The definitive affordable mid-engine Porsche and one of the best-handling sports cars of its era. The 987.1 (2005-2008) carries IMS bearing risk on 2005 models and potential bore scoring concerns on 3.4L engines. The 987.2 (2009-2012) with DFI engines eliminated IMS issues entirely and is significantly more robust. Across both generations: air/oil separator failure is common, rear main seal leaks are typical wear items, and convertible top mechanisms can fail. Water pumps last 4-6 years. The base 2.7L/2.9L engines have fewer issues than the S models. With proper maintenance, the 987 is remarkably reliable - MOT pass rates range from 82% (2005) to 91% (2010). Key advice: prioritize service history over mileage, get a thorough PPI, and budget for preventive maintenance.
Intermediate shaft bearing can fail, causing catastrophic engine damage · more· less
The IMS bearing issue affects 987.1 models (2005-2008), with 2005 being the highest risk year. From 2006 onward, Porsche redesigned and relocated the bearing, virtually eliminating the problem - failure rates dropped to under 1% for 2007-2008 models. The 987.2 (2009-2012) has no IMS bearing at all. Preventive replacement costs €1,500-2,500 and is often combined with clutch work since the transmission must be removed. If the bearing fails, metal debris destroys the engine - rebuild costs start at €15,000, replacement at €20,000+. For 2005 cars, ask if the IMS retrofit solution has been fitted. Late 2007-2008 cars with the large bearing rarely fail if properly maintained.
Air/oil separator (AOS) failure€100 - €600
Diaphragm fails causing smoke on startup, poor running, oil in intake · more· less
One of the most common failures on both 987.1 and 987.2. The AOS separates oil mist from crankcase vapors. When it fails, symptoms include excessive tailpipe smoke on cold start (can be dramatic), increased oil consumption, soot at exhaust tips, and rough idle. DIY replacement is straightforward - the part costs €75-100 and takes 1.5 hours. At a shop, expect €400-600. The AOS should be treated as a maintenance item and replaced every 6 years or 120,000 km. Track-driven 987.1 cars wear their AOS much faster.
Rear main seal (RMS) leak€800 - €1,500
Oil seepage from crankshaft seal at bell housing - common wear item · more· less
RMS leaks are common on the M96/M97 engines. A small seep is not urgent - as long as oil isn't dripping on the floor, replacement can wait until clutch service. The seal itself costs €60-100, but labor is €800-1,200 because the transmission must be removed. Most owners combine RMS, IMS (on 987.1), and clutch replacement to save on labor. Porsche has updated the seal design several times - ensure the current PTFE seal is fitted during any replacement.
Water pump failure€800 - €1,500
Typically fails between 4-6 years of age, can cause overheating · more· less
Water pump failures are common on the 987 and can happen without warning. One owner lost theirs at 60,000 km. Most specialists recommend proactive replacement between 4-6 years regardless of mileage. The part (pump, belt, thermostat, coolant) costs around €400-500. Total job runs €800-1,500 at a specialist, though DIY is manageable with the rear on jackstands. Failure while driving can cause overheating and potential head gasket damage.
Convertible top mechanism failure€100 - €2,500
Transmission gears crack, motor fails, or cables break causing roof malfunction · more· less
The power-operated soft top uses transmission gearboxes with internal plastic gears that can crack and fail. Warning sign: clanking noise when operating the roof. Dealers quote €2,500+ for motor and transmission replacement, but the actual fix is often just a €80-100 replacement gear - DIY-friendly if you're handy. Blocked hood drains can cause water ingress and electrical issues. Push rod failures are common but simple to replace. Full top replacement (fabric worn/damaged): €500-900 for the top plus €800-1,500 labor.
Bore scoring (mainly 3.4L S models)€5,000 - €25,000
Cylinder wall scoring causes oil consumption and eventual engine failure · more· less
Bore scoring is more common on the 3.4L engines (Cayman S/Boxster S) than the 2.7L base engines. The 987.2 DFI engines with Alusil blocks have largely addressed this issue. Symptoms: increased oil consumption, rough running, cold start rattle. Detection: used oil analysis showing elevated iron/aluminum/silicon, or borescope inspection. Repair requires complete engine disassembly - bore repair alone costs €5,000-6,000, full rebuild €15,000-25,000. Prevention: use quality synthetic oil, change every 8,000 km, avoid extended oil change intervals.
Clutch wear (manual transmission)€2,000 - €3,500
Clutch typically lasts 100,000-150,000 km depending on driving style · more· less
Clutch replacement on the 987 requires transmission removal. Independent shops charge €2,000-3,000 total (clutch kit €500-700, flywheel €400-800 if needed, labor €800-1,500). Dealers can charge €4,000+. Smart owners combine clutch work with RMS replacement and IMS retrofit (on 987.1) to save on repeated labor costs. The flywheel may need resurfacing or replacement. Consider upgraded aftermarket clutch kits if you track the car.
