Porsche 986 986 Boxster
1996–2004 · Flat-6 · Mid-engine, rear-wheel drive · 204–260 hp
The first mid-engine Porsche roadster. Water-cooled flat-six, introduced the modern mid-engine platform.
Talk to boxster ownersVariants
- Boxster 2.51996–1999 · 204 hp
- Boxster 2.71999–2004 · 220 hp
- Boxster S2000–2004 · 260 hp
- Boxster S 550 Spyder2004–2004 · 266 hp
What owners actually spend on the 986
Median service costs from real logged records, broken down by job and category.
See 986 running costsKnown issues to look for
IMS Bearing Failure
criticalMetallic debris in oil, grinding noise from engine, catastrophic engine failure if bearing disintegrates
Replace IMS bearing with aftermarket solution (LN Engineering or similar). Monitor oil for metal particles at every oil change.
RMS (Rear Main Seal) Leak
moderateOil leak at rear of engine, oil drips on ground, burning oil smell
Replace rear main seal. Often done together with IMS bearing and clutch replacement to save labor.
Coolant Pipe Failure (D-Pipe)
criticalCoolant leak at front of engine, overheating, white smoke from exhaust
Replace plastic coolant pipe with aluminum aftermarket version. Inspect annually.
Window Regulator Failure
minorWindow drops into door, grinding noise when operating window, window operates slowly
Replace window regulator. Common failure on both sides. Use OEM replacement.
Convertible Top Hydraulic Leaks
moderateSlow top operation, top stops mid-cycle, hydraulic fluid visible
Replace hydraulic cylinders and lines. Keep fluid topped up.
