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Technical Q&A
Welcome to PCA's source of expert advice, where our PCA National Technical Committee experts answer your questions about all things technical.
Warm start issue
Monday 05/19/2025 | 1984 | 911 Carrera Cabriolet | Engine
Hi Chris,I have a warm start issue with my 1984 911 Carrera Cabriolet. The car fires up almost instantly when cold, even after 3+ months of winter storage, but after a drive when the engine warms up, it may take 5-10 seconds before it fires. My suspicion until now has been fuel and the car has a new fuel filter and fuel pump check valve installed. I've heard that leaking injectors could be causing this issue, but before I go out and replace those I wanted to check in case yo ...
READ ANSWERI have a 1997 Boxster. I left the front hood up to use my battery maintainer. I usually remove the bulb. When I put it back in it would not work. I closed the hood and reopened 9t and it turned on. Is there a timer on it?out 12 hours I put the bulb in anf it would not
Sunday 05/18/2025 | 1997 | Boxster | Electrical
READ ANSWERTail Shifter to Side Shifter
Friday 05/16/2025 | 1971 | 914 1.7 | Transmission/Clutch
I have a 1971 914/4 with a tail shifter and am considering replacing with a side shifter. I also have all new bushings for my tail shifter. Question: is it worth replacing the bushings & will it make shifting easier or should I just bite the bullet and look around for a good side shifter with linkage?
READ ANSWERI order my Cayman with the pre-wire for the dash cam. I ordered a Porsche camera from Suncoast that is supposed to be one for the pre-wire. Is this something that will be plug and play or do I have to have the dealer install the camera and run a bunch of wiring? If I have the dealer do the install what have others paid to have this done with the pre-wire option??
Tuesday 05/13/2025 | 2025 | 718 Cayman GTS 4.0 | Accessories
READ ANSWEROil level sensor connector
Monday 05/12/2025 | 1988 | 944 Turbo S | Electrical
Does anyone know where I can get the connector or the wire with a connector for the oil level sensor that goes into the oil pan? I can't seem to find the part number. Thanks
READ ANSWERthe fan switch only works to increase fan speed , will not lower it
Monday 05/12/2025 | 2015 | Boxster | Heating and Ventilation
READ ANSWERBoxster 2011 987.2 Manual 1st to 2nd grind and downshift 3rd to 2nd gring
Monday 05/12/2025 | 2011 | Boxster | Transmission/Clutch
My Boxster is experiencing a crunch or grind from upshift 1st to 2nd gear and also sometimes downshifting from 3rd to 2nd. Doesn't do it all the time, but starting to get worse. I've been told by one shop that does some Porsche work it's probably 2nd gear synchronizer (also called dog ring? )and perhaps changing transmission gear lube and probably hydraulic clutch fluid may help. They also recommend installing new clutch kit and slave cylinder. Doesn't seem like Porsche specific indy s ...
READ ANSWERhello i have a carbureted 1980sc with 40mm weber ida i need solution for venting the oil tank without reinventing the wheel thanks
Monday 05/12/2025 | 1980 | 911 SC | Performance Modifications
READ ANSWEREngine revs freely in natural but when accelerating in any gear, the engine is very jerky. I have changed the plugs and plug leads and checked all the air flow meters and everything checks out but the problem still exists.
Friday 05/09/2025 | 1988 | 911 Carrera | Engine
The engine was rebuilt about 15 years ago and that’s why the mileage is low.
READ ANSWERI've owned my 1979 911SC for 28 years. I've always changed my oil myself with a lift. I've always used Castrol GTX 20w/50. Is there an alternative to that oil? My car has 211k miles.
Thursday 05/08/2025 | 1979 | 911 SC Targa | Engine
I've owned my 1979 911SC for 28 years. I've always changed my oil myself with a lift. I've always used Castrol GTX 20w/50. Is there an alternative to that oil? My car has 211k miles.
