2004 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 2004 Porsche Boxster problems
Porsche Boxster 2004 Common Problems
The Porsche Boxster 2004 has been known for several common problems that are important to be aware of, especially if you are considering purchasing one. Here are the most frequently reported issues based on the search results:
- Rear Main Seal Oil Leak
One of the most common problems in the Porsche Boxster 2004 is an oil leak from the rear main seal. This issue appears as a leak between the engine and transmission joint through the bell housing. If not addressed promptly, it can destroy the clutch in a manual car and potentially indicate other issues.
- Check Engine Light - Engine Runs Well
A Check Engine Light (CEL) on the Porsche Boxster 2004, with the engine running well and no loss of power, often suggests problems related to emissions control. A common cause for a CEL in the Boxster is a failure in the O2 sensor and mass airflow (MAF) system. The MAF begins to fail, delivering inaccurate information regarding the flow of air into the engine. This causes the engine management to adjust fuel mixtures, leading to the front O2 sensors reporting faults and often failing completely.
- Check Engine Light & Misfires - Engine Runs Rough
Misfires in the Boxster engine can occur at any time and require diagnosis to identify which cylinders are misfiring and why. Common causes are worn spark plugs, cracks in ignition coils, and oil leaking past the spark plug tube seals. The ignition coils on the M96 and M97 Boxster engines have been updated by Porsche multiple times due to their susceptibility to cracking. Low mileage older cars will commonly still have the older style coils, and it's best practice to replace them all to the newer version even if only a single coil has failed.
- IMS (Intermediate Shaft) Bearing Failures
IMS bearing failures in some Porsche models occur due to the aging of a vehicle. However, oil can start to seep past the bearing seal and cause premature wear that leads to the IMS bearing failure. Regular inspections and changing the oil as recommended can help avoid these issues.
- Chain Tensioner Failure
Chain tensioner failure is one of the most common problems with Porsche Boxsters built prior to 2000. The root cause is age and wear on the chain tensioner, which can lead to a loss of power or excessive noise from the engine. If left unchecked, this issue can damage the timing components and valves, resulting in costly repairs.
- Variocam Solenoids Failure
Variocam solenoids are responsible for controlling the engine's valve timing. Failure of these solenoids can cause reduced power output, poor fuel economy, and increased exhaust emissions. Regular inspections and maintenance can help prevent this issue.
- Leaks in the Rear Main Seal
Leaks in the rear main seal can lead to oil leaks, dark smoke from the exhaust, or the check-engine light coming on. This issue can negatively impact vehicle performance and should be addressed promptly.
- Engine Block Porosity
Engine block porosity is a casting defect that can cause the engine to fail completely, leading to costly repairs or even replacement. The porous engine block can lead to coolant leakage, as well as oil and water intermixing. The most common signs of engine block porosity are engine overheating, excessive engine smoke, or low engine compression.
- Cylinder Head Cracks
Cylinder head cracks can lead to bigger problems if not taken care of in time. Cracks can occur where exhaust valves are located or even around the spark plug hole, potentially causing dangerous situations. Any technician would suggest scheduling a proper inspection before purchasing a vehicle.
- Cylinder Lining Cracks
Cylinder lining cracks can cause damage to the piston and cylinder sleeve and can lead to further problems. If the car is overheating or if there are signs of coolant leaking, it is important to have the Boxster engine checked for any cylinder lining cracks.
When considering purchasing a Porsche Boxster 2004, it is crucial to be aware of these common problems and have the vehicle inspected by a Porsche specialist. Regular maintenance and inspections can help prevent or address these issues, ensuring the longevity and performance of your Boxster.
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?
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.
What is the fuel consumption of a 2004 Porsche Boxster?
