Porsche Boxster 987 Buyers Guide 2005 – 2012

The 987, launched in 2005, marked the second generation of the Boxster. Porsche stuck with the two basic flavors – the base model Boxster and the S model. During production some special edition limited production run versions were also produced such as the Spyder, RS60 Spyder, Design Edition 2, Orange Edition, and the Black Edition.

The most noticeable styling update for the 987 versus the previous version was the new headlight shape that appeared in conjunction with the revised 911. The side intake vents were enlarged and given more pronounced horizontal slats, and the wheel arches were widened to accommodate wheels up to 19 inches in diameter. The front bumper was improved and new engines introduced.

For model year 2009 Porsche introduced the 987.2 version with revised engines, transmissions, and new interior styling. Production for the 987 ended in 2012 with approximately 163,000 models being produced in total.

The 987 Boxster is more refined, better equipped, and more reliable than the previous version. The highlights are:

• Improved styling with oval headlights
• Better interior quality
• More power and reliability from revised engines
• Improved transmission options
• Better handling and brakes
• Porsche Stability Management (PSM) standard
• Better connectivity

During the production period of the 987 Boxster chassis, Porsche made several significant improvements and changes to the platform. These included 3 different engine types and a radically different automatic transmission change. When shopping for a 987 Boxster it’s important to be sure which model and which engine and transmission combination you are looking at. More detail on the engine and transmission changes in detail below.

Summary of feature enhancements for 987.2

• New engine design with direct fuel injection
• Power increase and improved acceleration
• Optional 7-speed PDK transmission
• Improved PCM 3.0, better audio/nav, USB & Bluetooth connectivity
• Ride quality more refined

During production of the 987 Boxster platform, Porsche made significant engine changes. Original models were fitted with a M97 engine that still featured a serviceable IMS bearing. In 2007, the engine was updated to the newer M97 version with the non-serviceable IMS bearing. Finally, in 2009, the engine again changed to a completely new design MA1 series, non IMS, direct fuel injection version. More engine detail below.

In general, the 987 Boxster has a great reputation as a solid car that performs well. You need to take care to carefully distinguish between the versions of the 987 to understand the actual implications of its reputation.

2005 – 2007 987.1 Boxster

More refined than its 986 predecessors but still classic, analog Porsche feel. Revised engine and less IMS bearing issues.

2007 – 2009 987.1 Boxster

A significant improvement on previous years with the addition of VarioCam Plus. Generally better reliability but engine bore scoring is still an issue with M97.

2009 – 2012 987.2 Boxster

Refined, sporty and reliable. Features MA1 engine with good reliability. Optional PDK can be expensive if not maintained correctly.

The real upside of the Boxster is the mid-engine design. This makes the car easier to drive, well balanced, and more fun versus it’s tail-happy 911 cousin. The Boxster is near 50/50 weight split as a result of the mid-engine layout and this provides good cornering ability, a positive driver feel, balanced braking, and good traction. The engine sound is also more raw as the intake system is closer to the driver versus the 911 design. Some maintenance on the front of the engine is easy through an access panel inside the passenger cabin. However, work on the topside of the engine is more difficult through the access area under the convertible top, and replacing the side mounted air intake filters can be quite the fight!

The first-generation Porsche Boxster 987 is now more than 20 years old. The 987 has been driven, raced, broken, dissembled, and put back together again many times. As a result, independent specialists have developed extensive knowledge of these cars’ common mechanical issues. Many examples on the market today have already had preventive work done to address known problems and represent a good investment. A thorough PPI and some historical research into the 987 you want to buy should reveal the details and help you plan your next steps.

Porsche Options and Acronyms

Porsche offers a wide range of build options that allow buyers to customize nearly every aspect of their vehicle, from performance upgrades and wheel designs to interior trims and driver-assistance systems. Options and performance technology typically attract an acronym!  So, it’s easy to get lost between your PSM, PASM or PADM when shopping for a used car. In our acronym and options section we list and explain the most common acronyms you’re likely to see when shopping for a used Boxster.

Everything else has! There was a time, not too long ago, when the last air-cooled cars (993 chassis) were cheap to buy. Now it’s easier to find rocking horse poop than a low-cost 993! So, is this possible with the 987 Boxster? It’s certainly true for the 911 models, however, the Boxster is unlikely to reach the same level of appreciation. The Boxster will likely always be the less appreciated Porsche model in the same way as the 944 or 928 that it replaced. Unique models, such as the Spyder have already jumped in value but given time, quality 987 models should rise in value.

It should be. Looking out into the future, we can see a generation that will not know cars with internal combustion engines or manual transmissions. The joys of a loud revving exhaust will be unknown! With the change to all-electric cars, and the end of the line called on Boxster production in 2025, the 987 will be a sought after version. Porsche switched engine production to all turbo for the later 718 cars, so only a relatively short window of normally aspirated flat 6 water-cooled engines exist. The 987 is the first solid version of that era. Cars from the 70s you know were junk at the time, are making big money in auctions. Likely the 987 will become a modern classic too – one must just be patient.

