Porsche Boxster: Common Engine Problems

Right from the onset, the Porsche Boxster’s M96 engine (and subsequent M97) was developed to offer superior performance and scalability. However, mechanical endeavors are rarely perfect on the first attempt. Over the years a number of deficiencies have been identified and fixed in latter versions of the engine.

At our Austin Porsche repair shop we’ve worked on a number of Boxsters since their release in 1996. Here are some of the most common repairs that we’ve come across:

• Air-oil separator failure – If the air-oil separator goes out oil can get into the intake and lead to performance issues.
• Chain tensioner failure – An issue for Boxsters that were built prior to 2000.
• Cracks in the cylinder head – It isn’t the most common issue, but cracks can form at the seats of exhaust valves or the spark plug hole.
• Cracks in the cylinder lining – A new technique was used to incorporate the cylinder liners right in the case. Unfortunately, normal operation over time leads to cracks in the cylinders.
• Engine casting porosity – This should not be an issue as many engines with the problems were replaced under warranty.
• Intermediate shaft bearing failures – After years of use, oil can get past the bearing seal causing pre-mature wear.
• Oil starvation due to built-in oil sump – The new design of the Boxster’s oil sump had a lower holding capacity, which led to numerous issues.
• Rear main seal leaks – This was an issue for earlier models and is more of a cosmetic issue than a performance issue.
• Rod bolt failure – Particularly a problem in high mileage Boxsters that are revved often.
• Variocam solenoids failure – If one side fails it can lead to an off-kilter idle and allow moisture in that will cause corrosion and engine failure.

The need for regular oil changes can’t be stressed enough. Standard Porsche service calls for oil changes every 10,000 miles, however for the best engine performance, Boxster owners should change the oil every 5,000 miles.

If you live in Central Texas and need Porsche service or repair for your Boxster, German Auto Center can help. Our highly trained mechanics can provide expert diagnostics and have the experience needed to correct all the common engine issues in Porsche Boxster models across the years