1987 Porsche 944s problems
The Porsche 944 is a sports car manufactured by German automobile manufacturer Porsche from 1982 until 1991. A front-engine, rear-wheel drive mid-level model based on the 924 platform, the 944 was available in coupé or cabriolet body styles, with either naturally aspirated or turbocharged engines. With over 163,000 cars produced, the 944 was the most successful sports car in Porsche's history until the introductions of the Boxster and 997 Carrera.
Extensive design revisions for the 1992 model year prompted Porsche to drop the 944 nameplate and rebrand the vehicle as the 968.
History
The 924 had originally been a project of VW-Porsche, a joint Porsche/Volkswagen company incorporated to develop and produce the 914 which was sold in Europe badged as both a Porsche and a Volkswagen. In 1972, a replacement for the Volkswagen version of the 914, code named EA-425 began development. The model was to be sold as an Audi as part of the VW-Audi-Porsche marketing arrangement. Porsche was to manufacture its own version of the car. At one point, Volkswagen head Rudolf Leidig declared the EX-425 was going to be a Volkswagen exclusively, thus denying Porsche's version of the 914's replacement. Although testing had begun in the Spring of 1974, Volkswagen cancelled the EX-425 program, the reason being significant financial losses due to declining sales and rising development costs for new vehicles as well as the departure of Leidig. The recently introduced Volkswagen Scirocco was expected to fill the sports coupé market segment and the unfinished project was handed over to Audi to serve as the replacement for the Audi 100.
The cancellation of the EX-425 program led Porsche to market an entry level car to replace the 912E, which was a US-only stop-gap model for 1976, and their version of the 914, which was discontinued in 1975. Porsche purchased the design and the finished development mule with a Bosch K-Jetronic mechanical fuel injection system from Volkswagen. The vehicle, dubbed the 924, received positive reviews, but was criticised by Porsche enthusiasts for its Audi-sourced 2.0 L engine. In 1979, Porsche introduced a Turbocharged version of the 924 to increase performance, but this model carried a high price. Rather than scrapping the model from its line-up, Porsche decided to develop the 944, as they had done with generations of the 911; although model numbers would change, the 924 would provide the basis for this new mid level model.
The prototype of this mid level model debuted at LeMans in 1981, an unusual strategy implemented by Porsche at the time. Called the 924 GTP LeMans, the car was based on the 924 Carrera GT LeMans that competed in the event prior to the GTP's introduction. The most noticeable change in the new race car was the departure from the Audi sourced 2.0 L inline-4 engine in favour of the 2.5 L engine developed by Porsche. The new engine was mounted at an angle of 45 degree to the right and utilised a dual overhead camshaft along with counter rotating balance shafts, an unusual feature for its time that provided better weight distribution and ensured smooth power delivery by eliminating inherent vibrations resulting in the engine lasting longer. A single KKK turbocharger producing 15.5 psi (1.1 bar) enabled the engine to generate a maximum power output of 420 PS (309 kW; 414 hp) at 6,800 rpm. The engine also utilised Bosch's prototype Motronic engine management system to control ignition timing, fuel injection and boost pressure. The new race car proved to be much more fuel efficient than its predecessor, stopping only 21 times in 24 hours for fuel. The 924 GTP managed seventh position overall behind the race winning 936 and a class win at the GTP+ 3.0 category in 1981 before being retired and stored in the Porsche museum. In 1982, Porsche debuted the production road legal version of the race car, called the 944. The car utilised many technologies its race bred sibling had used, including the balance shafts and the engine management system, but power was toned down for safety purposes.
The new all-alloy 2,479 cc (2.5 L; 151.3 cu in) inline-four engine, with a bore of 100 mm (3.94 in) and stroke of 78.9 mm (3.11 in), was in essence, half of the later 928's 5.0 L V8 engine, although very few parts were actually interchangeable. Not typical in luxury sports cars, the four-cylinder engine was chosen for fuel efficiency and size, because it had to be fitted from below on the Neckarsulm production line. To overcome roughness caused by the unbalanced secondary forces that are typical of inline four-cylinder engines, Porsche included two counter-rotating balance shafts running at twice the engine speed. Invented in 1904 by British engineer Frederick Lanchester, and further developed and patented in 1975 by Mitsubishi Motors, balance shafts carry eccentric weights which produce inertial forces that balance out the unbalanced secondary forces, making a four-cylinder engine feel as smooth as a six-cylinder engine. Porsche spent some time trying to develop their own system, but when they realised that they could not improve on the system developed by Mitsubishi, they chose to pay the licensing fees rather than come up with a variation just different enough to circumvent the patent. The licensing fees were about US$7–8 per car, which translated to about US$100 (equivalent to $316 in 2023) for the consumer to pay. The engine was factory-rated at 150 hp (112 kW; 152 PS) in its U.S. configuration. Revised bodywork with wider wheel arches, similar to that of the 924 Carrera GT, a fresh interior and upgrades to the braking and suspension systems rounded out the major changes.
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Common 1987 Porsche 944s problems
The Porsche 944, introduced in 1982 and produced until 1991, is a front-engine coupe that came in three trims: a base model, a turbo model, and an S model, which was updated in 1989 and referred to as the S2. While the 944 is generally reliable, there are several common problems that arise, particularly as the cars age.
One of the most well-known issues is the timing belt failure, which is particularly problematic because the 944 engines are interference engines. This means that if the timing belt breaks, the valves and pistons will collide, potentially causing significant damage to the engine. The timing belt is made of rubber and is susceptible to wear and tear, loosening, and even snapping if the rubber becomes torn or brittle. Replacing the valves and pistons requires opening up the engine, which is a labor-intensive and expensive process.
