Porsche Boxster problems

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.
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Porsche Boxster model years
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.
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:
- Porsche Boxster 1998
- Porsche Boxster 1999
- Porsche Boxster 1997
- Porsche Boxster 2005
- Porsche Boxster 2003
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
Latest positive Porsche Boxster car reviews
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Vehicle year: 2002
Hi there! As a former BMW owner, I just wanted to share my experience with my 2002 model boxster. I have to say, it's one of the best cars I've ever owned! The styling and handling are excellent, and I can only imagine how wonderful it must have been when it was brand new. I did some research and found that this car is often described as the 'Honda' of the Porsche family. Just a heads up, if you're shy, this car might not be for you - it attracts a lot of attention from curious on-lookers!
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Vehicle year: 2000
Hi there! I hope you're doing well. I just wanted to share my experience with my new car. I purchased it about a month ago with around 34,000 miles on the clock, and I have to say that it feels and drives like a brand new car! The steering is direct and full of feel, and the engine pulls urgently from 3,500rpm and sounds fantastic doing it. Plus, the 6-speed manual is a model of precision. The seats are really comfortable, and the interior still looks great even eight years after the car was built. Overall, I would highly recommend a Boxster S to anyone in the market for a two-seat drop top. Let me know if you have any questions!
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Vehicle year: 2003
The car is amazing! The Boxster can out-handle anything on the road right now. Road and Track even did a slalom run where it beat the Enzo's (the Ferrari guy costing $700K) record. While it may not have an overabundance of horsepower, once you hit the accelerator, you get usable power with unmatched driving dynamics. And with a top speed of close to 170 mph, I think it's plenty fast enough.
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Vehicle year: 2004
Great car for the value! It definitely gets lots of looks. If you're considering it, I would highly recommend spending the extra cash for an S model, as it really packs a punch...
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Vehicle year: 2012
My 2010 Base Boxster is a unique car in many ways. It has an impressive amount of storage both inside the car (six compartments worth inside since I don't have Bose but I do have SPP and no CD changer), two trunks, and an auxiliary storage box in the front. All this storage makes the car much easier to live with from a practical perspective. The “fronk” will hold two legal airplane rollies...and you still have a large (though shallow) trunk in the back for duffels and other squishy stuff. The only downside is that you can’t put large hard-framed items inside the car (such as a 24” x 36” picture)....but how often do you need that capability? It’s great to see a Porsche convertible with such practicality, and that’s just one thing setting this series (987.2) apart from other convertibles and even from newer Boxsters. My Boxster also has European tri-colored tail lights, which is a huge plus to me (it’s a thoughtful safety touch). Let's talk about what really matters: This is a Porsche and it’s all about handling, acceleration, and braking...and naturally, the Porsche excels in all three areas, even with this Base Boxster. By modern standards, the car is relatively slow (0-60 in 5.4sec). The 2.9L flat six sounds glorious when revved (in contrast, the 2.0T4 in the new Boxster sounds like a cross between an air-cooled VW and a Subaru 4). However, the PFI 2.9L isn’t the engine of choice if you want real speed: That belongs to the S models and its DFI 3.4L. Still, the car is plenty speedy, especially when you’re the only one in the car and keeps pulling past 65 MPH. The handling, though, is truly telepathic. Provided you have top quality rubber (Michelin PS4s or equivalent (I'm running on Pilot Super Sports), the car handles around corners like it’s on rails. All handling and braking aspects spoil you for any other car. Also pleasant: The ride isn’t punishing.Oh, your Subaru WRX/STi and Mitsubishi Lancer Evo friends will feel like they're in a limo when they ride in this car! Every trip is a pleasure, especially with the PDK. If you had to do it all over again, you might have opted for the S version and given up a few vacations for the faster engine. As for the Radio CDR30 + Sound Package Plus (SPP), replacing the radio seems like a difficult proposition due to the optic cable integration with the rest of the electronics. Replacing the speakers is apparently another headache-inducing OCD experience. However, the sound quality is adequate, so you're leaving things alone until something truly breaks. Bluetooth integration with your new iPhone iOS 14.3 for making calls (initiated via Siri) is okay, though Waze sometimes plays directions via Bluetooth on a random basis. It's not quite Apple CarPlay. In the Dec 2020 Pandemic Update, you decided to do some maintenance after hearing some growling noises in the power steering. After doing lots of research and watching a number of Youtube videos, you added PS fluid (Pentosin), replaced your engine air filter (Wix), and replaced your cabin air filter in the fronk. Taking off the engine cover was convoluted and required lots of careful planning and patience. Adding Pentosin CHF 11S was easy, but replacing the engine air filter was super tricky (it's all twists and turns). You could have waited another 10k before doing it, so you were theoretically wasting money, but the time/effort to get the engine cover off is so high, one might as well do as much maintenance as possible while under there. You figure you saved at least $400 by doing this work yourself.The cabin air filter replacement was a bit tricky due to the four overengineered Torx bolts and cage guarding the air filter, along with a wire harness nearby that was not well thought out. If you are planning to attempt this service, I strongly recommend watching every video you can and placing a bunched-up towel under the next screw/bolt removal area to catch it if it falls, as losing one can be disastrous. Although working on a Porsche can be painstaking and OCD inducing, it is worth it.//Update December 2023: Some minor items are starting to go, such as the elastic straps in the convertible top and the trunk release button (front), which are both common issues. I am trying to fix both myself.