• Entry-level base 987 Boxster from $19K – $22K condition-dependent
• S models or low-mileage cars fetching premiums
• Good condition, low mileage 2010 to 2012 models $40K – $42K
• Late production S model, low mileage 987 with IMS completed $48K +

Most of the good examples of the 987 are going to end up at a Porsche sales specialist we list on our resource page. These cars will attract a premium price, might be on consignment sale, or at a quality auction site when they become available.

You might be lucky. Sometimes, you’ll find an excellent example or a diamond in the rough in an unusual spot. Nobody is going to sell a Porsche cheap, unless 1) they incorrectly perceive problems with the car or 2) there are real problems with the car or 3) they have no clue! Your job is always to be better informed than the seller.

Higher mileage early 987 cars can be a bargain if you are not afraid to take some risks with the M97 engine.

Boxster 987 Base Model 2005 – 2007

• Engine: 2.7L flat-6 M97
• Power: 237 hp
• 5-speed manual or 5-speed Tiptronic automatic

Boxster 987 Base Model 2007 – 2009 Facelift

• Engine: 2.7L flat-6 M97 VarioCam Plus
• Power: 242 hp
• 5-speed manual or 5-speed Tiptronic automatic

Boxster 987.2 Base Model 2009 – 2012

• Engine: 2.9L flat-6 MA1
• Power: 252 hp
• 6-speed manual or 7 speed PDK transmission

Boxster 987.1 S Model 2005 – 2007

• Engine: 3.2L flat-6 M97
• Power: 276 hp
• 6-speed manual or 5-speed Tiptronic automatic

Boxster 987.1 S Model 2007 – 2009 Facelift

• Engine: 3.4L flat-6 M97
• Power: 291 hp
• 6-speed manual or 5-speed Tiptronic automatic

Boxster 987.2 S Model 2009 – 2012

• Engine: 3.4L flat-6 MA1
• Power: 306 hp
• 6-speed manual or 7 speed PDK transmission

Boxster 987.2 Spyder 2011 – 2012

• Engine: 3.4L flat-6 MA1
• Power: 320 hp
• 6-speed manual or 7 speed PDK transmission
• Lightweight designed for HPDE

Limited Editions

• RS60 Spyder – 1960 units produced
• S Design Edition 2 – 500 units produced
• Black Edition – 987 units produced
• Orange Edition – 250 units produced

S Model features:

• Larger capacity engine
• 40 to 50 HP more power
• Better throttle response and quicker acceleration
• 6 speed manual transmission
• 10 mph higher top speed
• Larger brakes
• 19 inch wheels
• Sharper suspension
• Optional PASM
• Upgraded interior

S Model features:

• Larger capacity engine
• 50 HP more power
• Better throttle response and quicker acceleration
• 7 mph higher top speed
• Larger brakes
• 19 inch wheels
• Sharper suspension
• PASM option
• Sport Chrono Plus Option
• Upgraded interior

Engine Displacement and Power Output

Base Model

• 05 – 06 987.1 Boxster – M97.20 2.7L 240 hp
• 07 – 08 987.1 Boxster – M97.20 2.7L 255 hp
• 09 – 12 987.2 Boxster – MA1.20 2.9L 255 hp DFI

S Model

• 05 – 06 987.2 Boxster S – M96.25 3.2L 280 hp
• 07 – 08 987.2 Boxster S – M97.20 3.4L 295 hp
• 09 – 12 987.2 Boxster S – MA1.21 3.4L 310 hp DFI

If you are deciding between a Boxster 987.1 vs. a 987.2 one of the most significant differences that commands the higher price in the 987.2 versions is the difference between the engines.

The 987.1 Boxster features the M97 design engine that was a progression from the original design M96 fitted in the early 986 cars. The MA1/9A1 engines fitted in the 987.2 Boxster were a completely new design.

The MA1 engine design features significant improvements, such as:

• Direct Fuel Injection
• Improved performance
• More power
• Better throttle response
• Better fuel economy
• Significantly better reliability
• Lower maintenance costs

Manual Transmission

Boxster Base Model

• G86 – 03 5-speed 2.7L Boxster 05 – 08
• G87 – 20/21 6-speed 2.9L Boxster 09-12

Boxster S Model

• G86 – 22 6-speed 3.2L Boxster S model 05 – 08
• G87 – 20/21 6-speed 3.4L Boxster S model 09-12

Automatic Transmission

• 05 – 08 Boxster Base model A86/01 5-speed Tiptronic
• 05 – 08 Boxster S model A86/20 5-speed Tiptronic
• 09 – 12 Boxster all models 7-speed PDK (7DT-45)

Timing chain issues can affect the M97 engines in the 987 Boxster. It’s important to check the cam to crankshaft timing deviation at a PPI. Wear in the timing system will show up as a deviation angle in the cam to crank measurement. Replacing the chain, tensioners and guides will typically resolve the problem. This is an engine out and expensive job. Most older models have already completed this work – check the history.

Higher Mileage Cars

Wear in the timing chain, guides and tensioners will eventually affect all the M97 engines, so the higher the mileage, the more likely this issue will arise.

The M97 engine in the Boxster built up to 2008 features a non-serviceable IMS bearing. Very early 2005 cars may feature a serviceable bearing and it’s worth checking with the vin number through Porsche for the specific model you look to buy.

IMS failure in the M97 engine is rare and should not be considered a barrier to purchase.

More detail on the IMS bearing failure in our common problems section.

