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.

follow up question regarding replacement of passenger side transmission mount.

Monday 10/14/2024 | 2001 | Boxster S | Transmission/Clutch

I appreciate your very prompt reply, but need more guidance. I can fit a 19mm box end wrench onto the special nut holding the stud which passes through the mount holding it to the bracket. Leverage will be a problem, but assuming that I can get that nut off, the next issue is clearance for removal of the old mount which must be moved upwards an estimated 4" or so. I estimate there is at most 2" of clearance. I suppose that I could loosen the tranny mount on the other (driver) side and, w ...

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When installing the RMS, what depth and angle does it need to be installed at?

Saturday 10/12/2024 | 1998 | Boxster | Transmission/Clutch

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Can the passenger side transmission mount on a 2001 Boxster S be replaced without first removing the 6 speed transmission?

Saturday 10/12/2024 | 2001 | Boxster S | Transmission/Clutch

I really did try to get the answer to my question on multiple forums without success! The tranny mounting bracket on a 6 speed car differs from that used on a 5 speed car. On the 6 speed the bracket holding the hydraulic mount looks like an inverted "C", with a hole at one end which bolts to the passenger side of the tranny. That one is accessible. The other end of the "C" bracket reaches up over toward the mid-top of the tranny itself. Presumably it bolts to something on top of the tran ...

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I have developed a squeak in my steering wheel. My car is a #2 and a Sunday driver. It's driving me crazy especially with th top up.I had it looked at but no solutions.

Saturday 10/12/2024 | 2010 | Boxster | Other

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Key Fob does not always open doors or trunks!!

Saturday 10/12/2024 | 2013 | Boxster S | Electronics

I had a UNAVI Carplay module with reverse camera installed in my 2013 Boxster S. Now when I use my Key Fob to lock or unlock the doors and trunks, they don't always open and close....only intermittently.I am thinking the installer shop may have crossed some of the wires during installation.Has anyone had this problem and any suggestion how to fix the issue?Thanks,Robert

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I have a 2014 Cayman. I recently got a gear 1 slipping code and was told the transmission might need to be replaced. Car has 77k miles. Are there any repair alternative to replacing the entire transmission?

Friday 10/11/2024 | 2014 | Cayman | Transmission/Clutch

I have a 2014 Cayman. I recently got a gear 1 slipping code and was told the transmission might need to be replaced. Car has 77k miles. Are there any repair alternative to replacing the entire transmission?

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Why is gasoline spraying from my fuel filter when the car is running?

Thursday 10/10/2024 | 1969 | 911E | Fuel System

Hello,My 911E has been sitting for a few months. I charged up the batteries, changed the oil, and then I started it up. After about 30 seconds, I went to check the engine and found gasoline spraying from the fuel filter! So is this the fuel filter, perhaps the regulator on top?Please let me know.Thank you.Regards,Hughes

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Purchased an Foxwell NT530. Can’t get it into mode to do ABS bleed. Anyone know how to do that?

Tuesday 10/08/2024 | 2000 | Boxster S | Brakes

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1998 Porsche Boxster, 5 speed manual. Does not go into gear while on, shifts through gears normally while off. I have replaced Master slave cylinder, bled breaks, cylinder and still does not shift while operating. Any suggestions?

Monday 10/07/2024 | 1998 | Boxster | Transmission/Clutch

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"What is the data protocol for 2000 Boxster S

Monday 10/07/2024 | 2000 | Boxster S | Electronics

Purchase a Foxwell NT530 to do the ABS bleed on my car. There are a variety of data protocols available. Just not sure of which to use. Any insight would be helpful!

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Too much oil?

Sunday 10/06/2024 | 2012 | Boxster | Engine

Had oil changed this week. The electronic level reads to the very top. While driving at full temperature I got a “check oil level “ warning. Can I drive it back to the mechanic? What is the potential harm of too much oil.

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Very low mileage Boxster, what to look for in a PPI

Sunday 10/06/2024 | 2013 | Boxster | Other

I'm looking at buying a 2013 Boxster with very low mileage (less than 7.5k miles). What items should I pay special attention during a PPI? I know that in early engines with IMS's "garage queens" had a higher rate of IMS failure. Also, if the tires are original, they would need to be replaced. What else would be of concern?

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Suspect motor mounts are bad.,have engine shake on start up. Is it true if oil pan is below crossmenber mounts are shot.

