1998 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 1998 Porsche Boxster problems
The 1998 Porsche Boxster is known for several common problems that have been reported by owners.
Another common problem with the 1998 Porsche Boxster is electrical issues, which can be seen in the 1997-2010 models.
The 1998 Porsche Boxster also has issues with the engine block porosity, cylinder head cracks, cylinder lining cracks, rod bolt failure, IMS bearing failures, chain tensioner failure, and Variocam solenoids failure.
Lastly, the 1998 Porsche Boxster is known for leaks in the rear main seal, which can cause oil to leak from the engine, leading to poor performance and other issues like engine damage or even engine removal.
In summary, the 1998 Porsche Boxster has several common problems that have been reported by owners, including internal leakage at the oil separator, electrical issues, engine block porosity, cylinder head cracks, cylinder lining cracks, rod bolt failure, IMS bearing failures, chain tensioner failure, Variocam solenoids failure, and leaks in the rear main seal.
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.
Does 1998 Boxster have IMS issue?
The Porsche 911 and Porsche Boxster from model year 1997 to 2005 have a high failure rate of the intermediate shaft bearing also known as an IMS bearing. Its design and construction lead to premature failure of the bearing, which results in catastrophic engine failure.
Is Porsche Boxster high maintenance?
The annual maintenance cost of a Porsche Boxster is $952. Repair and maintenance costs vary depending on age, mileage, location and shop.
Are early 2000s Porsche Boxsters reliable?
Early 2000s (2000 to 2004) had intermediate shaft bearing (IMS) issues just like the 996 and were prone to cracked cylinder heads, MAF issues and water pump failures. Strangely, the very early Boxsters (in the 90s) did not have the IMS issues because they had dual-row bearings.
1998 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:
- Structure problems
- Air bags problems
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Electrical system problems
- Seat belts problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1998 Porsche Boxster vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 1998 Porsche Boxster
The NHTSA has received 34 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1998 Porsche Boxster. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 1998 Porsche Boxster vehicles.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-03-03
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: THE AIR BAG LIGHT ILLUMINATED ON THE CAR SPONTANEOUSLY AND STAYS LIT AT ALL TIMES INDICATING A FAULT IN THE SYSTEM. FROM ALL REPORTS ON VARIOUS PORSCHE DISCUSSION FORUMS (THOUSANDS OF INCIDENTS THAT HAVE BEEN REPORTED AND DISCUSSED), THIS IS A COMMON PROBLEM IN THE FIRST GENERATION PORSCHE BOXSTERS. IT IS A DEFECT IN THE SEAT BELT BUCKLE AND SEAT BELT GROUND CAUSED BY CORROSION OF THE CONTACT POINTS FOR THE SEAT BELT THAT TRIGGERS THE LIGHT. THE PURPOSE OF AN AIR BAG LIGHT IS TO INFORM YOU OF A DEFECT IN THIS SAFETY SYSTEM AND TO NOTIFY YOU THAT THE SYSTEM WILL NOT OPERATE AS IT SHOULD. WHILE THERE IS APPARENTLY A TSB THAT WAS ISSUED BY PORSCHE, ONCE YOUR VEHICLE IS OUT OF WARRANTY THEY WILL NOT REPAIR IT UNDER THE TSB FOR FREE. THIS IS A WIDESPREAD AND COMMON SAFETY DEFECT THAT DOESN'T APPEAR UNTIL AFTER THE CAR IS OUT OF WARRANTY. THE COST TO REPAIR THIS PROBLEM IS APPROXIMATELY $1500.00 THROUGH PORSCHE. CONSIDERING MOST PORSCHE BOXSTERS FROM 1997-1999 SUFFER FROM THIS PROBLEM, IT SHOULD BE A SAFETY RECALL AND REPAIRED BY PORSCHE AT THEIR EXPENSE. *TR