987 M97 Engine Rear Main Seal (RMS) Leak

There are some common areas where oil leaks occur on the 987 Boxster. Most are easily fixed and are part of the normal wear process. One of the most common areas for an oil leak is the rear main seal. Again, see our common problems page for more information. Oil leaks should not be a barrier to purchase, but they should be considered in terms of the purchase price and the cost of the repair.

Don’t Just Replace the Rear Main Seal

Leaking rear main seals can be signs of other issues and should be thoroughly investigated. On manual cars, a leaking rear main seal can cause significant damage to the clutch and flywheel assembly and adds to the cost of replacement. You only want to replace the RMS once with the most updated version – check for additional causes of the RMS leak before completing the work.

Other Oil Leaks

The M97 engine in the Boxster 987.1 can be subject to several other oil leaks. The most common are leaking valve covers and VarioCam solenoid seals. Both are straight forward to resolve but expensive due to the amount of labor involved.

The 987 M97 engine uses revised one-piece cylinder liners, which are less prone to cracking than the original M96 version. A cracked liner typically causes coolant loss and engine overheating. Sometimes, symptoms can take a good amount of time to appear.

Quick check:

• Start with the engine cold. Note the coolant level. Mark the level on the coolant reservoir with a sharpie.
• Drive for 30 minutes.
• Let the car idle — the radiator fans kick in and the engine temp should remain stable. If it climbs uncontrollably, stop.
• Shut off the engine and recheck the coolant level. It should rise after the drive and then slowly return toward the cold level previously noticed.
• If the level has dropped or stayed low, it may indicate internal coolant loss from a cracked liner. You might smell coolant in the exhaust when the engine runs.

This isn’t a definitive test as external leaks can mimic these symptoms. However, any post-drive coolant loss should be investigated thoroughly.

Boxster 987 M97 Cylinder Bore Scoring

The M97 engine can still be prone to bore scoring. Most of the bore scoring issues have been noted on the 3.4L S model engine. Checking bore scoring should be completed at a thorough PPI. The least invasive way to check for cylinder scoring is to lift the car and listen from underneath with the engine running. A normal M97 engine makes a consistent ticking sound from the valvetrain and exhaust headers.

The Noise You Don’t Want to Hear

A nasty rhythmic knock – not a tick – usually from the passenger-side cylinder bank. This knock indicates piston skirt contact with a scored cylinder wall. This is caused by wear that allows the piston to wobble at the bottom of its stroke. Left unchecked, it leads to catastrophic failure and an engine rebuild.

Scoring often isn’t visible without engine teardown but may be spotted using a borescope through the spark plug tube or more reliably by removing the oil pan and viewing the cylinders from below.

However, during a PPI most sellers will not allow you to remove the oil pan and inspect the cylinders.

Early Signs of Cylinder Bore Scoring

One of the potential early signs for significant engine problems is a mismatch in the sooty deposits inside the exhaust tailpipes and smoke from the exhaust at cold start. These signs usually show a difference in the running efficiency of one bank of cylinders versus the other and further investigation into the cause is necessary. A 987 with one black sooty tail pipe and one clean tail pipe is not a car to buy. That’s not so easy to tell if the 987 you are looking at has a single exhaust outlet. You are going to need to get further up the exhaust to identify the sooty deposits side by side.

If you hear the knock, have the mismatched tail pipes, or clouds of smoke at cold start, getting the car at zero purchase price will add $25K+ to fix it!

Air Oil Separator

The AOS removes oil from crankcase gases, returning oil to the sump and routing vapors to the air intake for emissions control. When the AOS fails, oil gets pulled into the air intake system. Early signs include smoke from the exhaust on cold start, a check engine light, and fouled O2 sensors. A complete failure produces thick white smoke from the exhaust all the time.

AOS Failure Risks

A failing AOS can also cause excessive crankcase vacuum, potentially damaging the rear main seal – an issue seen in other VAG group engines. It can also throw off fuel mixtures, leading to over-fueling and bigger engine problems.

Front Coolant Distribution Pipe Leak

The M97 engine in the Boxster 987.1 features a plastic coolant distribution pipe fitted to the front of the engine. Over time the rubber seals and plastic give way causing a coolant leak. Often initially detected by a coolant smell inside the car, the leak often starts slow and progresses with time. This should be evident on a thorough PPI and is a straightforward job to repair.

The water pump is simple to reach from the panel inside the car and checking the amount of play on the pulley is relatively simple. With the engine running, observe the pulley and see if there is any sign of wobbling. If the pulley wobbles replace the water-pump. Most 987 Boxster owners have already completed this work at least once. Under worst circumstances, you can hear the water pump knocking from inside the car just behind the driver seat.

The problem of high oil consumption affected a good number of early engines in the 987.2 Boxster. Typically, this resulted in the consumption of a quart of oil every 1K miles driven. In the most severe cases the engine was replaced under warranty. Low mileage versions of the early 987.2 may not have identified this engine issue and it’s hard to spot before you buy the car. Check the soot on the tail pipes and the average fuel consumption shown on the dash. More soot and increased fuel consumption may be signs of oil consumption.