Friday 10/04/2024 | 1987 | 944S | Engine

Also seen where you can put jack under oil pan with wood in between,and raise slowly,is that advisable.Second part of question i see prrice of mounts ,vary 800 dollars to 250. whould like reader import and experence..Car is weekend driver,no raching. thank you

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Recommend trickle charger

Friday 10/04/2024 | 2003 | 911 Carrera | Accessories

I’m a new owner of the 911 2003 and live in the north east and willneed to store the car in thewinter and have occasional usefor it on nice days. What tricklecharg do you recommend?

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Do you have any ideas why my engine goes into safe mode without any warning lights or error codes after an engine rebuild ?

Wednesday 10/02/2024 | 2009 | 911 Turbo | Engine

HelloI wanted to share a frustrating situation I've encountered with my 911 after a pre-purchase inspection at a Porsche dealership.After driving only 5,000 km following the inspection, I had to open the engine due to a problem with bolts loosening on the intermediate camshaft. Given that the engine was already open, I had it rebuilt and fully refreshed.However, after the engine was reinstalled in the car, a new issue has surfaced. Up to 3 ...

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TPMS Memory

Wednesday 10/02/2024 | 2006 | 911 Carrera 4S Cabriolet | Wheels and Tires

TPMS System will not retain the “learning” - Everytime I start the car, I get an error message that one of the tires is 4 psi too low. I put it in learning mode, it resets after about 6-8 miles and records the correct pressure in each tire. But the system will not retain the “learning” and as I said, when I restart the car, get the same message. Any thoughts the source and/or solution to the issue? ...

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stcky radio knob fix

Tuesday 10/01/2024 | 2009 | 911 Carrera S | Other

what can i do about gummt stciky radio knobs?

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Persistent ABS and PSM warning lights

Monday 09/30/2024 | 2005 | 911 Carrera S | Electrical

I have owned a 2005 Carrera S for 19+ years and am witnessing a persistent problem; often when I turn the AC on, the ABS and PSM warning lights will come on shortly thereafter.  I have reset the ABS and PSM warning lights by disconnecting the battery for an hour or so, but the problem re-occurs. I have replaced the battery and have also replaced the MAF sensor and used a Durametric to reset the ABS/PSM codes. I 'm thinking it's a problem with one or more grounding points that the A/C h ...

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Got a "Amp failure Nav Not available" message and power gone from Audio system. Comes on and off randomly now but mostly off. Amp failure or Audio causing issue? Anyone had this message? Regards

Monday 09/30/2024 | 2007 | 911 Carrera S | Accessories

Assuming the amp is the culprit but looking for some confirmation that I am correct I guess or other scenarios. RegardsDon

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Where can I get my suspension checked and modified?

Saturday 09/28/2024 | 2000 | 911 Carrera 4 Cabriolet | Suspension

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Can someone please help me find a parts number for a long rubber seal that goes around the back of the round convertable open and closure. It is about the width and length o90f a tape measure. Please and thank you!

Friday 09/27/2024 | 1999 | 911 Carrera | Other

When you open and close the back of your convertible there is a seal that is around the back of top where it is stored. Does this make sense? Anyway I need a new one can someone help me find a parts number.Thank you!

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1977 911S Emissions in California

Thursday 09/26/2024 | 1977 | 911S Targa | Engine

I'm looking to buy a mid-year 911S. California requires emissions smog tests on all vehicles 1976+ to register in CA. Will a non-California 911S '76 + pass smog emissions? I've heard that all 911S cars from 1976-77 are all the same in North America, but I've also heard that there are California specific cars with the emissions equipment. Looking for some guidance on this. Thank you!

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The New York state inspection was aborted due to OBD device malfunction. Have you any suggestions of cause?

Tuesday 09/24/2024 | 2000 | 911 Carrera | Electronics

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MFI replacement by PMO carburators

Monday 09/23/2024 | 1971 | 911E | Fuel System

The engine of my Porsche was rebuilt 2 years ago after a very long period during COVID. The result is not satisfactory, mainly because the MFI system does not seem to have been properly calibrated or adjusted. Very frustrating. So I'm looking into the possibility of replacing the MFI system with PMO carburetors. Is there a site or a book where I can find all the information required to make the change? I contacted PMO and was very disappointed with their response.Thanks for ...

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2005 Boxster soft top stuck in closed position: Convertible top not in limit position

Monday 09/23/2024 | 2005 | Boxster | Interior/Upholstery

Hi, I have a 2005 987 Boxster with convertible top issue. I opened the soft top and while closing it back heard some sound behind the driver seat. Top made it fully to the close position and I was able to latch it properly. However, there is a warning on the dash "Convertible top not in limit position" and both windows stay open up to normal 2 inch gap. Top won't open or close and clunking sound continues to come from behind the driver seat when I try to open o ...

