Things to look for / PPI checklist?

[patssle]

I'm considering buying a 2003 Boxster S. I don't know anything about them - I've dealt with a classic 914 and 911 Porsche. I can't seem to find any checklist of things to look for. I know about the IMS problem, but that's about it (got an $1850 quote to get that 'fixed' - good price?). Any checklist of things to look for myself?

Thanks.

[jwgn777]

Well let see. I would like to here the engine start up (COLD) to here if there is any really loud chain ramp noise. (2) I would have the owner bring the vehicle up the speed to see if the spoiler extends and while you are at it check for any hi speed vibrations. And make sure the spoiler retracts too.(3) Check for oil leaks around the RMS and tensioner s(4) And check for lots of smoke on start up.(5) It would be helpful if the owner has more then one set of keys. And maintenance records would help. IMS is a chance with all these engines it would be great if the owner had records of a replacement. (6) Get the owners word the there are no check engine light problems or surprises so you wont have any problem with emission inspections. If the vehicle has a Tip tronic trans test the manual mode side for proper operation. Remember when warm the trans starts out in second gear. This is not a fault JW

[bell]

Check for cracks on the coils, there's no heat shield hiding them. Not a deal breaker but will be an easy few hundred bucks.
Check for any fluid leaks near the steering rack, if ran low the steeting pump is easily damaged.
Check for any signs of wetness behind the drivers seat low on the floor, this is a sign of clogged drains and in most cars will kill the alarm module.
Check the windows. they should drop about a 1/2” inch when you lift the handle, and go up when you shut the for. Also listen for any cable grinding sounds, window regulators aren't to bad, but pricey, I only use OEM ones when they do fail, a few hundred bucks each.

Check that the convertible top opens and closes smoothly and evenly, the clam shell and the top operate off of 1 motor and 2 transmissions, look at the arms on the transmissions for broken links and bent arms. Its not to hard to see, open the top halfway and you can look under without unhooking anything.
in that well you will also see one drain on each side (these are the ones which get clogged)

Look for any coolant residue at the bottom of the water pump, a chalky residue is a common sign of one that's been leaking but hasn't failed yet....

Check the right side of trunk for wettness, sign of leaking expansion tank.

[thom4782]

Mike Focke posted two articles on his site related to buying a Boxster. Here's the URL: https://sites.google.com/site/mikefocke2/mikesporscheboxsterwebpages.

I'd also suggest a dealer PPI using the Porsche diagnostic tool to check for trouble codes, over-revs, camshaft variances at idle, etc. An independent shop with an Autologic or a Durametric diagnostic tool can do many of these same tests.

Good luck.

[patssle]

Thanks guys! Will definitely heed the advice when looking it over.

[jwgn777]

Being that you are willing the foot the bill for a new IMS bearing when buying this Boxster I would say you would have eliminated your biggest worry. Check as much as you can as all of are members has suggested and enjoy your new purchase.

[Rot 911]

I've had mine for over a month now and am finding it remarkably easy to work on. Easily as simple to work on as my '86 Carrera. How many miles are on the Boxster you are looking at?

Don't forget, this really is a buyer's market for Boxsters, and if the one you are looking at doesn't have all you want, there will be lots of others out there to check out.

[patssle]

It's a 2003 S with 66k miles - not too bad on mileage. And yeah definitely incorporating the IMS cost into it - got the seller to reduce the price a little for that.

I just need to sell my Mazda 3 and Mazda 6 to make room for it! And nobody wants to buy the 6.

[mikefocke]

There is an article and a sample PPI posted on Pedro's. The form he uses is partially based on a very thorough one my '01 received from an expert P-car mechanic no longer in business.