Porsche 968 problems
The Porsche 968 is a sports car manufactured by German automobile manufacturer Porsche AG from 1991 until 1995. It was the final evolution of a series of water-cooled front-engine rear wheel drive models begun almost 20 years earlier with the 924, taking over the entry-level position in the company lineup from the 944 from which it was derived. The 968 was Porsche's last new front-engined vehicle before the introduction of the Cayenne SUV in 2003.
History
Porsche's 944 model debuted for the 1982 model year as an evolution of the 924, was updated as "944S" in 1987 and as "944S2" in 1989. Porsche was in significant financial crisis at the time with less interest in its sports cars from customers, especially in the US. The virtually unchanged design of the 944, which was derived from the 924, was showing its age and sales of the model declined. Porsche hence found the need to develop a new entry level model. Shortly after the start of production of the S2 variant, Porsche engineers began working on another set of significant upgrades for the model, as executives were planning a final "S3" variant of the 944 with a design language in line with the models in its lineup in order to save development costs. During the development phase, 80 percent of the 944's mechanical components were either significantly modified or completely replaced by the engineers, leaving so little of the outgoing S2 model that Porsche management chose to introduce the variant as a new model, calling it the 968. In addition to the numerous mechanical upgrades, the new model also received significantly evolved styling both inside and out, with a more modern, streamlined look and more standard luxury amenities than on the 944. To save production costs, production was moved from the Audi plant in Neckarsulm (where the 924 and 944 had been manufactured under contract to Porsche), to Porsche's own factory in Zuffenhausen.
Design
The 968 was mainly a restyled evolution of the 944 with design links visible to its predecessor. Design work was done by Harm Lagaay who had designed the 924 and the 944 as well. The front of the car largely resembled the top-of-the line 928, sharing its exposed pop-up headlamps and the integrated front bumper. This frontal design would eventually appear on the 911 (993) two years later.
The rear of the 968 was also redesigned, featuring fully coloured rounded taillamps. Special bulbs were used in the taillamps which either illuminated a small area in amber colour when the turn signals were activated or in white when the car was reversing. PORSCHE badging was fitted between the taillights just below the model type number. The rear apron was integrated into the smoothened rear bumper.
While the exterior of the car was rounded and smoothed, the interior was largely unchanged and mostly shared with the preceding 944 S2 with the exception of switches and control knobs. The 968 also featured numerous small equipment and detail upgrades from the 944, including a Fuba roof-mounted antenna, updated single lens tail lamps, "Cup" style 16-inch alloy wheels, a wider selection of interior and exterior colours, a slightly updated "B" pillar and rear quarter window to accommodate adhesive installation to replace the older rubber gasket installation.
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Porsche 968 model years
Common Porsche 968 problems
Based on complaints from Porsche 968 owners, several common problems have been reported:
- Clutch Longevity and Dual Mass Flywheel Concerns:
While clutches in Porsche 968 cars are known to last a long time, there have been concerns regarding the dual mass flywheel, which generally needs attention. Owners should be aware of potential issues related to the flywheel to ensure proper functioning of the clutch system.
- Accident Damage and Zinc Coating Issues:
In cases of accident damage to the Porsche 968, there is a risk associated with the zinc coating on sheet metal parts being damaged. This can lead to corrosion and structural integrity problems, highlighting the importance of addressing any accident-related issues promptly to prevent further deterioration.
- Maintenance Costs and Parts Reliability:
Owners have expressed concerns about the maintenance costs of the Porsche 968, noting that repairs can be more expensive than anticipated. Additionally, the availability and pricing of parts for this model have been highlighted as factors to consider when owning and maintaining a Porsche 968.
- Engine Components and Timing Chain Tensioner:
The Porsche 968's engine, particularly the 3.0-litre inline-four with the VarioCam variable valve timing system, has been praised for its performance. However, there have been reports of issues with the camshaft timing chain tensioner, which, if not addressed, can lead to extensive engine damage. Regular maintenance and checks are recommended to ensure the engine's longevity and performance.
These common problems with the Porsche 968 cars emphasize the importance of regular maintenance, prompt attention to any issues, and awareness of potential concerns to ensure the longevity and optimal performance of this classic sports car.
Is the Porsche 968 reliable?
The Porsche 968's qualities are obvious – excellent pulling power, great handling, extremely high manufacturing quality and high reliability.
