2016 Porsche Boxster

The 2016 Porsche Boxster is a mid-engine roadster known for its exceptional handling and engaging driving experience. The base model features a 2.7-liter flat-6 engine producing 265 horsepower and 206 lb-ft of torque. A more powerful Boxster S is available with a 3.4-liter flat-6 that makes 315 horsepower and 266 lb-ft of torque. Transmission options include a 6-speed manual and a 7-speed PDK dual-clutch automatic. Owners often praise the Boxster’s precise steering, balanced chassis, and refined interior, but some criticize the relatively small cargo space and the cost of optional features. Some complain that the base engine can feel underpowered compared to the “S” model.

Engine

2.7L Flat-6

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks can develop from various seals and gaskets, most commonly around the rear main seal or valve cover gaskets. Symptoms include visible oil leaks under the car, a burning oil smell, and low oil levels.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty seals and gaskets is the typical solution.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Water Pump Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Overheating, coolant leaks, warning lights on the dashboard.
  • Solution: Replace the water pump and thermostat.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1200+
  • Recalls: None Found

3.4L Flat-6

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Similar to the 2.7L, oil leaks can occur from the rear main seal or valve cover gaskets.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty seals and gaskets is the typical solution.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Water Pump Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Overheating, coolant leaks, warning lights on the dashboard.
  • Solution: Replace the water pump and thermostat.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Manual

No Issues Found

7-Speed PDK (Dual-Clutch)

• Hesitation/Rough Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported hesitation during shifting, particularly at low speeds, or rough and jerky gear changes.
  • Solution: A PDK software update might resolve the issue in some cases. More severe cases could require clutch replacement or mechatronic unit repair.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 (software update) - $5,000+ (clutch/mechatronic unit)
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• PASM (Porsche Active Suspension Management) Shock Absorber Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Premature failure of the PASM shocks can occur, leading to a bouncy ride, poor handling, and clunking noises.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty PASM shocks is necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $3000+ (depending on location and shop rates)
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Door Lock Actuator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Intermittent or complete failure of the door lock actuators, preventing the doors from locking or unlocking properly.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty door lock actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Convertible Top Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Problems with the convertible top mechanism, including slow operation, failure to fully open or close, or error messages.
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair or replace faulty components such as hydraulic pumps, sensors, or motors.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2000+ (depending on the issue)
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Side Marker Light Failures
  • Description/Symptoms: The LED side marker lights can sometimes fail, requiring replacement.
  • Solution: Replace the side marker light assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Navigation/Infotainment System Freezing or Crashing
  • Description/Symptoms: The PCM (Porsche Communication Management) system can occasionally freeze, crash, or become unresponsive.
  • Solution: Software updates or, in some cases, replacement of the PCM unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 (software update) - $2000+ (PCM replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2016 Porsche Boxster is generally a reliable sports car, but certain issues can arise. Engine oil leaks and water pump failures are common across both engine options. The PDK transmission can experience hesitation or rough shifting, potentially requiring costly repairs. Suspension issues, particularly with the PASM shocks, can also occur. Electrical problems, such as door lock actuator failures and convertible top issues, are less frequent but can be frustrating. While the severity of these issues varies, the cost of repair, particularly for the PDK and PASM systems, can be significant, underscoring the importance of thorough inspection and maintenance.