993 Red Flags

[gt3jan]

Hi All
Looking for a 993 Coupe or Targa. What are the red flags/failure points that I should look for when inspecting a potential purchase.
Thanks
Jan

[dpizi]

Jan

Rennlist has a much more active 993 group, I would do some searching there and you will probably find the info you are looking for. I can share some of what I have learned from owing my 1995 Carrera since 2000.

For me the biggest issues have been a leaking power steering rack and having to redo the A/C system. You used to be able to buy rebuild kits for the power steering racks, not sure if they are still available. You will spend big money if you have a shop or dealership replace. The A/C evaporator cracks and develops leaks. Again, big money for someone to replace. I did mine and it was a doable job, but quite a bit of work. Another problem with the A/C system are the (6) servo motors that control air flow. They are frequently bad and will need to be replaced or repaired. The climate control units are often bad. Valve guides wear and will burn some oil. This is not as big an issue for 95 OBD I cars, but it can throw a check engine light on 96-98 cars. The belt that runs the twin distributor fails can fail. Interior plastic bits fall crack and fall apart. I would think most shocks and US spec springs have been replaced by now, but if the ride height looks too, check those. I am not personally familiar with Targas, but I have read they are very very difficult to align if needed.

I did a quick Google search and found this. Good luck with your search, these are great cars.

Dave
https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=web&cd=&cad=rja&uact=8&ved=2ahUKEwje0ajS9q-AAxUKkYkEHXCBBngQrAIoAXoECBwQAg&url=https%3A%2F%2Frennlist.com%2Fforums%2F993-forum%2F737976-excellence-ppi-check-list-for-the-993-a.html&usg=AOvVaw3VdLZBCOsUBZKESJ2_9OET&opi=89978449

[Marine Blue]

The SAI issues causing the CEL light to come on are something to watch on 96-98 993’s primarily if you live in a state that checks emissions. Otherwise, what Dave said!

Funny as the list provided matches up very closely with the issues seen in 964’s these days.

[gt3jan]

Thank you both very much for the information.

Jan