Porsche Boxster problems

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The Porsche Boxster and Cayman are mid-engine two-seater sports cars manufactured and marketed by German automobile manufacturer Porsche across four generations—as a two-door, two-seater roadster (Boxster) and a three-door, two-seater fastback coupé (Cayman).

The first generation Boxster was introduced in 1996; the second generation Boxster and the Cayman arrived in late 2005; and the third generation launched in 2012. Since the introduction of the fourth generation in 2016, the two models have been marketed as the Porsche 718 Boxster and Porsche 718 Cayman.

The nameplate Boxster is a portmanteau of boxer, a reference to its flat or boxer engine, and roadster, a reference to the body style. The nameplate Cayman is an alternative spelling of caiman, a member of the alligator family.

photo of Porsche Boxster car production

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Porsche Boxster model years

porsche boxster 2017 photo
Boxster 2017
Porsche

1

1

0

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
porsche boxster 2015 photo
Boxster 2015
Porsche

3

2

43

2.2
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
porsche boxster 2014 photo
Boxster 2014
Porsche

2

3

34

2.2
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
porsche boxster 2013 photo
Boxster 2013
Porsche

10

1

24

2.7
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
porsche boxster 2012 photo
Boxster 2012
Porsche

1

1

42

2.1
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
porsche boxster 2006 photo
Boxster 2006
Porsche

5

0

40

2.2
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
porsche boxster 2005 photo
Boxster 2005
Porsche

19

0

47

1.8
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
porsche boxster 2004 photo
Boxster 2004
Porsche

3

3

50

2.2
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
porsche boxster 2003 photo
Boxster 2003
Porsche

17

4

50

2.6
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
porsche boxster 2002 photo
Boxster 2002
Porsche

11

4

46

1.9
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
porsche boxster 2001 photo
Boxster 2001
Porsche

13

4

49

1.9
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
porsche boxster 2000 photo
Boxster 2000
Porsche

5

3

50

2.6
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
porsche boxster 1999 photo
Boxster 1999
Porsche

28

3

36

2.3
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
porsche boxster 1998 photo
Boxster 1998
Porsche

34

4

26

2.2
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
porsche boxster 1997 photo
Boxster 1997
Porsche

23

6

15

2.1
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
porsche boxster 1989 photo
Boxster 1989
Porsche

1

0

0

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1

Common Porsche Boxster problems

The Porsche Boxster, a high-performing sports car, has been reported to have several common problems, particularly in the 1997-2010 models. One of the most frequently reported issues is internal leakage at the oil separator, which can lead to engine problems and even total engine failure. This issue is often linked to bad components, such as a failing intermediate shaft bearing, which is common in the 2003 model. The car may suddenly not start or lose engine power while driving, potentially causing harm or even death.

Another common problem is the airbag warning light illuminating due to faulty wiring, poor seat belt buckles, or faulty air bag modules. This is a significant safety issue that cannot be overlooked.

The 2007-2010 Boxsters were reported to have oil separator leaks, which occur at around 80,000 miles. Frustrated owners have complained about excessive oil consumption and smoke while driving, sometimes requiring drivers to pull over due to the thick smoke.

Furthermore, the 2007-2010 Boxsters have been reported to have airbag warning lights due to faulty wiring, poor seat belt buckles, and faulty air bag modules. This is a significant safety issue that cannot be overlooked.

The Boxster's ignition system can also cause problems, with several models struggling with electrical issues due to faulty ignition switches. These issues can result in numerous symptoms, such as preventing the ignition from going into run mode and draining batteries.

Additionally, Boxster owners have reported that their car batteries would be completely drained in as little as 1-3 weeks, even in newly bought cars. This issue can require a jumpstart and may be caused by electrical problems or the car's design.

Despite these common problems, the Porsche Boxster is known for its excellent performance and lifespan as a vehicle. However, it has only received a reliability rating of 2.5 out of 5 from RepairPal, indicating that it tends to break down frequently and requires frequent maintenance and repairs.