Direct fuel injection engines can experience carbon buildup in the intake path. Carbon deposits on the intake valves and chamber area can restrict the flow of air to the cylinders. This causes a lack of power, rough idle, and hesitation under acceleration. There are several cleaning processes available to remove the carbon build-up.

Early versions of the MA1 engine had issues with the water pump and thermostat. Revised versions of the water pump and thermostat were fitted to later cars, so check to see if this work was completed in the history of the 987.2 you look to purchase.

Water pump – the water pump on the 987.2 starts to leak before failing completely. This is an important area of the PPI to look for visible signs of a minor coolant leak. Some pumps have internal failures and will wobble while rotating. Again, this can be accessed during a thorough PPI.

Thermostat – The thermostat is electronically controlled and mapped to engine performance rather than just coolant temperature. In theory this provides better fuel economy and early response to more aggressive driving. A check engine light is normally triggered upon failure of the thermostat. Most fail in the open position and typically do not

The MA1 engine in the Boxster 987.2 features a high-pressure fuel pump driven from a camshaft. The high-pressure fuel pump is subject to failure and typically, it initially sets a check engine light and faults associated with the fuel rail pressure.

Typical symptoms of a failing high pressure fuel pump include:

• Delayed start of the engine or long crank time
• Hesitation or sputtering in acceleration
• Lack of power
• Higher engine temperatures
• Engine stalling and being difficult to restart

On the 987.2 Boxster MA1 engine rubber cooling hoses are clamped to an aluminum insert that sits in plastic housings. The glue fails on the aluminum insert and coolant leaks out from various connecting points. Replacement parts are updated with a screw in insert for the rubber hose to connect to that solves this problem.

In addition, early MA1 engines had issues with the water pump inlet tube sealing rings. This typically starts as a minor and frustratingly difficult leak to identify. Often the seals will only open at higher temperatures and can easily be missed with a cold engine inspection.

Given the age of the transmission in the 987, some wear is inevitable.

Check the smoothness of changing through the gears. Worn transmissions will have a significantly notchy feeling and difficulty finding the next gear. Also, a worn transmission will often pop out of gear under acceleration. A manual transmission fluid change should have been completed in the service history by now. Likely, the repair history will also show replacement of the shift linkage cables – if not, it is best to replace them sooner rather than later.

Shifter Cable Issues

The cables connecting the gear change lever and the transmission on the 987 can often become worn. This results in difficulty engaging gears, sloppy or a vague shifter feel, and a notchy gear shift feeling. Check the history on the car and see if the shifter cables have been replaced. If not, we suggest changing them sooner rather than later for an improved driving experience.

Options for Changing Shifter Cables

There are updated Porsche cables available and a series of aftermarket options designed to improve the shifting feel. Most include metal bushing kits, more adjustment range, and are an improvement on the original cables. The addition of a short throw shifter also significantly improves the 987 gear change.

Clutch life varies by driver — some fail by 15K miles, others last over 100K. Signs of wear include slipping (high revs, no acceleration) and a burning smell. Judder on clutch release may indicate oil contamination from a leaking RMS.

A slipping clutch can quickly damage the flywheel, adding $700 in parts if replaced together — which is recommended. Check service history and expect clutch work eventually on any used manual transmission Boxster.

The Tiptronic transmission in the 987 is generally very reliable and relatively straightforward to repair. Fluid maintenance at appropriate time or mileage is critical. Often, maintenance will be neglected because of lower mileage. On a used 987 with Tiptronic, it’s important to understand the maintenance history and catch up if necessary. Known issues are shown below:

Slow or Harsh Shifting

Symptoms: Delayed gear changes, rough shifts, or failure to engage gear.

Causes: Low or old transmission fluid, worn valve body, or aging valve body solenoids.

Repairs: Fluid and filter change. In some instances, valve body rebuild or replacement.

Transmission Overheating

Symptoms: Warning lights, limp mode, or erratic behavior after spirited driving.

Causes: Clogged transmission cooler or radiator, or low fluid level.

Repairs: Replace the transmission cooler and ensure fluid is at the correct level.

Electrical Control Issues – Faults

Symptoms: No response to gear selector, stuck in gear, dash warning lights.

Causes: Faulty Tiptronic control module, shifter switch, or wiring faults.

Repairs: Diagnostic scan to locate faults; replace control module or sensor if necessary.

Torque Converter Problems

Symptoms: Shuddering at low speeds, poor acceleration, high RPMs with low power.

Causes: Worn or failing torque converter lock-up clutch.

Repairs: Torque converter replacement.

In general, the Porsche PDK transmission in the 987.2 is extremely reliable. However, several common issues have arisen with the PDK over time, and many have led to expensive repairs being deemed necessary.

PDK Maintenance is Critical

The Porsche factory recommendations for maintenance of the PDK transmission have also evolved over time, with maintenance now being performed more frequently than originally recommended at the introduction of the transmission. We recommend you speed up the maintenance on your 987.2 PDK transmission.

The major problems with the PDK relate to the unwillingness of Porsche to allow the dealership channel to take the PDK apart and a lack of available parts! That tends to require replacement of the transmission – $20K+ and the subsequent complaints. The good news is the Porsche PDK transmission is fully repairable for a fraction of the cost of replacement.

See PDK known problems and expert PDK Repairs.

