2014 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 2014 Porsche Boxster problems
The Porsche Boxster 2014 has several common problems that have been reported by owners. These issues range from mechanical faults to electrical problems and can significantly impact the car's performance and safety.
One of the most common issues with the Porsche Boxster 2014 is an internal leak at the oil separator.
Another common problem is worn spark plugs, cracks in ignition coils, and oil leaking past the spark plug tube seals. These issues can cause the car to have trouble starting, misfiring, or experiencing a loss of power. The ignition coils on the M96 and M97 Boxster are particularly prone to failure, and worn spark plugs can also cause problems with the engine's performance.
The Boxster's dashboard warning lights can also be a source of frustration for owners. Scanning the car's OBD system can reveal fault codes, but interpreting and making sense of these codes can be challenging. Faulty sensors or electrical issues can cause these warning lights to appear, and resolving the underlying problem can require a significant amount of time and money.
The Boxster's rear main seal can also be a source of problems. A leaking rear main seal can appear through the bell housing joint between the center of the engine and transmission joint, and can quickly destroy a clutch in a manual car if not addressed promptly. This issue can also be a sign of other problems with the car's engine or transmission.
Other common problems with the Porsche Boxster 2014 include noisy or rattling A/C compressors, faulty fuel level indicators, turbo failure, PDK faults, noisy PDK downshifts, decaying headlights, and lane change assistance malfunction. These issues can impact the car's performance, safety, and overall driving experience.
In summary, the Porsche Boxster 2014 has several common problems that can impact the car's performance and safety. These issues range from mechanical faults to electrical problems and can require significant time and money to resolve. It is essential to stay on top of regular maintenance and address any issues promptly to ensure the car remains safe and reliable.
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.
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.
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 a Boxster engine good?
The Boxster's four-cylinder engines are very good indeed, but they pale in comparison to the naturally aspirated 4.0-litre six-cylinder engine fitted to the Boxster GTS. It churns out 400hp, 420Nm of torque and a soundtrack that's reminiscent of the old-school 911s from the 1980s and 1990s.
2014 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 problems
- Air bags problems
- Structure problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2014 Porsche Boxster vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
2014 Porsche Boxster complaints
The NHTSA has received 2 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2014 Porsche Boxster.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-08-02
- VIN: WP0CB2A89ES
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: 2014 Porsche Boxster- Consumer haves concerns about the hydro-mounting, which is causing a PADM fault. Consumer paid for the repair & it occurred again. The first occurred after 35000 miles and again after 42000 miles. Consumer has read that others have had the same problem. Consumer thinks its a design problem & thinks it will happen again. Consumer ask should they have it fixed again?
AIR BAGS,STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-10-01
- VIN: WP0CA2A87ES
- Components: AIR BAGS,STRUCTURE
- Summary: The door panels are warping and detaching from the door. I'm sure the airbags should be affected as well. I have contacted Porche America but no one calls except customer service who keeps no records of previous calls.
2014 Porsche Boxster recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 3 recalls for different components of the 2014 Porsche Boxster.
- Manufacturer: Porsche Cars North America, Inc.
- Components: POWER TRAIN:AXLE ASSEMBLY
- Summary: Porsche Cars North America, Inc. (Porsche) is recalling certain 2013-2015 Boxster, 2013-2014 Boxster S, 2014-2015 Cayman, Cayman S, 2015 Boxster GTS, and Cayman GTS vehicles. The rear-axle carrier side sections may fracture.
- Consequence: A carrier fracture may cause a loss of control, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will replace the rear-axle carrier side sections, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed January 6, 2022. Owners may contact Porsche customer service at 1-800-767-7243. Porsche's number for this recall is AMB7.
- Manufacturer: Porsche Cars North America, Inc.
- Components: LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES:HOOD:LATCH
- Summary: Porsche Cars North America, Inc. (Porsche) is recalling certain model year 2014-2015 Porsche 911, Boxster, and Cayman vehicles manufactured May 7, 2014, to September 23, 2014. The front hood upper lock components were not manufactured to specification and may fail to securely latch the vehicle's hood during operation.
- Consequence: A failure of the hood latching mechanism may cause the hood to suddenly open during vehicle operation and will severely impede the driver's ability to see out the front windshield, increasing the risk of a vehicle crash.
- Remedy: Porsche will notify owners, and dealers will replace the lock on the front hood, free of charge. The recall began December 12, 2014. Owners may contact Porsche customer service at 1-800-767-7243. Porsche's number for this recall is AE04.
- Manufacturer: Porsche Cars North America, Inc.
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: Porsche Cars North America, Inc. (Porsche) is recalling certain model year 2014 Boxster, Boxster S, Cayman, Cayman S and 911 Carrera (S, Cabriolet, S Cabriolet, 4, 4S, 4 Cabriolet, 4s Cabriolet) vehicles manufactured September 2, 2013, through September 23, 2013. In the affected vehicles, the passenger seats may be equipped with defective wiring harnesses resulting in intermittent contact with the harness plug.