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How to get a spare key fop duplicated from working fop

Monday 09/23/2024 | 2016 | Cayman GTS | Other

I have only one key fop, and need the have a duplicate programmed over to a new uncut/unprogrammed blank key fop.Any suggestions about a locksmith in th Lonestar area who could do that?

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I am installing a rear view camera and need to connect the camera to the reverse tail light. does anyone know what is the color code for the wires for that particular bulb?

Sunday 09/22/2024 | 2006 | 911 Carrera S | Electrical

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Should I be concerned with buying this Porsche?

Saturday 09/21/2024 | 2006 | Boxster | Suspension

We had a pre-purchase inspection. They said the car ran well, and everything worked. All the warning lights went out after the car was started. No engine warning light was on. They ran a diagnostic report that showed several codes. Like POSIP ( 5 DTCs). c152,c141,8057, 8012. Codes also for diver door, passenger door, and so on. The inspector said this could be from the battery being disconnected and the computer hasn't had time to reset these codes. Should I be concerned with buying this Po ...

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I have a cold start rattle sound that I don't know what it is, I have checked exhaust and heat shield but everything is tight. any suggestions? I am about to do the clutch and IMS on it but wondering if it's even worth it if this rattle sound becomes something worse?

Saturday 09/21/2024 | 2002 | Boxster | Engine

I have heard it could be the chain tensioners that could make that noise, I have seen videos of people changing the tensioners and still have the issue. Is this something I should worry about?

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Pros and Cons of Radar Detectors - how select

Friday 09/20/2024 | 2016 | Boxster | Other

I’m considering getting a radar detector but I’m curious how much value they actually have. Also, how does one select what to get? Seems like there are many ways to get a speeding ticket and will a radar detector actually help. For example will it help avoid a laser that is only on for a fraction of a second. What about a highway patrol that simply follows you, does it alert you in those situations? And if you do get pulled over and they see you have a detector is it worse for you, as if th ...

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Boxster Convertible Top - ok store open

Friday 09/20/2024 | 2016 | Boxster | Interior/Upholstery

Is is bad for the convertible top to be down on a regular basis? I use it daily and with our fine weather in California I often prefer to leave it down in the garage overnight for days. Is that ok or will it begin to hurt the fabric or something else? Also, on a broader topic it seems all Porsche convertible tops show wear on each siide in the back due to some kind of rubbing. Are they ever going to fix that? ...

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Interior overhead light stopped working

Thursday 09/19/2024 | 2013 | Boxster | Electrical

Hello. My interior overhead light stopped working when entering or exiting car. It does work manually. Does anyone know what the issue is. Thank you.

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is there any reason to drill an 1/8" in replacement thermostat to aid to maintain coolant flow?

Wednesday 09/18/2024 | 2000 | Boxster S | Engine

I know it helps in burping coolant when performing new coolant refill. Will it have any neg impact to drill a small hole?

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Winter tires vs all seasons

Monday 09/16/2024 | 2020 | 718 Boxster T | Wheels and Tires

I have 18-inch wheels w Winter tires from my previous Boxster (base). I now have a 2020 Boxster T w 20-inch wheels and summer tires. Would it be better to mount winter or all-season tires on my 18-inch wheels. For the tires I was thinking Michelien Pilot Sports all seasons from Costco or Sottozero series 2 from Porsche dealership. Or just skip and drive the vehicle only when temps are above 50F.Thanks ...

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Hi George, I have a 1993 - 968 cabriolet that’s in need of the two cables that raise and lower the top. My repair shop and I are having a devil of a time finding the corect ones. They have a plaplastic part-on the end. Any help in locating a pair would be great!

Monday 09/16/2024 | 1993 | 968 Cabriolet | Cables and Controls

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If I have changed the tire size on my 71 911S, do I still use the tire pressure suggested in the owner's manual and the inside door jam, or the suggested pressure on the wall of the tire?

Monday 09/16/2024 | 1971 | 911S | Wheels and Tires

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Connecting trickle

Sunday 09/15/2024 | 2002 | 911 Carrera Cabriolet | Electrical

Can I connect trickle charger to cigarette lighter in my 996.2?

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Anyone know the size of the "O" rings for the hydralic cylinders on a 1999 carrera cabroilet -

Sunday 09/15/2024 | 1999 | 911 Carrera Cabriolet | Other

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Boxster S central locking isn't working

Saturday 09/14/2024 | 2003 | Boxster S | Electronics

The remote fob has suddenly stopped working, I cannot lock/unlock my car with it now.Note - I can still get into the car using the physical key in the door handle and the car will start but I have no central locking functions.The fob still emits a red light when pressing the button but nothing happens. It won't operate the central locking or pop the boot/trunk etc.My shop thinks it has 'lost its memory' and I need a new fob costing several hundred dollars from ...

