1992 Porsche 911 problems

Common 1992 Porsche 911 problems

The Porsche 911 1992, also known as the Porsche 964, is a beloved classic car that has its fair share of common problems. Here are some of the issues that Porsche 911 1992 owners frequently encounter, based on reports and complaints from various sources.

• Perished front suspension bushes: This is a common problem affecting the ride of the Porsche 964. Replacing the perished bushes is a simple and relatively inexpensive repair that can significantly improve the car's handling and comfort.

• Oil leaks: As with any car of this age, the Porsche 964 can be susceptible to oil leaks. Two areas that need particularly close attention are the cylinder base and the pipes between the dry sump oil tank and the engine. Early Porsche 964s were infamous for oil leaks from around the cylinder base, and later models can also suffer from this issue. The pipes between the dry sump oil tank and the engine are also prone to leaks due to corrosion.

• Dual mass flywheel (DMF) failure: This is perhaps the most notorious issue to have afflicted the Porsche 964. DMFs are wear and tear items that will have to be replaced from time to time. If they are nearing the end of their life, you will want it to be reflected in the purchase price. While checking for wear, take a look at the callipers, as corrosion is common, and you should consider how likely they are to need replacement in the near future.

• Distributor vent kit: A design fault on the 964 resulted in the rubber distributor belt perishing due to a build-up of ozone within the distributor. A failure could cause serious engine damage. A relatively inexpensive vent kit can be retrofitted to prevent the problem and is worth having done if the current one hasn't been replaced.

• All-wheel drive: Not so much a technical problem, but some drivers really dislike the Porsche 964 C4’s all-wheel drive system. It does feel very different to those on later 911s and can suffer badly from understeer. A long-ish test drive is recommended to check if you can live with it.

• Engine rebuilds: Don't immediately be put off if a Porsche 964 has had an engine rebuild – it is likely to be a good thing. Many owners noticed a drop-off in power and a rise in oil consumption as their 964 headed towards 90,000 miles, and a partial or complete engine rebuild with new valves and piston rings can address these issues. Before parting with your cash for a 964, it is well worth asking an expert to inspect the condition of the engine and assess whether it will need a rebuild soon or if it has been rebuilt to a high standard.

• Performance modifications: Many Porsche enthusiasts love to modify their 911s in an attempt to maximize the performance. Popular work includes remapping the ECU for additional horsepower, exhaust upgrades, and lowered suspensions. Extensive upgrades may be an indication that the car has been thrashed on the track, and you will probably need to inform insurers about them.

In summary, the Porsche 911 1992, or Porsche 964, is a classic car that requires proper maintenance and care to keep it in good condition. While there are common problems associated with this model, many of them can be addressed with simple repairs or upgrades. If you're considering purchasing a Porsche 964, it's essential to have a full service history, look for evidence of proper maintenance, and consider having an independent Porsche specialist undertake a full Pre Purchase Inspection and prepare a condition report.

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 years did Porsche have engine problems?

The Porsche IMS bearing problem years are from 1997 to 2005, with the M96 or M97 engine in these models being particularly susceptible. The single-row bearing used from model year 2000 through 2005 is of the greatest concern. However, any IMS bearing can and will fail if not replaced as part of regular maintenance.

Is the Porsche 911 a reliable car?

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.

How long do Porsche 911 engines last?

A well-maintained Porsche 911 can last 100,000 to 200,000 miles. If you drive around 13,500 miles per year, which is the average annual mileage for most drivers, your 911 can last for 15 years. With meticulous care and less usage, this car can last over 15 years.

1992 Porsche 911 car problems categorized by type of issue

After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Porsche 911 problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:

• Service brakes problems
• Structure problems

The graph below shows statistics for all 1992 Porsche 911 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.