READ ANSWERnon oem tpms replacement sensors
Tuesday 05/06/2025 | 2008 | Cayman | Electronics
My TPMS sensors need replacing. Are there aftermarket sensors that members have had good luck with using? I am reluctant to spend the price for the OEM units.
READ ANSWERSemi-metallic vs ceramic brake pads
Monday 05/05/2025 | 2017 | 718 Cayman S | Brakes
I'm trying to identify the best brake pads for track use. I do not race but participate in high performance driving events. My track use is 80-90% and street 10-20%. My question is about choosing between semi-metallic pads vs. ceramics. The ceramics appeal to me because they are easier on the rotors, but do they perform as well as the semi-metallics? Appreciate any help with this.Jim Horschjiho18q@gmail.com ...
READ ANSWERwhy is my tiptronic transmission so bad? hard downshifts and delayed up shifts. had the fluid changed last year, and new fuel pumps a month ago, both helped, but still not what it should be.
Sunday 05/04/2025 | 2005 | Cayenne S | Transmission/Clutch
READ ANSWERWhat is the recommended automatic transmission fluid for 2003 Boxster base? Seeing conflicting info on whether it’s Pentosin ATF 1 or 6.
Sunday 05/04/2025 | 2003 | Boxster | Transmission/Clutch
I'm in the process of buying all items needed for a transmission service on my 2003 Boxster base. I ordered the pan gasket and filter from my local Porsche dealer but did not spring for the fluid from Porsche. I was hoping to buy Pentosin ATF 1 but not having luck finding it locally and also not easy to get online. Also, seeing Pentosin ATF 1 has been rebranded to Pentosin ATF 6. Can anyone with experience clarify if Pentosin ATF 6 is compatible/recommended? thank you! ...
READ ANSWERThe car turns on but doesn't crank and dash states "depress clutch pedal". The clutch is depressed twice and it then cranks. Thanks
Saturday 05/03/2025 | 2008 | 911 Carrera 4 Cabriolet | Other
READ ANSWERBest options for Car Play
Friday 05/02/2025 | 2010 | 911 Carrera 4S Cabriolet | Electronics
Looking for best options to provide Car Play applications while keeping the car stock. What are the best products out there?
READ ANSWERFuel system?
Friday 05/02/2025 | 2013 | Boxster | Fuel System
Sorry this will seem long winded, but need to give all the details. Last Friday, I had all the spark plugs and ignition coils replaced. It drove fine over the weekend. Monday going to work, the car started fine. On my way home from work, the car didnt make any cranking noise when i tried to start it, it started fine the second time. The next morning, the car started fine. But on my way home from work, starting the car took almost 5 or 6 seconds and when it started, the starter kept cranking ...
READ ANSWERLow oil level light on dash staying on
Friday 05/02/2025 | 1991 | 944 S2 | Electrical
The low oil level light is staying onTrouble shooting steps so far: Oil level is right at the topThese steps were done at a trusted shop I have used for many yearsWe did the ground the wiring receptacle test at the sensor. Light stayed on.Replaced the sensor Although I don't think we needed to I said do it anyway. Light stayed on. No surprise there.Checked wiring harness for any issues. All looked good. No fuse related issues.So we belie ...
READ ANSWERWhy wont my engine throttle up
Thursday 05/01/2025 | 2000 | Boxster S | Fuel System
My car starts okay, but wont throttle up when I press on the gas
READ ANSWERHard to start after about 1 to 5 hours being turned off
Thursday 05/01/2025 | 1984 | 911 Carrera | Engine
3.2 engine is Hard to start after about 1 to 5 hours being turned off then it idles very rough for awhile. If turned off less than about 30 minutes, it starts up fine. This problem started about 1500 miles ago.After being turned off more than 5 hours it starts much better and idles better.The cylinder head cold start sensor was changed about 5000 miles ago.Alternator Fan Housing was loose and shifted down to touch flywheel and the temperature went up above n ...
