2000 Porsche Boxster

The 2000 Porsche Boxster is a mid-engine roadster known for its balanced handling and engaging driving experience. The standard engine option is a 2.7L flat-six producing 217 horsepower and 192 lb-ft of torque. A more powerful 3.2L flat-six, producing 250 horsepower and 225 lb-ft of torque, was available in the Boxster S trim. The car came with either a 5-speed manual or a 5-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission. Owners often praise the Boxster’s precise steering, responsive throttle, and overall fun-to-drive nature. Common complaints include maintenance costs, the fragility of some plastic interior components, and some known mechanical issues.

Engine

2.7L Flat-Six

• Intermediate Shaft (IMS) Bearing Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: A failing IMS bearing can cause metallic debris to circulate within the engine oil, leading to catastrophic engine failure. Symptoms may include unusual engine noise, metal shavings in the oil during an oil change, or a check engine light.
  • Solution: Replacement of the IMS bearing with an upgraded aftermarket bearing. Some owners also opt for an IMS bearing retrofit that eliminates the bearing entirely.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Rear Main Seal (RMS) Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: The rear main seal is prone to leaking oil. Symptoms include oil drips under the engine, often accumulating on the transmission bell housing.
  • Solution: Replacement of the rear main seal. This often done when the transmission is removed for other service to save on labor costs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks are common from various seals and gaskets, including the valve cover gaskets, chain housings, and oil cooler seals.
  • Solution: Replacement of the leaking seals and gaskets.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ per leak location.
  • Recalls: None Found

3.2L Flat-Six (Boxster S)

• Intermediate Shaft (IMS) Bearing Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Same as the 2.7L engine.
  • Solution: Same as the 2.7L engine.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Rear Main Seal (RMS) Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: Same as the 2.7L engine.
  • Solution: Same as the 2.7L engine.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Same as the 2.7L engine.
  • Solution: Same as the 2.7L engine.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ per leak location
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5-Speed Manual

• Clutch Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clutch slippage, difficulty shifting gears, high clutch pedal engagement.
  • Solution: Replacement of the clutch disc, pressure plate, and throwout bearing.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,200 - $2,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

5-Speed Tiptronic Automatic

• Transmission Failure/Slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: Slipping between gears, harsh shifting, failure to engage gears, check engine light.
  • Solution: Replacement or rebuild of the transmission.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $6,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Control Arm Bushing Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Worn control arm bushings can cause clunking noises, vague steering, and uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replacement of the control arm bushings or the entire control arm assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ per control arm.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Strut/Shock Absorber Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Leaking struts/shocks, bouncy ride, poor handling.
  • Solution: Replacement of the struts/shocks.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+ per axle.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Convertible Top Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The convertible top may become slow or completely inoperable.
  • Solution: Replacement of the convertible top motor or associated components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Instrument Cluster Pixelation
  • Description/Symptoms: Pixels on the instrument cluster display may fade or become unreadable.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of the instrument cluster.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Ignition Switch Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty starting the car, or the engine stalling.
  • Solution: Replacement of the ignition switch.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Convertible Top Wear/Damage
  • Description/Symptoms: Tears, leaks, and general wear and tear on the convertible top fabric.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of the convertible top.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Rear Window Detachment (Convertible Top)
  • Description/Symptoms: The plastic rear window of the convertible top can separate from the fabric.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of the convertible top.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Climate Control Display Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The climate control display may become dim or unreadable.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of the climate control unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Glove Box Latch Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The glove box latch can break, causing the glove box to remain open.
  • Solution: Replacement of the glove box latch.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2000 Porsche Boxster is a rewarding sports car, but potential buyers should be aware of some common issues. The most serious is the IMS bearing failure, which can lead to significant engine damage. Oil leaks and suspension component wear are also common. Electrical gremlins and convertible top issues can also arise. Repair costs can be significant, especially for engine and transmission work. Pre-purchase inspections by a qualified Porsche mechanic are highly recommended.