What to look for besides IMS

[BTERRY1]

I am looking to get a Boxter for my wife. I currently drive an 83 944 and do all the maintenance myself so am fairly mechanically inclined and not afraid to tackle items. Just did the rod bearings on the 944 myself and although messy not hard at all. Anyway back to the topic. I'd be looking for a car that has been driven but not abused. I don't want a garage queen. I would like to hear from you what other items to be aware of besides the IMS and RMS. we can leave that topic out as it has been discussed to death in great detail. I appreciate your feedback. Thanks

[kjc2050]

There are several sites devoted to helpful tips when buying a Boxster. Just google something like "buying a used Boxster" and you'll find a lot of helpful information. Mike Focke's website is particularly good. Mike Focke - Buying a '97 to '04 Boxster

[thom4782]

I'm sure you'll get lots of suggestions. Here are several I'd make sure I'd have checked:

1. The number of times the engine was reved over red line
2. The cam shaft angle variations at idle - they should be rock steady
3. The cam shaft angles themselves. Spec is +/- 4 and slightly out of spec is OK. If too far out of spec, there could be problems with the variocams and chain rails
4. Debris in the oil filter, especially metal

[BTERRY1]

Thanks for the feedback. I take it all those would be part of a proper PPI

[mikefocke]

What you should look for:

First the qualifications and reputation of the guy who is going to do the PPI. Ask to see a copy of one he has done. Look for detailed measurements of lots of things from tire tread depth to rotor thickness to the engine parameters listed above and more. Does he do a leakdown. Have a durametric/PWIS/PST2? How many Porsches are in his shop for big jobs. I like to see race engines on the prep stands.

Then is she comfortable in the car. Drive for at least 15 minutes.

The obvious cosmetics and functionality you can test, fiddle with, etc. The tires age.

Then let the PPI lead you.

[recycled sixtie]

I bought my 2001 Boxster base privately and the seller was able to supply receipts in the Porsche leather pouch. In my experience it is preferable for me to buy privately as u can tell a lot about the car by interaction with the seller and provision of receipts. I would trust a Pelican Parts member seller more than joe blow off the street.

PPI is mandatory. Screen out the bad ones by looking at general condition of car. How are the tires? Does everything work? For instance the spoiler in my car was disabled when I bought it but this was shown in the receipts(prof. disabled). Check the cv joints for leakage. I had this fixed after I bought it. Don't buy the first one you see. This is a buyers' market. Take your time looking. PPI is the best $$$ you will ever spend. Enjoy your search. Keep a cool head. I have had installed the IMS Guardian. The Box has excellent air cond.(make sure that works) and heated seats(an option I believe).