How rare is a Porsche 968?
And the Porsche 968 Turbo S was meant to be rare, being limited to just 100 unites. Its 350 hp racing version, called the 968 Turbo RS, cost DM 228,000.
What is the oil leak on a Porsche 968?
The 944/968/ and 928 all have the same common oil issues. Oil leaks are often caused by the valve cover seals, front engine seals and engine oil pan gaskets in these models.
What is the top speed of the Porsche 968?
The 968 can attain a top speed of 252 km/h (157 mph) when equipped with the manual transmission and has a 0–100 km/h (62 mph) acceleration time of 6.5 seconds.
Percentage distribution of complaints by Porsche 968 years
We have researched Porsche problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Porsche 968 cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Porsche 968 model years:
Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Porsche 968 model years.
Distribution of the number of complaints by Porsche 968 years
We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:
Porsche 968 car problems categorized by type of issue
After analysing all complaints related to Porsche 968 , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:
- Power train problems
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Structure problems
- Electrical system problems
- Latches/locks/linkages problems
The graph below shows statistics for all Porsche 968 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
The NHTSA has received 12 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Porsche 968 . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Porsche 968 vehicles.
List of Porsche 968 complaints
Porsche 968 1994
- Date Of Incident: 2003-07-14
- Date Complaint: 2003-07-18
- VIN: WP0AA2965RS
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: PINION BEARING FAILURE IN POWER TRAIN OF PORSCHE 968 MODEL CARS - MANUFACTURING DEFECT, WITHOUT RELATIONSHIP TO DRIVING CONDITIONS OR WEAR AND TEAR. MAJOR SAFETY CONCERN. EXTREMELY HIGH COST TO REPAIR - SHOULD BE SUBJECT TO IMMEDIATE RECALL. *JB
Porsche 968 1994
- Date Of Incident: 2003-07-16
- Date Complaint: 2003-07-17
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: THERE EXISTS A KNOWN ISSUE WITH THE PINION BEARING IN THE TRANSAXLE. THIS ISSUE HAS BEEN DOCUMENTED BY DEALERS, CONSUMERS, AND THE MANUFACTURER. TO DATE, THERE HAVE BEEN HUNDREDS OF KNOWN FAILURES - CONSIDERING THAT PORSCHE PRODUCED LESS THAN 12,780 OF THESE VEHICLES WORLDWIDE OVER FOUR YEARS, THE RATIO OF FAILURES IS ALARMINGLY HIGH. TO DATE, PORSCHE HAS REJECTED CLAIMS FROM CONSUMERS FOR THE REPAIR OF FAILED UNITS AND CONTINUES TO IGNORE THE PROBLEM WHICH UNADDRESSED CAN RESULT IN CATASTROPHIC FAILURE AND "COULD" RESULT IN DEATH OR SERIOUS INJURY. THIS IS A REAL SAFETY ISSUE THAT HAS GONE UNRESOLVED LONG ENOUGH. PERHAPS THE SMALL NUMBER OF UNITS MANUFACTURED IS TO BLAME FOR THE PROBLEM TAKING SO LONG TO SURFACE AS A WIDEPREAD ISSUE, BUT THERE IS A GROWING NUMBER OF PEOPLE REPORTING THIS FAILURE ON VARIOUS ONLINE FORUMS AND COMMUNITIES. ORIGINALLY THOUGHT TO HAVE AFFECTED ON A HANDFUL OF UNITS, THE NUMBER KEEPS GROWING AND HAS REACHED A LEVEL WHERE A RECALL SHOULD BE ISSUED FOR ALL UNITS. PLEASE FEEL FREE TO VISIT WWW.968.NET FOR A TASTE OF ANGRY OWNERS.*AK
Porsche 968 1994
- Date Of Incident: 2003-07-16
- Date Complaint: 2003-07-17
