2012 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 2012 Porsche Boxster problems
The 2012 Porsche Boxster is a well-regarded roadster known for its inspired handling, evocative styling, and strong acceleration. However, like any vehicle, it has some common problems that potential buyers should be aware of.
One issue that affects some Porsche Boxsters, including the 2012 model, is the intermediate shaft (IMS) bearing failure.
Another problem that affects some 2012 Porsche Boxsters is the rear main seal (RMS) leak.
Additionally, some 2012 Porsche Boxsters may suffer from electrical issues, which can be challenging to diagnose and repair. It's essential to have any electrical problems checked by a Porsche specialist to ensure they are fixed correctly.
Finally, some 2012 Porsche Boxsters may have issues with the water pump, which can cause the engine to overheat and potentially lead to engine failure. It's essential to have the water pump checked regularly and replaced if necessary to avoid this problem.
In summary, while the 2012 Porsche Boxster is an excellent roadster with many positive attributes, potential buyers should be aware of the common problems that can affect this vehicle. These include IMS bearing failure, RMS leak, electrical issues, and water pump problems. Regular maintenance and inspections by a Porsche specialist can help prevent these issues and ensure the longevity of the vehicle.
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.
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.
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.
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.
2012 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:
- Service brakes problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2012 Porsche Boxster vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
2012 Porsche Boxster complaints
The NHTSA has received 1 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2012 Porsche Boxster.
SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-02-18
- VIN: WP0ZZZ98ZDS
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: KNOWN PROBLEM WHERE THE BRAKE PEDAL PIN /SPINDLE WEARS IN THE PIVOT BUSH MECHANISM. THIS INTERFERES WITH PEDAL MOVEMENT AND CAN STICK CAUSING BRAKES TO STICK ON. THIS CAN CAUSE DASH WARNINGS BUT IF NOT CAN CAUSE THE VEHICLES BRAKES TO OVERHEAT WITHOUT DRIVERS KNOWLEDGE. THE UPGRADED PARTS ARE AVAILABLE FROM PORSCHE AS THE OLD VERSION SPINDLE AND BUSHES ARE FLAWED. I HAVE REPLACED THE PARTS,P99142328400 BEARING PIN / SPINDLE AND BUSHES P7PP721113A. THEY ARE SMALL IN COST BUT COULD PREVENT SERIOUS FAILURE OR INJURY / DEATH.. I LIVE IN UK AND BELIEVE THIS SHOULD BE BROUGHT TO YOU
2012 Porsche Boxster recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 1 recalls for different components of the 2012 Porsche Boxster.
- Manufacturer: PORSCHE CARS NORTH AMERICA, INC.
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: PORSCHE IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2011 911 SPEEDSTER AND 911 GTS RS 4.0; AND MODEL YEAR 2012 BOXSTER (INCLUDING S AND SPYDER); CAYMAN (INCLUDING S AND R); 911 CARRERA (INCLUDING S, GTS, 4, 4S, AND 4 GTS); 911 TARGA 4 AND TARGA 4S; AND 911 TURBO AND TURBO S MODELS MANUFACTURED FROM MAY 31, 2011, THROUGH JUNE 10, 2011. THERE IS A POSSIBILITY THAT THE MOUNTING HOLES IN THE SEAT BELT ANCHOR PLATES FITTED TO THE VEHICLE ARE TOO SMALL. IF THE HOLE DIAMETER IS TOO SMALL, THE ANCHOR PLATE MAY NOT BE ABLE TO ROTATE ABOUT THE FASTENING BOLT AS DESIGNED.
- Consequence: SHOULD THIS OCCUR, THE SEAT BELT MAY NOT BE ROUTED OPTIMALLY AROUND THE OCCUPANT, OR MAY POTENTIALLY LOOSEN AT SOME POINT IN THE FUTURE INCREASING THE RISK OF INJURY DURING A CRASH.
