1997 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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Common 1997 Porsche Boxster problems
The 1997 Porsche Boxster is known to have several common problems based on complaints from owners. One of the most widely reported issues is related to the engine, which can become severe and lead to total engine failure.
Another common problem with the 1997 Porsche Boxster is related to the ignition switch. The ignition switch can malfunction or fail, causing issues with starting the car or operating the electrical system.
The 1997 Porsche Boxster is also known to have problems with the rear main seal, which can cause an oil leak between the engine and transmission joint.
In addition to these specific problems, the 1997 Porsche Boxster is generally known for having reliability issues. The car tends to break down frequently and requires frequent maintenance and repairs.
It is important for potential buyers of the 1997 Porsche Boxster to be aware of these common problems and to take steps to address them if they occur. This may include taking the car for a pre-inspection at a reliable Porsche shop, enquiring about the state of the RMS and IMS bearing, and being prepared for the potential cost of repairs.
What is the problem with the 1997 Porsche Boxster?
One of the most commonly reported issues 1997-2010 Porsche Boxsters is internal leakage at the oil separator. This issue usually happens at around 83,000 miles. According to reports, the first signs include smoke while driving and excessive oil consumption.
What is the biggest problem with Porsche Boxster?
The most common problems with Porsche Boxsters first and second generations are:
- Engine Block Porosity.
- Cylinder Head Cracks.
- Cylinder Lining Cracks.
- Rod Bolt Failure.
- IMS Bearing Failures.
- Chain Tensioner Failure.
- Variocam Solenoids Failure.
- Leaks in the Rear Main Seal.
What is the life expectancy of a 1997 Porsche Boxster?
They will last as long as someone looks after and maintains it. I have seen 1997 models in perfect condition, driving like new with 100k miles on it.
Are old Porsche Boxsters reliable?
Unfortunately, Porsche Boxsters aren't reliable cars and often require major and unforeseen repairs.
1997 Porsche Boxster car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Porsche Boxster problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Air bags problems
- Electrical system problems
- Power train problems
- Seat belts problems
- Engine and engine cooling problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1997 Porsche Boxster vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
1997 Porsche Boxster complaints
The NHTSA has received 23 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1997 Porsche Boxster.
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-02-19
- VIN: WP0CA2989VS
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 PORSCHE BOXSTER. WHILE ATTEMPTING TO ENGAGE IN PARK GEAR, THE SHIFTER BECAME VERY DIFFICULT TO MOVE OUT OF THE DRIVE POSITION. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO AN UNKNOWN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE TRANSMISSION SELECTOR SEIZED AND THE SELECTOR LEVELER HAD TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO THE DEALER; HOWEVER, PORSCHE OF WESTWOOD IN WESTWOOD, MASSACHUSETTS WAS CONTACTED BY PHONE. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED PER NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 98V112000 (POWER TRAIN) SEVERAL YEARS AGO. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 102,000.
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-12-24
- VIN: WP0CA2983VS
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 PORSCHE BOXSTER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE GEAR SHIFT FAILED TO SHIFT INTO THE PARK POSITION. AS A RESULT, THE CONTACT WAS UNABLE TO START THE VEHICLE. THE CONTACT HAD TO SHIFT THE GEAR INTO NEUTRAL IN ORDER TO START THE VEHICLE. THE CONTACT MENTIONED THAT THE GEAR INDICATOR DISPLAYED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS IN REVERSE WHILE IT WAS IN PARKED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER ADVISED THAT THE VIN WAS NOT INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 98V112000 (POWER TRAIN). THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 57,000.
