REDLINE ALLEYPorsche Boxster 986 buying guide
1996 to 2004. A 986 suits a buyer who wants an affordable mid engine Porsche and has the IMS question answered before paying.
Big jobs
- IMS bearing. The intermediate shaft bearing can fail. Early 2.5 engines have a dual row bearing that is less prone to failure; cars from 2000 have a single row bearing that is more likely to fail.
- Cracked cylinder bores. Cracked bores are hard to spot. Mayonnaise in the oil and overheating are the signs, and only a specialist can confirm it.
- VarioCam chain tensioner guide. The VarioCam tensioner guide can wear and break up, sending fragments round the engine. Uprated guides are available.
Workshop jobs
- Rear main oil seal. Rear main seal leaks are common. A very minor leak can wait; a persistent drip is a reason to walk away.
- Front radiators. The radiators behind the front bumper grilles clog with leaves and corrode, and typically need replacing about every 8 years.
- Hood drains and the ECU. Blocked hood drains let water into the cabin, where it can reach the ECU under the seats.
- Hood and rear screen. The plastic rear screen goes cloudy, and the hood can need replacing.
Small jobs
- Coolant tank. A split coolant tank shows as damp under the boot carpet.
Questions for the seller
- Has the IMS bearing been replaced, and is there an invoice?
- Is it the 2.5, 2.7 or 3.2 S?
- Have the front radiators been replaced?
- Has the cabin ever been wet?
- Has the VarioCam tensioner guide been replaced?
Sources
Researched 2026-11-03. General guidance from owner and specialist sources. Check the specific car with an independent inspection.