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2013-06-03
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: 1998 PORSCHE BOXSTER. CONSUMER WRITES IN REGARDS TO VEHICLE ENGINE PROBLEMS. *SMD THE CONSUMER STATED BETWEEN 1997 AND 1998 PORSCHE PRODUCED AN ENGINE WITH TWO KNOWN FLAWS. THE FIRST, WAS THE ENGINE BLOCK, THAT WAS TOO POROUS. IT CAUSED THE CYLINDER WALLS TO CRACK, CAUSING LOSS OF ALL COMPRESSION IN THE CYLINDER, AND THEREFORE RENDERING THE ENGINE USELESS. SECONDLY, THEY DESIGNED A FAULTY INTERMEDIATE BEARING SHAFT, THAT HAD A HIGH RATE OF FAILURE, AND DESTROYING THE ENGINE. ALSO, THE COMPUTER MODULE WAS LOCATED IN A POSITION THAT EXPOSED IT TO INCREASED PROBABILITY TO SHORT CIRCUIT.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2012-07-15
- VIN: WP0CA2986WU
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: MY VEHICLE HAD ONLY APPROXIMATELY 65,000 MILES WHEN THE HORN STARTED TO MALFUNCTION. THE HORN STARTED TO ROUTINELY DEPLOY ON ITS OWN. IN THE SHORT TERM I HAD TO HAVE IT DISCONNECTED BY MY REGULAR MECHANIC SO I COULD CONTINUE TO OPERATE THE CAR. I CALLED BARRIER PORSCHE IN BELLEVUE WASHINGTON WHERE THEY SEEMED TO BE ALREADY AWARE OF THIS ISSUE. I LEARNED THE PARTS (CLOCK SPRING AND SOMETHING ELSE) COST CLOSE TO $600 AND I ASSUME AT LEAST A COUPLE OF HOURS OF SHOP TIME. WITH SALES TAX I'M SURE IT WOULD COST $1,000 TO REPAIR THIS IMPORTANT SAFETY EQUIPMENT THAT SHOULD NEVER FAIL .PLEASE HELP! THIS SHOULD CLEARLY BE A RECALL ITEM. *TR
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-09-07
- VIN: WP0CA2981WU
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: WE BOUGHT A 1998 PORSCHE BOXSTER IN AUG 2009. SERVICED AS REQUIRED. ON 9/7/10 OUT DRIVING, STOPPED AT A STOP SIGN AS WE PROCEEDED THROUGH THE STOP SIGN THE ENGINE DIED, WHITE SMOKE CAME POURING OUT THE BACK. HAD IT TOWED TO MECHANIC AND WAS INFORMED THAT THEN MOTOR HAD SEIZED DUE TO THE IMS (INTERMEDIATE SHAFT). CAR HAD APPROX 34K FOR MILEAGE. CONTACTED PORSCHE AMERICA AND WAS BASICALLY TOLD THERE WAS NOTHING THEY COULD DO. AFTER RESEARCHING ON THE WEB, THIS APPEARS TO BE A PRETTY COMMON PROBLEM WITH THE 97-99 BOXSTERS. THE COST TO REPLACE THE MOTOR WITH A USED MOTOR WAS APPROX 9K AND THEY WOULD BE USING THE SAME TYPE OF MOTOR WITH THE SAME DESIGN FLAW. THE CAR HAS BEEN TAKEN TO THE SALVAGE YARD AND WE ARE OUT QUITE A BIT OF MONEY. *TR
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-08-01
- VIN: WP0CA2983WU
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: 1998 PORSCHE BOXSTER AIRBAG LIGHT, RELATED TO SEAT BELT BUCKLE, KNOWN ISSUE WITH A FIX THAT HAS A PART NUMBER, BUT PORSCHE NEVER HAD A RECALL SO THE ONLY WAY THEY WILL REPLACE IT FOR FREE IS IF THE LIGHT CAME ON WITHIN THE WARRANTY TIME. COST OUT OF WARRANTY $500 TO $1500. THIS SHOULD NOT BE A WARRANTY ISSUE BUT A SAFETY ISSUE, IF THEY KNEW THAT THE PART WAS FAULTY THEY SHOULD HAVE RECALLED THE PART AND FIXED EVERY MODEL THAT CAME OUT WITH THE OLD DESIGN. THERE ARE MANY REVIEWS ALL OVER THE INTERNET BY 97' TO 99' BOXSTER OWNERS. 99' IS THIS YEAR THEY CAME OUT WITH THE FIX, BUT IF YOU KEPT YOUR PORSCHE CLEAN AND GARAGE KEPT IT WOULD BE WELL PAST THE WARRANTY BEFORE THE WIRES FAULTED AND THE LIGHT COME ON. ALTHOUGH THEY SAY IT IS NOT A SAFETY ISSUE AND THAT THE AIRBAG WILL STILL DEPLOY, BY HAVING THIS FAULT ACTIVE, YOU WILL NOT BE ABLE TO TELL IF A TRUE AIRBAG FAULT THAT WILL AFFECT THE AIRBAG OPERATION REALLY WENT OFF. *TR