The 987 front-mounted radiators and A/C condensers sit low and exposed, making them prone to stone damage and debris buildup – especially leaves trapped around the sides.

The ducting to the radiators and condensers should be cleaned regularly or protected with mesh screens. Thorough cleaning requires removing the front bumper – something most owners skip.

When inspecting a 987 for purchase, shine a flashlight into the front air intakes. If you see leaves or buildup, it’s a sign of neglect. Corroded or damaged radiators/condensers can’t be repaired—only replaced.

Make sure during the PPI that the front coolant pipes are inspected for leaks. The coolant pipes leading from the front radiators have a series of joints from rubber to plastic and to metal in their journey from the front of the car to the engine. The joints between the pipes can leak causing coolant loss toward the front of the car – typically around the wheel wells.

A common and frustrating issue with the 987 is a small crack in the coolant reservoir. It often starts with a faint coolant smell while driving and slow fluid loss. The reservoir can suddenly split and dump all the coolant risking engine overheating.

Replacement isn’t costly but is tricky due to the tight space. Replacement plastic reservoirs can frustratingly be cheap and not well made, often leading to repeating this job multiple times over the 987 lifecycle. We recommend you get the part from Porsche for the latest and best quality.

987 Boxster Brake Wear

The brakes on the 987 Boxster are generally excellent. The S model features larger brakes that are matched to the 911 997. Brake pad material does degrade over time – check on low mileage examples to see when the last brake service was performed. The brake fluid history should show a change every few years regardless of mileage. Measure the amount of brake pad material remaining – you want more than 3mm. At the 3mm mark the brake pad wear sensor will trigger the replace brake pads light.

A complete brake service with pads, rotors and sensors can be quite expensive. So, if you’re buying from a used car vendor, look for new pads on old rotors. Both the pads and rotors should always be changed at the same time. Used car centers are famed for just replacing the pads and leaving on the old rotors. “The car has new brakes” – not if the rotors weren’t changed it doesn’t

This can be particularly unpleasant when driving! The 987 Boxster has drilled rotors. Look carefully to see how clear the drill holes are and make sure there are no cracks between the drill holes. Cracks between the drill holes can lead to a much bigger crack developing and rotor failure very quickly under heavy braking. A failed brake rotor when you are trying to stop quickly is an unpleasant experience!

Check the lip on the rotor. The size of the outer lip indicates the degree of pad wear. New pads and lipped rotors suggests a pad slap brake job. Always change the pads and rotors at the same time. New pads will wear very quickly on old rotors.

Brake fluid has a limited lifetime. Low mileage cars often skip the brake fluid service, so it’s important to determine the health of the brake fluid on the 987 you plan to buy. Check the history for the last brake fluid flush in the service records. If the last brake fluid service was more than 2 years ago, we recommend you complete a brake fluid service sooner rather than later.

The brake fluid you see in the reservoir maybe be clean and look healthy. This is not a good test. What you can’t see is what matters – the fluid in the caliper at the end of the line the reservoir connects too. Despite the fluid in the reservoir being clean, the fluid in the caliper could easily be burnt and degraded.

Test the cabriolet top thoroughly to ensure smooth operation. Many issues with the top are minor but can be frustrating if discovered on your first sunny day drive. Check if upgrades or repairs to the cabriolet top mechanism are in the car’s history.

The tops degrade with exposure to the environment. Many can be refreshed but in some circumstances, replacement will be needed.

Window Drop Problems

The 987 Boxster commonly had issues with the regulation of window drop when opening the driver’s door. Pulling the handle should cause the window regulator to drop the window below the stop point inside the convertible top. The window should rise and hit the stop point when the door is closed. This functionality can be lost during a battery change, or be caused by a faulty widow regulator, or faulty door handle microswitch.

In some circumstances the window regulator can be reset to solve the problem. This is done by relearning the stop points. With the ignition on:

• Close the door fully.
• Fully lower the window using the window switch. Hold the switch down for 5 seconds after the window reaches the bottom.
• Fully raise the window using the window switch. Hold the switch up for 5 seconds after the window reaches the top.

Thoroughly check the window drop on both doors before buying a 987 Boxster.

Inspect the car for water leaks, especially behind the driver seat. Blocked roof drains can cause water to enter the cabin and damage electronic modules. Clearing drains is easy; neglecting them is costly. Check thoroughly for signs of water leaks around the top and on the floor area.

The rear spoiler on the 987 Boxster is automatically deployed based on speed but can also be manually controlled through an interior switch.

Deployment Speed

• Automatically rises at approx. 75 mph (120 km/h).
• Automatically retracts at approx. 50 mph (80 km/h).

Check the functionality of the rear spoiler. Common issues include being stuck up or down and a general failure to deploy. If there’s a malfunction, a spoiler control failure message or warning light may appear on the dashboard. Spoiler failure issues can be expensive, so check the functionality thoroughly before purchase.

987 Boxster Suspension Issues

The 987 suspension is extremely durable. However, rubber bushings and struts can be worn with age. Listen for clunks or squeaks and check for fluid leaks from suspension struts. The most common issues are as follows:

Worn Control Arm Bushings

• Symptoms: Clunking noise over bumps, uneven tire wear, loose steering feel.
• Cause: Original rubber bushings degrade over time.
• Fix: Replace control arms or bushings. Many owners upgrade to polyurethane or monoball bushings for improved precision.

