1997 Porsche 911 problems
The Porsche 911 (pronounced Nine Eleven or in German: Neunelf) is a two-door 2+2 high performance rear-engined sports car introduced in September 1964 by Porsche AG of Stuttgart, Germany. It has a rear-mounted flat-six engine and originally a torsion bar suspension. The car has been continuously enhanced through the years but the basic concept has remained unchanged. The engines were air-cooled until the introduction of the 996 series in 1998.
The 911 has been raced extensively by private and factory teams, in a variety of classes. It is among the most successful competition cars. In the mid-1970s, the naturally aspirated 911 Carrera RSR won world championship races including Targa Florio and the 24 Hours of Daytona. The 911-derived 935 turbo also won the 24 Hours of Le Mans in 1979. Porsche won the World Championship for Makes in 1976, 1977, 1978, and 1979 with 911-derived models.
In a 1999 poll to determine the Car of the Century, the 911 was fifth. It is one of two in the top five that had remained continuously in production (the original Beetle remained in production until 2003). The one millionth example was manufactured in May 2017 and is in the company's permanent collection.
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Common 1997 Porsche 911 problems
The Porsche 911, specifically the 1997 model, is known for several common problems that can affect its performance and reliability. One of the most common issues is over-revving, which can be caused by drivers being too aggressive with the throttle. This can lead to severe engine damage if not addressed promptly.
Another common problem is a misfiring engine, which can be caused by cracked coil packs. This issue can be resolved by replacing the cracked coil packs with new ones, which are relatively inexpensive.
The Porsche 911's alternator cables can also be prone to faults, leading to decreased battery life and run-time. Replacing the faulty alternator cable with an upgraded one is an easy fix, but routing can be tricky on some models.
Radiators in the nose of the 911 are also prone to leakage, and the vents are typically only washed during servicing by a specialist. This can lead to coolant radiators and aircon condensers found in the nose of the 997 being in poor condition. It is essential to check the state of the radiator with the previous owner or take it to a specialist for inspection.
The ignition switch can also fail, causing the key to become stuck in the ignition switch or preventing the car from starting. This problem is typically caused by a failure in the ignition switch mechanism and can be resolved by replacing the electrical portion of the switch, although replacing the mechanical portion may also be necessary in some cases.
The rear spoiler malfunction is another common problem, which can be expensive to fix. The spoiler raises and lowers based on speed, but failure of this system can lead to costly repairs.
In summary, the Porsche 911 1997 model has several common problems that can affect its performance and reliability. These issues include over-revving, misfiring engine, faulty alternator cables, leaking radiators, ignition switch failure, and rear spoiler malfunction. Regular maintenance and inspection can help prevent these issues and ensure the car's longevity.
Are old Porsche 911 reliable?
Spare parts are still easy to find but expensive when purchased from dealers. Properly maintained, early 911s can be reliable daily drivers that are bound to turn more heads than their modern counterparts, particularly in loud period colors.
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.
What is a 1997 Porsche 911 worth?
Prices for a used 1997 Porsche 911 currently range from $59,888 to $144,999, with vehicle mileage ranging from 34,782 to 97,860.
1997 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:
- Tires problems
- Vehicle speed control problems
- Air bags problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1997 Porsche 911 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
1997 Porsche 911 complaints
The NHTSA has received 3 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1997 Porsche 911.
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-08-06
- VIN: WP0DA2995VS
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: This is the second time this brand of tire has slipped off the wheel while on the Highway at 55 miles an hour or better. It put me as the driver at severe risk and the car has been damaged twice now. The tire size is Continentals Sport Plus 265/35 ZR 18. They were like new with little mileage. This is a collector item car and cost to repair is great, not to mention how it has forever created a fear in me, of having this happen again. I could have been severely injured if I was not such a good driver. I believe it is tire failure as the tire ripped from itself. There is still tire left on the edge of the rim. AAA saw the damage when they came to put on the spare. I will show it to my tire store this week as it happened on a weekend and they were closed. I will also have my car inspected for damage this week. I did take photos both times. Since this is the second time this has happened with the same type of tire, I believe it to be the tire being faulty and is a high risk for severe injury.
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1998-01-01
- VIN: WPOAC2993VS
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: ENGINE RACED TO 4500RPMS FROM 1000 RPMS AND DID NOT IDLE AFTER PULLING OFF THE ROAD. DRIVER TURNED THE IGNITION OFF, RESTARTED AND THE ENGINE RACED TO 4500RPMS. DRIVER INSPECTED THROTTLE AND IT DID NOT APPEAR STUCK. HE BELIEVES IT MAYBE A COMPUTER GLITCH.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1997-01-06
- VIN: WP0AA2995ES
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: AIRBAG WARNING LIGHT CAME ON AND REMAINED ON, DEALER REPLACED AIRBAG UNIT, STILL COMES ON WHILE DRIVING. *AK
1997 Porsche 911 recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 1 recalls for different components of the 1997 Porsche 911.
- Manufacturer: PORSCHE CARS N.A. INC.
- Components: AIR BAGS:ON-OFF SWITCH ASSEMBLY
- Summary: EQUIPMENT DESCRIPTION: CHILD SEATING SYSTEM AIR BAG DEACTIVATION KIT FOR USE ON 1997-1998 911 CARRERA S, CARRERA 4, CARRERA 4S, AND TURBO (1997 MODEL ONLY), PART NO. 993 803 283 00, AND 1997-1998 BOXSTER MODEL VEHICLES, PART NOS. 996 803 283 00 AND 996 803 083 00. DUE TO A MANUFACTURING PROBLEM, THE CONTACT BUCKLE (WHICH IS PART OF THE KIT) DOES NOT DEACTIVATE THE AIR BAG(S).