- Consequence: The intermittent plug may cause the passenger seat frontal and knee airbags may be deactivated. In the event of a crash necessitating airbag deployment, this may increase the risk of injury to the front passenger.
- Remedy: Porsche will notify owners, and dealers will replace the front passenger seat free of charge. The recall began on December 11, 2013. Owners may contact Porsche at 1-770-290-3500. Porsche's recall number is AD04.
Positive 2014 Porsche Boxster car reviews
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2014 Porsche Boxster problems:
Any reliability issues with 2013-2014 Boxster S? : r/Porsche
Nov 11, 2020 ... Offhand I know the original 981 coil packs tend to have a short life, but that's not a super serious issue. There have also been some cosmetic ...
2014 Porsche Boxster Problems | Kelley Blue Book
How reliable is the 2014 Porsche Boxster? See the most common repairs performed and learn if your vehicle is at risk for major repairs in the next 12 ...
Any 2014 Cayman S (981) long term reliability issues? Do you love ...
Sep 22, 2020 ... I've been in the market for a used 2014 981S (PDK) and found one with 28k miles around $49k. This will be my first Porsche and have heard about ...
981 common reliability issues? | PCGB Forum
Feb 5, 2021 ... If you stay with Porsche then you'll have to keep the car standard (or remove any accessories whenever Porsche sees the car). I had my Boxster ...
2014 Boxster S Misfiring - Rennlist - Porsche Discussion Forums
Jan 16, 2022 ... I had the exact same issues and limp mode when accelerating aggressively on my 14 981 3 years ago. It would clear on restart and I might go 5 ...
Other years of Porsche Boxster
Are you having problems with your 2014 Porsche Boxster?
Moriah Flatley 2025-04-10
This is my third Boxster. I previously owned a 2008 Boxster, a 2007 Boxster S, and now a 2013 S 6 speed. The Boxster is like a Swiss army knife of sports cars, with multiple personalities based on how it's driven. Cruising along at 2500 rpm provides a comfortable and economical commute. However, dropping down 1 or 2 gears and winding the car out to its red line provides both a thrilling driving experience and an auditory sensation that few other cars can match.
Jefferey Sanford 2025-03-28
Our Boxster is equipped with the DKP auto transmission, which makes for a quick, fun, and seriously impressive ride! It's definitely a wow-factor experience.
Raoul Barrows 2025-03-26
I bought a new Boxster in 2014 from Checkered Flag in Va Bch. I test drove both the S and base models, thinking I would prefer the S, but I was mistaken. The base car does not have 'mediocre acceleration' as the Edmunds review suggests. It may be slightly slower than the S version, but it is more than adequate for normal use. In fact, it is faster than my 2006 Cayman S. I highly recommend the PDK transmission, which is a remarkable unit. Those who prefer a manual six-speed are missing out. In the past, I have owned several versions of the Cayman, an Audi TT RS, and a Corvette GS, but the Boxster is superior to all.
Wilfred Doyle 2025-03-19
After driving a 2003 Boxster for the past seven years, I was ready for a change. I wanted something larger and more practical. Not another two-seat roadster - I was moving on. However, out of curiosity, I test drove the new Porsche Boxster and I was instantly hooked. It's hard to describe just how much better the new version of the Boxster is versus its predecessor. It's better in every way - substantially better. The former was fun and competent, but the new Boxster looks, sounds and drives like a supercar. It's incredible! If you're looking for a practical car, this may not be the best option for you, but if you're looking for an exhilarating driving experience, the new Porsche Boxster is definitely worth considering.
Zackery Mertz 2025-02-10
I've owned a few sports cars in the past, including a BMW M3 - 2003 and a Porsche Boxster S - 2007. Currently, I'm driving a Porsche Boxster Base - 2013, and I must say, it's the most fun I've ever had in any car besides off-roading in my Chevy Colorado ZR-2 (which is a different type of fun). The car is comfortable to cruise in below 3k RPMs, but when you kick down a couple of gears and hit the gas, the H-6 engine produces one of the sweetest sounds you've ever heard! Although the Boxster isn't the fastest car you can get for the cash, it handles, responds, and makes you feel like you're driving a car that is $100k more. If you're looking for straight line performance, get a Corvette. But if you want to have fun at any speed, around any curve, and experience the classy feeling that comes with driving a Porsche, then the 981 is the car for you. It really feels like you're glued to the road when cornering hard, and the PDK transmission has the smoothest, quickest gear changes I've ever seen in any car. The car is truly beautiful. The 981 is far more aggressive looking than the previous generations and looks more like a super-car than even some of the base 911s in my opinion. The interior is beautiful and spacious for a two-seater, and the front and back trunks provide enough storage for a couple's weekend getaway or grocery runs. It's honestly a convenient car if you don't have kids or animals that need to ride along :) I couldn't be happier that I ended up buying the 981 Boxster. I haven't had any issues with it, and I'm amazed that I still find myself smiling every time I drive it, even after all this time of ownership. I'll never get rid of it. If you're interested, find a CPO approved 981 and just drive the heck out of it. You won't want to drive anything else on a paved road.