In summary, the Porsche Boxster has several common problems, particularly in the 1997-2010 models, including internal leakage at the oil separator, airbag warning light issues, and faulty ignition switches. These issues can lead to engine problems, safety concerns, and frequent maintenance and repairs. However, the Boxster is also known for its excellent performance and lifespan as a vehicle.

Porsche Boxster

Is A Porsche Boxster a reliable car?

Are Porsche Boxsters Reliable? The Porsche Boxster usually needs frequent major and unexpected repairs, according to RepairPal. It has a 2.5 out of 5.0 reliability rating, ranking 12th out of 15 cars in the same category. However, the Boxster is consistent in terms of performance, handling, and ride comfort.

What is the main problem with the Porsche Boxster?

The two main issues the Boxster and 996 faced at the start of the 2000s were IMS (intermediate shaft) bearing failures and RMS (rear main seal) issues. Contrary to popular belief, both of these issues, although certainly prelevant in both models, were not a guaranteed issue in models of this era.

Is Porsche Boxster high maintenance?

A Porsche 718 Boxster will cost about $15,670 for maintenance and repairs during its first 10 years of service. This is more than the industry average for luxury convertible models by $3,349. There is also a 46.56% chance that a 718 Boxster will require a major repair during that time.

What is the life span of a Boxster?

Porsche Boxster and Cayman models have similar mileage of around 150,000 to 200,000. This translates into 11 to 15 years with average use. However, it's not uncommon for these two models to surpass the estimated lifespan.

Percentage distribution of complaints by Porsche Boxster years

We have researched Porsche problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Porsche Boxster cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Porsche Boxster model years:

Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Porsche Boxster model years.

Distribution of the number of complaints by Porsche Boxster years

We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:

Porsche Boxster car problems categorized by type of issue

After analysing all complaints related to Porsche Boxster , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:

  • Engine and engine cooling problems
  • Air bags problems
  • Electrical system problems
  • Power train problems
  • Structure problems

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

Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by Boxster model years

A total of 11 complaints were registered in which the accident occurred. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.

Distribution of the number of complaints with fire by Boxster model years

There were a total of 4 complaints that resulted in a fire. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.

Distribution of the number of complaints with injuries by Boxster model years

There were a total of 7 complaints that resulted in a injuries. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.

The NHTSA has received 176 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Porsche Boxster . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Porsche Boxster vehicles.

