Newbie

Danny4d · 07-06-2026, 01:27 PM

Is This Realistic?

Have a 996 Turbo with 80k miles. It's been bullet proof. Drives like new. But, just experienced the dreaded coolant leak.

Porsche shop did the diagnosis. They do these frequently as you can imagine. I guess they are going to drop the enging, replace parts, pressure test, do it right. Did a full analysis of the car. To fix the main "critical issues" which go beyond coolant issue. Tank Orings, Boolant beather line, oil line gaskets Water hose, Thermostat , Orings, water pump, water hose (water pump shot), throttle bushings, turbo gasket. etc, etc. Then there is a list of "Recommended" items.

Car ran magnificently before the coolant leak. But the "critical" issues are quoted at $10,000 - ish. Then then there's another $12k in "Recommended" stuff - camshaft work, clutch sleves, serpentine belt work, etc. etc.

Honestly, I thought with the car's Mezger running like a champ, I thought maybe $5k to $7k in tune up items might be in order. But $22k? Maybe I'm ignorant to the realities of some deferred maintenance.

I'm really interested in the group's insight and experience. Thanks in advance!

REVerend · REVerend's Garage

By Porsche shop do you mean a dealer or an independent? When I bought my 996 last year there was some stuff to be done and I started by talking to a very well known independent in the New Orleans area. Super flakey about getting back to me and the quote was what I would expect from an actual dealer.

Went hunting around and found out there is a very highly regarded old timer a couple hours north of me. He did the work for a very reasonable price and has been a wealth of information since.

Depending on where you are at I would check what all the options are for an independent shop in your area. Don’t just go with the first place to give you a quote and definitely do some research online regarding the recommended work. There is another forum that has a lot more action regarding the 996 platform and a wealth of old threads.

Danny4d · 07-07-2026, 01:21 AM

I took it to a private shop.

ckcarr · ckcarr's Garage

I'd like to know how to locate a reliable independent and qualified shop in geographic areas, like mine as one. Or, if I traveled to Wiconsin or Chicago and had an issue. I joined PCA because I had been told there was a directory, but I can't find it.

rfuerst911sc · 07-07-2026, 09:41 AM

Honestly that sounds high to me . Have they determined specifically what is leaking ? The " while your in there " items do add up quickly .

Danny4d · 07-08-2026, 02:38 PM

He's going to weld and then pressure test. I think he's solid.

Danny4d · 07-08-2026, 02:40 PM

I haven't done any engine service except oil since 50k miles. Didn't have a need. Would have to tow it to the dealer for second opinion, which would be challenging.

Danny4d · 07-08-2026, 02:41 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by ckcarr

I'd like to know how to locate a reliable independent and qualified shop in geographic areas, like mine as one. Or, if I traveled to Wiconsin or Chicago and had an issue. I joined PCA because I had been told there was a directory, but I can't find it.

its an indy shop