READ ANSWERAfter my 944 had been parked for a few months, when I started it, there was a noise in the engine which sounds like a valve tap.
Thursday 05/01/2025 | 1983 | 944 | Engine
I've started it a couple more times hoping that maybe there just wasn't enough oil getting to the lifters or something similar, but it is not getting any better. It also doesn't want to idle and runs rough. I've only taken the rpm up to about 1200. Do you have any suggestions on what to check? Is it drivable a short distance in this condition?
READ ANSWER2003 911 4S - Looking for a source for the Trip and Dimmer knob stalks. Sourcing the knobs is starightforward, the stalks (shafts) that the knobs connect to - not so much. A source for a non-functioning instrumnet cluster would work too.
Thursday 05/01/2025 | 2003 | 911 Carrera 4S | Electrical
The stalks are maybe an inch or two long, plastic and insert through the cluster from the rear to the front, and the knobs push over the shafts. They are shaped like an old-fashioned key and when turned manually engage micro-switches that control the trip reset and the instrument lights. I found an excellent YouTube video on how to replace them (search 'Rick Schofield') but can't find a source for the shafts. ...
READ ANSWERMy 2007 997 Red coupe ignition key switch occasionally does not turn on the engine power or crank over.
Wednesday 04/30/2025 | 2007 | 911 Carrera | Electrical
Sometimes the warning lights do not come on or power on allow the engine to start?? It is a weird one to me. The key inserts correctly and turns all the way, so it does not seem to be the steering interlock. The keys work the remote door opening, etc fine, and the problem occurs with both keys. And it is intermittant. It seems to correct if the ignition switch is turned all the way off, and then back on. Sometimes needing more than once. One time it cranked very slowly like a weak ...
READ ANSWERIs it advisable to put lowering springs on just the front wheels?
Sunday 04/27/2025 | 2009 | 911 Carrera 4S | Suspension
I am considering putting Eibach lowering springs on my 911 and noticed the gap is 3 fingers at the front but less than 2 fingers in the rear. Is it advisable to put lowering springs on just the front wheels?
READ ANSWEREngine Mount Failures
Friday 04/25/2025 | 2016 | Boxster Spyder | Engine
Having constant engine mount failures. 4 failures in the last 4 years. Now I have another failure. Porsche replaced the prior ones under warranty but will not do it now. Error message can not be removed without replacing the mounts. Is the dealer doing the replacements incorrectly? I have talked with mechanics and they are sayin always replace both. Looking at fixed after market ones but would like to eliminate the error code. First 5 years of no problems and now every year. ...
READ ANSWER914 1.7L Piston
Thursday 04/24/2025 | 1973 | 914 1.7 | Engine
Hey gents. A few years ago my 914 started dumping oil in the exhaust. Fast forward I finally found a local shop who had experience with this engine and turns out one of the pistons is somewhat destroyed. Cylinder seems ok.Problem is finding a new/replacement domed piston. I've looked at the advertisers in Panorama and am coming up empty so am looking for a unicorn part here.I'll add a couple of pictures to show what I'm looking for.Peace/A ...
READ ANSWERBest mechanic for Porsche suspension in DC area?
Tuesday 04/22/2025 | 2014 | Cayman S | Suspension
Severely harsh and rattling and clunking over small to medium bumps.
READ ANSWERwhat would cause intermittent starting problem that seems to be related to ignition switch? occasionally will have remove ignition key and reinsert several times before switch will activate start
Tuesday 04/22/2025 | 2006 | 911 Carrera S | Electrical
READ ANSWERBest Shop located in Ontario, Greater Toronto Area
Tuesday 04/22/2025 | 2006 | 911 Carrera 4S | Other
Best local shop that help me chase a P0021 error code that I cant get rid of?
