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.
Lifter noise on start
Tuesday 04/01/2025 | 1988 | 944 Turbo S | Engine
I own a 1988 944 Turbo S with 82k miles, which I’ve had for 33 years. It makes a significant ticking sound from the lifters upon starting, but it quiets down within a minute. Is this normal for a car of this age and mileage? Thanks.
READ ANSWERWhat is my car worth?
Monday 03/31/2025 | 2006 | 911 Carrera 4S Cabriolet | Other
I am wondering what my car is worth because a neighbour wants to buy it from me. He knows I dont drive it much.I am the second owner I I imported the car from Manhattan so it has a mph speedometer. I have only ever driven it in the summers kept in a garage during the winter. It has a Midnight Metallic blue exterior with a dark blue full leather interior. It is a second generation 2006 so it has the upgraded IMS bearing. ...
READ ANSWERWhat does rear controll module control 07 boxster s
Monday 03/31/2025 | 2007 | Boxster S | Cables and Controls
I don’t hear motor for rear spoiler engage when pressing button for it
READ ANSWERMy Pioneer just stopped working. Can you recommend a quality replacement and an audio retailer in the Cleveland, Akron area to install it.
Sunday 03/30/2025 | 2002 | 911 Carrera | Electronics
My Pioneer radio just stopped working. Can you recommend a quality replacement and an audio retailer in the Cleveland, Akron area to install it. Thanks
READ ANSWERIs there any way to disconnect drive motor for fresh-air/recirculation?
Sunday 03/30/2025 | 2007 | 911 Carrera | Heating and Ventilation
Hi,is there any way to just disconnect the drive motor for fresh/recirculate? Mine is clicking loud and constantly unless I engage recirculate. I got an estimate to replace it and it was $5000! Help!
READ ANSWERIgnition key will not turn frequently
Sunday 03/30/2025 | 1998 | Boxster | Electrical
Just purchased this 1998 Boxster. I was able to drive it about 4 times. Ignition key was difficult to turn. Currently the key will only turn slightly for instrument might to come on. Steering wheel lock is not operating. I’m guessing it’s the lock cylinder. Any suggestions? Spray silicone lube into cylinder?thank you.
READ ANSWERI replaced the radio in my 2009 911 Carrera S with a 2010 that had navigation, XM, etc. When I first connected, I was able to pair my iPhone with Bluetooth and navigation worked. Now, the only connections available are AM/FM and CD. Phone, navigation are not available. Does anyone know why and what do I do now?
Sunday 03/30/2025 | 2009 | 911 Carrera S Cabriolet | Electronics
READ ANSWERMy high mileage S is having cold start issues. Takes a while to turn on, and sometimes just dies, also get reduced engine power warning. On restart, and holding down gas pedal, it will work after some time, and then idle and run normally, but will sometimes hesitate on acceleration
Saturday 03/29/2025 | 2010 | Boxster S | Fuel System
Problem seems to happen primarily after sitting for a few days. Runs better the more I drive it, and once warmed up, I can start and go with no issues whatsoever. Any help or advice is appreciated
READ ANSWERLeft brake light out. Bulb and fuse OK
Saturday 03/29/2025 | 2006 | Boxster S | Electrical
I get a "Check left brake light" warning as soon as the ignition is on, before I step on the brake. The brake light does not light when I step on the brake. The center and right brake lights work fine so the brake light switch is probably OK. The left bulb works fine when I pull it and put 12V on it. I measured the resistance of the fuse (A6), it is less than one ohm. The rear fog lights work fine (same fuse), so I know the fuse is getting power. I removed the board th ...
READ ANSWERFront and rear bumper sensors
Wednesday 03/26/2025 | 2013 | Boxster S | Electronics
I just recently obtained a 2013 Boxster S, purchased out of state, that has both front and rear bumper sensors used for Park Assist or similar feature. The VIN shows the PA option was not included on the car from the factory. This means that it was either added later on or both front and rear bumper covers were replaced that had the sensors in them. A Porsche specialist said the reason PA wasn't working was because the sensors had been painted, and the feature was likely turned off because ...
READ ANSWERBoxster Top
Tuesday 03/25/2025 | 2002 | Boxster | Electrical
I took my car out for a drive this weekend and now the top will not return to the up position. Could it be a fuse? no noises when I engage the roof button. And yes, the emergency brake was engaged. And thoughts would be appreciated.