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Boxster 986 high beam issue

Saturday 09/14/2024 | 2003 | Boxster S | Electrical

My head lamps are all working, including when pulling the stalk back to 'flash' high beam on/off. But when I push the stalk forward for high beam to remain on, all the headlights go out for about 8 seconds of darkness until they turn on again including the high beam.This delay is a mystery.My shop has tried a new stalk but the issue remains.Note - I have LEDs for all lights except high-beam. High beam is original halogen. Can you help?Thank you

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Are there quality aftermarket tire pressure sensors that will funtion with existing Porsche electronics?

Thursday 09/12/2024 | 2007 | 911 Carrera S Cabriolet | Wheels and Tires

9 years ago I installed new Porsche internal tire pressure sensors that have recently gone dead. At that time I paid over $170 for each sensor. Are there non-Porsche aftermarket sensors available that will function correctly with existing Porsche electronics that can be purchased at less cost? My internet research has located sensors that attach externally to valve stems but they all seem to require their own display equipment in the cockpit. ...

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why does the gas pump turn off Every few seconds when trying to fill up the tank ???

Thursday 09/12/2024 | 2006 | 911 Carrera S | Fuel System

New car to me trying to fill the gas tank & the pump turns off over & over. Searching the PCA Q&A mentions Bulletin A604 (can you send me a copy please) what else might be the problem ? Venting, etc. Can you help ? It took me 50-60 trys to fill up recently. The shops I have talked to don’t have a clue.

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Hi George, I found out the hard way that my 1981 924 Turbo has an optimistic fuel gauge. I ran out fuel, and had the car towed home. I added fuel back to the tank, and can get the car to start easily-but it dies almost as soon as it starts. Car was running well prior to running out of fuel.

Wednesday 09/11/2024 | 1981 | 924 Turbo | Fuel System

Recently replaced plugs, wires, cap, rotor, fuel filter and air filter.

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Convertible top not going up or down .Is this a fuse issue

Tuesday 09/10/2024 | 2006 | 911 Carrera | Electrical

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Will one tank of unleaded fuel hurt my 67 911S?

Tuesday 09/10/2024 | 1967 | 911S | Fuel System

I by accident put unleaded gas in my 1967 911S. Will it hurt to car to use it or should I take it out before I drive it?

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Need Alarm/CLS help, please?

Monday 09/09/2024 | 2000 | 911 Carrera 4 Cabriolet | Electrical

*Apologies if this is a duplicate post. I tried posting a question last night but couldn’t find it to edit today*New Member/Porsche owner2000 996.1 C4 Cabrio. Battery died, alarm went off @ 3am, & windows rolled down about 3”. THEN IT POURED!!!! Anybody have experience with this and would be willing to chat? If I can’t figure it out any recommendations on a good indie shop in CT/RI? TIAI pulled the box and remove ...

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great difficulty filling the gas tank (the pump shuts off in a few seconds) it takes 50 or more attempts to fill tank. What is wrong ?

Monday 09/09/2024 | 2006 | 911 Carrera S Cabriolet | Fuel System

difficulty filling gas tank. pump shuts off quickly. why ?

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Follow-up to hand brake warning light question ...

Sunday 09/08/2024 | 1972 | 911T Targa | Electrical

According to my ohmmeter, terminal 49a (not 'c') connects to the green/black/white wire. Sill no 12V though ... Fuse #2 measures ok. Since the flasher operates when the hazard button is pressed, I assume the relay has power. Safe assumption?

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Driveway transition angle for clearance

Saturday 09/07/2024 | 2013 | Cayman S | Other

I just purchased the Boxster. At our vacation home the driveway has a 5% difference in slope angle between the roadway and the driveway. I'm concerned that the car will bottom out between the front and rear wheel on transition.Any advice?Thanks, Doug

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what is the last VIN serial number to be classified as an "early " 996?

Saturday 09/07/2024 | 1999 | 911 Carrera | Other

"Early" 996 Porsche cars are identified with amber turn signals and 4 spoke steering wheel with production dates before September 1998 or early September 1998 and VIN serial numbers before 4000.My car has a production date of 9/98, amber turn signals, 4 spoke steering wheel and VIN serial number 4010. Does my car qualify as an "early" 996. Answer affects value of car.

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