READ ANSWERMore of a General comment
Tuesday 04/22/2025 | 2003 | 911 Carrera 4S | Accessories
This is more of a general comment about recent question and answers I read in the latest release of Excellence Magazine. I will be the first to admit I don't have the answer to many of the questions asked. However two recent questions have me shaking my head and the answers given. One question was about a Boxster not shifting into gear with the engine on. The answer while partly hinting at the issue (stuck clutch) did not give the questioner a solution. It almost certainly was the clutch ...
READ ANSWERFog Light wiring harness questions
Friday 04/18/2025 | 2006 | Cayman S | Electrical
The project is to remove previous owner's installed "LED Spar" light strips and swap in upgraded fog lights and correct stock trim pieces. I have watched videos on this on youtube and think I can handle the swap, BUT, upon removing the spars to assess my situation, I find a wiring challenge:The spars are connected with the only wires I see, which is a single red/black wire. I see no other fog light wires or connector plugs tucked away, I even tried to explore the frunk behind t ...
READ ANSWERHow can I add Apple Car Play and Android Auto to 997.2 Carrera with PCM 3.0
Friday 04/18/2025 | 2009 | 911 Carrera | Electronics
The Porsche PCCM is not available for the 997.2. How can I add Apple Car Play and Android Auto? Car had Bose sound and Sport Chrono. PCM has the silver slot at upper right corner. Posts on this topic are years old and I am hoping that something reliable and easily installed has come along.
READ ANSWERNeed a new engine for my 996.1
Wednesday 04/16/2025 | 2001 | 911 Carrera 4 | Engine
AOS failure led to a blown spark plug that damaged the cylinders I need a new engine but am on a budget. What are best options?
READ ANSWERWant OEM Tires for a 2006 Cayman S in the Snohomish County Area
Wednesday 04/16/2025 | 2006 | Cayman S | Wheels and Tires
I live in the Snohomish County area and it needs new rubber. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated.
READ ANSWERGood oil choices for twenty fourteen cayman s 3.4 liter manual transmission
Monday 04/14/2025 | 2014 | Cayman S | Engine
Hi everyone, I am hearing at local P.C.A meetings that Motul 5w-40 synthetic oil is good for my, california car, 2014 Porsche cayman S 3.4 liter with manual transmission.I am currently using mobile 1 5w -40 full synthetic.If the Motul 5w-40 synthetic oils a good choice, is part number 102051 the correct part number?Thank you very much,David Zoom Loux
READ ANSWERTires for my 1988 944 Turbo S
Monday 04/14/2025 | 1988 | 944 Turbo S | Suspension
I'm having trouble finding tires for my 1988 944 Turbo S. The sizes I need are 225/50/16 and 245/45/16. I recently purchased Yokohama A052 tires, but they ride terribly. I've checked all the major manufacturers and haven't been able to find a suitable match for both sizes – only racing tires are available. Does anyone have any suggestions? Thanks!
READ ANSWERfoggy screen on CDR 24 Becker radio, possible to replace just the Screen on radio?
Saturday 04/12/2025 | 2006 | Boxster S | Accessories
READ ANSWER968 Maintenance Issues
Saturday 04/12/2025 | 1995 | 968 | Other
We are thinking about buying a 968 and are looking at maintenance areas. If these engines are well maintained, how many mile can we expect? Are the 944 Turbo engine mounts a good choice for the 968? Here's what we have so far. Any other recommendations?Cam chain and pads should be replaced by 100K milesChange timing and balance shaft belts every 5 years, replace rollers every 10 yearsPeriodically check water pump for leaks, ...
READ ANSWERLoose shifting
Friday 04/11/2025 | 1986 | 911 Carrera | Transmission/Clutch
1986 Carrera Coupe. 99,800 miles; third owner-(i have owned 20+ years). The shifter "moves" when shifting --the shifter twists it also moves up and down (especially when downshifting from 4th to 3rd); there is a lot of play when in neutral. I believe one of the previous owners had an OEM short shift kit installed at some point. Is this just part of the quirky nature of the 915 transmission? This has just happened over the last 200+ miles or so (it was not this way prior).th ...
