Porsche Boxster 2004

🚨 What to check before buying

Overall risk score: 10/10

Serious risks

• IMS bearing failure: Intermediate shaft bearing can fail catastrophically, destroying the engine. Single-row bearing (1997-2005) has highest failure rate. Preventative IMS retrofit costs €1,500-2,500 and is STRONGLY recommended.
• Bore scoring (Nikasil/Lokasil): Cylinder bore scoring causes oil consumption and eventually engine damage. More common in 3.4L M97 and 3.8L. Listen for ticking noise when cold.
• RMS (Rear Main Seal) leak: Rear main seal is notorious for leaking. Common and expensive to fix because it requires removing the transmission.
• D-chunk cylinder failure (3.6/3.8L): Cylinder wall cracking in 3.6 and 3.8L engines. Catastrophic failure.
• Car is 22 years old — expect age-related wear: rubber seals, bushings, water pump, AC compressor

Additional notes

• M96_M97_IMS engine has known reliability problems — assess carefully
• ⚠️ Porsche M96/M97 IMS (Intermediate Shaft) Bearing failure can destroy engine without warning. Affects 996/997/Boxster 986/987/Cayman 987. Aftermarket IMS bearing fix costs €1,500-3,000. Without fix, engine replacement costs €8,000-15,000. VERIFY IMS status before buying.
• Vehicle is 15+ years old. Age-related issues: rubber seals/hoses degrade, electrical connectors corrode, suspension bushings wear. Not specific to any engine, but expect €500-1,500/year in age-related maintenance beyond normal service items.
• CRITICAL: Porsche M96/M97 engine has infamous IMS (Intermediate Shaft) bearing that can fail catastrophically, destroying the engine. Single-row bearing (1997-2005) is highest risk. ALWAYS get IMS bearing inspected before purchase. Preventative IMS retrofit costs €1,500-2,500 and is STRONGLY recommended. Engine replacement if bearing fails: €10,000-20,000.