READ ANSWER1986 944 with no oil pressure at gauge
Tuesday 03/25/2025 | 1986 | 944 | Engine
READ ANSWERClicking noise from rear while in motion cause?
Tuesday 03/25/2025 | 1986 | 944 Turbo | Other
Whenever I drive my car, there is sometimes a loudish clicking sound coming from the rear. Anytime I speed up, the clicking becomes more often but more quite. I’m worried that it might be a clutch or driveshaft issue as it only happens when the car is moving, and not when it is at standstill or startup. There are no warning lights on the dashboard and the car drives fine despite the noise. What should I look out for or try to investigate? ...
READ ANSWERwindshield
Monday 03/24/2025 | 2011 | 911 Carrera 4S | Other
Is there a difference in using Pilkington, St Gobain or XYG for windscheild replacement? Do you know what a fair cost will be?
READ ANSWERintermittent ABs/PSM failure light
Monday 03/24/2025 | 2007 | 911 Carrera S Cabriolet | Other
Just updating your knowledge bank. We have had past dialog on the possible causes of this intermittent failure light. My local Porsche guy quickly found and fixed the problem. The failure warning was traced to a faulty $30 brake switch. Replacement fixed the problem.Thanks for your past attention and response to my prior posts.
READ ANSWERsize of 1984 944 gas tank.
Monday 03/24/2025 | 1984 | 944 | Fuel System
I have a 1984 944 - What size is the original gas tank for my car? I looked it up online - I see 80 liters - 21.1 gallons - I see another place say 17.4 gallons. The replacement tank from Dansk says it 62 liters That's 16 gallons.
READ ANSWERWhere can I buy a gas tank for my 1984 944 - My has rusted out.
Sunday 03/23/2025 | 1984 | 944 | Fuel System
READ ANSWERwhat is leather in 87 944s
Thursday 03/20/2025 | 1987 | 944S | Interior/Upholstery
What is leather in interior and whats vinyl,thank you
READ ANSWERWhat are the best fuel that do not have ethanol in them?
Wednesday 03/19/2025 | 2013 | Boxster S | Fuel System
I have been running Chevron Premium in all of our cars for the last 38 years. Chevron has recently changed one of their business practices that has led us to decide not to do business with them any longer. What top commercial fuels can you recommend that do not contain ethanol?Thank you for your help.John DeWolf
READ ANSWERRosewood Metallic, known as Palisander Metallic in German, was a paint option for the Porsche 911 in the 1981 and 1982 model years. The paint code for this color is 474, it may also be designated L9AB. How may 911's were delivered in this color?
Wednesday 03/19/2025 | 1982 | 911 SC | Paint
READ ANSWERMy 2008 Cayman stopped locking
Wednesday 03/19/2025 | 2008 | Cayman | Electrical
My Cayman stopped locking.If I use the Key fob the car honks twice but does not lock. If I use the Key itself in the door handle it honks four times and does not lock. Can anyone help me understand what is going on and how to fix this?
READ ANSWERcan't find correct size filter for my 2005 boxster cabin air filter
Tuesday 03/18/2025 | 2005 | Boxster | Other
I have a 2005 2.7L Boxster. I tried to replace the cabin air filter. I ordered one that was supposed to be the exact right fit but it would not fit. The filter that was in the car to be replaced is a Mann CUK 6630. When I look that part up online from various vendors the width shows 6.4" to 6.9"....however the filter size that came out was 6" and barely fits. Not sure where to get the correct filter. ...
READ ANSWERMichelin tires for street use. What is recommended?
Tuesday 03/18/2025 | 2006 | 911 Carrera S Cabriolet | Wheels and Tires
READ ANSWERWill a 991.1 steering wheel fit on a 997.1 C4s
Monday 03/17/2025 | 2006 | 911 Carrera 4S Cabriolet | Interior/Upholstery
2012 991.1 steering wheel fit on my 2006 997.1. Can I transfer air bag also
READ ANSWERRefitting oil cooler in oil/water cooler assembly
Sunday 03/16/2025 | 1988 | 944S | Engine
New seals with oil on the oil cooler seals prior to installation ... pushing the oil cooler into the housing you hear a "pop" when the seals seat in the housing. Conversely, if I only push the oil cooler into the engine-side (without the housing), I get the same "pop" sound. However, if I follow the factory installation directions, I assemble the cooler into the external housing (with spacer and shims) then mount it on the engine. While I do get the "pop" sound in the housing, I get no "pop" ...
