2004 Porsche Boxster

Introduction:

The 2004 Porsche Boxster is a mid-engine sports car available with two engine options: a 2.7L flat-six and a 3.2L flat-six. Both engines are paired with a 5-speed manual or a 5-speed automatic transmission. The Boxster is praised for its handling, acceleration, and overall driving experience. However, like any vehicle, it has some known issues.

Engine

2.7L Flat-Six

• Intermediate Shaft (IMS) Bearing Failure: Description/Symptoms: A worn or damaged IMS bearing can cause rattling noises, lubrication loss, oil leaks, and eventually engine failure. Solution: Replace the IMS bearing and related components. Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $3,000+ Recalls: None Found

• Cylinder Scoring: Description/Symptoms: A lubrication issue can cause scoring on the cylinder walls, leading to reduced compression and engine power. Solution: Rebuild or replace the engine. Estimated Cost to Fix: $5,000 - $10,000+ Recalls: None Found

3.2L Flat-Six

• No Major Issues Found

Transmission

5-Speed Manual

• Shifter Linkage Failure: Description/Symptoms: Worn or damaged shifter linkage can cause difficulty shifting gears or unintended gear engagement. Solution: Replace the shifter linkage. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000 Recalls: None Found

5-Speed Automatic

• No Major Issues Found

Suspension

• Rear Control Arm Bushings: Description/Symptoms: Worn or torn rear control arm bushings can cause excessive rear-end movement and suspension noise. Solution: Replace the bushings. Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800 Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain: Description/Symptoms: A faulty alternator or starter can cause a parasitic battery drain, leading to a dead battery. Solution: Diagnose and replace the faulty component. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000 Recalls: None Found

• Headlight Switch Failure: Description/Symptoms: A faulty headlight switch can cause intermittent or complete headlight failure. Solution: Replace the headlight switch. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500 Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Convertible Top Frame: Description/Symptoms: The convertible top frame can rust or corrode, leading to a misaligned or inoperable top. Solution: Repair or replace the affected frame components. Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000 Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Instrument Cluster Pixel Failure: Description/Symptoms: Some instrument cluster pixels may fail and cause partial or complete display failure. Solution: Replace the instrument cluster. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000 Recalls: None Found

• Door Lock Actuator Failure: Description/Symptoms: A faulty door lock actuator can prevent the door from locking or unlocking. Solution: Replace the door lock actuator. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400 Recalls: None Found

Summary:

The 2004 Porsche Boxster has some potential issues, primarily with the engine (IMS bearing failure and cylinder scoring). However, many of these issues can be prevented with proper maintenance and regular inspections. The severity and cost of these issues vary, but some can be expensive to fix. Despite these potential problems, the Boxster remains a highly desirable sports car due to its performance, handling, and overall driving dynamics.