Failed Lower Control Arms

• Symptoms: Clunking, instability under braking, poor alignment retention.
• Fix: Replace with OEM or upgraded units

Top Mounts / Strut Mounts

• Symptoms: Squeaking, clunking over bumps, poor ride quality.
• Fix: Replace top mounts when changing struts/shocks. Consider GT3 mounts or aftermarket alternatives for improved feel.

Worn or Leaking Shocks or Struts

• Symptoms: Bouncy ride, nose dive when braking, poor cornering stability.
• Fix: Replace shocks. Many aftermarket options available.

Sway Bar End Links & Bushings

• Symptoms: Clunks or rattles during cornering.
• Fix: Replace worn end links or sway bar bushings. Consider adjustable end links if running coilovers or lowered ride height.

Alignment & Ride Height Issues

• Symptoms: Pulling to one side, excessive inner tire wear.
• Fix: Get a professional alignment, ideally from a Porsche specialist. Many Boxsters are misaligned due to aged components.

Uneven tire wear, especially on the inner rear shoulders, often points to worn rear control arms, poor toe setting, aggressive camber settings, and general poor alignment.

Rear tires are expensive and poor alignment can quickly degrade their lifespan.

Tire Manufacturing Date

Check tire DOT dates — anything over 5 years old should be replaced, even if tread looks good. Low-mileage cars often have old, degraded tires that can fail despite the minimal wear level. Each tire has a month and year of manufacture clearly marked on the side wall.

By now, most 987 Boxster models have exceeded factory mileage intervals by age. Maintenance should be based on elapsed time and physical inspection, not just mileage. We recommend working with a specialist Porsche shop from our list to assess maintenance needs based on condition and elapsed time. Our guide to maintenance on the 987 Boxster covers everything you need to know about efficiently servicing your 987. If you have further questions or concerns about the maintenance requirements of your 987 Boxster, you may find answers that can help in our guide to Boxster maintenance service questions.

Many dealerships are limiting service to newer vehicles, often turning away Porsche models over 10 years old due to a lack of technicians trained in older cars. In contrast, independent shops usually have decades of experience, offer a more personalized service, and often allow customers to see and understand the work being done on their car first-hand. We recommend you use a local recommended Porsche repair shop for your 987 Boxster.

Create a maintenance plan based on inspections and the advice from a repair shop. We recommend you budget $70 a month for routine maintenance service, covering annual, intermediate, and major maintenance over four years. Plan extra for new tires and brakes based on mileage and condition.

Additional costs include repairs, insurance, and taxes. Repair costs can vary dramatically depending upon the issue that needs to be resolved. We suggest budgeting $100 per month to cover likely repairs over a four year period.

987.1 Boxster – Lower purchase price – higher repair costs likely

987.2 Boxster – Higher purchase price – lower repair costs likely

Parts availability for the Porsche Boxster 987 is very good. Many original parts were revised and reused on the later chassis and there are many commonalities between the Boxster and the 997 911. Many components are still in production or at least readily available through after-market suppliers. Parts that are harder to find include interior trim components, cabriolet motors and sensors, headlights, and infotainment system replacements.

Once you’ve found a potential 987 Boxster, your first step should be a thorough inspection by a Porsche specialist. A pre-purchase inspection (PPI) can uncover hidden mechanical issues that aren’t obvious at a glance. It’s important to use a competent and experienced shop to perform the PPI. Providing the shop with any known repair or maintenance history on the car will help them with a detailed assessment.

The inspection should uncover the details of the mechanical wear on the Boxster and the general condition. What you also want to know from the report is what’s next. Before making the purchase, you want to know the extent of maintenance work needed on the car in the next few years. Use our maintenance guide for the 987 to map the history to your next maintenance steps. You also want to know the age and health of the battery and the DOT on the tires.

The PPI Should Check Fault Codes and Emissions Readiness

Before buying any car, it’s crucial to check when the OBD fault codes were last cleared and to verify the emissions monitor status. A seller can easily clear codes just before your test drive, which also resets the emissions monitors to “not ready.”

Since emissions tests require multiple drive cycles, hidden issues may not reappear for many miles. During a PPI the shop should confirm that the emissions system shows “ready” – this indicates the car has been driven enough since the last reset and isn’t hiding recent faults.

Over-Rev Counter

Revving an engine to the red line is safe and even healthy for the 987 engines when done correctly. A proper gear change at redline may briefly raise RPM slightly—this is normal and harmless. However, selecting the wrong gear (like downshifting instead of upshifting) can cause the engine to over-rev way beyond the red line. This common mistake, known as a miss-shift, has led to catastrophic engine failures in many Porsches.

Recorded Events

Fortunately, Porsche’s engine management system logs key data, including engine over-rev events. The ECU permanently records engine hours and when these events occurred.

There are six over-rev levels, from minor redline hits to extreme, potentially engine-damaging RPM spikes. Lower-level events often just show spirited driving, but higher-level over-revs may indicate serious stress and events that could shorten the engine life. During a PPI you want to know what over-rev details are recorded in the ECU.