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-09-13
- VIN: WP0CA2988WU
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: I HAVE A 1998 POSCHE BOXSTER. THE CAR HAS A PROBLEM IN THAT THE AIRBAG LIGHT WILL COME ON AND THE OWNER WILL NOT KNOW IF THE AIRBAGS ARE WORKING PROPERLY OR NOT. PORSCHE HAS HAD OVER 7 FIXES ON THIS ISSUE AND NONE HAVE WORKED TO DATE. THEY HAVE NOT REPLACED MINE UNDER WARRANTY. I HAVE BEEN INFORMED BY MY LOCAL PORSCHE DEALER THIS IS AN ON GOING PROBLEM. PORSCHE NORTH AMERICA REFUSED TO FIX THIS PROBLEM BECAUSE THE CAR IS OUT OF WARRANTY.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-05-26
- VIN: WP0CA2987WU
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: I RECENTLY PURCHASED THE 1998 PORSCHE BOXSTER, AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION, AND HAVE DISCOVERED A LATENT DEFECT WHICH PCNA DESIGNATES A305, AND NTSB HAS ADDITIONAL RECALLS RELATING TO THE SAME DEFECTIVE PART ON THE SAME MODEL AND YEAR INVOLVING THE IGNITION SWITCH AND ATTACHED IGNITION ASSEMBLY. THE LATENT HAZARD IS IN THE IGNITION SWITCH WHICH IS DAMAGED WITHIN THE IGNITION ASSEMBLY RESULTING IN ELECTRICAL FAILURES AND RESULTANT FIRES. I HAVE DETERMINED THROUGH PCNA AND PORSCHE THAT THE ELECTRICAL ASSEMBLY WAS REDESIGNED DUE TO INHERENT (DESIGN) DEFECT TO CORRECT THE FAILURE OF THE IGNITION SWITCH BUT THE NEWLY DESIGNED REPLACEMENT PART (REDESIGNED ELECTRICAL ASSEMBLY WAS NOT REPLACED IN MY CAR OR OTHER NUMEROUS CARS. SEVERAL BOXSTER OWNERS HAVE PAID FOR THE NEW PART AND LABOR TOTALING IN EXCESS OF $400.00 BUT PCNA (PORSCHE) HAS DONE NOTHING TO FIX THE EXISTING DEFECTIVE SWITCH'S AND ASSEMBLY. THIS IS A PART THAT REPEATEDLY FAILS AND REMAINS A SERIOUS LATENT DEFECT UNDRESSED BY PORSCHE. ON MY CAR THE ONLY THING CORRECTED WAS UNDER CAMPAIGN NO A305; THAT WAS DONE IN 2003 ACCORDING TO PCNA. THE REPAIR THEY DID DOES NOT ADDRESS THE DEFECTIVE IGNITION SWITCH AND SWITCH ASSEMBLY. A 305 INVOLVES THE SAME ASSEMBLY BUT INVOLVED TIGHTENING A CABLE SO THE CAR DOES NOT RUN WHILE IN PARK AND THE IGNITION SWITCH FAILS TO INTERFACE WITH THE IMMOBILIZER SYSTEM. PLEASE INDICATE IF ADDITIONAL INFORMATION IS NEEDED REGARDING MY CAR AND THE PROBLEM I HAVE EXPERIENCED. *JB
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-10-17
- VIN: WP0CA2983WS
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: DT*: THE CONTACT STATED WHILE ATTEMPTING TO TURN THE KEY, THE IGNITION SWITCH WOULD NOT TURN OR WOULD TURN TOO FAR CAUSING THE INSTRUMENT PANEL TO BE INOPERABLE. THERE WAS A NHTSA RECALL, # 98V113000, REGARDING THE IGNITION SWITCH. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT INCLUDED IN THE RECALL DUE TO THE VIN. UPDATED 12/01/06 *JB
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1901-01-01
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,AIR BAGS