AIR BAGS,SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2013-08-12
- VIN: WP0CA298XVS
- Components: AIR BAGS,SEAT BELTS
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 PORSCHE BOXSTER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE AIR BAG LIGHT SPORADICALLY ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER, WHO DIAGNOSED THAT THE SEAT BELT BUCKLES, HARNESS AND CONTROL UNIT NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE PROBLEM. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 54,000. UPDATED 5/13/14*CN *TR
AIR BAGS,SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2013-12-12
- VIN: WPOCA298XVS
- Components: AIR BAGS,SEAT BELTS
- Summary: I TOOK MY 1997 PORSCHE BOXSTER TO MY PORSCHE SERVICE DEALER IN CINCINNATI, OHIO WITH A SEAT BELT WARNING LIGHT ON. A DIAGNOSIS WAS DONE AND CODE RECEIVED, TO THE EFFECT THAT MY SEAT BELTS NEEDED REPLACING, BOTH DRIVER AND PASSENGER, DUE TO A ELECTRICAL SHORT IN THE SEAT BELT WARNING/AIR BAG SYSTEM. THE TOTAL REPAIR RANGES @ $1100, $500 PARTS + $600 LABOR. I HAVE RESEARCHED THIS PROBLEM WITH PORSCHE BOXSTERS GOING BACK TO THE LATE NINETIES UP TO TODAY. PORSCHE NORTH AMERICA HAS DONE SOME REMEDIAL WORK THROUGH DEALERS ON THIS PROBLEM, BUT HAS NOT FULLY OWNED THE POTENTIAL SAFETY ISSUE WITH THESE ELECTRICAL MODULES SHORTING OUT LEAVING DRIVERS AND PASSENGERS UNPROTECTED. THEIR ARROGANCE IN THIS MATTER IS OVER THE TOP FOR A SUPPOSEDLY "HIGH END" LINE OF VEHICLES. I HAVE TRIED TO WORK WITH THEM, VOLUNTEERING TO PAY PART OF THE EXPENSE. AT THIS POINT, I WOULD LIKE TO SEE SOME FOLLOW UP ON THEIR "TOKEN" OWNERSHIP OF WHAT COULD BE A SERIOUS SAFETY ISSUE FOR THOUSANDS OF OWNERS. *TR
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-09-12
- VIN: WP0CA2982VS
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 PORSCHE BOXSTER. THE CONTACT STATED THE IGNITION SWITCH WAS CRACKED AND CAUSING ELECTRICAL FAILURES TO THE AIR CONDITIONER, WIPERS AND HEAD LIGHTS. THE CONTACT NOTICES A RECALL UNDER NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID NUMBER: 98V113000 (ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION:SWITCH) BUT WAS ADVISED THAT THE VIN WAS NOT INCLUDED IN THE RECALL. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER SHOULD EXTEND THE RECALL SINCE THE FAILURE WAS A KNOWN SAFETY DEFECT. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 103,000.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-07-05
- VIN: WP0CA2982VS
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: PURCHASED A 1997 PORSCHE BOXSTER APPROX 1 MONTH AGO. WENT TO START THE VEHICLE AND THE BATTERY WAS DEAD. CHARGED UP THE BATTER AND NOTICED THAT WHEN THE VEHICLE IS TURNED ON THERE WAS NO AIR CONDITIONING, WINDSHIELD WIPERS DIDN'T WORK. WHEN THE VEHICLE IS TURNED OFF, THE DASH LIGHTS REMAINED ON ALONG WITH THE RADIO THEREFORE CAUSING THE BATTER TO DIE. CHECK ON YOUR WEBSITE FOR ANY RECALLS FOR THIS DEFECT. NOTICED THAT THERE WAS A RECALL FOR THIS #98V-113 DTD 22 MAY 1998 FOR THIS EXACT PROBLEM I'M HAVING. THERE WERE 3,217 VEHICLES DISTRIBUTED IN THE US AND 234 IN CANADA WITH THE VIN # OF [XXX] TO [XXX] MANUFACTURED FROM OCTOBER 10, 1996 TO MAY 5, 1997. THE VIN ON MY VEHICLE IS APPROX 100 NUMBERS FROM THE ABOVE LISTED NUMBERS. [XXX]. I BELIEVE THAT PORSCHE SHOULD BE RESPONSIBLE FOR REPLACING EITHER THE COMPLETE STEERING LOCK WITH THE IGNITION SWITCH OR REPLACING THE IGNITION SWITCH ON WITH THE NEW DESIGN WHICHEVER IS DEEMED APPROPRIATE. NOW PORCHSE WANTS $430 TO REPAIR THIS. MY VIN IS EXTREMELY CLOSE TO THE ONES WHICH FALL UNDER THIS RECALL NOTICE. JUST WONDERING HOW IT IS THAT YOU DETERMINE WHICH VIN ARE AFFECTED BY THIS DEFECT AND WHICH ONES ARE NOT. PLEASE RESPOND AT YOUR EARLIEST CONVENIENCE. THANK YOU FOR YOUR TIME. [XXX]. *NM UPDATED 07/12/2012 *JS INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-09-28
