1990 Porsche Carrera problems

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1990 Porsche Carrera

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Common 1990 Porsche Carrera problems

The Porsche Carrera 1990, also known as the 964, is known for being relatively reliable compared to other generations of the 911. However, there are some common problems that owners have reported.

One of the most well-known problems with the 964 is oil leaks, which can come from various sources such as the rear main seal, valve covers, spark plug seals, and turbo oil supply line seals. These leaks can be caused by wear and tear on the seals and gaskets, and can lead to a messy engine bay and potential engine damage if not addressed.

Another common issue with the 964 is worn suspension bushings. Over time, the rubber bushings that connect the suspension components to the chassis can wear out, leading to a less precise and comfortable ride. Replacing these bushings can be a time-consuming and expensive process, but it can greatly improve the handling and comfort of the car.

Additionally, some 964 models may experience issues with the distributor belt, which can wear out and cause misfiring or stalling. This issue is more common in the early models of the 964, and can be addressed by replacing the belt and tensioner.

Another potential issue with the 964 is failed dual-mass flywheels. These flywheels are designed to reduce vibration and improve smoothness, but they can wear out over time and cause issues with the clutch and transmission. Replacing a failed dual-mass flywheel can be a costly repair, but it is necessary to ensure the proper function of the clutch and transmission.

Finally, some 964 models may experience issues with the ABS brakes, which were introduced in this generation. These issues can include leaking brake lines, faulty sensors, and other electrical problems. Regular maintenance and inspection of the ABS system can help prevent these issues and ensure safe and reliable braking.

In summary, the Porsche Carrera 1990, or 964, is generally a reliable car, but like any vehicle, it can experience common problems such as oil leaks, worn suspension bushings, distributor belt issues, failed dual-mass flywheels, and ABS brake problems. Regular maintenance and inspection can help prevent these issues and ensure the longevity and reliability of the car.

1990 Porsche Carrera engine

Are 90s Porsche reliable?

A 1990 car is almost 30 years old now. If you are used to modern japanese cars' reliability a 30 year old Porsche will disappoint you. If you are coming from a vintage sports car point of view, then yes, it'll be quite reliable.

Are Porsche Carrera reliable?

Porsches are very reliable and do not break down easily – provided you adhere to regular maintenance and servicing, you will not spend much on repairs. Porsches use only premium parts, and for this reason, problems don't happen often. That being said, no car is perfect, and Porsches are no exception.

What years did Porsche have engine problems?

The Porsche IMS bearing problem years are from 1997 to 2005, with the M96 or M97 engine in these models being particularly susceptible. The single-row bearing used from model year 2000 through 2005 is of the greatest concern. However, any IMS bearing can and will fail if not replaced as part of regular maintenance.

Are old Porsches reliable?

How old and which model(s)? Older Porsches that have been well maintained can be very reliable cars. However, proper maintenance can be very expensive, and when you find, for example, and older 911 for sale that has been cared for properly, it will command a premium price.

1990 Porsche Carrera car problems categorized by type of issue

After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Porsche Carrera problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:

  • Fuel system problems
  • Gasoline problems
  • Engine and engine cooling problems
  • Air bags problems

The graph below shows statistics for all 1990 Porsche Carrera vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

1990 Porsche Carrera complaints

The NHTSA has received 4 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1990 Porsche Carrera.

1998-11-22

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1998-11-20
  • VIN: WPOAB2965LS
  • Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
  • Summary: NO SUMMARY PROVIDED BY CONSUMER
1996-10-15

AIR BAGS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
  • VIN: WPOCB296XLS
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: THE AIR BAG AND SEAT BELT LIGHTS COME ON AND WHEN THE LIGHT FOR THE AIR BAGS IS ON THE AIR BAGS IS DISABLED WHICH MEANS THE AIR BAGS AREN'T GOING TO WORK. *AK
1996-01-25