Latest 25 complaints

Porsche Boxster 2001
  • Date Of Incident: 2023-11-21
  • Date Complaint: 2023-11-27
  • Number Of Injuries: 1
  • Crash: 1
  • VIN: WP0CB298X1U
  • Components: SUSPENSION
  • Summary: The right front suspension failed. Something broke so that the wheel/brake component bent away from the car causing a sudden left hand turn/jerk. This was confirmed upon exiting the car and looking at the front right semi-attached wheel. The car traveled THROUGH highway safety cables, front windshield shattered, right passenger side arm bag deployed and car stopped in median before going into oncoming traffic. The car is currently being picked up and accessed by insurance company. No warning lamps or messages. The front end did seem to "float" prior to the accident - I figured I had a tire problem and was looking to exit the highway up the road. I went to the ER and had flying glass injuries resulting from the crash. Car is a "garage queen!" I never race or have never been on a race track. I have all records of care. No prior accidents or changes have been made to the car. It is 22 years old and was in excellent shape. I have read about incidents like this since the accident - specific to this car model in online sources. I am reporting this to my local Porsche club also so they can be proactive.
Porsche Boxster 2001
  • Date Of Incident: 2023-07-15
  • Date Complaint: 2023-08-20
  • VIN: WP0CA298X1U
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,SERVICE BRAKES
  • Summary: Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) failure due to premature degradation of plastic wiring harness connectors for ABS wheel speed sensors located in each wheel well. ABS warning light illuminated alerting to the disabling of the system. Issue confirmed by independent repair facility. Dealer was engaged, but denied coverage due to vehicle being out of warranty and no recalls initiated.
Porsche Boxster 2003
  • Date Of Incident: 2017-07-07
  • Date Complaint: 2023-07-07
  • VIN: WP0CB29893U
  • Components: POWER TRAIN
  • Summary: The contact owns a 2003 Porsche Boxster. The contact stated that upon starting the vehicle, the indicator lights on the gear shifter for the park(P) and the four (4) position was flashing. In addition, while driving at various speeds, the transmission failed to shift into fifth gear and the vehicle would enter LIMP Mode. The contact had taken the vehicle to a dealer on two separate occasions and was informed that the gear selector switch was sticky due to the vehicle not being driven. The vehicle was repaired after the failures; however, the failure persisted. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was 12,669.
Porsche Boxster 2014
  • Date Of Incident: 2021-08-02
  • Date Complaint: 2023-05-30
  • VIN: WP0CB2A89ES
  • Components: ENGINE
  • Summary: 2014 Porsche Boxster- Consumer haves concerns about the hydro-mounting, which is causing a PADM fault. Consumer paid for the repair & it occurred again. The first occurred after 35000 miles and again after 42000 miles. Consumer has read that others have had the same problem. Consumer thinks its a design problem & thinks it will happen again. Consumer ask should they have it fixed again?
Porsche Boxster 2005
  • Date Of Incident: 2023-03-05
  • Date Complaint: 2023-03-07
  • VIN: WP0CB29845S
  • Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER,VISIBILITY/WIPER
  • Summary: Foam insulation blows out of windshield defroster vents. It is much worse when heat and fan are turned on. The windshield does not properly defrost and passengers are deluged with particulates and large chunks of black foam. This is a hazard to both breathing and visibility. Porsche is aware of the problem. Dealer says owners view as too expensive to fix. A recent Porsche Club of America newsletter article discusses the problem as a hazard and a paid advertisement pushes an alternative repair.
Porsche Boxster 2013
  • Date Of Incident: 2022-11-03
  • Date Complaint: 2022-11-03
  • VIN: WP0CB2A81DS
  • Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
