2002 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 2002 Porsche Boxster problems
The Porsche Boxster 2002 is a high-performing sports car, but it has been reported to have several common problems, particularly with the engine and ignition system.
One of the most commonly reported issues with the 2002 Porsche Boxster is internal leakage at the oil separator.
Another common problem with the 2002 Porsche Boxster is a malfunctioning or failing ignition switch. This issue can cause the car to not start at all, and it is more prevalent in models with higher mileage.
The 2002 Porsche Boxster is also known to have issues with the RMS (rear main seal), which can cause an oil leak between the engine and transmission joint. This issue can lead to clutch failure in manual cars if not addressed promptly.
Additionally, the 2002 Porsche Boxster is known to have issues with the IMS (intermediate shaft) bearing, which can cause engine failure if not addressed promptly. This issue is more prevalent in models with higher mileage and can be expensive to repair.
In terms of maintenance, the 2002 Porsche Boxster is known to be maintenance-heavy, especially if not driven regularly.
When test driving a 2002 Porsche Boxster, it is recommended to check for any unusual noises, such as a timing chain rattle or check engine light, which can indicate issues with the timing chains and tensioner or other engine problems.
In summary, the 2002 Porsche Boxster is a high-performing sports car, but it has several common problems, particularly with the engine and ignition system. It is recommended to research the model year and take note of its common problems before purchasing, and to address any issues promptly to avoid further damage. Regular maintenance is also important, especially if the car is not driven regularly.
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 the Porsche Boxster reliable?
Despite its excellent performance and lifespan as a vehicle, the Porsche Boxster has only received a reliability rating of 2.5 out of 5 from RepairPal. Reports indicate that the Porsche Boxster tends to break down frequently and requires frequent maintenance and repairs.
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.
Which Boxster year is best?
If you're wanting the best of the best, most people recommend the 2012 Porsche Boxster as the #1 pick. You can likely choose any of the 987 model, which ranged from the 2005-2012 time range, with 2009-2012 being the best. This second-generation model really brought the vehicle into the spotlight.
2002 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:
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Electrical system problems
- Power train problems
- Structure problems
- Seat belts problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2002 Porsche Boxster vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
2002 Porsche Boxster complaints
The NHTSA has received 11 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2002 Porsche Boxster.
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-11-10
- VIN: WP0CA29842U
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: 2002 PORCHE BOXSTER. CONSUMER WRITES IN REGARDS TO COMPLAINT CONCERNING VEHICLE PARTS *TGW THE CONSUMER STATED THE CABLES FROM THE SHIFTER TO THE TRANSMISSION FAILED WHILE DRIVING IN HEAVY TRAFFIC.
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-07-01
- VIN: WP0CB29892U
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: THE SEAT BELT ON MY VEHICLE, WHEN BUCKLED, HAS A TENDENCY TO NOT LATCH COMPLETELY AND ALLOWS FOR THE RELEASE WITHOUT PRESSING THE RELEASE BUTTON. ALSO WHEN IT IS LATCHED, THERE IS A TENDENCY FOR IT TO GET CAUGHT AND NOT RELEASE WITHOUT SIGNIFICANT PULLING FORCE ON THE BUCKLE. *TR