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
  • Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
  • Summary: GAS TANK LEAKS UNKNOWN AREA WHICH CAUSES EXTREME FUMES TO ENTER COMPARTMENT. FUEL TANK REPLACED W/NO CHANGE IN CONDITION. PLEASE DESCRIBE DETAILS. TT
1996-01-25

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
  • Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
  • Summary: GAS TANK LEAKS UNKNOWN AREA WHICH CAUSES EXTREME FUMES TO ENTER COMPARTMENT. FUEL TANK REPLACED W/NO CHANGE IN CONDITION. PLEASE DESCRIBE DETAILS. TT

1990 Porsche Carrera recalls

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 2 recalls for different components of the 1990 Porsche Carrera.

1996-08-08
  • Manufacturer: PORSCHE CARS N.A. INC.
  • Components: STEERING: STEERING WHEEL/HANDLE BAR
  • Summary: A PART OF THE STEERING COLUMN UPPER UNIVERSAL JOINT CRACKED DURING THE MANUFACTURING PROCESS.
  • Consequence: THIS CONDITION COULD RESULT IN NOISE AND FREE PLAY IN THE STEERING SYSTEM AND IF LEFT UNCORRECTED, WILL RESULT IN LOSS OF STEERING CONTROL.
  • Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE UNIVERSAL JOINT FOR CRACKS AND WILL REPLACE CRACKED JOINTS WITH NEW PARTS.
1993-12-07
  • Manufacturer: PORSCHE CARS N.A. INC.
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING:FUSES AND CIRCUIT BREAKERS
  • Summary: AFTER THE ENGINE HAS BEEN TURNED OFF, THE REAR HEATER WILL AUTOMATICALLY OPERATE IN ORDER TO DISSIPATE HEAT IN THE ENGINE HEATING SYSTEM. DURING THIS OPERATION, THE RESISTOR FOR THE REAR HEATER BLOWER CAN BECOME OVERLOADED DUE TO A BINDING OR SEIZED REAR HEATER BLOWER.
  • Consequence: THE OVERLOADED RESISTOR CAN CREATE HEAT SUFFICIENT TOIGNITE THE PLASTIC AIR PIPE TO WHICH IT IS CONNECTED, RESULTING IN AN ENGINECOMPARTMENT FIRE.
  • Remedy: PORSCHE DEALERS WILL INSTALL A NEW RESISTOR CONTAINING A CIRCUIT BREAKER.
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Additional sources

More sources of information about 1990 Porsche Carrera problems:

964 Common Problems? - Rennlist - Porsche Discussion Forums
964 Common Problems? - Rennlist - Porsche Discussion Forums
https://rennlist.com/forums/964-forum/233176-964-common-problems.html

Oct 17, 2005 ... 964 Forum - 964 Common Problems? - I am thinking about selling my 87 951 and purchasing a 964 (RS America). Can someone tell me some of the ...

1990 Porsche 911 Problems and Complaints - 36 Issues
1990 Porsche 911 Problems and Complaints - 36 Issues
https://repairpal.com/1990-porsche-911/problems

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Common Porsche 911 problems you need to watch out for - Pomcar
Common Porsche 911 problems you need to watch out for - Pomcar
https://pomcar.com/blog/common-porsche-911-problems/

Apr 20, 2019 ... But there are known issues with these cars, such as valve guide wear, secondary air injection faults and oil leaks. Furthermore, transmission ...

How reliable are Porsche 911s? I am helping a friend purchase a ...
How reliable are Porsche 911s? I am helping a friend purchase a ...
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Jan 27, 2015 ... Are costly mechanical problems common? ... Is a 1990s Porsche 911 with ... Does a Porsche 911 Carrera 4S drive better on a dry track than a Carrera ...

Porsche 911 Common Problems | Porsche 911 Reliability Issues
Porsche 911 Common Problems | Porsche 911 Reliability Issues
https://www.pcarwise.com/local-help/porsche-common-problems/porsche-911-common-problems/

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 engines have ...

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