2008 Porsche Boxster

The 2008 Porsche Boxster is a mid-engine roadster that offers a blend of sporty handling and open-air driving pleasure. Engine options include a 2.7L flat-six producing 245 horsepower and 201 lb-ft of torque, and a 3.4L flat-six in the Boxster S producing 295 horsepower and 251 lb-ft of torque. Both engines were available with either a 5-speed manual (2.7L only), a 6-speed manual, or a 5-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission. Owners often praise the Boxster’s balanced handling, responsive steering, and enjoyable driving experience. Common complaints revolve around the potential for expensive maintenance and repairs, particularly as the car ages.

Engine

2.7L Flat-Six

• Intermediate Shaft (IMS) Bearing Failure (Early Production)
  • Description/Symptoms: A potentially catastrophic engine failure can occur if the IMS bearing fails. Symptoms can include metallic debris in the oil filter, a rattling noise from the engine bay, or sudden engine seizure. While 2008 models are considered to have an updated IMS bearing, failures can still occur, though less frequently than earlier models.
  • Solution: Replacement of the IMS bearing with an upgraded aftermarket bearing is the most common preventative solution.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $3000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Air Oil Separator (AOS) Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The AOS is designed to separate oil from the crankcase gases. When it fails, it can cause excessive oil consumption, smoke from the exhaust, and rough running.
  • Solution: Replace the AOS unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000
  • Recalls: None Found

3.4L Flat-Six (Boxster S)

• Intermediate Shaft (IMS) Bearing Failure (Early Production)
  • Description/Symptoms: Similar to the 2.7L, the IMS bearing can fail, leading to engine damage. Again, while 2008 models have an updated bearing, failure is still possible.
  • Solution: Replace the IMS bearing with an upgraded aftermarket bearing.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $3000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Air Oil Separator (AOS) Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Same as the 2.7L engine, failure can lead to excessive oil consumption, smoke, and rough running.
  • Solution: Replace the AOS unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5-Speed Tiptronic Automatic

• Valve Body Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or delayed shifting, slipping between gears, or failure to shift at all.
  • Solution: Replacement or rebuild of the valve body. In some cases, a complete transmission rebuild or replacement may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $4000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Suspension Component Wear
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noises from the suspension, especially over bumps. This can be due to worn ball joints, control arm bushings, or sway bar links.
  • Solution: Replace the worn suspension components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1000+ (depending on the number of components needing replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Convertible Top Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The convertible top may fail to open or close properly, or may operate intermittently. This can be due to a faulty microswitch, hydraulic pump failure, or damaged wiring.
  • Solution: Diagnose the specific cause of the problem and replace the faulty component(s). This may involve replacing microswitches, repairing wiring, or replacing the hydraulic pump.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $2000+ (depending on the complexity of the issue)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Ignition Switch Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The ignition switch can fail, causing the car to not start or stall unexpectedly.
  • Solution: Replacement of the ignition switch.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $700
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Headlight Condensation
  • Description/Symptoms: Moisture can accumulate inside the headlight housings, reducing visibility and potentially damaging the headlight components.
  • Solution: Removal of the headlights, cleaning, and resealing them. In some cases, replacement of the headlight housings may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Climate Control Display Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The LCD screen in the climate control unit may fail or become difficult to read.
  • Solution: Replacement of the climate control unit or repair of the LCD screen.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2008 Porsche Boxster, while a desirable sports car, can be prone to certain issues that potential buyers should be aware of. The most significant concerns revolve around potential engine problems such as IMS bearing and AOS failures, which can be expensive to address. Electrical issues with the convertible top and climate control system are also common. Suspension wear is typical for a car of this age and mileage. While not all 2008 Boxsters will experience these issues, it’s important to have any prospective purchase thoroughly inspected by a qualified mechanic. Overall, costs for the majority of the repairs are mid-range ($300 - $1000), however, the big ticket repairs such as engine failure, are substantially more.