READ ANSWERNeed a referal for a reputable porsche mechanic in the D.C. Area (Ridiculous $9,000 quote of Headlights)
Friday 03/14/2025 | 2018 | 718 Boxster | Electronics
My local Porsche dealer told me that "the headlights on these cars is about $9000[.]" This is obviously insane, and I can think of no one paying that amount of money to change the headlight assembly when the lights go. Can anyone give me a referral to a reputable Porsche mechanic in the D.C./ Northern Virginia area? I was thinking that replacing the headlights once dead was going to be in the 2k range, not nearly 10k for one light. I did some googling and found these guys ( ...
READ ANSWERAll season tires.
Thursday 03/13/2025 | 2007 | 911 Carrera 4S Cabriolet | Wheels and Tires
I have a 2007 997.1 C4S Cab, does anyone know if all season tires are available? I’ve found some for the front tires (235/35R19) but not the rear (305/30R19).
READ ANSWERHas anyone mounted the Falken Azenis FK510 tires on their Porsche Boxter or any other Porsche?? Wondering about this tire, good or bad??
Tuesday 03/11/2025 | 2016 | Boxster S | Wheels and Tires
READ ANSWERWhy does Porsche not recommend anti-seize on spark plug threads? There must be a reason.
Sunday 03/09/2025 | 2014 | Cayman | Engine
READ ANSWERAre there modifications that can be made a 996.2 Tiptronic transmission
Thursday 03/06/2025 | 2003 | 911 Carrera Cabriolet | Transmission/Clutch
Is it possible to replace a 996 tiptronic transmission with a 968 tiptronic. Why? I prefer the 968 in full automatic mode because you can limit the top gear you drive in local traffic. The 996 spins up to top gear quickly and you’re cruisingalong at 1000 rpm’s.
READ ANSWER996 water pump failure has released broken impeller material into the cooling system. Is an engine tear down necessary.
Wednesday 03/05/2025 | 2001 | 911 Carrera Cabriolet | Engine
My 2001 996 water pump has failed releasing impeller debris into the water system.The failure was identified by a heavy coolant leak.I am concerned about the possibility of the debris causing damage by blocking passages, causing hot spots, etc.Is there any way to flush the debris out of the system or is an engine removal and strip inevitable?
READ ANSWERWhere to hook up smoke tester 944 Turbo S
Tuesday 03/04/2025 | 1988 | 944 Turbo S | Engine
I think my Turbo s has a vacuum leak. Can someone please advise me where to insert my smoke tester output tube on the car?ThanksTC
READ ANSWERDo I require a Code for Radio after changing 2006 Boxster Battery?
Monday 03/03/2025 | 2006 | Boxster S | Electronics
READ ANSWERHVAC blower fan has stopped working.
Monday 03/03/2025 | 2014 | Cayman | Heating and Ventilation
What are the steps of a diagnostic procedure to discover if the problem is with the blower fan and/or the blower resistor?
READ ANSWERHas anyone had issues with Rennkit eRam Kit?
Sunday 03/02/2025 | 2007 | 911 Turbo | Performance Modifications
I have a 2007 Turbo with the Rennkit eRam Kit for the spoiler in replace of the oem hydraulic system. Recently, I have been having issues where my eRam kit gets stuck in the up position on one side or it won't go up at all. I took it apart and lubricated the internals which worked for a little bit but again I'm running into issues. Has anyone run into issues with this eRam Kit?
READ ANSWERSignificant Oil Smoke at the exhaust under the slightest load
Sunday 03/02/2025 | 1983 | 911 SC | Engine
After driving about 10 miles at very moderate speed, with the engine warmed up and oil level correct i stopped at a traffic light. When the light turned green i accelerated away however in the rear view mirror the cloud of blue oil smoke was huge. Immediately stopped and had the car towed home. if i idle the car it doesn't smoke, pushing the accelerator it smokes heavily. Oil level is now over 1 quart low. Any suggestions on what the cause may be? ...