- Summary: 1998 PORSCHE BOXSTER AIR BAG WARNING LIGHT ILLUMINATED OVER A YEAR AGO. *TS THE CONSUMER CONTACTED THE DEALER AND WAS TOLD THAT THERE WAS A KNOW CORROSION PROBLEM WITH THE CONTACTS IN THE AIR BAG ELECTRICAL SYSTEM. THE DEALER TOLD THE CONSUMER THAT THE FRONT SEATS HAD TO BE REMOVED TO CORRECT THE PROBLEM AND THAT THE WIRING HARNESS HAD TO BE REPLACED. THE CONSUMER BELIEVES THE MANUFACTURER SHOULD BE RESPONSIBLE FOR THE COST OF THE REPAIRS BUT WAS TOLD THAT SINCE THE VEHICLE WAS OUT OF WARRANTY THE HE WOULD BE RESPONSIBLE FOR THE REPAIRS. THE EMISSION WARNING LIGHT ILLUMINATED. IT WAS DETERMINED THAT THE GAS CAP WAS DEFECTIVE. *NM
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-09-19
- VIN: WP0CA2980WU
- Components: LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
- Summary: INTERIOR DOOR HANDLE CABLE FAILURE. BOTH INTERIOR DOOR HANDLE CABLES HAVE FAILED. THIS HAS MADE THE VEHICLE IMPOSSIBLE TO EXIT IN THE EVENT OF AN ELECTRICAL PROBLEM. I HAVE CONTACTED BOTH THE LOCAL PORSCHE DEALER AND PORSCHE NORTH AMERICA AND HAVE BEEN INFORMED THAT THEY WILL NOT FIX THIS SAFETY PROBLEM AT THEIR EXPENSE BECAUSE THE CAR IS NO LONGER UNDER WARRANTY. PORSCHE IS AWARE OF THIS PERVASIVE PROBLEM BUT WILL NOT DO ANYTHING ABOUT IT UNLESS A NHTSA RECALL IS ISSUED. A SEARCH ON THE INTERNET SHOW THIS TO BE A COMMON PROBLEM TO '98 AND LATER BOXTERS. SEE: HTTP://WWW.986FAQ.COM/10-0/PROBLEMS. ASP#001 PLEASE ISSUE A RECALL TO FIX THIS SAFETY FLAW. THANK YOU. *NM
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-06-08
- VIN: WP0CA2981WU
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,STRUCTURE
- Summary: I HAD JUST RETURNED TO MY CAR AT A LOCAL SHOPPING CENTER, THE SKY HAD BEGUN TO LOOK AS IF A STORM WAS APPROACHING AND I DECIDED TO PUT UP MY CONVERTIBLE TOP. THE TOP WOULD NOT GO UP, SO I PROCEEDED HOME IN HOPES THAT I WOULD BEAT THE IMPENDING BAD WEATHER HOME. NEEDLESS TO SAY IT BEGAN TO STORM AND MY VEHICLE AND MYSELF WERE SOAKED. I WAS TERRIFIED AS I COULD BARELY SEE TO DRIVE. FORTUNATELY I MADE IT HOME BEFORE MY CAR CONKED OUT. I CALLED MY INSURANCE COMPANY AND WAS INSTRUCTED TO HAVE MY DISABLED VEHICLE TOWED TO THE PORSCHE DEALER. IT WAS THEN EVALUATED BY THE SERVICE TECHNICIAN, AND HE FOUND THAT A RELAY AND MOTOR HAD FAILED. THE DESIGN INVOLVES TWO RELAYS, ONE FOR THE LEFT SIDE AND ONE FOR THE RIGHT SIDE. THE LEFT SIDE FAILED AND WOULD NOT ALLOW THE CONVERTIBLE TOP TO COME UP. IN ADDITION TO THE MOTOR/ AND OR RELAY FAILURE IT CAUSED THE COWLING COVERING THE TOP TO JAM AND TORCHED IT, SO THAT IT BECAME FURHER DAMAGED. THE INSURANCE COMPANY AGREED TO PAY FOR THE DAMAGE CAUSED BY THE WATER, BUT NOT THE MECHANICAL FAILURE THAT CAUSED THAT. THE DEALER INFORMED US THAT THE MOTOR AND RELAY WERE NOT REPLACEABLE AS PORSCHE HAD REDESIGNED THE SYSTEM, BECAUSE OF THIS PROBLEM, SO THAT BOTH SIDE WOULD BE RAISED AT THE SAME TIME. THEIR SOLUTION WAS TO REPLACE THE SYSTEM AT A COST OF APPROXIMATELY $2200.00 DOLLARS. I CONTACTED PORSCHE NORTH AMERCA, CUSTOMER COMMITMENT DEPARTMENT TO SEE IF THERE WERE ANY RECALLS AND THEY INDICATED THERE WAS NOT. THEY INSTRUCTED ME TO CONTACT THE SERVICE MANAGER AND HE COULD LIKEWISE CONTACT THE REGIONAL LEVEL TO SEE IF PORSCHE WILL TAKE RESPONSIBILITY FOR THIS REPLACEMENT AND COST OF UPGRADING TO THE SAFER DESIGN FIX. THEY REFUSED. MY ARGUMENT IS THAT THIS IS A SAFETY ISSUE. I COULD HAVE BEEN INJURED IF I HAD NOT BEEN ABLE TO NAVIGATE HOME IN THIS STORM, (BELIEVE ME, IT WASN'T EASY).