  • Summary: There is an open recall on my Porsche boxster, the Porsche recall number for this is AMC0. The recall involves reprogramming the car to reduce emissions in sport+ mode. My car has an aftermarket tune on the ECU, and the porsche dealership has told me that the recall is not possible due to this modification. If I want to get the recall done, they want me to pay to replace the ECU/DME. I also consented to and was charged for labor hours for the dealership to research any way to not replace the ecu and do this recall, but they found no method to do so. Are they legally allowed to refuse a recall due to modifications to the car? Should the cost to replace the ECU be covered under the recall? I can't seem to find any information about this online, so thanks for any information regarding this
Porsche Boxster 2014
  • Date Of Incident: 2020-10-01
  • Date Complaint: 2022-10-01
  • VIN: WP0CA2A87ES
  • Components: AIR BAGS,STRUCTURE
  • Summary: The door panels are warping and detaching from the door. I'm sure the airbags should be affected as well. I have contacted Porche America but no one calls except customer service who keeps no records of previous calls.
Porsche Boxster 2013
  • Date Of Incident: 2022-06-08
  • Date Complaint: 2022-06-08
  • VIN: WP0CB2A8XDS
  • Components: SUSPENSION
  • Summary: 2013 PORSCHE BOXTER. CONSUMER WRITES IN REGARD TO NHTSA SAFETY RECALL 21V-679. THE CONSUMER STATED THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME COMPLETING THE RECALL. THE CONSUMER RECEIVED A LETTER STATING THE PARTS WERE AVAILABLE, BUT THE DEALER DENIED HAVING THE PARTS.
Porsche Boxster 2013
  • Date Of Incident: 2022-03-10
  • Date Complaint: 2022-03-10
  • VIN: WP0CA2A81DS
  • Components: SUSPENSION
  • Summary: 2013 PORSCHE BOXTER. CONSUMER WRITES IN REGARDS TO ISSUE WITH CONTROL ARM MOUNTS ON REAR SUSPENSION. THE CONSUMER REFERENCED RECALL 21V-679. THE CONSUMER STATED THE PARTS NECESSARY TO COMPLETE THE RECALL REPAIR WERE UNAVAILABLE.
Porsche Boxster 2001
  • Date Of Incident: 2021-12-24
  • Date Complaint: 2021-12-31
  • VIN: WP0CA29841U
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,STRUCTURE
  • Summary: There are thousands of complaints/postings appearing on the Internet, including fixes, (many of which may be equally dangerous) whereby the vehicle's central locking mechanism fails, making it impossible for passengers to egress through either door or window. The locking mechanism on the driver's side door has a cheap part that is known to commonly fail. When it does, neither the driver nor passenger door may be opened from either inside or outside of the vehicle. The central locking system is tied in with the door lock, and the windows may sometimes also fail when the lock mechanism fails. We had to remove a fuse from her car to reset the windows so we could extricate her. The Internet is replete with unofficial fixes for this problem, frequently using home-made parts, and Porsche representatives commonly acknowledge the issue and charge a great deal to repair using the same flawed parts. In the event of a crash, both driver & passenger may be trapped with no possible means of egress, without disassembling the driver's side door, which would be impossible in an emergency. I am shocked and outraged that this condition has been allowed to go unaddressed for years, despite being so commonly known that there are literally hundreds of Internet posts and videos telling owners how to temporarily fix their cars using either Porsche parts, or in many cases, home-made parts which would also be seriously dangerous. It is unbelievable that NHTSA has never acted on this issue to compel Porsche to make so many thousands of vehicles safe. Merely googling "Porsche Boxster Lock Problem" will produce literally hundreds of videos demonstrating the problem and several home-made fixes. The American driving public deserves better than this from NHTSA and Porsche. Please do something about this while I look for a replacement car for my 16 year old daughter, whom I pray will not ever be in an accident in this car and become trapped, causing her death!!!
Porsche Boxster 2015