Another common problem is the failure of the cam chain tensioner, which is particularly prevalent in the 944S and S2 models. If the cam chain tensioner fails, it can destroy the engine. The turbo, turbo s, and base models, which are single-cam engines, do not have this issue.
The DME relay, which controls the fuel injection and ignition systems, can also fail. This can result in erratic interior temperature, as the servo motor may not function properly. Replacing both the computer and the servo is necessary when this happens, which can be expensive.
The water pump, which circulates coolant through the engine, can also fail. This can lead to overheating and engine damage. Regular maintenance and inspection of the water pump is essential to prevent this problem.
The odometer is another component that frequently fails, and most 944s already have broken odometers. The dashboard also cracks easily, and the rear hatch window can become separated from the frame when new trunk struts are installed.
In addition to these specific problems, there are several maintenance items that will need to be addressed as the 944 ages. The cost of replacing these items is not cheap, making the 944 an expensive car to own.
When properly maintained, the Porsche 944 is reliable, with none of the models or engines suffering from any catastrophic engine problems outside of potential damage caused by timing belt failure. However, there are many small items that will arise, and regular maintenance is essential to ensure reliability.
What are common problems with Porsche 944?
Porsche 944 Common Issues Listed
- Engine Concerns. Oil and Coolant Leaks — Like many vintage cars, the Porsche 944 is prone to oil and coolant leaks. ...
- Electrical System Issues. ...
- Suspension Wear and Tear. ...
- Steering System Leaks. ...
- Interior Aging. ...
- Body and Exterior Concerns.
Are 944s reliable?
These cars can and will be very reliable as long as you carry out regular maintenance and don't cut corners. With the 944 also gaining value incredibly quickly in recent years, there's been no better time to buy and enjoy yourself an affordable way into classic Porsche ownership.
Is Porsche 944 hard to maintain?
For the most part, not a bad car to work on. The 944 non-turbo engine is readily accesible and the 944 is a pretty simple 8 valve design. Other models would be a lot more difficult - Turbo, S and S2. The turbos have a lot of extra plumbing making access a little more difficult.
Do 944s handle well?
The controls are positioned exactly right, and the car is wonderfully tolerant at the limit. Understeer is gentle under power, replaced by a nice tuck-in when you lift. In part because of the gradual nature of the Pirelli P6s, the 944 is terrifically slidable.
1987 Porsche 944s car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Porsche 944s problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Engine and engine cooling problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1987 Porsche 944s vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
1987 Porsche 944s complaints
The NHTSA has received 3 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1987 Porsche 944s.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: WPOAA0947HN
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: CAM BELT IN MOTOR FAILED. NLM
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: WPOAA0947HN
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: CAM BELT IN MOTOR FAILED. NLM
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2000-03-27
- VIN: WP0AA0947HN
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: NO POWER ON HIGHWAY; THIS IS A SERIOUS SAFETY MATTER. PLEASE REVIEW NUMBER OF ENGINE FAILURES IN THIS MODEL. ANY FATALITIES AS A RESULT OF THIS PROBLEM? MANUFACTURER RECALL ON THE FAILED PART--OBVIOUSLY AN INEFFECTUAL REPAIR OF THE PROBLEM. *AK
1987 Porsche 944s recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 1 recalls for different components of the 1987 Porsche 944s.
- Manufacturer: PORSCHE CARS N.A. INC.
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:FUEL INJECTION SYSTEM:FUEL RAIL
- Summary: THE HOSE MATERIAL USED IN THE SHORT SECTION OF THE HIGH PRESSURE FUEL LINE HOSE, BETWEEN THE FUEL RAIL AND FUEL PRESSURE REGULATOR, IS SUBJECT TO HARDENING, AND COULD CAUSE FUEL LEAKS BETWEEN THE HOSE AND THE METAL PIPE FITTINGS.
- Consequence: FUEL LEAKS COULD IGNITE ON THE HOT EXHAUST SYSTEM, OR ANY OTHER SOURCE OF IGNITION, RESULTING IN AN ENGINE COMPARTMENT FIRE.
- Remedy: REPLACE FUEL LINE HOSE WITH HOSES MADE OF IMPROVED MATERIAL.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1987 Porsche 944s problems:
Porsche 944 Common Problems? : r/944
Jan 5, 2019 ... Roof leaks, electrical problems, odometer gear, fog lights. If you neglect the timing belt change the engine will destroy itself. It's generally ...
common problems with 944 turbo - Rennlist - Porsche Discussion ...
Mar 27, 2003 ... 944 Turbo and Turbo-S Forum - common problems with 944 turbo - hey there guys, im brand new to the world of the porsche 944 and im looking ...
What are some common problems with a 1988 Porsche 944? - Quora
Jan 21, 2018 ... I had an '87 944 Turbo that was unloved by the previous owner so my ownership consisted of freshening up things and fixing what was broken.
Porsche 944 Questions - future owner - CarGurus
Aug 23, 2009 ... A common problem with early 944 and 924 is the fuse box. The fuse contacts and the connectors to the back of the fuse block tend to corrode ...
Porsche 944 Common Issues — A Porsche Mechanic's Take ...
Dec 13, 2023 ... Engine Concerns. Oil and Coolant Leaks — Like many vintage cars, the Porsche 944 is prone to oil and coolant leaks. Regular checks for puddles ...
Other years of Porsche 944s
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