- VIN: WP0CA2989VS
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: DT: THE CONTACT'S DAUGHTER WAS DRIVING THE VEHICLE AND WHEN SHE ARRIVED HOME SHE ALERTED THE CONTACT THAT THERE WAS A MILKY SUBSTANCE IN THE OIL. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DRIVEN AGAIN. IT WAS THEN TOWED TO THE DEALERSHIP. THEY WANTED $14,000 TO FIX IT, BUT DID NOT TELL HER WHAT WAS WRONG WITH THE VEHICLE. SHE THEN TOOK IT TO ANOTHER MECHANIC, FOR A SECOND OPINION. THE MECHANIC, DETERMINED THERE WAS A CASTING FLAW WHICH CAUSED THE RADIATOR FLUID TO LEAK INTO THE ENGINE . THE VEHICLE HAS NOT YET BEEN REPAIRED. *AK
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-01-01
- VIN: WP0CA2984VS
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: SRS (AIRBAG LIGHT) ON DUE TO FAULTY GROUNDING IN SEATBELT SWITCH. PORSCHE BOXSTERS HAVE AN ISSUE WITH IT'S AIRBAG LIGHTS ON DUE TO A DESIGN FLAW WITH THE WAY PORSCHE HAS GROUNDED THE SWITCH ON THE SEAT BELT HARNESS. PORSCHE HAS SUBSEQUENTLY RELEASED A TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN AND PARTS UPDATE TO ADDRESS THE ISSUE, BUT FIXES ARE DONE AT OWNERS EXPENSE. I BELIEVE THAT A RECALL SHOULD BE IN ORDER TO ADDRESS THIS ISSUE.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2002-05-15
- VIN: WP0CA2987VS
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,AIR BAGS
- Summary: DT: RECALL 98V113000. WAS ISSUED CONCERNING IGNITION SWITCH FAILURE. CALLER SAID HER CAR HAD SAME FAILURE AS MENTIONED IN RECALL. DEALER SAID THIS CAR WAS NOT INCLUDED IN RECALL. MANUFACTURER SAID THIS CAR WAS NOT UNDER WARRANTY , AND NOT IN THE RECALL, AND WILL OFFER NO HELP. ALSO, ANOTHER RECALL 98E005000. CONCERNING AIR BAGS WAS MENTIONED. CALLER SAID THEY WILL NOT HELP HER WITH THIS RECALL EITHER. CALLER HAS PAID FOR PROBLEMS THAT SHOULD BE UNDER THESE RECALLS.*AK
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-04-02
- VIN: WP0CA298XVS
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM: IGNITION SWITCH FAILURE. THE SAME FAILURE AS RECALL #W03 IN 1998. DEALER REPLACED SWITCH IN 1999, IGNITION SWITCH CRACKED AND FAILED AGAIN 2005. I AM TOLD BY PORSCHE MY VEHICEL IS NOT COVERED UNDER THE RECALL.*AK
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-08-10
- VIN: WP0CA2988VS
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: 1997 PORSCHE BOXTER TIPTRONIC TRANSMISSION SHIFTER SELECTOR INCREASINGLY BECAME DIFFICULT TO MOVE AND EVENTUALLY UNABLE TO PUT IN PARK AND OR DRIVE. *AK
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-04-24
- Fire: 1
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: UPON EXITING THE VEHICLE CONSUMER NOTICED FLAMES COMING FROM THE INTAKE MANIFOLD. THIS OCCURRED AFTER THE CONSUMER INSTALLED A NEW BATTERY, AND DROVE FOR APPROXIMATELY 2 MILES. THEN CONSUMER TURNED THE VEHICLE OFF. *AK
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-10-12
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: WHEN PRESSING ON THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL VEHICLE WOULD NOT ACCELERATE, CAUSING THE DRIVER TO SHUT OFF THE ENGINE, THEN RESTART THE VEHICLE. *AK
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-07-31
- VIN: PROVIDE
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: NHTSA: 98-V-113-000:VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES. THE IGNITION SWITCH CAN CRACK AND CAUSE ELECTRICAL FAILURES. CONSUMER STATED HAS THE SAME PROBLEM, HOWEVER THIS VEHICLE WAS NOT RECALL DUE TO THE VIN#. *PH
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING,EQUIPMENT PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: WP0CA2981VS