READ ANSWERI do not drive my 2006 911 4 enough to keep the battery charged. Would like a recommendation for a reasonable priced trickle charger
Sunday 03/02/2025 | 2006 | 911 Carrera 4 | Electrical
READ ANSWERMy battery won't take a charge
Sunday 03/02/2025 | 2002 | 911 Carrera | Electrical
My battery won't take a charge
READ ANSWERTesting tail light voltage
Saturday 03/01/2025 | 2001 | Boxster S | Electrical
The rear fog light in my right tail light is out and I am trying to troubleshoot if the issue is in the wiring coming to the tail light or in the tail light bulb holder. All fuses are fine and I have replaced the bulb with one I know works, so this is where I am at. I unplugged the wiring harness connected to the tail light bulb holder, and with the headlights on, I am able to get 12.5v to the wire I believe is for the side marker light (GY/RD), however I get no voltage to the GY/WH wire that ...
READ ANSWERI recently watched the four part video series on bore scoring and I purchased a kit to analyze my oil. I would also like to start using the oil and fuel additives the two experts would recommend. Could you please tell me what they were?
Saturday 03/01/2025 | 2010 | 911 Turbo | Engine
I thought the series was very informative but also very scary! I do think you could have did a little better job of showing what oil, brand and viscosity, and fuel additives they would use to help maintain our engines.
READ ANSWERLooking to add an integrated Apple Carplay system to my 2014 Boxster S
Friday 02/28/2025 | 2014 | Boxster S | Electronics
Hi, new owner of a 2014 Boxster S. I'm looking for recommendations to upgrade my factory existing entertainment system (PCM radio with Nav). I believe this is a PCM3.1 model. I'm looking for any recommendations for an Apple CarPlay Auto integrated Module unit. Thank you.
READ ANSWER1970 911T Coupe driver's side door stay replacement
Friday 02/28/2025 | 1970 | 911T | Body
My 1970 911T coupe's (original) door stay strap makes a pop noise and moves a little when opening door - where it is connected to the car's body.I bought a replacement kit - door stay strap. It appears that my original strap where attached with a vertical pin has a tiny cotter pin at the bottom end (retaining the large pin)The replacement kit -includes a small circlip that slides on the vertical pin' bottom end where cotter pin was.
Hankark
Friday 02/28/2025 | 2019 | 718 Cayman | Other
How do I find local repair and service shops?
READ ANSWERI would like to put paddle shifters on my 01 996 tiptronic. Anyone done this or had this done? Looking for intel. Thank you.
Thursday 02/27/2025 | 2001 | 911 Carrera | Transmission/Clutch
READ ANSWERClimate Control Buttons Sticking/ Very hard to Press
Thursday 02/27/2025 | 2018 | 718 Boxster | Electronics
I recently purchased my 2018 Boxster, and it is clear that the prior owner had a spill from the cup holder. The climate control buttons on the passenger side are very sticky and difficult to press, and the buttons take a bit to return to their original position. I have used a Q-Tip and toothbrush to dap some rubbing alcohol along the button ridges, let the fluid get between the keys, and then take a toothbrush to get the bristles between the keys. Right afterward, the buttons are easier to p ...
READ ANSWERWinter Storage - Battery Charging
Thursday 02/27/2025 | 2014 | Boxster | Electrical
I store my Boxster during the winter months (November-April) in a 10x20 garage. Most 10x20 storage garages in my area (Des Moines, Iowa) do NOT have an electrical outlet inside the garage. I recently did find such a garage, However, it is not close to my home, and the monthly rates have increased 100% over the past year, and may be increased even more. I currently use a trickle charger connected to the electrical outlet. My Question is: Are there other options to store my Boxster in a stor ...
READ ANSWERWhere to connect smoke machine vacuum leak
Thursday 02/27/2025 | 1988 | 944 Turbo S | Engine
Hello: I need to smoke-test my 944 Turbo S to find a vacuum leak. Can someone please advise where I need to connect the smoker to achieve the best results? Thanks TC
READ ANSWERMy 2006 Carrera S almost impossible to shift from 1st to 2nd when cold. Even with judicious double clutching and rev matching. Lots of grinding, it Improves when warmer, but still really hard. Is this a shift cable issue or synchromesh or cables? Recent transmission flush by dealer six months ago
Thursday 02/27/2025 | 2006 | 911 Carrera S | Transmission/Clutch
It was only after the recommended transmission flush last summer that this became an issue when it got cold this winter. I think remember reading in one of the tech columns about shift tunnel bushings. My dealer (Porsche Warrington) doesn’t seem to be too well versed in the 997.1
READ ANSWERseat cushion refurbishment
Monday 02/24/2025 | 2007 | Boxster | Interior/Upholstery
best way to refurb the seat cushions, new insert from a vendor? hardly any cushion left
READ ANSWER