READ ANSWERTiptronic seems to be selecting reverse and drive at the same time. Just shift solenoids or something more major? Any ideas?
Thursday 04/10/2025 | 2000 | Boxster | Transmission/Clutch
READ ANSWERclunk in right front suspension
Wednesday 04/09/2025 | 2006 | 911 Carrera S | Suspension
sutle clunk when driving slowly over speed bump/driveway entrance.
READ ANSWERwhat is the best method to restore my 986 Boxster headlights?
Wednesday 04/09/2025 | 2000 | Boxster S | Body
READ ANSWERHow "rare" is the 6-speed manual 997.2 C4S Cabriolet?
Wednesday 04/09/2025 | 2009 | 911 Carrera 4S Cabriolet | Other
Good day, I am contacting you in the hope that you may be able to provide a definitive Porsche answer to the question - How "rare" is the 6-speed manual 997.2 C4S Cab? I purchased one last year because I have always wanted a cabriolet and plan to keep it for a long time. During my research I came across all kinds of forum and website chatter claiming that these 997.2 6-speed manual cab's are considered to be rare because Porsche manufactured ve ...
READ ANSWER997.1 convertible top rain rail/tension cable out of alignment
Tuesday 04/08/2025 | 2006 | 911 Carrera 4S Cabriolet | Cables and Controls
I have seen pictures of other tops with this similar issue, and I know others have said the cable has broken internally. That may be what has happened here too, but I have pulled on the metal portion of the cable where it meets the mounting point and it feels solid in the trim/tubing attached to the top. I bought this car about 7 months ago and it looked like this passenger side of the top was recently taken apart and put back together improperly. Is it possible this tension cable has too muc ...
READ ANSWERI would like to upgrade my OEM exhaust
Monday 04/07/2025 | 2014 | Boxster S | Other
Recommended sports exhaust
READ ANSWERBrake Pads- Follow through about earlier email
Friday 04/04/2025 | 2015 | Cayman | Brakes
Re: Brake Pads - Part # 981-351-939-04 & 987-352-939-03. I didn’t have the chance to attach picture of the parts and their boxes - so I’m doing it now. Take note that the boxes have Porsche identification but contain Textar & Galfer brake pads which I find unusual.
READ ANSWERI'm looking at shipping my Audi Q7 from Naples FL to Mpls. Anyone know of reputable auto shipping companies?
Friday 04/04/2025 | 1991 | 911 Turbo | Other
READ ANSWERRe: Brake Pads - Porsche has casting number stamped on the parts itself and not the part number?
Friday 04/04/2025 | 2015 | Cayman | Brakes
One of these days the brake pads have to be replaced, so I ordered them from a Porsche dealership through the internet. The VIN# was provided to make sure the replacement parts are correct. Upon receiving the parts I checked the boxes and their contents. In the unsealed boxes the parts numbers I ordered were correct. These are 981-351-939-04 (front) and 987-352-939-03 (rear). However, stamped on the parts are 981-351-930-01 (Textar) and 987-352-930-03 (Galfer), respectively. I contacte ...
READ ANSWERWhy does my driver’s side window go up and then goes back down. The passenger side will go down after the roof is in place
Thursday 04/03/2025 | 2006 | Boxster S | Electrical
READ ANSWERHow do I overide the electric seat back adjustment
Thursday 04/03/2025 | 2002 | Boxster S | Interior/Upholstery
After having the drives seat reupholstered, the seatback adjustment switch was not reconnected but left hanging under the seat. I attempted to reconnect it but the switch was not making contact with the outside lever. In attempting to correct, the springs and plastic nipples popped out and and are lost but not before the seat extended to almost 180 degrees. Is there a way to manually override the power mechanism to get the seat back in the correct position? Is the connector able to be purch ...
READ ANSWER