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING,EQUIPMENT
- Summary: CONSUMER STATES THE ELECTRICAL IGNITION SWITCH FAILED AS A RESULT CONSUMER HAS NO WIPERS/ HEADLIGHTS/AIR CONDITIONER. *AK
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2001-08-15
- VIN: WPOCA2987VS
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,AIR BAGS
- Summary: NO SUMMARY LISTED FOR ABOVE VEHICLE. *AK
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: WP0CA2981VF
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: INTERMITTENTLY IN NEUTRAL VEHICLE WILL STALL OUT AND DIE. DEALER HAS INSPECTED VEHICLE, AND COULD NOT CORRECT THE PROBLEM. PLEASE PROVIDE ADDITIONAL INFORMATION.*AK
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2001-06-13
- Fire: 1
- VIN: ADD
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: CONSUMER HAD VEHICLE SERVICED BECAUSE OF WHITE SMOKE FROM TAILPIPE. DEALER COULD NOT FIND ANYTHING WRONG. CONSUMER DROVE VEHICLE HOME FROM DEALER. AFTER ABOUT 35 MINUTES, HE WAS STOPPED BY GUARD OF HIS COMMUNITY, WHO SAW FIRE COMING FROM REAR OF VEHICLE. FIRE DEPARTMENT PUT OUT FIRE, VEHICLE WAS TOTALLED. CAUSE OF FIRE UNKNOWN AT THIS TIME. CONSUMER NOT INJURED. *AK
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1997-12-01
- VIN: WPOCA298OVS
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: PASSENGER SIDE SEAT BELT FAILED. NLM
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1997-12-01
- VIN: WP0CA2984VS
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: 5 SPEED TRANSMISSION HAS FAILED SEVERAL TIMES.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1997-05-01
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: AIRBAG WARNING LIGHT CAME ON, DEALER SAID INCASE OF AN ACCIDENT THE AIR BAGS WOULD NOT DEPLOY.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: AIR BAG FAILED CAUSING LIGHT TO ILLUMINATE, UNSPECIFIED REASON.
AIR BAGS,SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1997-07-30
- VIN: WP0CA2986VS
- Components: AIR BAGS,SEAT BELTS
- Summary: THE PASSENGER SIDE MICRO SWITCH FAILED TO OPERATE PROPERLY; CAUSED AIR BAG LIGHT TO COME. AIR BAG IS NOW DISCONNECTED & WILL NOT OPERATE. WILL BE TAKEN VEHICLE TO DEALER TO CHECK OUT.
1997 Porsche Boxster recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 6 recalls for different components of the 1997 Porsche Boxster.
- Manufacturer: DOPE, INC.
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS
- Summary: DOPE, INC. IS RECALLING 42,540 COMBINATION CORNER AND BUMPER LAMP ASSEMBLIES OF VARIOUS PART NUMBERS SOLD FOR USE AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR VARIOUS PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMPS FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT." THESE LAMPS DO NOT CONTAIN THE REQUIRED AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS.
- Consequence: DECREASED LIGHTING VISIBILITY MAY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
- Remedy: DOPE, INC. WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER A FULL REFUND FOR THE NONCOMPLIANT COMBINATION LAMPS. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON JULY 28, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT DOPE, INC. AT 1-626-272-1798.
- Manufacturer: SABERSPORT
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: SABERSPORT IS RECALLING 16,270 COMBINATION CORNER AND BUMPER LAMP ASSEMBLIES OF VARIOUS PART NUMBERS SOLD FOR USE AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR VARIOUS PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMPS FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT." THESE LAMPS DO NOT CONTAIN THE REQUIRED AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS.