Many Porsche owners enjoy track days, where gear changes often occur near redline. These can trigger entries in the lower over-rev ranges, which are logged by the ECU. Multiple entries in these lower levels may suggest frequent track use, offering insight into how hard the car has been driven—and how well it may have been cared for over time. Discuss and take the opinion of a specialist Porsche shop based on the over-rev detail stored in the car you want to purchase.

Specific models and production ranges of those models can require repairs under manufacturer recalls. It’s worth checking to make sure that the pre-owned Porsche you plan to buy is up to date with the recalls required on the specific model. You can do this most effectively with:

National Highway Traffic Safety Administration

or directly with Porsche:

Porsche Recall Lookup

There are often very genuine reasons why a car is for sale. We all move on, however, older cars are often put up for sale when mechanical issues are deemed too expensive. Did deep and if possible, understand why the car is for sale.

If you’re buying from a used car dealer, find out where they sourced the 987. A Porsche-focused dealer is a good sign. But if the dealer typically sells budget minivans, proceed with caution. Who trades in a Porsche at a used car lot that doesn’t specialize in them? Often, it’s someone offloading a car with hidden issues, betting the dealer won’t notice. Do your homework.

Most cars are advertised using the model year or registration year. This can be misleading. The production year runs August through July. That means cars produced in August through December are described as the following year’s production e.g. September 2001 production is often called a 2002 model year car.

Why Does This Matter?

The simple answer is parts. The actual production date is critical to understand the components fitted on the car. In the 987 case, the change in IMS bearings and engines for example, happened in a specific production window. Knowing the actual production date for the 987 you plan to buy can help you determine the real value of the car and the potential for issues.

10K miles per year is considered good condition for most cars. However, most 987 Boxster cars do not do 10K miles per year. Typically, they will have covered more mileage in their first ten years of age and then progressively slowed down in mileage per year subsequently. What’s important to discover is how the maintenance for the 987 changed over the mileage covered and its frequency – that will likely tell you more about the health of the car versus the total mileage covered.

High speed freeway driving versus around town local driving can have a serious influence on the overall engine and transmission condition. Long drives at higher speeds tend to produce less wear as opposed to lots of cold starts and short journeys. Look at the location of the owners and make a judgement based on the mileage recorded over the time the owner used the car.

While low mileage on a 987 is very appealing, it can come with its own set of issues. Infrequent use often means missed service intervals, leading to age-related wear in fluids, seals, tires, brakes, and clutch components. Lack of maintenance based on time is risky. For example, spark plugs should be replaced every 10 years, regardless of mileage, and brake fluid flushed every 2–3 years. Tires too may have good remaining tread but can still be unsafe if over 5 years old.

Low-mileage cars often demand a premium but be sure to budget for catch-up maintenance after your purchase.

For most Porsche cars, especially 20 year + 987s, the number of previous owners matters less than the car’s maintenance history and overall condition. What really matters is how long each owner had the car and how well they took care of it. If you see an increasing number of owners over a decreasing amount of time, that may well be a sign of neglect

There are several good ways to check the title status on a vehicle available. All you need is the vin number.

• National Motor Vehicle Title Information System (NMVTIS) – Government-backed, very reliable
• Carfax – Detailed history reports
• AutoCheck – Similar to Carfax
• VINCheck (NICB) – Free check for theft/salvage

Understanding where the car has been in the country can give you some clues as to its history of use. Cars in the south are likely to have been driven regularly as the weather does not preclude the enjoyment of the 987. However, cars in northern states are often stored during the wintertime and experience a good number of months without being driven. Climate too can be a factor. Hot and dry versus high humidity has different effects on the health of rubber components and interior trim for example.

This is a common question and not one that is easily answered. All 987 Boxster model year production has some potential issues that you should pay close attention to. The later production 987.2 cars are significantly more desirable and as a result more expensive. The early 987.1 Boxster is a real bargain vs. the mishap prone late 986 version, however, there are still issues to be considered such as engine bore scoring.

As luck would have it, the Porsche you really want is on the other side of the country! This used to be an issue, but these days buying cars out of state is commonplace. There are technology based tools to enable a smooth transaction and help minimize the risks, and excellent ways to transport you car home.

Tips for Buying a Porsche Out of State

• Start with a thorough online evaluation
• Get detailed photos: exterior, interior, engine bay, undercarriage, and tires.
• Request a walkaround or live video call (FaceTime or Zoom) to confirm condition.
• Run a VIN check
• Use Carfax, AutoCheck, or VinAudit to check for accidents, title issues, maintenance history etc.
• Get an option list or build sheet using a vin decoder
• Get a Pre-Purchase Inspection (PPI) with a local Porsche specialist
• Use an escrow service for the transaction
• Insure the car before transport to you

Transporting the Car – Recommended Car Carriers

Some buyers like to fly in, put their hands on the car, complete the transaction and drive home. In many cases this is not practical, and so buyers turn to shipping companies to transport their new purchase directly to their home. If you’re buying from a Porsche sales specialist, they will likely have an option and can recommend a car shipping company they typically work with. Here are some shipping companies that we have worked with that offer excellent service:

Montway

Reliable Carriers

Preowned Auto Logistics

U.S. Luxury Shippers

Intercity Lines

Recommended Porsche Repair Shops You Can Trust

We researched the whole country to identify local Porsche repair shops that you can trust with your car. Our recommended Porsche repair shops, service centers, mechanics, and specialists provide Porsche repair, service, maintenance, diagnostics, and classic Porsche restoration services that can help you.