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: KNOWN PINION BEARING ISSUE HAS BEEN IGNORED BY PORSCHE FOR YEARS. THERE ARE HUNDREDS OF KNOWN CASES OF THIS BEARING FAILURE YET PORSCHE OUTRIGHT DENIES A PROBLEM. WITH LESS THAN 12,780 UNITS PRODUCED WORLDWIDE OVER FOUR YEARS, THE RATIO OF FAILED UNITS OF QUITE HIGH BY ANY STANDARD. THERE EXISTS THE POTENTIAL OF CAUSUALTIES SHOULD THIS FAILURE BE IGNORED AND OCCUR WHILE DRIVING IN TRAFFIC. WHILE THERE TYPICALLY IS WARNING THAT THE BEARING IS FAILING, MANY PEOPLE CONTINUE TO DRIVE THE VEHICLE NOT KNOWING THE POTENTIAL RISK. PORSCHE SHOULD ISSUE A MODEL WIDE RECALL AND ADDRESS THIS ISSUE IN ALL 968 PRODUCED OVER THE FOUR YEAR PRODUCTION RUN AS THE FAILURE HAS BEEN REPORTED IN UNITS FROM EACH YEAR OF MANUFACTURE. PLEASE VISIST WWW.968.NET FOR A DISCUSSION ON THIS MATTER. YOU WILL HEAR THE NIGHTMARE STORIES FROM MANY 968 OWNERS - FROM THE FAILURE ITSELF, TO TRYING TO GET PORSCHE TO STEP UP AND TAKE RESPONSIBILITY. YOU WILL ALSO FIND THAT PORSCHE DOES, IN FACT, KNOW ABOUT THIS ISSUE AND CONTINUES TO IGNORE IT AND DISMISS ANY CLAIMS FOR REPAIRS FROM OWNERS.*AK
Porsche 968 1994
- Date Of Incident: 2002-08-31
- Date Complaint: 2002-09-02
- VIN: WPOAA2963RS
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: ALL ELECTRICAL POWER STOPS ABRUPTLY IMMEDIATELY KILLING THE ENGINE AND ALL POWER TO LIGHTS. YOU CAN'T EVEN PUT ON EMERGENCY FLASHERS SINCE THERE IS NO ELECTRICAL POWER. APPEARS TO HAPPEN WHEN A HIGHER ELECTRICAL LOAD IS INTRODUCED SUCH AS A/C OR HIGH BEAMS ARE USED. MOST RECENTLY, THIS HAPPENED ON A TWO LANE HIGHWAY WHERE THE ONLY LIGHTS AVAILABLE WERE THE VEHICLE HEADLIGHTS. WHEN ALL POWER STOPPED AT CLOSE TO 60MPH IT WAS PITCH BLACK. WITHOUT KNOWING THE SIDE OF THE ROAD, I HAD NO CHOICE BUT TO PULL OVER MISSING A TELEPHONE POLE AT 50MPH BY INCHES. THE RESULTING INSPECTION SHOWS THE WIRING HARNESS CLOSE TO THE WINDSHIELD UNDER THE PASSENGER SIDE WINDSHIELD WIPER SHOWS THAT IF YOU WIGGLE THE WIRING HARNESS, ALL POWER IS RESTORED. THE ENGINE WILL START AT THIS POINT AND THE VEHICLE CAN CONTINUE UNTIL THE NEXT POWER SURGE WHICH THEN KILLS THE ENGINE AND ALL LIGHTS ONCE AGAIN. NO FUSES ARE AFFECTED BY THIS.*AK
Porsche 968 2001
- Date Of Incident: 2001-09-24
- Date Complaint: 2001-09-25
- VIN: WP0AA29982S
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: THIS PROBLEM IS AFFECTING CARS IN WARMER CLIMATES. I WOULD LIKE TO SEE PORSCHE CARS OF NORTH AMERICA HALT DELIVERY OF THESE CARS UNTIL THIS ISSUE IS RESOLVED. NO SAFETY DEFECT LISTED. *AK
Porsche 968 2001
- Date Of Incident: 2001-09-24
- Date Complaint: 2001-09-25
- VIN: WP0AA29982S
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: THIS PROBLEM IS AFFECTING CARS IN WARMER CLIMATES. I WOULD LIKE TO SEE PORSCHE CARS OF NORTH AMERICA HALT DELIVERY OF THESE CARS UNTIL THIS ISSUE IS RESOLVED. NO SAFETY DEFECT LISTED. *AK
Porsche 968 1993
- Date Of Incident: 2000-05-15
- Date Complaint: 2000-07-25
- VIN: WPOAA296XPS
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: THIS FAILURE HAS OCCURRED ON OVER 100 OTHER PORSCHE 968 OWNERS (LIST ON INTERNET UNDER 968 CLUB). PORSCHE REFUSES TO IDENTIFY THIS WIDE SPREAD MANUFACTURING DEFECT AS A RECALL. THIS INHERENT FAILURE DUE TO MANUFACTURING MIS ALIGNMENTS IN THE PINION BEARINGS THAT OCCURRED DURING MANUFACTURING COULD LEAD TO SERIOUS INJURIES.*AK
Porsche 968 1995
- Date Of Incident: 2000-03-15
- Date Complaint: 2000-04-12
- VIN: WP0CA2963SS
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: PINION BEARING, FAILED RESULTING IN $1,800 REPAIR TO TRANSMISSION; ACCORDING TO PORSCHE DEALERSHIP THIS FAILURE WAS A RESULT OF A MANUFACTURING DEFECT, AND IS PRESENT IN MOST 968'S. *AK
Porsche 968 1993
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Date Complaint: 1999-06-03
- VIN: WPOAA2964PS