- Consequence: DECREASED LIGHTING VISIBILITY MAY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
- Remedy: SABERSPORT WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER A FULL REFUND FOR THE NONCOMPLIANT COMBINATION LAMPS. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON MAY 11, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT SABERSPORT AT 1-909-598-7589.
- Manufacturer: PORSCHE CARS NORTH AMERICA, INC.
- Components: POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
- Summary: CERTAIN 2-DOOR CONVERTIBLE PASSENGER VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH THE TIPTRONIC (AUTOMATIC) TRANSMISSION MAY HAVE BEEN PRODUCED WITH AN INCORRECTLY ADJUSTED KEY-LOCK-CABLE DOWN TO THE SHIFT SELECTOR. IF THE KEY-LOCK-CABLE IS NOT ADJUSTED CORRECTLY, IT IS POSSIBLE THAT THE IGNITION KEY WILL SNAG UPON BEING REMOVED FRO THE IGNITION LOCK OR THE SLECTOR LEVER CAN BE SHIFTED FROM POSITION "P" WITH THE IGNITION KEY REMOVED AND THE LOCKING BUTTON OPERATED.
- Consequence: IF THE SELECTOR LEVER IS THEN SHIFTED FROM POSITION "P" TO POSITION "R, N OR D" WITH THE VEHICLE PARKED, AND IF THE PARKING BRAKE IS NOT ON, THE VHEICLE WILL NOT BE SECURED FROM INADVERTENLY ROLLING AWAY, INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE CABLE ADJUSTMENT AND, REGARDLESS OF THE RESULTS OF THIS INSPECTION, THE KEY-LOCK-CABLE MUST ALSO BE ADJUSTED. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN JULY 15, 2003. OWNERS WHO TAKE THEIR VEHICLES TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED UPON SERVICE DATE AND DO NOT RECEIVE THE FREE REMEDY WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME SHOULD CONTACT PORSCHE AT 1-800-545-8039.
- Manufacturer: PORSCHE CARS N.A. INC.
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION:SWITCH
- Summary: VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES. THE IGNITION SWITCH CAN CRACK AND CAUSE ELECTRICAL FAILURES.
- Consequence: THIS CONDITION CAN CAUSE FAILURE OF THE AIR CONDITIONING, HEATER BLOWER, HEADLAMPS, AND WINDSHIELD WIPERS.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSTALL A NEW TYPE IGNITION SWITCH.
- Manufacturer: PORSCHE CARS N.A. INC.
- Components: POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:GEAR POSITION INDICATION (PRNDL)
- Summary: VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH TIPTRONIC TRANSMISSIONS. THE BEARING SLEEVES CAN SEIZE IN THE INTERMEDIATE SELECTOR LEVERS.
- Consequence: THE TRANSMISSION SELECTOR LEVER BECOMES INCREASINGLY DIFFICULT TO MOVE RESULTING IN FAILURE TO ACTIVATE THE SELECTOR LEVER.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE AFFECTED BEARING SLEEVES OF THE LEVER WITH BEARING SLEEVES OF AN IMPROVED DESIGN.
- Manufacturer: PORSCHE CARS N.A. INC.
- Components: AIR BAGS:ON-OFF SWITCH ASSEMBLY
- Summary: EQUIPMENT DESCRIPTION: CHILD SEATING SYSTEM AIR BAG DEACTIVATION KIT FOR USE ON 1997-1998 911 CARRERA S, CARRERA 4, CARRERA 4S, AND TURBO (1997 MODEL ONLY), PART NO. 993 803 283 00, AND 1997-1998 BOXSTER MODEL VEHICLES, PART NOS. 996 803 283 00 AND 996 803 083 00. DUE TO A MANUFACTURING PROBLEM, THE CONTACT BUCKLE (WHICH IS PART OF THE KIT) DOES NOT DEACTIVATE THE AIR BAG(S).