AIR BAGS,EQUIPMENT PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-05-01
- VIN: WP0CA2987WS
- Components: AIR BAGS,EQUIPMENT
- Summary: PORSCHE STARTED SELLING BOXSTERS IN 1997. THE CAR HAS A PROBLEM IN THAT THE AIRBAG LIGHT WILL COME ON AND THE OWNER WILL NOT KNOW IF THE AIRBAGS ARE WORKING PROPERLY OR NOT. PORSCHE HAS HAD OVER 7 FIXES ON THIS ISSUE AND NONE HAVE WORKED TO DATE. THEY HAVE REPLACE MINE UNDER WARRANTY, AND IT HAS FAILED AGAIN. I HAVE BEEN INFORMED BY MY LOCAL PORACHE DEALER THIS IS AN ON GOING PROBLEM. PORSCHE NORTH AMERICA REFUSES TO FIX THIS PROBLEM SINE THE CAR IS OUT OF WARRANTY.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-08-29
- VIN: WP0CA2989WU
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: ENGINE COOLANT TANK CRACKED FOR PORSCHE BOXSTER (1998). THE TEMPERATURE MONITOR FLASHES INDICATING OVERHEATING ENGINE AND MAY CAUSE ENGINE TO SEIZE WHILE DRIVING. CONTACTED DEALER WHO INDICATED ITS A COMMON SAFETY PROBLEM. CONTACTED PORSCHE CARS NORTH AMERICA, WHO DID NOT OFFER ANY REPAIR ASSISTANCE. *LA
AIR BAGS,SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2002-06-26
- VIN: WPOCA2984WU
- Components: AIR BAGS,SEAT BELTS
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING, AIRBAG LIGHT STAYS ON, AND IT CAN BE USELESS IN EVENT OF A CRASH. CAUSE UNKNOWN. DEALER NOTIFIED.*AK THE AIR BAG LIGHT ILLUMINATED AND THE DEALER REFUSED TO FIX WITHOUT COST OT THE CONSUMER. HOWEVER, CONSUMER MENTIONED IT TO THE HOME OFFICE OF PORSCHE AND THEY AGREED TO REPAIR THE VEHICLE AT NO COST TO CONSUMER. ALSO THE DRIVER SIDE BELT BUCKLE SWITCH NEEDED WIRING MODIFICATIONS. BECAUSE OF PRICE, CONSUMER DECLINED REPAIRS AT THE TIME. *JG
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2002-05-23
- VIN: WP0CA2981WS
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: ENGINE BREAKDOWN, BLACK SMOKE AND WATER THROUGH THE EXHAUST, PISTON AND PISTON HOUSING BROKEN & ENGINE BLOCK CRACKED.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2000-07-01
- VIN: WP0CA2988WU
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: THE AIRBAG WARNING LIGHT CAME ON AND THE DEALER STATED THE LEFT AND RIGHT SEATBELT NEED TO BE REPLACED TO CORRECT THE PROBLEM. THE DEALER STATED THAT THEY COULD NOT GAURANTEE THAT THE SEATBELTS AND AIRBAGS WOULD DEPLOY CORRECTLY IF THE VEHICLE WAS IN AN ACCIDENT. PORSCHE HAS ISSUED A TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN ON THIS PROBLEM. THE QUESTION IS HOW MANY VEHICLES HAVE THE SAME PROBLEM AND SHOULD THIS BE A RECALL IF IT IS WIDESPREAD.*AK
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2000-07-01
- VIN: WP0CA2988WU
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: THE AIRBAG WARNING LIGHT CAME ON AND THE DEALER STATED THE LEFT AND RIGHT SEATBELT NEED TO BE REPLACED TO CORRECT THE PROBLEM. THE DEALER STATED THAT THEY COULD NOT GAURANTEE THAT THE SEATBELTS AND AIRBAGS WOULD DEPLOY CORRECTLY IF THE VEHICLE WAS IN AN ACCIDENT. PORSCHE HAS ISSUED A TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN ON THIS PROBLEM. THE QUESTION IS HOW MANY VEHICLES HAVE THE SAME PROBLEM AND SHOULD THIS BE A RECALL IF IT IS WIDESPREAD.*AK
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2000-10-01
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: FRONT RIGHT WHEEL BEARING FAILED, DEALER REFUSES TO FIX BECAUSE THE VEHICLE IS OUT OF WARRANTY.*ET
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-11-08
- VIN: WPOCA2983WS
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: ENGINE FAILURE/BREAKDOWN; NO REAL EXPLANATION FROM PCA, MANY OTHER BOXSTER OWNER WITH ENGINE FAILURE, SEARCH AT-- WWW.986BOARD.COM/BOARD/986BOARD.HTM --. ALL OF THE SUDDEN BOXSTER ENGINE SUDDENLY FAILS/BREAKDOWN, DEALER REPLACED THEM BUT WHAT WILL HAPPEN AFTER ENGINE WARRANTY IS OVER AND THE ENGINE FAILS DUE TO THE SAME PROBLEM. IN VIEW PCA OFFICES DOES NOT GIVE A REAL ANSWER, PROBABLY THEY ARE AVOIDING A ENGINE RECALL AND WAIT UNTIL EVERY ENGINE BREAKS/ FAILS. IT WILL NOT BE SAFE TO THE OWNERS OF THESE CARS. I DO REALLY APPRECIATE IF YOU ARE ABLE TO INVESTIGATE IN YOUR BUSY SCHEDULE. A BOXSTER ENGINE FAILURE REGISTRY WILL BE AVAILABLE IN THE NEXT COUPLE OF DAYS, WHERE YOU WILL BE ABLE TO CONFIRM WHAT I WROTE TO YOU . THANKS. *AK
