'06 Cayman: What to look for?

[Robert Coats]

In addition to a PPI, what are some 'hot' areas deserving of closer inspection? This example is a S, and has less than 10k miles (older couple). VIN is WP0AB29806U783664

From my initial research, this model/year should not have any IMS issues?

Any tips are welcome.

[CarGuyNeil]

Looks great! Love the yellow!

Sent from my SM-N950U using Tapatalk

[tonythetarga]

You DO have the ‘non-serviceable’ IMS, so that means there is potential for a problem. These bearings are less prone to failure but can still fail.
That low mile ‘06 with 10k is now a 13 year old car. How many oil changes did it have? If the same oil is in it year after year and the car is barely driven, then that could be a problem. Oil should be changed each year at a minimum. On 10k my guess is it has had only one or two changes and not more. That would concern me.
Tires are also probably original. Check the date codes. If they’re over 5 years they’ll need to be replaced regardless of tread depth. Then there is brake fluid. Should be changed every two years for street use, more frequently for high speed driving on the track, and use a higher boiling point.
Properly maintained, they’re great cars. Mine has 106k. It gets regular exercise, and frequent oil changes. Look for the records in maintenance.
At this point, the engine is worth more than the shell. Wouldn’t want to have a failure because I overlooked the importance of something as simple as annual oil changes!
But, hey...yellow is a cool color 😎

[husker boxster]

The problem with ultra-low mileage IMS cars is they sit for long periods and that's not good for the bearing. If the bearing seal has deteriorated and the grease has been washed out, the only lubrication for the IMSB is the engine oil. When it sits, the oil drips out of the bearing. Start the car and it's dry for an instant. Ideally you want 4-5K mi / yr so they stay lubricated and you have an annual oil change.

Also check around the water pump for seepage.

Yellow is a cool color but you better be sure you're going to keep it for a while. It's one of the hardest colors to sell. Many a CFO has nixed the purchase of a yellow Porsche. I'm a hobbyist Wheeler Dealer and I will not buy a yellow car as a project. Not saying you shouldn't buy it, just think long term about your plans and be sure your CFO (if you have one) is on board.

Here's my latest WD car - a 2014 CS. It's listed in the classifieds.

[racer]

Maintenance History would be good to know
1) Oil / Oil filter change frequency
2) Coolant
3) as mentioned, IMS is still a concern. IMS fix for these later motors requires splitting the engine case. Not cheap.
4) Usual degradation (due to sitting) of rubber pieces - suspension bushings for example. Shocks.
5) Tip or Manual trans?

[Robert Coats]

Current owner states he's owned since new, but has a bad knee (he's 62) and shifting is a chore, so it languishes in the garage and thus low miles. He says he has complete service records (how much could that be?).

A few stone chips and edge-of-door dings, some minor wear on driver's bolster. I've already scouted a local German-vehicle shop for a PPI. 13 years old tires will surely need replacement. I'm cautiously optimistic the PPI will be positive. If there are any undisclosed problems, that opens us up to some negotiations. While the low miles are impressive, I think he's a bit high on the asking price of $30.5k.

Thanks to all who have responded so far. If anyone sees anything not covered yet, please share it here.

[Emo993]

I purchased a 2007 S three years ago with 17,000 miles. Perfect condition, great PPI etc. Paid $33,000. I think that price is fair if everything checks out. love the color. Best, Mark