- Consequence: IN THE EVENT OF A CRASH, THIS RESULTS IN THE DEPLOYMENT OF THE AIR BAG(S) WHICH COULD RESULT IN SEVERE INJURY OR DEATH TO THE CHILD SEAT OCCUPANT.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSTALL A MODIFIED AIR BAG DEACTIVATION KIT.
Negative 1997 Porsche Boxster car reviews
Positive 1997 Porsche Boxster car reviews
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Great car! It sounds like you're having a lot of fun driving it. The Boxster seems to handle beautifully and it's easy to drive and maintain. The classic body style is timeless and it's no wonder you get lots of admiring looks when you drive it around town.
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There is nothing better for a car lover than a car that is red, has lots of power, no top and no back seat. I can't help but smile when driving this car. This was worth every cent.
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I purchased this car as a certified used vehicle when prices were still high. Nowadays, two-seaters are much more affordable, which makes this car, or better yet, the 'S' model, an excellent value for the money. Living with this car is a pleasure, despite the high costs when something goes wrong. Every time I get in it, I feel good, and even after almost five years, I still find myself staring back at it. That's just how it is with Porsches, and yes, this is a real Porsche. By the way, it's useless in the snow, even with T.C. Lastly, I highly recommend going for the full leather interior, as it makes a significant difference on early models.
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I just bought a 97 Boxster with 54k. I must say, the Boxster has always caught my eye and after reading the reviews, I just had to have one. I have 20
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I waited 11 months after placing a pre-production order for my first-year Boxter. I drove it to work every day for 4 years and used it as a fun second car for the last 3 years, hence the very low mileage. It has been very reliable, although I did have a freaky problem with the folding top after the warranty expired. The bill was $2,000, but Porsche Corp. was actually embarrassed and paid it in full! I find that very impressive!
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1997 Porsche Boxster problems:
Porsche Boxster Common Mechanical & Engine Problems - Poudre ...
Common Problems with Porsche Boxsters · Air/Oil Separator Failure · Engine Block Porosity · Cylinder Head Cracks · Cylinder Lining Cracks · Rod Bolt Failure · IMS ...
97 Boxster. any probs???? - Rennlist - Porsche Discussion Forums
Dec 21, 2002 ... Boxster & Boxster S (986) Forum - 97 Boxster. any probs???? - I am considering buying a 1997 Boxster. Did the early year have any problems?
1997 Porsche Boxster Problems and Complaints - 21 Issues
Problem with your 1997 Porsche Boxster? Our list of 21 known complaints reported by owners can help you fix your 1997 Porsche Boxster.
Is the porsche boxster a good car under 8k or are they all hiding ...
May 28, 2020 ... the 97-99 use a double row ball bearing and is considered the strongest of the 3 types of IMS bearings found in 986/987 boxsters. The failure ...
Here Are The Porsche Boxster Years To Avoid - CoPilot
Jun 12, 2023 ... Common Porsche Boxster Problems · Oil separator leaks: Owners of 2007-2010 Boxsters reported leakage at the oil separator, which occurs at around ...
Other years of Porsche Boxster
Are you having problems with your 1997 Porsche Boxster?
Pedro Lockman 2024-10-11
If you own a Boxster, it is highly recommended to change the oil frequently. The engine design has been known to have some issues, with the shafts sometimes exploding on the inside, which can be costly to repair. Porsche's solution is to install new engines, which can be expensive. It is not uncommon for a Boxster to experience engine failure before reaching 80,000 miles. The problem is that Porsche recommends changing the oil only once every 15,000 miles, which can be misleading for those who are not mechanically inclined. If you are a weekend driver, it is important to change your oil more frequently to avoid any potential issues. If you are considering purchasing a Boxster, it is important to keep this in mind.
Percival Barton 2024-09-21
I had hoped that my Porsche would last longer than 45M, but unfortunately the transmission failed. As a result, I have had a negative experience with the car and now consider it to be unreliable. However, I do appreciate the tagline 'an extension of the driver's will' as it accurately reflects the car's performance. Have you noticed that all four tires need to be replaced every 10M-12M miles? It's important to replace all four due to different wear patterns. Perhaps my bad experience has made me more practical, but I haven't completely ruled out owning another Porsche in the future. It's all about choosing your priorities and what you enjoy most.