2004 Porsche Boxster
| EPA MPG | Owner MPG Estimates |
|---|---|
| 2004 Porsche Boxster 6 cyl, 2.7 L, Manual 5-spd | |
| 21 combined city/highway MPG 18 city 27 highway 4.8 gals/ 100 miles | View Estimates How can I share my MPG? |
| 2004 Porsche Boxster 6 cyl, 2.7 L, Automatic (S5) | |
| Premium Gasoline | View Estimates How can I share my MPG? |
2004 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
- Engine problems
- Steering problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2004 Porsche Boxster vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
2004 Porsche Boxster complaints
The NHTSA has received 3 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2004 Porsche Boxster.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2012-04-27
- VIN: WP0CB29894U
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: THE INTERMEDIATE SHAFT BEARING WHEN OUT AND SPREAD METAL SHAVING THROUGHOUT THE ENGINE. THIS CAUSED A CATASTROPHIC ENGINE FAILURE. I HAVE TO HAVE THE CAR TOWED TO THE MECHANIC AND WILL HAVE TO HAVE AN ENGINE REBUILD. THE CAR HAS BEEN SERVICE ACCORDING TO THE COMPANY PROVIDED SERVICE MANUAL. I CALLED PORSCHE USA TO SEE IF THEY WOUDL DO ANYTHING ABOUT THE FAILURE, SINCE THIS HAS BEEN A DOCUMENTED PROBLEM WITH CERTAIN PORSCHES, BUT THE COMPANY WOULD NOT HELP. *TT
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-04-20
- VIN: WP0CA29834U
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: 2004 PORSCHE BOXSTER, 58-60K MI, HAD CATASTROPHIC ENGINE FAILURE AT 10 MI/HR. ENGINE STALLED; WAS ABLE TO RESTART AND DRIVE A FEW FEET, BUT BADLY MISSING. LOUD CLANGING NOISE FROM ENGINE. NO SMOKE. OIL DRAINED FROM CAR WHEN TILTED ON TOWTRUCK. DEALER FOUND INTERMEDIATE SHAFT (IMS) FAILURE; REQUIRED ENGINE REPLACEMENT AT $18K. DEALER SAID THEY HAD SEEN A SIGNIFICANT NUMBER OF IMS FAILURES (BUT PORSCHE HAS NOT NOTIFIED OWNERS). NO INJURIES, BUT CERTAINLY ENGINE FAILURE LIKE THIS COULD HAVE SERIOUS CONSEQUENCES AT FREEWAY SPEEDS. PORSCHE FORUMS ON INTERNET SHOW FREQUENCY OF FAILURES FROM THIS DEFECT (POORLY DESIGNED BEARING ASSEMBLY ON IMS) IS VERY HIGH, AS MUCH AS 8-11% IN ONE FORUM POLL. DEFECT FOUND IN MY97-08. *TR
STEERING,ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-05-02
- VIN: WP0CA29894S
- Components: STEERING,ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 PORSCHE BOXSTER. WHEN ACCELERATING FROM A STOP LIGHT AT 2 MPH, THE VEHICLE STALLED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO A DEALER AND THEY STATED THAT THE IMS (INTERMEDIATE SHAFT) FAILED, WHICH CAUSED THE ENGINE TO FAIL. IT WOULD COST $16,000-$20,000 TO REPLACE. THE MANUFACTURER STATED THAT THEY WERE NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR THE FAILURE BECAUSE THE VEHICLE EXCEEDED ITS WARRANTY. THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGES WERE 20468. UPDATED 05/27/09. *LJ THE INTERMEDIATE SHAFT BOLT BROKE WHICH CAUSED THE ENGINE TO FAIL. UPDATED 05/28/09.*JB
2004 Porsche Boxster recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 3 recalls for different components of the 2004 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.
Negative 2004 Porsche Boxster car reviews
Positive 2004 Porsche Boxster car reviews
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This car is so much fun to drive! The quality is top-notch, much better than other roadsters I've owned and driven. It's incredibly powerful for a two-seater, and overtaking is a breeze. There aren't many cars on the road that can keep up with this one.
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This car has been incredibly reliable and a joy to drive. It's quick and handles like a dream, making it one of the best cars out there for the money. The quality of the car is excellent, and the Bose stereo system and engine sound fantastic. I'm thrilled with my Porsche and wouldn't consider any other brand.
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Acceleration is great. Cornering, as we all know, is the best. I did have trouble getting the brake light to go off even after having it worked on twice by the dealer. However, few cars can turn heads like a Boxster S while driving down the road. You don't have to race around town, but the power is always there when you want it.
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The car handles and drives extremely well. I have never driven or owned a car that had such a feel of connection with the road. When driven, the car instills a sense of confidence. There is no lack of power at any speed. The interior of the car is very quiet for a convertible with the top up or down. This vehicle is truly a pleasure to drive. German technology at its best.
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The one thing I can say about my 99 Porsche Boxster is that it's amazing. I can't believe how good I feel when I get into the driver's seat after a long day of work or play. The sheer power, performance, and sleek design make me feel so good! I highly recommend this car if you're serious about performance, style, and overall capabilities. It's such a rush!
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2004 Porsche Boxster problems:
Scared to buy a 2004 Boxster S - Rennlist - Porsche Discussion ...
Jul 24, 2009 ... The IMS/RMS engine failures are, despite the hype, very uncommon, and even less common in later year Boxsters. Don't let them scare you.
Is the porsche boxster a good car under 8k or are they all hiding ...
May 28, 2020 ... The early boxsters are only more reliable just looking at IMS issues. They are more prone to alot of other problems that got fixed down the line ...
2004 Porsche Boxster Problems and Complaints - 42 Issues
Top 2004 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 ...
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 ...
2004 Porsche Boxster Repair: Service and Maintenance Cost
The Porsche Boxster Reliability Rating is 2.5 out of 5.0, which ranks it 15th out of 17 for luxury compact cars.
Other years of Porsche Boxster
Are you having problems with your 2004 Porsche Boxster?
Nicholas McKenzie 2025-04-12
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.