  • Date Of Incident: 2021-10-14
  • Date Complaint: 2021-10-22
  • VIN: wp0ca2a80fs
  • Components: POWER TRAIN
  • Summary: The contact owns a 2015 Porsche Boxster. The contact stated that the vehicle rental app TURO informed him that the vehicle was included in NHTSA Campaign Number: 21V679000 (Power Train). The dealer was then notified about the recall and the contact was informed that parts were not yet available. The manufacturer had been notified of the issue. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The contact had not experienced a failure. Parts distribution disconnect.
Porsche Boxster 2006
  • Date Of Incident: 2021-04-01
  • Date Complaint: 2021-06-22
  • VIN: WP0CA29816S
  • Components: ENGINE
  • Summary: Car has 65,000 miles when water-pump failed catastrophically (pump drive shaft sheared) while driving causing breakdown. Needed to be towed to repair facility. 1. Water Pump failed - shaft connecting pully system to impeller sheared in half. Part is available for inspection. 65,000 miles on the engine 2. Car stopped running due to overheating and loss of electrical power - I had to stop in the middle of a busy street and wait for a tow . 3. Car was repaired by dealership and I have the damaged part, service reports and invoice. 4. This occurred without warning - while driving at approx 55mph I heard a "bang" and the coolant and electrical lights lit up on my dashboard. Engine temperature rose rapidly and battery drained quickly. Images of water pump drive shaft show a manufacturing defect of the shaft having been partially compromised prior to the sharing (failure). Google searches show that issues with Porsche Boxter water pumps - including my year and model.
Porsche Boxster 2006
  • Date Of Incident: 2019-07-15
  • Date Complaint: 2020-09-06
  • VIN: WP0CA29856U
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES
  • Summary: I PURCHASED THE 2006 BOXSTER IN JULY 2010 FROM A PRIVATE PARTY, AND SOON AFTERWARD, STARTED TO EXPERIENCE INTERMITTENT ABS/PSM SYSTEM FAILURE WARNING LIGHTS. THE ORIGINAL PORSCHE WARRANTY WAS DUE TO EXPIRE IN JANUARY, 2011. I TOOK THE CAR TO FLEMINGTON PORSCHE IN FLEMINGTON N.J. THREE TIMES IN AUGUST, 2010, BUT THEY WERE UNABLE TO DIAGNOSE THE SOURCE OF THE PROBLEM. THE WARNING LIGHTS PERSISTED. THE CAR WAS TAKEN TO KNOPF PORSCHE IN ALLENTOWN, PA IN 2012, AND THEY TOO, WERE UNABLE TO GIVE A DEFINITIVE DIAGNOSIS, BUT OPINED THAT THE WARNING LIGHTS WERE FALSE POSITIVES, AND THE SYSTEMS WERE FULLY FUNCTIONAL. LAST YEAR, I WAS FORCED TO MAKE A HARD STOP, ALL FOUR BRAKES LOCKED, THE CAR SKIDDED, AND THE BACK END OF THE CAR BEGAN TO 'FISHTAIL.' THE ABS/PSM SAFETY SYSTEMS ON THIS CAR ARE CLEARLY NOT RELIABLE. IT IS MY OPINION THAT PORSCHE HAS A RESPONSIBILITY TO HELP FIX THIS ISSUE BECAUSE THE PROBLEM WAS IDENTIFIED WHILE THE CAR WAS STILL UNDER WARRANTY, THE DEALERSHIPS DID NOT AGGRESSIVELY PURSUE A SOLUTION, AND MOST IMPORTANTLY, THESE ARE SYSTEMS ESSENTIAL FOR THE SAFE OPERATION OF ANY CAR.
Porsche Boxster 2005
  • Date Of Incident: 2020-01-31
  • Date Complaint: 2020-02-07
  • VIN: WP0CA29805U
  • Components: ENGINE
  • Summary: WHILE I WAS DRIVING ON A CITY STREET AT ABOUT 30 MPH, MY 2005 BOXSTER STARTED MAKING A RATTLING NOISE, THEN COMPLETELY DIED IN THE MIDDLE OF AN INTERSECTION ON A CITY STREET WITHOUT ANY PRIOR WARNING. AT THE SAME TIME, ALL OF THE WARNING LIGHTS CAME ON. I WAS ABLE TO PUT THE CAR IN NEUTRAL AND COAST TO THE SIDE OF THE ROAD. CAR WAS TOWED TO MY MECHANIC, WHO STATES IT IS AN INTERMEDIATE SHAFT BEARING ISSUE/FAILURE. HAD I BEEN DRIVING ON THE FREEWAY AT HIGH SPEED, I MOST LIKELY WOULD HAVE BEEN KILLED. I AM THE ORIGINAL OWNER OF THE CAR, IT HAS 128,000 MILES AND RECOMMENDED MAINTENANCE IS ALL UP TO DATE.
Porsche Boxster 2013
  • Date Of Incident: 2019-11-22
  • Date Complaint: 2019-11-22
  • VIN: WP0CA2A87DK
  • Components: POWER TRAIN
  • Summary: 2013 PORSCHE BOXSTER. CAR ROLLS WHEN STOPPED WITH TRANSMISSION IN 'PARK.' SIMILAR TO RECALLS OF PORSCHE CAYENNES AND PANAMERAS. MAY BE SIMILAR TO THE TRANSMISSION CONNECTION BUSHING PROBLEM THAT CAME LOOSE IN OTHER MODELS.

