2002 Porsche 911

The 2002 Porsche 911 (996 generation) is a sports car appreciated for its engaging driving dynamics, iconic styling, and relatively accessible price point compared to later models. It’s available as a coupe, convertible, and Targa. Engine options include a 3.6L flat-six (Carrera, Targa, Cabriolet) producing 320 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque, and a turbocharged 3.6L flat-six (Turbo) producing 415 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque. Transmission choices are a 6-speed manual and a 5-speed Tiptronic automatic (Carrera) or a 5-speed automatic transmission (Turbo). Some common complaints include the potential for engine problems, particularly intermediate shaft (IMS) bearing failure and rear main seal leaks, as well as certain interior trim pieces showing their age. People appreciate the handling, performance, and the classic 911 experience at a lower cost than newer models.

Engine

3.6L Flat-Six (Carrera, Targa, Cabriolet)

• IMS Bearing Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: A noisy engine, metal shavings in the oil, or a complete engine failure. This is a well-known weakness of the M96 engine.
  • Solution: Replacing the IMS bearing with an upgraded bearing.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,500 - $4,000+
• Rear Main Seal (RMS) Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leak between the engine and transmission.
  • Solution: Replacing the rear main seal.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
• Oil Leaks (Valve Cover Gaskets, Oil Coolers)
  • Description/Symptoms: Visible oil leaks on the engine, burning oil smell.
  • Solution: Replacing the leaking gaskets or seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+ depending on the location.
• Piston Slap
  • Description/Symptoms: A loud knocking or slapping noise when the engine is cold, often diminishing as the engine warms up.
  • Solution: There is no perfect solution; some owners tolerate the noise, while others may opt for a costly engine rebuild.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $8,000+ for engine rebuild.

3.6L Turbo Flat-Six (Turbo)

• Turbocharger Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Loss of power, excessive smoke from the exhaust, unusual noises from the turbochargers.
  • Solution: Turbocharger replacement or rebuild.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $5,000+ per turbo.
• Coolant Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant loss, overheating, visible leaks.
  • Solution: Replacing leaking hoses or components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+ depending on the location.

Transmission

6-Speed Manual (Carrera, Targa, Cabriolet)

• Clutch Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clutch slippage, difficulty shifting gears, high clutch pedal effort.
  • Solution: Clutch replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+

5-Speed Tiptronic Automatic (Carrera, Targa, Cabriolet)

• Transmission Slippage/Hard Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Erratic or harsh shifting, slipping between gears, failure to engage gears.
  • Solution: Transmission rebuild or replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $6,000+

5-Speed Automatic (Turbo)

• Transmission Slippage/Hard Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Erratic or harsh shifting, slipping between gears, failure to engage gears.
  • Solution: Transmission rebuild or replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $6,000+

Suspension

• Control Arm Bushing Wear
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises from the suspension, poor handling, uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replacing worn control arm bushings or the entire control arm.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,000+
• Strut/Shock Absorber Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Bouncy ride, poor handling, fluid leaks from the struts/shocks.
  • Solution: Replacing the struts or shocks.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+

Electrical

• Instrument Cluster Pixel Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Pixels in the instrument cluster display go out, making it difficult to read.
  • Solution: Instrument cluster repair or replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,500+
• Convertible Top Motor Failure (Cabriolet)
  • Description/Symptoms: The convertible top fails to operate properly.
  • Solution: Replacing the convertible top motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,000+

Exterior

• Headlight Condensation
  • Description/Symptoms: Moisture buildup inside the headlight lenses.
  • Solution: Sealing the headlight housing or replacing the headlight assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+

Interior

• Center Console Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks forming on the plastic center console, especially around the radio and climate controls.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of the center console.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+

Recalls:

• 03V057000
• 01V279000

Summary

The 2002 Porsche 911, while a desirable sports car, is susceptible to several potential issues, particularly related to the engine (IMS bearing, RMS leaks) and transmission. The severity of these issues ranges from minor annoyances to catastrophic failures. Repair costs can vary widely depending on the problem, but engine-related repairs tend to be the most expensive. Prospective buyers should have a pre-purchase inspection performed by a qualified Porsche mechanic to assess the overall condition of the car and identify any potential problems.