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-04-05
- VIN: WP0CA29842U
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: IMS ENGINE FAILURE. KNOWN ISSUES WITH PORSCHE. PORSCHE BOXSTER 49,500 MILES. PLACE CAR IN REVERES, ENGINE SEIZED. REPLACEMENT OF ENGINE NECESSARY. $8000- $15,000. *TR
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-10-01
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,STRUCTURE
- Summary: SEE ODI CASE NUMBER: 10318487, COMPUTER FAILURE DUE TO WATER LEAKAGE INTO CAB. THIS HAPPENED TO ME TWICE IN FALL, 2008. THE FIRST TIME, THE DEALER REPLACED THE COMPUTER (AT MY COST) AND ONE MONTH LATER, IT HAPPENED AGAIN. AGAIN, THE COMPUTER WAS REPLACED AND THE CARPETS NEEDED REMOVAL AND CLEANING DUE TO FUNGUS, ALL AT MY COST. *TR
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,STRUCTURE,EQUIPMENT PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-02-18
- VIN: WP0CA29802U
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,STRUCTURE,EQUIPMENT
- Summary: WE OWN A 2002 PORSCHE BOXSTER WITH APPROXIMATELY 66,000 MILES. WE PURCHASED THE VEHICLE, USED, IN LATE 2003. ON THREE SEPARATE OCCASIONS WE HAVE EXPERIENCED TOTAL LOSS OF USE OF THE VEHICLE DUE TO WATER LEAKING INTO THE INTERIOR COMPARTMENT AND FLOODING THE CONTROL UNIT, RENDERING THE CAR TOTALLY INOPERABLE. THE INCIDENTS HAVE TAKEN PLACE IN OCTOBER, 2004 AT 33,000 MILES, APRIL, 2008 AT 61,000 MILES, AND CURRENTLY IN FEBRUARY, 2010. THE REPAIR HAS INITIALED REPLACING THE CONTROL UNIT AND HAVING TO PULL OUT THE CARPET SO AS TO INHIBIT MOLD GROWTH. THE FIRST INCIDENT WAS REPAIRED UNDER THE VEHICLE'S WARRANTY, THE SECOND TIME WAS REPAIRED AT OUR EXPENSE OF APPROX. $1,600. THE ESTIMATE FOR THIS CURRENT REPAIR IS $1,500. WE BELIEVE THIS POSES A SEVERE SAFETY RISK BECAUSE THE FIRST INCIDENT TOOK PLACE WHILE THE CAR WAS IN USE. WE WERE DRIVING UP A HILL. SUDDENLY THE VEHICLE BECAME INOPERABLE AND WE HAD TO MANEUVER THE CAR USING THE HANDBRAKE, TO REVERSE DOWN THE HILL. THE CAR HAD TO BE TOWED TO THE DEALER. WE HAVE INVESTIGATED THE PROBLEM ON THE INTERNET AND FOUND THAT THIS IS A COMMON PROBLEM WITH CERTAIN PORSCHE'S VEHICLES. THERE IS A DEFECT IN THE VEHICLE AND/OR THE RESTRICTIVE FILTERS THAT CAUSE THEM TO BECOME CLOGGED WITH DEBRIS AND CAUSE THE WATER LEAKAGE. IN ADDITION TO THIS PROBLEM RECURRING DOMESTICALLY, WE NOTE THAT THE NHTSA, WAS INFORMED VIA FRCL-09F028-2453 DATED APRIL 5, 2009 OF A SIMILAR PROBLEM IN NON-U.S. MARKETS. WE WOULD APPRECIATE YOUR INVESTIGATING THIS DEFECT. *TR
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-01-22
- VIN: WP0CA29812U
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: I WAS DRIVING AT LOW SPEEDS IN TOWN, AND THE CAR STALLED WITH THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT FLASHING. THE CAR WAS TOWED TO A LOCAL DEALER (PORSCHE OF LANSING) WHO INDICATED THAT THE TIMING CHAIN BROKE (PREMATURELY, AS THE CAR ONLY HAS 37600MI). THE CAR WAS IN REPAIR FOR 7 WEEKS, AT A COST OF $7700. THE DAY AFTER THE REPAIR WAS FINISHED, THE CAR MADE A LOUD TICKING NOISE AND THEN A V. LOUD SNAPPING SOUND FROM THE ENGINE. THE DEALER INDICATED THAT THE TIMING CHAIN SLIPPED CAUSING CATASTROPHIC ENGINE DAMAGE. THIS TIME, THE DEALER HAS AGREED TO REPLACE THE ENGINE WITH A NEW (REMANUFACTURED) UNIT. I CONTACTED PORSCHE FOR GOOD WILL ASSISTANCE REGARDING THE ORIGINAL PREMATURE ENGINE FAILURE. THEY DECLINED TO GIVE ANY SUPPORT BECAUSE THE FAILURE OCCURRED "MORE THAN 1 YEAR AFTER THE ORIGINAL WARRANTY EXPIRED" (THE DEALER CLAIMED THE IN-SERVICE DATE WAS 10/2001). HOWEVER, THE MAINTENANCE MANUAL SHOWS A STAMP FROM THE ORIGINAL PORSCHE DEALER, CLEARLY INDICATING THE IN-SERVICE DATE IS 2/27/2002. SINCE THE FAILURE OCCURRED ON 1/22/2007, THIS IS LESS THAN ONE YEAR AFTER THE ORIGINAL WARRANTY EXPIRED...