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: TRANSMISSION FAILED DUE TO TOO MUCH FACTORY PRE-LOAD ON THE PINION BEARINGS AND ASSOCIATED PARTS. MJS
Porsche 968 1993
- Date Of Incident: 1997-06-09
- Date Complaint: 1999-04-22
- VIN: WPOAA2964PS
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: MANUAL TRANSMISSION FAILURE(BEARING AND GEAR SET WEAR) CAUSED BY TOO MUCH FACTORY PRE-LOAD ON BEARING/GEAR SET ASSEMBLY. *AK
Porsche 968 1997
- Date Of Incident: 1997-10-01
- Date Complaint: 1998-07-03
- VIN: WPOACA2988V
- Components: LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
- Summary: DOOR LOCK FAILED.
Porsche 968 1995
- Date Of Incident: 1995-08-11
- Date Complaint: 1995-08-11
- VIN: WP0CA2997SS
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: PROBLEM WITH CONVERTIBLE TOP. *AK
Latest positive Porsche 968 car reviews
Are you having problems with your Porsche 968?
Watson Gerhold 2025-02-20
Vehicle year: 1995
Your Porsche 968 sounds amazing! It's great to hear that it has such power and handles curves so well. It's also impressive that it's easy to maintain and costs less than a Corolla. The fact that you can travel long distances without stopping for gas is incredible! It's also great to hear that the car is comfortable for you, even at 6'4. The fact that you can fit your bike without taking off the front wheel, or two dogs or two travel luggage is really convenient. It's no surprise that people compliment your car, it sounds like a real head-turner! And it's great that kids love it too. Thanks for sharing your love for your 968 Porsche!
Trey Cruickshank 2025-02-15
Vehicle year: 1994
The 968 is one of the best-kept secrets in the Porsche world. It's fast, reliable, comfortable, and even reasonably economical (> 20 mpg). But what sets it apart is its superb cornering. The handling on twisty roads is so agile and graceful that it's easy to lose track of how fast you're going. It has the precision feel of a surgeon's scalpel; a Corvette feels heavy and clunky in comparison. Another fun aspect is that the 968 is one of the rarest Porsche models, so not many people know what it is. It's a gorgeous car, and it's amusing to watch people try to figure out what it is. Be careful of people driving erratically while they cruise by staring at your 968 (not kidding).
Grayce Bernhard 2025-02-06
Vehicle year: 1995
The 968 Cabriolet sounds like a fantastic car! It has great styling, goes when you step on the gas, and handles like it is on rails. It also has a practical side with a reasonable trunk (enough for a couple bags of golf clubs), and some storage space behind the seats. The 968 is well built and reliable. It seems like it would make a great every day driver. The engine seems bullet proof and runs as well with 100k miles as it did when the car was first purchased.
Leone Schimmel 2025-01-12
Vehicle year: 1994
This is a great car! It's fun to drive, has nice performance, good fuel economy, and is very reliable.
Davin Beier 2025-01-07
Vehicle year: 1993
This is actually my second Porsche! My first was a 928S, which was a more powerful and luxurious sports car. However, I prefer my 968 because of its agility, design, handling, and practicality. My 968 cabriolet is a 1992 model and still turns heads 12 years later. It was always on my wish list, and I happened to spot it at a dealership one night. I just had to have it, so the next morning I took the day off from work and was there before opening with $$! To all prospective 968 owners: if you're looking for an affordable, reliable Porsche, this is the car to get. Sorry guys, mine is not for sale. Remember, 'Porsche: There is no Substitute'!