1996 Porsche 911 carrera cabriolet problems
The Porsche 991 is the seventh generation of the Porsche 911 sports car, which was unveiled at the 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show on 15 September as the replacement for the 997. The 991 was an entirely new platform, only the third since the original 911 launched in 1963 (the 996 of 1999 was the second new platform). Production of the 991 generation ended on December 20, 2019, with 233,540 units produced.
Design
Compared to the 997, the 991 is slightly larger, with the wheelbase increased by 100 mm (3.9 in) to 2,450 mm (96.5 in), and the overall length up by 70 mm (2.8 in) to 4,490 mm (176.8 in). A new transaxle was developed so that the rear wheels could be moved 76 mm (3 in) backward in relation to the position of the engine, which significantly improves the weight distribution and cornering performance of the car.
Due to the use of high-strength steel, aluminium and some composites, the weight was reduced to 1,380 kg (3,042 lb) for the manual Carrera, rising to 1,605 kg (3,538 lb) for the all wheel drive Turbo model if equipped with the PDK transmission (Porsche Doppelkupplung). PDK is available as an option for all 911 Carrera and 911 Turbo (991.1 Non S) models as a 7-speed transmission, featuring manual and automatic modes. Gears 1 to 6 have a sports ratio and top speed is reached in 6th gear. 7th gear has a long ratio and helps to reduce fuel consumption by keeping engine revs low. The PDK is essentially two gearboxes merged into a single unit and thus requires two clutches. For all 991 models, the PDK is produced by ZF Friedrichshafen. The auto start/stop function is standard on all variants of the 911 Carrera.
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Common 1996 Porsche 911 carrera cabriolet problems
The Porsche 911 Carrera Cabriolet 1996, while highly regarded for its performance and design, is not without its common problems. These issues are primarily related to the engine, steering, suspension, and electrical systems, as reported by owners of this car.
- Engine: The 1996 Porsche 911 Carrera Cabriolet is equipped with a 3.6-liter flat-six engine, which is the final version of the air-cooled 911 engine. Many of these engines emit a puff of smoke on startup, indicating worn valve guides. A pre-purchase inspection (PPI) with a leakdown test should reveal the extent of the problem. All 1996 and later 993s are likely to encounter the infamous secondary air-injection clog, which trips the check-engine light. Cleaning can be expensive. It is crucial to verify whether all recalls have been performed and to check the engine for oil drips.
- Leaky Rack-and-Pinion Steering Gear: The steering gear in the 993-series Porsche 911 is prone to leaking, which can result in a loss of steering fluid and reduced steering performance. This issue can be identified by checking for wet spots or leaks around the steering gearbox.
- Excessive Oil Consumption: Some 1996 Porsche 911 Carrera Cabriolet models may experience excessive oil consumption, which can be caused by various factors, including worn piston rings or valve guides. This issue can be diagnosed by monitoring the oil level and frequency of oil top-ups.
- Rust Around the Windshield Seal: The area around the windshield seal is susceptible to rust, particularly in regions with harsh winter conditions. This issue can be identified by checking for rust spots or bubbling paint around the windshield seal.
- Weak Air Conditioning (A/C): Some owners have reported issues with the A/C system in the 993-series Porsche 911, which may not blow cold air or may have reduced cooling performance. This issue can be diagnosed by checking the refrigerant levels and the condition of the A/C compressor.
- Electrical Gremlins: The 1996 Porsche 911 Carrera Cabriolet, like many cars of its era, can be prone to electrical issues, including malfunctioning sensors, faulty wiring, and blown fuses. These issues can be diagnosed by performing a thorough electrical system check and addressing any identified problems.
In summary, the 1996 Porsche 911 Carrera Cabriolet is a high-performance sports car with a unique air-cooled engine and classic design. However, potential buyers should be aware of these common problems and consider them when evaluating the car's condition and pricing. Regular maintenance and inspections can help prevent or address these issues, ensuring the longevity and enjoyment of this iconic sports car.
Are Porsche 911 high maintenance?
RepairPal, a website that compiles data on the costs of vehicle maintenance, estimates that the average Porsche costs around $1,192 per year to repair and maintain. This is about 83% more than the industry average of $652.
What is the weakness of the Porsche 996?
The rear main oil seals were a weak point on Porsches of this era and leaks are not uncommon. Although the seal itself is an inexpensive part, labour for the replacement is costly because it is very difficult to access. If you spot an oil leak on the 996 you plan to buy, ask a Porsche specialist to look at it.
What is the mileage of Porsche 911 Carrera Cabriolet?
What is the mileage of Porsche 911 Carrera S Cabriolet? Porsche 911 Carrera S Cabriolet mileage is 8.80 KM/L as per ARAI.
Is 911 Carrera reliable?
