2019 Porsche 718 Boxster
The 2019 Porsche 718 Boxster is a mid-engine roadster praised for its sharp handling, responsive steering, and overall driving experience. The base model comes with a 2.0-liter turbocharged flat-4 engine producing 300 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque. Other engine options include a 2.5-liter turbocharged flat-4 producing 350 horsepower and 309 lb-ft of torque in the S model, and a 4.0-liter naturally aspirated flat-6 producing 394 horsepower and 309 lb-ft of torque in the GTS model. Transmission options include a 6-speed manual and a 7-speed PDK dual-clutch automatic. Some common criticisms include the relatively high price point and the polarizing sound of the base 4-cylinder engine.
Engine
2.0L Turbocharged Flat-4
- Engine Mount Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Excessive engine vibration, knocking noises, especially during acceleration and deceleration. Can lead to premature wear on other engine components.
- Solution: Replacement of the failed engine mount(s).
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
- Recalls: None Found
2.5L Turbocharged Flat-4
- No Issues Found
4.0L Naturally Aspirated Flat-6
- No Issues Found
Transmission
6-Speed Manual
- No Issues Found
7-Speed PDK
- Mechatronic Unit Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Rough or delayed shifting, transmission slipping, failure to engage gears, error messages on the dashboard. Can manifest as intermittent problems that worsen over time.
- Solution: Replacement or rebuilding of the Mechatronic unit. May require full transmission replacement in some cases.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $8,000+
- Recalls: None Found
Suspension
- PASM (Porsche Active Suspension Management) Damper Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Clunking or knocking noises from the suspension, particularly when going over bumps. Reduced ride comfort and compromised handling. Can manifest as a leaking damper.
- Solution: Replacement of the faulty damper(s).
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $3,000+ (depending on number of dampers replaced and location)
- Recalls: None Found
Electrical
- PCM (Porsche Communication Management) System Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Freezing, crashing, or unresponsiveness of the infotainment screen. Bluetooth connectivity problems, navigation malfunctions, and audio system glitches.
- Solution: Software update, replacement of PCM unit.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $3,000+
- Recalls: None Found
- Battery Drain
- Description/Symptoms: The car is not used for an extended time, then the battery is drained.
- Solution: Hook up the car to a battery tender
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 - $100
- Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- Convertible Top Malfunctions
- Description/Symptoms: The convertible top fails to open or close completely. Slow or jerky operation, unusual noises during operation, error messages on the dashboard.
- Solution: Diagnosis of the specific issue (hydraulic pump, sensors, motors, etc.) and replacement of the faulty components.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $3,000+
- Recalls: None Found
Interior
- No Issues Found
Summary:
The 2019 Porsche 718 Boxster, while lauded for its performance, can suffer from some notable issues. Engine mount failures on the base 2.0L engine can lead to vibrations. The PDK transmission can experience costly Mechatronic unit failures. Suspension issues can arise with the PASM dampers, and electrical problems with the PCM system may occur. Convertible top malfunctions can also require expensive repairs. Overall, while not every car will experience these issues, potential buyers should be aware of them and have the vehicle inspected, particularly for the PDK transmission and PASM systems, prior to purchase. The cost to repair these issues could range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand, making pre-purchase inspection crucial.