Latest 5 recalls Porsche Boxster

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 39 recalls for different components of the Porsche Boxster.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.

  • Model: Porsche Boxster 2001
  • Report Received Date: 2022-08-30
  • Manufacturer: Porsche Cars North America, Inc.
  • Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS
  • Summary: Porsche Cars North America, Inc. (Porsche) is recalling certain 2003-2020 Porsche Macan, Cayenne, Panamera, and Cayman S, 2001-2004 Boxster, Boxster S, 2004 Boxster 50 JAHRE SPYDER 550 vehicles. Please see the recall report for a complete list of all affected models and model years. The caps that cover the low-beam headlight horizontal adjustment screws are missing, which can allow the headlights to be improperly adjusted. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 108, "Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment."
  • Consequence: Improperly adjusted headlights may not illuminate the road properly, or cause a glare to oncoming drivers, which can increase the risk of a crash.
  • Remedy: Dealers will inspect the headlights for sealing caps and install missing caps as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed October 28, 2022. Owners may contact Porsche's customer service at 1-800-767-7243. Porsche's number for this recall is ANB4.
  • Model: Porsche Boxster 2004
  • Report Received Date: 2022-08-30
  • Manufacturer: Porsche Cars North America, Inc.
  • Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS
  • Summary: Porsche Cars North America, Inc. (Porsche) is recalling certain 2003-2020 Porsche Macan, Cayenne, Panamera, and Cayman S, 2001-2004 Boxster, Boxster S, 2004 Boxster 50 JAHRE SPYDER 550 vehicles. Please see the recall report for a complete list of all affected models and model years. The caps that cover the low-beam headlight horizontal adjustment screws are missing, which can allow the headlights to be improperly adjusted. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 108, "Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment."
  • Consequence: Improperly adjusted headlights may not illuminate the road properly, or cause a glare to oncoming drivers, which can increase the risk of a crash.
  • Remedy: Dealers will inspect the headlights for sealing caps and install missing caps as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed October 28, 2022. Owners may contact Porsche's customer service at 1-800-767-7243. Porsche's number for this recall is ANB4.
  • Model: Porsche Boxster 2003
  • Report Received Date: 2022-08-30
  • Manufacturer: Porsche Cars North America, Inc.
  • Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS
  • Summary: Porsche Cars North America, Inc. (Porsche) is recalling certain 2003-2020 Porsche Macan, Cayenne, Panamera, and Cayman S, 2001-2004 Boxster, Boxster S, 2004 Boxster 50 JAHRE SPYDER 550 vehicles. Please see the recall report for a complete list of all affected models and model years. The caps that cover the low-beam headlight horizontal adjustment screws are missing, which can allow the headlights to be improperly adjusted. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 108, "Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment."
  • Consequence: Improperly adjusted headlights may not illuminate the road properly, or cause a glare to oncoming drivers, which can increase the risk of a crash.
  • Remedy: Dealers will inspect the headlights for sealing caps and install missing caps as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed October 28, 2022. Owners may contact Porsche's customer service at 1-800-767-7243. Porsche's number for this recall is ANB4.
  • Model: Porsche Boxster 2002
  • Report Received Date: 2022-08-30
  • Manufacturer: Porsche Cars North America, Inc.
  • Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS
  • Summary: Porsche Cars North America, Inc. (Porsche) is recalling certain 2003-2020 Porsche Macan, Cayenne, Panamera, and Cayman S, 2001-2004 Boxster, Boxster S, 2004 Boxster 50 JAHRE SPYDER 550 vehicles. Please see the recall report for a complete list of all affected models and model years. The caps that cover the low-beam headlight horizontal adjustment screws are missing, which can allow the headlights to be improperly adjusted. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 108, "Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment."
  • Consequence: Improperly adjusted headlights may not illuminate the road properly, or cause a glare to oncoming drivers, which can increase the risk of a crash.
  • Remedy: Dealers will inspect the headlights for sealing caps and install missing caps as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed October 28, 2022. Owners may contact Porsche's customer service at 1-800-767-7243. Porsche's number for this recall is ANB4.
  • Model: Porsche Boxster 2015
  • Report Received Date: 2021-09-01
  • Manufacturer: Porsche Cars North America, Inc.
  • Components: POWER TRAIN:AXLE ASSEMBLY
  • Summary: Porsche Cars North America, Inc. (Porsche) is recalling certain 2013-2015 Boxster, 2013-2014 Boxster S, 2014-2015 Cayman, Cayman S, 2015 Boxster GTS, and Cayman GTS vehicles. The rear-axle carrier side sections may fracture.
  • Consequence: A carrier fracture may cause a loss of control, increasing the risk of a crash.
  • Remedy: Dealers will replace the rear-axle carrier side sections, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed January 6, 2022. Owners may contact Porsche customer service at 1-800-767-7243. Porsche's number for this recall is AMB7.