Timing chain tensioner wear€2,000 - €8,000
Tensioner seals degrade after 100,000+ km, causing chain rattle · more· less
After 100,000+ km, the rubber seals in the timing chain tensioners begin to leak and springs lose tension, allowing chains to clatter - especially on cold start. The tensioners can be accessed from outside the engine (parts cost ~€300), but special tools are required to lock the timing. Independent shop cost: €2,000-2,700. If timing deviation is detected during PPI, budget accordingly. Dealer quotes can reach €8,000+ if they recommend additional work.
Ignition coil failure€200 - €600
Coil pack cracks cause misfires and rough running · more· less
Porsche issued a TSB for cracked ignition coil housings on 987 models. Cracks allow moisture in, causing corrosion and misfires. Symptoms: rough idle, misfires, check engine light. Each coil costs €50-80, and there are 6 on the flat-six. Labor is moderate. Many owners replace all 6 coils preventively when one fails, as the others are often similarly aged.
Sensor or valve body failures in the dual-clutch transmission · more· less
The PDK is generally reliable, but when it fails, repairs are expensive. Common issues: clutch fluid temperature sensor failure (causes false "gearbox emergency" warnings - sensor is €100-200), valve body issues causing poor shifts. Most PDK problems are in the hydraulic section, not mechanical. PDK service (fluid change) is due every 100,000 km and costs €300-400 at an independent. Full PDK replacement: €18,000+, but specialized shops can repair for €5,000-8,000. A well-maintained PDK should last 200,000+ km.
Rewarding ownership if you budget for maintenance
The 987 Boxster is one of the best sports car values available. The 987.2 (2009-2012) with DFI engine is the sweet spot - no IMS concerns, improved bore resistance, and generally more refined. The 987.1 base 2.7L is also reliable and cheaper to maintain than the S. Most issues are age-related and preventable with proper maintenance. A thorough PPI is essential - check IMS status (987.1), timing deviation, compression, and oil analysis. Budget €1,500-2,500 annually for a well-maintained example.
Pre-Purchase Inspection Checklist
General checks
Service history Complete records essential. Verify oil changes at proper intervals (max 15,000 km). Porsche dealer or specialist stamps preferred.
Tires Check tread depth, age (date codes), and inner edge wear. Boxsters eat rear tires - uneven wear suggests alignment issues or worn suspension bushes.
Cold start Must start engine completely cold. Listen for rattle in first 30 seconds - could indicate timing chain, IMS, or hydraulic lifter issues.
Test drive Minimum 30 minutes including highway speeds to get everything up to temperature. Feel for clutch slip, gearbox issues, suspension noises.
Body condition Check for accident damage, paint mismatch, stone chips on front bumper. Inspect convertible top fabric for wear and tears.
Specific for this vehicle
Cold start rattle test (critical) Start engine completely cold. Listen for rattle in first 5-30 seconds. Brief rattle may be hydraulic lifters (normal). Prolonged rattle suggests timing chain tensioner wear or IMS issues (987.1).
IMS bearing status (987.1 only) Ask for documentation of IMS retrofit. If not done, factor €1,500-2,500 into purchase price for preventive replacement. Less critical for late 2007-2008 cars.
Check for smoke on startup Blue/white smoke on cold start indicates AOS failure (common, ~€500 fix) or worse, worn valve guides or bore scoring.
Inspect bell housing for oil Oil around the transmission bell housing indicates RMS leak. Small seep is acceptable if not dripping - budget for repair during next clutch service.
Operate convertible top multiple times Listen for clanking or grinding sounds. Sluggish operation or failure to complete cycle indicates transmission gear or motor issues.
Check coolant level and condition Low coolant or brown/milky appearance indicates potential water pump failure or head gasket issues. Front radiators can corrode from debris accumulation.
Verify timing deviation (during PPI) A specialist with PIWIS can check cam-to-crank timing deviation. Excessive deviation indicates timing chain/tensioner wear - expensive repair.
Request oil analysis or compression test Used oil analysis reveals early bore scoring (elevated iron/aluminum). Compression test should show even readings across all cylinders.
Recalls and Technical Service Bulletins
Ignition coil cracking (1997-2013 models)Check/replace if symptomatic
High pressure fuel injector replacement (2009 987.2)Verify completed
Variocam solenoid issues (various TSBs)Check service records
Contact Porsche with the VIN at recall.porsche.com to verify all recalls have been completed. The 987 has relatively few major recalls compared to some contemporaries. TSBs exist for ignition coils, fuel injectors, and various software updates.
Warranty Status
Factory warranty (2 years)Expired on all 987s
Porsche Approved WarrantyAvailable for qualifying cars
All 987 Boxsters are now outside their original factory warranty. Porsche Approved used car warranty may be available through dealers for qualifying low-mileage examples. Third-party warranties vary significantly - read exclusions carefully (IMS and pre-existing conditions often excluded). Many owners prefer to self-insure by maintaining a repair fund.
This report is for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional advice. Estimates may be inaccurate. Always have a qualified specialist inspect the vehicle before purchase. We accept no liability for decisions made based on this information.