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-08-03
- VIN: WP0CB29812S
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VISIBILITY
- Summary: TWO WEEKS AGO I HAD A PROBLEM WITH MY POWER WINDOW LIFT MECHANIC AT THE DRIVERS SIDE WHICH I HAD IT FIXED AT THE PARK PLACE PORSCHE IN DALLAS TEXAS AND WAS TOLD THAT MY WARRANTY DOESN'T COVER FOR THE POWER WINDOW LIFT MECHANIC AND WAS CHARGED 516 DOLLARS. HAVING DONE MY OWN RESEARCH I FOUND OUT THAT THE LIMITED WARRANTY THAT I HAVE COVERS ELECTRICAL MECHANICS INCLUDING POWER WINDOWS. HERES THE WEBSITE ITSELF (HTTP://WWW.PORSCHE.COM/USA/PRE-OWNED-VEHICLES/APPROVED/)
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-06-12
- Crash: 1
- VIN: WP0CA29892U
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: BRAKES SUDDENLY LOOSE PRESSURE AND CAR DOES NOT STOP.
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-01-13
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: MY CLUTCH WAS MAKING A TERRIBLE NOISE FOR A WEEK AFTER I INITIALLY PURCHASED THE CAR AND THEN AGAIN ABOUT A WEEK PRIOR TO THE FAILURE OF THE CLUTCH. I ONLY HAVE 24000 MILES ON THE CLUTCH AND IT FAILED SUDDENLY CAUSING A BURNING CLOUD OF SMOKE. I REPORTED THE PROBLEM INITIALLY TO THE PORSCHE DEALER IN NEW ORLEANS, CRESCENT CITY MOTORS, AND THEY TOLD ME THAT NOISES WERE COMMON AND THAT IT WAS NOT A PROBLEM. I FEEL THIS CAUSED MY CLUTCH TO BURN UP PREMATURELY, HOWEVER, THEY FEEL LIKE THERE WAS NO PROBLEM IN THE MATERIALS AND WORKMANSHIP. I HAVE HEARD THAT THERE ARE PROBLEMS WITH THE THROW OUT BEARING IN PORSCHE BOXSTERS AND THIS IS THE PART THAT WAS MAKING THE NOISE. *JB
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2002-07-14
- Crash: 1
- VIN: WP0CB29872U
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: ORIGINAL EQUIPMENT TIRES ON 2002 PORSCHE BOXTER S ARE NOT SAFE ON WET PAVEMENT. THE TYPE OF TIRES ARE DESIGNED FOR CLEAN DRY PAVEMENT ONLY. VERY DANGEROUS ON WET PAVEMENT. NO WARNING IS PROVIDED TO OWNER. NOT DISCLOSED TO OWNER, TIRE MANUFACTURER WARNS OF USE ON OTHER THAN CLEAN DRY PAVEMENT. CAR HYDROPLANNED DURING FIRST RAINSTORM AND CAUSED SERIOUS ACCIDENT ON BUSY INTERSTATE HIGHWAY. TIRES HAD TO BE REPLACED.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2002-07-22
- Crash: 1
- VIN: WP0CA29852U
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: ON TWO OCCASIONS AND ON TWO SEPARATE VEHICLE ENGINE CAMSHAFT FAILED WHILE DRIVING. DEALER AND MANUFACTURER WERE AWARE OF PROBLEM. FEEL FREE TO PROVIDE ANY FURTHER INFORMATION.*AK
2002 Porsche Boxster recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 4 recalls for different components of the 2002 Porsche Boxster.