Latest negative Porsche Boxster car reviews

  1. Jairo Padberg 2025-11-17

    Vehicle year: 2005

    My car has been experiencing ignition issues, despite being relatively new. I believe that Porsche engineers should take responsibility for using substandard parts. While it is true that some Porsche models are prone to these issues, I would advise caution rather than discouraging potential buyers. As for road trips, it may be wise to take precautions. However, I remain a loyal Porsche customer and hope that these issues will be addressed in the future.

  2. Art Bahringer 2025-10-26

    Vehicle year: 2005

    I purchased the car a week ago and have already driven 650 miles. Unfortunately, I have encountered several issues in the first week, including low oil levels upon delivery, paint chipping near the front intake, a broken convertible roof, and a brake warning light. As someone who regularly purchases new cars, I must say that this will be my first and last Porsche. While it is an enjoyable car to drive, I have concerns about its build integrity and craftsmanship. I highly recommend conducting thorough research before making a purchase. Thank you for your attention.

  3. Halle Marquardt 2025-10-18

    Vehicle year: 2004

    Overall, we believe that the car is an exceptional machine. However, we do acknowledge that there is room for improvement in the quality of the interior.

  4. Ali Kassulke 2025-09-24

    Vehicle year: 2006

    I traded in my Audi A4 for a Porsche Boxter. I got an automatic with the sport package along with the premium package. It's been a fun car to have, but the oil changes are quite expensive at $700.00 every 20,000 miles. Unfortunately, the Bridgestone tires wore out in just 18,000 miles, which cost $1,500 dollars to replace. The interior is not as luxurious as I expected from a Porsche, but the sound system is amazing (Bose).

  5. Hardy Schinner 2025-09-13

    Vehicle year: 2000

    While I agree with all the positive comments about the Boxster, unfortunately, my bought new 2000 suffered a bearing failure at 22,000 miles and five years which required total engine replacement. The factory 3/36 had run out, and despite it being a known problem, I received no consideration from Porsche. I could have bought many more Porsches in my life, but unfortunately, this experience has left me feeling disappointed and unlikely to purchase from them again.

Latest positive Porsche Boxster car reviews

  1. Harmon Harris 2025-11-28

    Vehicle year: 2002

    Congratulations on your first Porsche! It's great to hear that you had a positive experience with both the car and the dealer's service. I completely understand what you mean about the Boxster attracting attention - it's a stunning car! I'm glad to hear that you're enjoying it so much. It sounds like you made a great decision in switching from the Chrysler Sebring convertible. The quality of the fit and manufacturing of the Boxster is truly impressive, especially compared to American cars. If you have the budget, I would definitely recommend upgrading to the 18

  2. Beau Harvey 2025-11-28

    Vehicle year: 1997

    I've been driving my 1997 Boxster for 5 years now and it's been an absolute blast! The engine note is like music to anyone lucky enough to hear it. I'm happy to report that this car has been incredibly reliable, especially considering it was the first year for this model and made in Germany. Even newer models made outside of Germany still maintain the same great quality and reliability. Whether you're looking for a weekend getaway or a nice Sunday drive, this car is perfect for both. It's even great as a daily driver, with two trunks providing plenty of room for shopping and getaways! On the track, this car really comes alive thanks to its mid-engine design, giving even the most basic drivers a sure-footed feel. It's no wonder this car is so highly regarded in Europe - it's simply the best roadster of the bunch!

