2004 Porsche 911

The 2004 Porsche 911 (996.2 generation) is a sports car celebrated for its performance and driving experience. Engine options include a 3.6L flat-six producing 320 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque (Carrera and Targa) and a 3.6L flat-six producing 415 horsepower and 305 lb-ft of torque (Turbo). Available transmissions are a 6-speed manual and a 5-speed Tiptronic automatic. Owners generally appreciate the 911’s handling, acceleration, and iconic styling, but some dislike the potential for high maintenance costs and specific component failures.

Engine

3.6L Flat-Six (Carrera, Targa)

• IMS Bearing Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: A potentially catastrophic failure of the intermediate shaft (IMS) bearing, leading to engine damage. Symptoms can include metallic debris in the oil, a rattling noise from the engine, or complete engine seizure.
  • Solution: Replacing the IMS bearing with an aftermarket upgraded bearing.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,500 - $4,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Rear Main Seal (RMS) Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leak from the rear of the engine where it connects to the transmission.
  • Solution: Replacing the rear main seal. This often occurs during an IMS bearing replacement since the engine and transmission need to be separated.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,200 - $2,000+ (If done separately from the IMS bearing)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Leaks (General)
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks from various locations, including valve cover gaskets, oil cooler seals, and timing chain covers.
  • Solution: Replacing the leaking gaskets or seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,500+ depending on the location and complexity.
  • Recalls: None Found

3.6L Flat-Six (Turbo)

• Coolant Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks from hoses, fittings, or the coolant reservoir.
  • Solution: Replacing the leaking component.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+ depending on the location.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Turbocharger Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Reduced boost, whistling noises, or complete turbo failure.
  • Solution: Replacing or rebuilding the turbocharger(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $6,000+ per turbo.
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Manual

• Clutch Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Slipping clutch, difficulty shifting, or complete clutch failure.
  • Solution: Replacing the clutch, pressure plate, and throw-out bearing.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

5-Speed Tiptronic Automatic

• Valve Body Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or delayed shifting, slipping between gears, or complete transmission failure.
  • Solution: Replacing or rebuilding the valve body.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Control Arm Bushing Wear
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises from the suspension, especially over bumps, and vague steering feel.
  • Solution: Replacing worn control arm bushings or the entire control arm.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,200+ per corner
  • Recalls: None Found
• Damper Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Leaking shock absorbers or struts, poor handling, bouncy ride.
  • Solution: Replacing the failed dampers (shocks or struts).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $2,000+ per corner, depending on type (OEM or aftermarket)
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Instrument Cluster Pixel Loss
  • Description/Symptoms: Pixels disappearing or fading in the instrument cluster display, making it difficult to read information.
  • Solution: Repairing or replacing the instrument cluster.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Ignition Switch Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty starting the car, or the car stalling unexpectedly.
  • Solution: Replacing the ignition switch.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $700+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Convertible Top Issues (Cabriolet models only)
  • Description/Symptoms: Failure of the convertible top mechanism, leading to difficulty raising or lowering the top. Fabric separation.
  • Solution: Repairing or replacing the convertible top mechanism or fabric.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $5,000+ depending on the severity.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Air Conditioning Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Weak or non-existent air conditioning, often due to a faulty compressor or refrigerant leak.
  • Solution: Repairing or replacing the AC compressor, condenser, or other components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2004 Porsche 911, while a desirable sports car, is prone to certain issues, particularly related to the engine (IMS bearing, RMS leaks), transmission (especially the Tiptronic valve body), and suspension components. Repairs can range from relatively inexpensive fixes to costly engine or transmission overhauls. The potential for significant maintenance expenses should be considered when purchasing this model.