- Remedy: PORSCHE WILL NOTIFY OWNERS, AND DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE SEAT BELT ANCHORS AND, IF NECESSARY, REPLACE THE SEAT BELT. THE REPAIRS WILL BE PERFORMED FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON SEPTEMBER 2, 2011. OWNERS MAY CONTACT PORSCHE AT 1-800-767-7243.
Negative 2012 Porsche Boxster car reviews
Positive 2012 Porsche Boxster car reviews
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I've owned my 2008 Boxster S for about 8 months now and I must say, I'm truly impressed! The handling, power, styling, and overall driving experience are just amazing. Sometimes, I find myself just walking out into my garage to admire this beautiful car. Mine is a black model with a tan interior, and it's simply gorgeous. The red calipers on the S are definitely worth the price for the 'wow' factor. I recently walked through a Porsche showroom again and I couldn't really see the reason to pay for more than what the Boxster S delivers, unless you're a professional driver.
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This is the best balanced car I've ever owned with no handling faults that I can even think of. It's just an all-around fun car to drive and care for. Although the oil changes and other maintenance can be a bit expensive, the maintenance intervals are spaced far enough apart that each service is rather expensive ($450+), but they don't come often enough to be excessive - especially for a car of this level. Like a loyal hunting dog, it just begs to go and play every time I walk into the garage. I'm happy to report that I haven't experienced any unscheduled problems so far, even with 32K miles on the odometer.
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I recently purchased a certified pre-owned RS 60 Spyder from a dealership for $41K. The car had 30K miles and was 2.5 years old. The warranty is good until June 2014 or 100K miles. I must say, the design, performance, fit and finish, and overall driveability are absolutely phenomenal. The sport exhaust is particularly awesome! I love driving this car through tunnels with the top down, as the sound just stirs the soul. While there are many YouTube videos that give nice reviews of the car, none of them really capture the sound all that well. You really have to drive it to hear and feel it adequately. After researching
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I love how it handles and sounds. Top down is the way to go even in Maine fall and spring. Two trunks are a plus. Golf clubs fit in the back and folded cart fits in the front. Since I'm not very good at golf, I enjoy having that long therapy drive home.
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The RS 60 is a limited edition Porsche with extra touches that make it a special car. It boasts 303 Horsepower, Brembo Brakes, two trunks, a full leather interior, and a Bose sound system. The seats feature the Porsche crest and the instrument cluster with the white dials gives the interior a racing look. The number of your very limited edition is posted on a plaque over the glove box. Nineteen inch tires and the Porsche active suspension management keep the car glued to the road. If you are lucky enough to get your hands on one, find the twistiest road you can and attack those curves. Experience it for yourself and take the long way home.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2012 Porsche Boxster problems:
Can someone please school me a bit on 987 Boxsters? - 986 Forum ...
Nov 15, 2018 ... ... issues, significant model year changes, common problems, etc. Also, does the 987 have a immobilizer system like the 986 does? Located in the ...
2012 Porsche Boxster Problems | Kelley Blue Book
How reliable is the 2012 Porsche Boxster? See the most common repairs performed and learn if your vehicle is at risk for major repairs in the next 12 ...
Used Porsche Boxster - 2012-2016 Reliability & Common Problems ...
Feb 3, 2022 ... This version of the Boxster has an excellent reputation for good reliability, with remarkably few reported problems, and those that have been ...
Water Pump Failures....Common Problem? | Planet-9 Porsche Forum
Feb 15, 2011 ... I have been reading up on Boxsters/Caymans on this and another forum and I'm seeing a common trend regarding the Water Pump on the DI ...
What are the problems of a Porsche Boxster? - Quora
Feb 5, 2019 ... There are two main major problems with the pre-mid2008 Boxster (and Cayman): 1) the Intermediate Shaft (IMS) Bearing failure, the risk of which ...
Other years of Porsche Boxster
Are you having problems with your 2012 Porsche Boxster?
Marcelino Simonis 2024-02-15
Before purchasing one of these cars, it is important to conduct thorough research as they are known to be prone to early engine failure.