Cooling System
Packaging on the Boxster requires that the cooling system be parceled out throughout the car. Two small radiators with small fans are tucked into the front fenders just behind the bumper. There are tubes running from the radiators through the center tunnel to the rear. There are numerous points for leaks to occur, and, as I noted in a previous article, water pumps fail (See Photo 7). Repairs to the cooling system are straightforward, but mostly time consuming and require removal of other components for access.
In one case on a low-mileage Boxster, I had looked for obvious coolant loss everywhere that seemed logical, only to find coolant dripping off the rear bumper, from the trunk! The coolant reservoir is mounted, along with the oil filler and dipstick, in the rear luggage compartment (See Photo 8). The hardest part of the replacement was trying to get the clamps off (inside the engine bay) and removing the hoses without breaking anything else in the process. I would highly recommend a vacuum fill to prevent damage due to air pockets and temporary overheating.
No-Start Condition
I won’t go into much detail here, but we have seen ignition switch failures, immobilizer and key problems, and several starter failures. The starter lives in a harsh environment, but I have also found several cars with loose positive starter connections. Replacement of the starter or just access for testing is “fun” (See Photo 9). Don’t forget to pull the carpet or mat out from under the clutch pedal before going after a no-crank problem!
Finishing Up
There is nothing about these cars that makes them especially difficult to diagnose or repair. The packaging is the main challenge. Learning where components are hidden and how access is gained for service is more than half the battle. All kinds of information on Porsche service and repair is available from many sources. If one of these little cars shows up for service, don’t pass on it. Treat it like any other car, and then take it for test drive, unless you are close to having a mid-life crisis.
