[matthewb0051]

I just replaced my AOS, it only took me 2 1/2 years.

From what I read recently the AOS is a 6 year part give or take. Also read from several forums that new ones have a high failure rate.

I had my IMS done in 2017, car had 35k miles or thereabouts. I told the mechanic to replace any wear items. I guess that didn't mean the AOS to them... while the engine was out and it was easily accessible. After they got finished with IMS they called to say the AOS had failed on test drive. So they had to drop the engine and do it.

Pretty sure the 2003 has the AOS with two bolts on top, which I think is easier to replace. Drop the engine down as far as you can and take off the intake (leave the coolant tank in place). It was harder on the Cabrio due to space but on Targa you should have lots more room. I could probably do mine in an afternoon now.

Word of warning: there are several coolant connectors that are plastic. Don't look at them too hard or they will break, let alone if you touch them they will surely break. Also the SAI canister near the AOS has a little pipe for a vacuum line, it will break if you barely touch it. So just be prepared to replace some odds and end plastic parts.