  3. Carlo Kilback 2025-11-27

    Vehicle year: 2014

    I've owned four Porsches and loved them all. Three out of four loved me back. Nothing is perfect, but driving a Boxster or Boxster S convertible on a sunny day comes pretty close. The Boxster and Boxster S are super fun to drive, and for two-seaters, they have a surprisingly spacious interior. The two smallish trunks can hold several bags of groceries or some medium-sized soft bags, and even tennis rackets fit comfortably. The top-down visibility is good, and the wind turbulence in the cabin is fairly calm. The base car is well-equipped, and the S model with the bigger engine is even better. The Bose stereo with its 465 watts goes with any playlist you can imagine. However, people who are six feet tall may find it a bit of a squeeze, and premium gas is required. Mobil One oil changes will cost around two hundred dollars, and there is a lot of technology that can go wrong and need fixing, which can be expensive unless you buy a CPO car with a two-year factory warranty that includes roadside assistance and trip interruption. A pre-purchase inspection by a good Porsche repair shop is critical to allow you to know what kind of shape the car is in. Repairs, maintenance, and tires are expensive, and black Porsches show every little smudge and swirl. Drive-through car washes are not recommended, and the three-bucket car wash is preferred by owners. Your car comes with big thick books by the same people who invented kindergarten, so consult them before heading to the repair shop. Attention to detail is key with a Porsche, and you will receive a lot of questions about your car. Mustangs and Camaros will try to race you, but driving on curvy or straight roads will make you feel glad you picked this car because it's just that fun.

  4. Hipolito Kertzmann 2025-11-26

    Vehicle year: 2015

    I've owned four Porsches and loved them all. Three out of four loved me back. Nothing is perfect, but driving a Boxster or Boxster S convertible on a sunny day comes pretty close. The Boxster and Boxster S are super fun to drive, and for two-seaters, they have a surprisingly spacious interior. The two smallish trunks can hold several bags of groceries or some medium-sized soft bags, and even tennis rackets fit comfortably. The top-down visibility is good, and the wind turbulence in the cabin is fairly calm. The base car is well-equipped, and the S model with the bigger engine is even better. The Bose stereo with its 465 watts goes with any playlist you can imagine. However, people who are six feet tall may find it a bit of a squeeze, and premium gas is required. Mobil One oil changes will cost around two hundred dollars, and there is a lot of technology that can go wrong and need fixing, which can be expensive unless you buy a CPO car with a two-year factory warranty that includes roadside assistance and trip interruption. A pre-purchase inspection by a good Porsche repair shop is critical to allow you to know what kind of shape the car is in. Repairs, maintenance, and tires are expensive, and black Porsches show every little smudge and swirl. Drive-through car washes are not recommended, and the three-bucket car wash is preferred by owners. Your car comes with big thick books by the same people who invented kindergarten, so consult them before heading to the repair shop. Attention to detail is key with a Porsche, and you will receive a lot of questions about your car. Mustangs and Camaros will try to race you, but driving on curvy or straight roads will make you feel glad you picked this car because it's just that fun.

  5. Edd McDermott 2025-11-24

    Vehicle year: 2012

    You've owned quite a few Boxsters over the years! It's great to hear that the 2008 Boxster RS 60 is your all-time favorite. The mid-engine balance, low center of gravity, sport suspension, and sport exhaust note all contribute to making it a standout choice. And let's not forget about the red interior with white gauges and sport chronometer, as well as the comfortable driving position provided by the seat bolsters. While there may be a lot of buttons, you'll quickly get the hang of them. The stereo and audio may not be the best, but with the exhaust note turned up, you won't even notice. Even after fifteen years, the fit and finish of this car is still top-notch. Whether you're driving, racing, or taking a road trip, the RS 60 is a great choice. If you have the opportunity to get your hands on one, don't hesitate!

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