- Consequence: IN THE EVENT OF A CRASH, THIS RESULTS IN THE DEPLOYMENT OF THE AIR BAG(S) WHICH COULD RESULT IN SEVERE INJURY OR DEATH TO THE CHILD SEAT OCCUPANT.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSTALL A MODIFIED AIR BAG DEACTIVATION KIT.
Negative 1997 Porsche 911 car reviews
Positive 1997 Porsche 911 car reviews
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One of the most enjoyable cars that I have driven. It is both exotic in its performance and modernly comfortable in its demeanor. The acceleration and handling are outstanding. It's great for the open road and fun along the switchbacks. However, as a city car, it is less enjoyable due to poor mileage and the need for constant attention. Overall, though, it can't be beaten for bringing a smile to your face.
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You can buy one now before the price goes up and not worry about the mileage if it has been serviced properly. A lot of people recommend buying the 'newest 911' you can afford, but don't believe it. My car has 180,000 miles and the only service it has needed has been oil changes. Just keep the revs over 3,000 rpms. Even the local Porsche dealership manager drives one! This is the last of the air-cooled 911's and it has evolved to perfection with over 20 years of continuous engineering improvements that came from Porsche's racing engineering history. The new 911's (997 series) are made to look like these. Why? Because it is a mobile Object D'art. My car is 14 years old and still turns heads at the gas pump.
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As a lifelong Porsche owner, I have owned 27 of them over the span of 50 years. My 1997 993 C2S, 6-speed air-conditioned garage queen was purchased from another Porschephile, and I must admit, it's an emotional problem. This car has been truly loved since day one, and it shows. It has been kept in pristine condition with no rain and minimal sun exposure. At 40K miles, I have had to do a few things like cooling fan items ($1200), an alternator replacement (my first in a 911@ $1300), and updated shocks ($3200), but this is a 21-year-old automobile, so what the hell? Overall, these are exceptional automobiles in every way. My opinion comes from over a million miles of driving my various 911's of every utility, including daily drivers, concours, new purchases, used purchases, and racing. The 993 series 911 is exceptional and has evolved over the prior 3+ decades (1964-1997), which is to your benefit on almost every angle. If you're looking for cupholders and such, I think you're looking in the wrong box. These are driver's automobiles meant to be driven and enjoyed (all the while paying close attention!). Some say the interior is That's a personal quote based on decades of experience and personal observation. Go ahead and drive a 993, you'll wonder why it took you so long to do so.
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The 993 is the last of the air-cooled, handmade Porsches. It's not just a beautiful car to look at, but with all-wheel drive and 'big red' brakes, it's a real speed demon on the track. If you're looking for a car to show off on main street, this might not be the one for you. It's a bit primitive, noisy, and the stereo isn't great. But, like an F-16 fighter, it's designed to do one thing and do it better than anything else - get you from point A to point B fast. With the 993 series, the 15K manual valve adjustment requirement is gone and they have no bad habits. If you're looking for a REAL sports car, this is definitely one of the top contenders. And, if it rains, you'll look like Michael Schumacher!
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After owning an 88 911, I found a car for $8500 in showroom condition. The car I had always dreamed of owning is now in my garage. It drives better than any car I have ever driven. It is the pinnacle of sports car ownership, being the last of the air-cooled 911's. If you ever get the chance to drive one, you will see why some people swear by this marque.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1997 Porsche 911 problems:
Buying a used Porsche 911 (996) - 1997-2005, Common Issues ...
Apr 22, 2017 ... https://differentcarreview.com/2019/01/06/porsche-911-996-1997-2005/ Buying a used Porsche 911 996 - produced from 1997 to 2005 What is the ...
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Top 1997 Porsche 911 Problems · Failed Hood and Deck Lid Supports · Engine Oil Leaks · Check Engine Light due to faulty oxygen sensor · Targa top wind noise and ...
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Jun 25, 2023 ... ALL the common issues you need to know if you're looking to buy a 986 Porsche Boxster. Considering Subscribing? Whether you're buying a ...
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Sep 26, 2005 ... Hi all On collection of my 996 C4S a few days ago, the seller mentioned that all 911's have a common fault of flattening the battery after a ...
Things I HATE about my Porsche 993 | EP046 - YouTube
Nov 16, 2017 ... Sadly, the last drive in my 1997 Porsche Carrera 4S of the 2017 driving season here in Toronto, Canada. Join me, as I go for a quick drive ...
Other years of Porsche 911
Are you having problems with your 1997 Porsche 911?
Felipe Schiller 2024-11-23
I purchased my car used with 9,500 miles on it, thinking that buying through a dealer was the right choice. However, at just over 15k miles, the shift fork for 1 and 2 gear cracked. I contacted Porsche and wrote a letter, and they informed me that the original cast fork had a known weakness. They kindly paid the $150 for replacement with a new, updated, forged piece. Unfortunately, I was responsible for the $4600 labor and miscellaneous parts bill. I had a negative experience with this dealer and would not recommend them to others. It's important to be cautious when making a purchase.
Thank you for reading.