Porsche Boxster is known for having problems with its intermediate shaft (IMS) bearing. This issue can cause serious engine damage and expensive repairs. Many owners have faced these problems, which has hurt the car’s reputation for reliability.

If you’re thinking about buying a used Porsche Boxster, be aware that the 2002 model has a higher risk of these costly issues. It might be a year to avoid due to these common and severe problems.

Avoid 2003 Boxsters

If you’re thinking about getting a Porsche Boxster, it’s best to avoid the 2003 model. This year is known for having a lot of problems, especially with electrical systems and overall reliability. Many owners have faced numerous recalls and engine issues, which can be both frustrating and expensive to fix.

Here’s why you should skip the 2003 Porsche Boxster:

1. Lots of recalls: These address various safety and performance problems.
2. Ongoing electrical issues: These can mess with the car’s functionality and reliability.
3. Engine troubles: These can lead to costly repairs and downtime.
4. General reliability problems: This makes it the worst year for the Boxster.

Pick a different year for a better experience.

2004 Reliability Issues

If you’re looking at Porsche Boxster models, you might want to avoid the years 1999-2003 and 2016 because they’ve significant reliability issues.

The 1999-2003 models are known for engine problems that can be very expensive to fix. They also tend to have oil leaks, which add to their unreliability.

The 2003 Boxster is particularly problematic, with many recalls and ongoing electrical issues.

The 2016 Boxster, while better than the older models, still has some reliability concerns. Avoiding these years can save you a lot of trouble and ensure a more dependable driving experience.

Second-Generation Overview

If you’re looking at the second-generation Porsche Boxster, especially the 1999-2003 models, be aware that they’ve several issues that hurt their reliability. These Boxsters are known for:

1. Engine problems: These can be expensive to fix and might make you think twice about buying one.
2. Oil leaks: This is a common problem, especially with the 2003 model, which is often considered one of the worst years.
3. Recalls: There were a lot of recalls during these years, showing ongoing manufacturing issues.
4. Electrical problems: These range from small annoyances to major issues, making the car less dependable.

Because of these reasons, it’s best to avoid the 1999-2003 models to save yourself from potential problems and high repair costs.

IMS Bearing in 2005-2008

If you’re thinking about getting a 2005-2008 Porsche Boxster, you should know that IMS bearing problems are a big worry.

If not fixed early, these issues can lead to expensive engine repairs. Understanding the repair costs and the common problems with the IMS bearing can help you decide wisely.

Common IMS Bearing Issues

Owners of 2005 to 2008 Porsche Boxster models often worry about IMS bearing failures, which can cause severe engine damage. These problems were common and usually led to expensive repairs. To reduce risks, owners should:

1. Regular Checks and Maintenance: Frequently look for signs of wear to avoid unexpected breakdowns.
2. Upgrades: Think about replacing the original IMS bearing with a newer, more reliable version.
3. Ask Questions Before Buying: If you’re buying a 2005-2008 Boxster, ask if the IMS bearing has been inspected or replaced.
4. Get a Pro to Look at It: Have a skilled mechanic check the IMS bearing during routine maintenance.

Following these steps can help you avoid the common issues with these model years.

Cost of IMS Repair

Given the serious problems with the IMS bearing in 2005-2008 Porsche Boxsters, it’s important for current and future owners to know about repair costs. Fixing the IMS bearing can cost about $3,000, which is a lot but necessary to avoid severe engine damage.

Some owners might take the chance and not fix it, but it’s really important to check if the IMS bearing has been upgraded or replaced in these models before buying one. When thinking about buying a Boxster from these years, you should consider the potential IMS repair costs.

Upgrading the IMS bearing can reduce future risks and make owning the car more worry-free and valuable.

Third-Generation Reliability

The third-generation Porsche Boxster, made from 2013 to 2016, is known for being pretty reliable, especially the 2014 and 2015 models. The base models come with a 2.7-liter flat-six engine, while the Boxster S has a 3.4-liter flat-six engine. Improvements in the engines during this time mean there are fewer reported problems, making it a good choice for those wanting a dependable car.

Here are the main points:

1. Engine Reliability: Few problems reported.
2. Model Years: 2014 and 2015 are top-rated.
3. Engine Options: Both the base and S models have strong engines.
4. Limited Reporting: Not many reliability issues noted.

These factors make the third-generation Porsche Boxster known for its reliability.

Fourth-Generation Recalls

While the third-generation Porsche Boxster is known for its reliability, the 2017 fourth-generation model had five recalls that raised concerns about its fuel system and airbags. These recalls pointed out potential safety issues that buyers should keep in mind.

Problems with the fuel system and airbags can seriously affect the driving experience and ownership costs of the 2017 Porsche Boxster. Taking care of these recalls quickly is crucial for keeping your fourth-generation Boxster safe and running well.

If you’re looking at a used 2017 model, make sure all recall-related repairs have been done. Knowing about these recalls helps you make a smart choice and can save you from future problems and costs.

Common Boxster Problems

When checking out a Porsche Boxster, it’s important to know about common problems that might affect your experience. Over the years, the Boxster has had some issues, especially with the engine and oil leaks.

Here are some key problems to watch out for:

1. Engine problems: Models from 1997-1998 had issues with the engine block, which could lead to engine failure.
2. Oil leaks: Models from 1999-2003 often had oil leaks, which can be expensive to fix if not taken care of soon.
3. Electrical issues: The 2003 Boxster had several electrical problems, which led to multiple recalls.
4. Reliability issues: The 2016 Boxster had various reliability problems, making it less dependable compared to other years.

Knowing about these problems will help you make a better decision.

Tips for Buying

To help you avoid common mistakes, here are some practical tips for buying a Porsche Boxster.

First, stay away from models made between 1999-2003 and in 2016, as these often have engine problems and oil leaks. Look into any recalls or common issues for the model year you’re interested in, as these can signal reliability problems.

When checking out a used Boxster, make sure to carefully inspect the engine and look for oil leaks. Confirm that all recall-related repairs have been done by reviewing the car’s service history.

Also, think about getting a professional pre-purchase inspection to spot any hidden issues. By being thorough and well-informed, you can reduce risks and find a dependable Porsche Boxster.

When looking at performance cars, make sure to check out our guides on models like the Porsche Cayenne, Porsche Cayman, Porsche 997 and Porsche 996. Knowing which model years to target and which to avoid is crucial. Our expert reviews break down these models, providing insights into the years that are celebrated for their engineering excellence and driving satisfaction, as well as those that are best to avoid due to potential issues.

Conclusion

So, you’re thinking about getting a Porsche Boxster?

Just be aware that the 1999-2003 and 2016 models are known for engine problems and oil leaks.

It’s better to go for a more reliable year, so you can spend more time driving and less time dealing with repairs.

Choose carefully and enjoy your ride.