All versions of the 987 are easy to drive, park, and have fun in. The ride quality and handling improved through the versions, but even the original 987 is bags of fun to drive with the top down. The early version is somewhat under powered, and the auto transmission is sluggish unless you shift manually using the Tiptronic. Don’t expect a racy sports car from the early version. Later versions, especially the S model, certainly have a bit more zip about them. The early 987 manual transmission model is more raw and analog experience than the later more sophisticated 987.2 PDK transmission cars. The PDK versions are a lot of fun to drive fast and really easy to handle in traffic.

Too Much Stuff

There’s not much room in a Boxster 987 for your stuff. The front trunk space can’t do golf clubs or even a reasonable size suit case. That means practically, the Boxster 987 is not the car to go shopping in or extended road trips – unless you pack small.

Boxster 987 Recommended Maintenance Intervals

Maintenance on the Boxster 987 is due annually, with an intermediate service at 2 years or 20K miles, and a major service at 4 years or 40K miles.

PDK Transmission Maintenance

If the Boxster 987 you plan to buy is fitted with a PDK transmission, we highly recommend performing maintenance on the PDK sooner than the factory recommendations. PDK maintenance is now recommended at 40K miles or 4 years to prevent expensive PDK problems.

Recommended Porsche Repair Shops

In our repair shop section we highlight and recommend local shops we know to provide the very best service. To help, we also categorize the local shops to reflect the type of Porsche service each shop offers. Many of the local independent shops shown offer an excellent dealer alternative for Porsche service, maintenance, and repairs. Recommended Porsche specialists also offer repairs, tuning, upgrades, and modification expertise that surpasses the typical Porsche service center or dealer.

Save 20% on Maintenance Service and Repairs

Service, repair, or maintenance performed at an independent shop does not invalidate your warranty. On average, working with an independent shop will save you at least 20% on Porsche service and repair costs versus a dealer. In addition, it’s also worth considering how the local environment and road conditions affect maintenance requirements. An independent shop can help you with first-hand knowledge versus factory recommendations.

Original versions have plastic interior parts that can easily become discolored due to wear and tear. The HVAC digital screen is prone to losing parts of digits, which leaves you wondering just what setting you really are looking at. However, there is a healthy used parts market that can solve some of those problems easily and cost effectively. Generally, the interior is simple, well laid out, and practical. The later versions have better styled interiors than the original, improved infotainment systems, and the S model in particular, has a very 911 style sporty feel. Anyway, take the top down and have some fun – the interior on the Boxster 987 always improves with the view of the sky above!

Porsche Classic Communication Management Plus

Porsche has made available infotainment system retrofit upgrades for various models from the 987 forward. This gives you the option to remove the older style infotainment system and replace it with the latest version PCCM Plus. Great option if you must be connected all the time. The cost is quite high, but it’s a great way to modernize the infotainment in a classic model.

The PCCM Plus equipment includes a 7-inch touchscreen with a state-of-the-art graphical display. It can enable the reception of digital radio stations such as SiriusXM® satellite radio. The latest navigation updates are included and media playback is possible via USB stick, Bluetooth®, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto™. In some models, personal settings for the car can also be stored for the lights, the windscreen wipers, the climate control and the locking.

If you buy a manual transmission car, the biggest change you can make to the livability of the car is to install a short throw shifter. The distance between gears on the manual trans 987 is not that different from a bus! A short shifter improves the feel of the car tremendously and reduces the likelihood of missing a gear.

The 987 uses Porsche N rated tires. If the car you buy has 19-inch rims, you’ll be looking at more than $1200 for a set of 4 tires. The rear tires will wear more quickly than the fronts on the 987 due to the suspension setup. It’s important to stay on top of vehicle alignment – any loss of alignment on the rear of the Boxster will eat the inner shoulder of the rear tires rapidly. This is difficult to see because it’s so far under the car but check it regularly or you’ll be buying rear tires way more often than you expect.

Don’t be tempted to use cheap tires on the 987. N rated tires are the safest for the car but also produce the type of handling and ride quality expected. Cheap tires can negatively effect the ride quality.

If your ownership plans include heading out for a track day (HPDE), then the 987 can be a lot of fun. You need to check with the group organizing the track day on your ability to drive the Boxster at the event. Some events do not permit soft top vehicles.

On track, the car is easy to drive quickly, and well balanced. You’ll have to ignore the 911 cars passing you and focus on your space – you shouldn’t get passed by a Miata! The PDK transmission in the later 987.2 Boxster is a joy on the track – just make sure you have a healthy maintenance record on the PDK before heading out on a track day.

There are still several manufacturers that support the 987 for upgrades such as wheels, exhaust, intake systems etc. In addition, many of the body panels, spoilers or bumper assemblies from later model versions are interchangeable with early models.

Third Radiator Upgrade

One of the easiest and most effective upgrades to make to a 987 is to add the third coolant radiator if the car is not fitted with it as standard – many S models have the third radiator as standard. The third radiator helps keep engine temperatures down and may contribute to better engine performance and longevity.