2004 Porsche Boxster

The 2004 Porsche Boxster is a mid-engine roadster known for its balanced handling and sporty driving experience. The base model came equipped with a 2.7-liter flat-six engine producing 225 horsepower and 192 lb-ft of torque. An “S” model was also available with a larger 3.2-liter flat-six engine, producing 264 horsepower and 229 lb-ft of torque. Both engines could be paired with either a 5-speed manual transmission (2.7L) or a 6-speed manual transmission (3.2L), or a 5-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission. Owners often praise the Boxster for its engaging driving dynamics and iconic Porsche styling, while common complaints include the cost of maintenance and the potential for certain age-related mechanical issues.

Engine

2.7L Flat-Six

• Intermediate Shaft (IMS) Bearing Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: A potentially catastrophic failure of the IMS bearing, which can lead to engine damage or complete engine failure. Symptoms may include metallic debris in the oil filter, a rattling noise from the engine, or oil leaks near the rear of the engine.
  • Solution: Replacing the IMS bearing with an updated, more robust bearing.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Rear Main Seal (RMS) Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leak from the rear of the engine where it connects to the transmission. Symptoms include oil drips under the car and a burning oil smell.
  • Solution: Replacing the rear main seal. Often done in conjunction with an IMS bearing replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+ (if done separately)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Separator Failure (Air-Oil Separator or AOS)
  • Description/Symptoms: Excessive oil consumption, blue smoke from the exhaust, and rough running.
  • Solution: Replacing the air-oil separator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found

3.2L Flat-Six

• Intermediate Shaft (IMS) Bearing Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: A potentially catastrophic failure of the IMS bearing, which can lead to engine damage or complete engine failure. Symptoms may include metallic debris in the oil filter, a rattling noise from the engine, or oil leaks near the rear of the engine.
  • Solution: Replacing the IMS bearing with an updated, more robust bearing.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Rear Main Seal (RMS) Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leak from the rear of the engine where it connects to the transmission. Symptoms include oil drips under the car and a burning oil smell.
  • Solution: Replacing the rear main seal. Often done in conjunction with an IMS bearing replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+ (if done separately)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Separator Failure (Air-Oil Separator or AOS)
  • Description/Symptoms: Excessive oil consumption, blue smoke from the exhaust, and rough running.
  • Solution: Replacing the air-oil separator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5-Speed Tiptronic Automatic

• Valve Body Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or delayed shifting, slipping between gears, or failure to shift.
  • Solution: Replacing or rebuilding the valve body.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Control Arm Bushing Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noises from the suspension, especially when going over bumps. Can also cause vague steering and uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replacing the worn control arm bushings. Sometimes the entire control arm needs to be replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ per corner
  • Recalls: None Found
• Strut Mount Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Squeaking, groaning, or knocking noises from the suspension, especially when turning the steering wheel. Can also cause vague steering and poor handling.
  • Solution: Replacing the strut mounts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+ per corner
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Convertible Top Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The convertible top fails to operate, operates slowly, or gets stuck. This is often due to a failing motor.
  • Solution: Replacing the convertible top motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Instrument Cluster Pixelation/Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Pixels in the instrument cluster display fade or disappear, making it difficult to read information.
  • Solution: Repairing or replacing the instrument cluster.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Convertible Top Wear and Tear
  • Description/Symptoms: The convertible top fabric can crack, tear, or shrink with age, leading to leaks.
  • Solution: Repairing or replacing the convertible top.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• No Issues Found

Summary

The 2004 Porsche Boxster, while a desirable sports car, is prone to some common issues as it ages. The most significant concern is the potential for IMS bearing failure, which can lead to costly engine repairs. Other common problems include RMS leaks, AOS failure, and suspension issues. Electrical problems, such as convertible top motor failure and instrument cluster pixelation, can also occur. Overall, potential buyers should be aware of these issues and factor in the cost of potential repairs when considering purchasing a 2004 Boxster. A pre-purchase inspection by a qualified Porsche mechanic is highly recommended.