- 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.
- 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.
Negative 2002 Porsche Boxster car reviews
Positive 2002 Porsche Boxster car reviews
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This is the best car I have ever owned! It's so much fun to drive, handles like a dream, and looks amazing. I always get compliments on it from strangers. Some people call it the 'poor man's' Porsche, but I don't agree. It has the same interior and front as the 911, and I saved a lot of money by choosing it. Plus, I still have just as much fun driving it! The only downside is that regular service calls can be a bit pricey, but they only need to be done every 18 months. Overall, it's a fantastic car for the money.
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Hi there! I hope you're doing well. I wanted to share my experience with my 2002 Boxster S. When I bought it, it only had just over 2,000 miles on it! I have to say, the overall performance of this car is what really sets it apart. While its straight line performance is acceptable, this car truly shines when you throw it through curves. I've noticed that it has a mild understeer when entering a corner, but then it turns into a neutral feel through and exiting the corner. The balance of this car is truly amazing, and only mid-engine cars can provide that kind of feeling. When you toss it around, it feels like all the momentum and weight are around your inner shoulder. Plus, it's easy to correct when the rear-end is starting to break loose. Overall, I think this is a sophisticated sports car that anyone would enjoy driving!
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It seems like there are a few issues with the car. The rear seals have been mentioned on their bulletin boards and the clutch may be weak. Additionally, the hydraulic front hood requires a jump to open if the battery is dead, which may not be the best design feature.
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I love it! I can't wait until spring to take the top down.
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My second Porsche in 15 years and it's absolutely thrilling to drive. Mostly used in spring and summer, but it's definitely a year-round car if necessary. This is truly a fun car to drive, period. The performance and quality are top-notch. Zoom Zoom!
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2002 Porsche Boxster problems:
Everything That Goes Wrong With A PORSCHE BOXSTER (986 ...
Jun 25, 2023 ... ALL the common issues you need to know if you're looking to buy a 986 Porsche Boxster. Considering Subscribing? Whether you're buying a ...
2002 Porsche Boxster Problems and Complaints - 42 Issues
Top 2002 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 ...
CAR WIZARD Shows the Top 5 Common Issues on 2000 Porsche ...
Dec 12, 2018 ... The CAR WIZARD identifies several annoyances with the Boxster and shows how to fix a HUGE annoyance! Plus CRAZY D makes a guest appearance.
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 ...
2002 Porsche Boxster Review - All The Porsche I Need! - YouTube
Jan 28, 2021 ... My thoughts on the 2002 Porsche Boxster with the 2.7L flat 6 and 5 speed manual transmission! Spencer Shipley Packey Webb Ford ...
Other years of Porsche Boxster
Are you having problems with your 2002 Porsche Boxster?
Oran Mohr 2025-01-02
I purchased my Boxster 'S' brand new in October 2001, but unfortunately, it has been the most unreliable car I have ever owned. I have found the attitude of Porsche Cars GB Ltd and the Porsche Centre Reading towards their customers to be one of unhurried indifference. This has led me to decide that this will be my fourth and final Porsche. It is surprising to note that they rate much lower than Skoda on the J.D.Power survey. Since day one, the car has had continual warranty problems, culminating in the failure of the intermediate gear and bearing, which cost me £3344.79. The parts, costing £873.71, were supplied grudgingly by Porsche Cars GB F.O.C, as this is a well-documented design fault with this model. I hope that Porsche can learn from Lexus and improve their customer service.
Jaydon Williamson 2024-11-12
I purchased a preowned Boxster S with only 9,000 miles on it. While the car looks great and the top is easy to drop, the acceleration with Tiptronic is not as good as I expected, with a 0-60 time of 5.9 seconds. However, the car's strength lies in its handling. Although the interior is plain, even with the sport touring package, it is still enjoyable to drive. The cabin is a bit tight for me at 6'3