1998 Porsche Boxster

Introduction The 1998 Porsche Boxster is a two-door, mid-engined sports car. It is powered by a 2.5-liter flat-six engine that produces 201 horsepower and 181 lb-ft of torque. The Boxster is available with a five-speed manual transmission or a five-speed automatic transmission.

People like the Boxster for its handling, performance, and style. However, some people dislike the Boxster for its small interior and high cost of ownership.

Engine

• 2.5L Flat-Six Engine (Manual Transmission)
  • Vanos Solenoid Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: The Vanos solenoids control the timing of the variable valve timing system. When they fail, the engine may experience a loss of power, rough idling, or stalling.
    • Solution: Replace the failed Vanos solenoids.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Intermediate Shaft Bearing Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: The intermediate shaft bearing supports the intermediate shaft, which drives the oil pump and water pump. When the bearing fails, the engine may experience a loss of oil pressure or coolant, which can lead to catastrophic engine damage.
    • Solution: Replace the failed intermediate shaft bearing.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000
    • Recalls: None Found
• 2.5L Flat-Six Engine (Automatic Transmission)
  • Torque Converter Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: The torque converter connects the engine to the transmission. When it fails, the transmission may slip or shudder.
    • Solution: Replace the failed torque converter.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500
    • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

• Five-Speed Manual Transmission
  • Synchro Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: The synchros help to match the speed of the gears when shifting. When they fail, shifting may become difficult or impossible.
    • Solution: Replace the failed synchros.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000
    • Recalls: None Found
• Five-Speed Automatic Transmission
  • Valve Body Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: The valve body controls the flow of fluid in the transmission. When it fails, the transmission may shift erratically or not at all.
    • Solution: Replace the failed valve body.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500
    • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Front Control Arm Bushings Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The front control arm bushings connect the control arms to the frame. When they fail, the suspension may become loose and unstable.
  • Solution: Replace the failed bushings.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: The battery may drain quickly, even when the car is not in use.
  • Solution: Test the battery and charging system, and replace any failed components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Roof Tears
  • Description/Symptoms: The fabric roof may tear, especially at the seams.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the roof.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500
  • Recalls: None Found
• Targa Top Seal Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The seal around the targa top may fail, allowing water to leak into the interior.
  • Solution: Replace the seal.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Door Lock Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The door locks may fail to lock or unlock.
  • Solution: Replace the failed door lock actuators.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary The 1998 Porsche Boxster is a well-built sports car that is fun to drive. However, it is not without its problems. Some of the most common issues include Vanos solenoid failure, intermediate shaft bearing failure, and torque converter failure. These issues can be expensive to fix, so it is important to factor in the cost of ownership when considering a Boxster.