According to motorbiscuit.com, the Porsche 911 is one of the most dependable cars you could own, even more reliable than some traditional options from Honda. It's one of the best choices if you want to purchase a luxury sports car with some history. There are some issues with the Porsche 911, as with any vehicle.
1996 Porsche 911 carrera cabriolet car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Porsche 911 carrera cabriolet problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Air bags problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1996 Porsche 911 carrera cabriolet vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
1996 Porsche 911 carrera cabriolet complaints
The NHTSA has received 1 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1996 Porsche 911 carrera cabriolet.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-04-25
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- VIN: WP0CA2993TS
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: I WORK AT A SMALL REPAIR FACILITY WHO SPECIALIZE IN FOREIGN CARS. I PERFORMED WORK ON MY CUSTOMERS 1996 911 CAB. THE HORN WAS BLOWING ALL THE TIME, MY CUSTOMER REMOVED THE FUSE AND ASKED ME TO CHECK THE PROBLEM. I REMOVED THE AIR BAG AND FOUND THE RUBBER INSULATOR HAD BROKEN AND THE RETAINING FRAME WAS MAKING CONSTANT CONTACT. I REPLACED THE RETAINING FRAME PART# 993 347 08 801 . INSTALLED THE AIRBAG AND REINSERTED THE FUSE. THE HORN IS NOW WORKING. I ALSO CHECK FOR CODES IN THE AIRBAG SYSTEM. FOUND CODE 2 AIRBAG WARNING LIGHT ON , CODE 30 IGNITION CIRCUIT SIDE AIRBAG PASSENGER . I ADVISED THE CUSTOMER AND HE TOOK THE VEHICLE. HE RETURNED A COUPLE HOURS LATER . THE DRIVERS SIDE AIRBAG HAD DEPLOYED ,CAUSING BURNS TO HIS CHEST AND A NEAR CRASH. I CHECKED AND FOUND A RECALL HAD BEEN PERFORMED SOME TIME AGO TO REPLACE THE HORN RELAY FOR THIS CONCERN. NHTSA 98V089001. IT HAS THE CORRECT RELAY IN THE VEHICLE. MY QUESTION IS HAVE THERE BEEN OTHER INCIDENTS OF POST RECALL DEPLOYMENT? THE CUSTOMER IS OF COURSE BLAMING MY SHOP. I HAVE NOT REMOVED THE AIRBAG OR ANY THING ELSE AS I AM REQUESTING HELP FROM PORSCHE IN DETERMINING THE ROOT CAUSE OF DEPLOYMENT. I HAVE NO PROBLEM REPLACING THE AIR BAG AND STEERING WHEEL IF IT IS AN ERROR ON MY PART. BUT DO NOT WANT TO GO THRU THE EXPENSE JUST TO HAVE IT HAPPEN AGAIN IF THE RELAY OR CONTROL MODULE WAS THE CAUSE. I FEEL THIS IS A SAFETY CONCERN AND A DELICATE MATTER BUT FURTHER NEED TO KNOW WHO I SHOULD CONTACT FOR ASSISTANCE. ALSO NO WARNING LABELS ARE ATTACHED ANYWHERE STATING THIS COULD BE A POTENTIAL PROBLEM. ANY REASONABLE PERSON WOULD AGREE THAT AN AIRBAG DEPLOYMENT UNEXPECTED COULD BE FATAL. A REASONABLE PERSON WOULD ALSO AGREE THERE SHOULD BE A WARNING OF SOME SORT ON THE RELAY OR FUSE BOX STATING THIS POTENTIAL HAZARD AS WELL. *TR
1996 Porsche 911 carrera cabriolet recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 1 recalls for different components of the 1996 Porsche 911 carrera cabriolet.
- Manufacturer: PORSCHE CARS NORTH AMERICA, INC.
- Components: STRUCTURE:BODY:ROOF AND PILLARS
- Summary: ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES, THE SOFTTOP STRUCTURE CATCH LEVER TENSION CAN EASE RESULTING IN A CRACK.
- Consequence: THE SOFTTOP CAN INADVERTENTLY OPEN STARTLING THE DRIVER, WHICH COULD RESULT IN A CRASH.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE ROOF ALIGNMENT AND ROOF LOCKING PINS. IN ADDITION, THE TWO ROOF LOCKING MOTORS WILL BE REPLACED. ALSO A NEW SENSOR SYSTEM WITHIN THE MOTOR ASSEMBLY WILL PROVIDE AN IMPROVED CONTROL SIGNAL TO THE INSTRUMENT CLUSTER IF THE ROOF IS NOT PROPERLY CLOSED WHEN THE DRIVER DRIVES OFF. THE RECALL BEGAN JANUARY 18, 2005. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT PORSCHE AT 1-800-545-8039.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1996 Porsche 911 carrera cabriolet problems:
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