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-02-01
- VIN: WPOCA2983WU
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: COMPLETE ENGINE FAILURE AT 4600 MILES, SEEMS TO BE A COMMON PROBLEM. *AK
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: WPOCA2983WU
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: "NO DEPLOYMENT" OF PASSENGER SIDE AIRBAG DURING ACCIDENT. *YC
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1998-02-01
- VIN: WPOCA2984WU
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: IGNITION FAILED. *YC
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1998-02-01
- VIN: WP0CA2985WU
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: CONVERTIBLE TOP GLIDE PLATES FAILED. YH
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: WP0CA2988WU
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: SENSOR PLATE FAILURE CAUSED OIL TO LEAK. YH
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1998-07-15
- VIN: WP0CA2985WS
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: LEFT AND RIGHT SUN VISOR LIDS BROKE TWICE. YH
1998 Porsche Boxster recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 4 recalls for different components of the 1998 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: 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 1998 Porsche Boxster car reviews
Positive 1998 Porsche Boxster car reviews
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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!
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I've had the pleasure of driving some really nice cars over the years. Recently, I've become obsessed with Audi's powerful 2002 S4 sedan. However, after driving a Porsche for the first time today, I immediately fell in love. The Porsche Boxster is an excellent choice as a second car for anyone looking for a vehicle that's loads of fun to drive on twisty mountain roads, yet still comfortable and roomy enough to hold a set of clubs in the trunk. While the Audi can be my family hauler, the Porsche is my perfect get-away car.
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Great car! It's really fun to drive, although it could benefit from a bit more horsepower.
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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.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1998 Porsche Boxster problems:
I bought a 1998 Boxster 2.5, did I make a huge mistake??? - Page 2 ...
Mar 25, 2013 ... Like I stated earlier, I have owned a couple of Porsches in the past (944 and 924) and was totally prepared for the standard Porsche issues. I ...
Would a 1998 Boxster be a sensible purchase? : r/Porsche
May 24, 2021 ... ... Boxster due to it's reliability and quality, even in significantly older models. ... people know to get your fun out of them then sell them before ...
1998 Porsche Boxster Problems and Complaints - 21 Issues
Top 1998 Porsche Boxster Problems · Various Faults Due to Intenal Leak at the Oil Seperator · Power Windows Won't Lower Due to Failing Cabriolet Top/Door Handle ...
Is the porsche boxster a good car under 8k or are they all hiding ...
May 28, 2020 ... Cracking in the cylinder head. Coolant oil mixing in the block. Plastic chain guides falling apart. All of these problems are really only seen ...
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 ...
Other years of Porsche Boxster
Are you having problems with your 1998 Porsche Boxster?
Rowan Swift 2024-05-25
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.
Ignatius Gutmann 2024-02-13
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.