Max Osinski 2025-06-19
Vehicle year: 2006
I purchased this car in 2013 with 30k miles on it. Since then, I have put 46500 miles on it and have spent over $12,000 on repairs and maintenance. I was surprised to see the repair prices listed on Edmunds for the Denver area, as they do not reflect the reality of the situation. Labor charges at the dealer are $150 per hour, and even independent shops charge similar rates, if not higher. Recently, the dealer recommended a tie rod replacement that would have cost over $2000, but I took it to an independent shop and they confirmed that it was not necessary. I now take my car to this honest independent shop for all my maintenance needs. After fixing a vacuum leak on my brake line, the smoking problem has been resolved, except for when the car sits. The dealer was not able to diagnose the issue, but the independent shop was able to solve it.
Joey Wunsch 2025-05-27
Vehicle year: 2014
I was so excited the day I brought home my brand new Boxster. It was a dream come true and I felt so proud of myself. However, after two years, I experienced some transmission problems and found myself stranded on the side of the road twice. Thankfully, the car was still under warranty and Porsche replaced the transmission. Unfortunately, five years later, I noticed that the interior door panels were pulling away from the windows, which is quite unsightly and embarrassing. I don't even put the top down anymore because it's so noticeable. When I took the car to the dealership to inquire about getting it fixed, I was informed that it would cost $2000 per door panel. It's disappointing to know that this is a common issue and that Porsche is profiting from fixing a manufacturing defect. I hope they take responsibility for this and make it right. Thank you for listening to my concerns.
Darrick Deckow 2025-05-22
Vehicle year: 2015
I was so excited the day I brought home my brand new Boxster. It was a dream come true and I felt so proud of myself. However, after two years, I experienced some transmission problems and found myself stranded on the side of the road twice. Thankfully, the car was still under warranty and Porsche replaced the transmission. Unfortunately, five years later, I noticed that the interior door panels were pulling away from the windows, which is quite unsightly and embarrassing. I don't even put the top down anymore because it's so noticeable. When I took the car to the dealership to inquire about getting it fixed, I was informed that it would cost $2000 per door panel. It's disappointing to know that this is a common issue and that Porsche is profiting from fixing a manufacturing defect. I hope they take responsibility for their mistake and make it right. Thank you for your understanding.
Nicholas McKenzie 2025-04-12
Vehicle year: 2004
The car has been everything I wanted in a sports car, but I do have some reservations about using it as an everyday vehicle. Finding a reliable mechanic for maintenance and repairs has been a bit of a challenge.
Ashton Franecki 2025-04-07
Vehicle year: 1998
First, let me say that this is a really fun car! I bought it as a replacement for my Vette and it definitely turns just as many heads. While the Corvette and S2000 may be clear winners in the price category, this car is far more reliable. Admittedly, the power is limited and the exhaust note is soft, and it can be a little cramped inside for someone who is six feet tall. Additionally, it does have some minor problems and it tends to eat through tires. However, overall it's a great car that I really enjoy driving!