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YOUR RESEARCHHighest mileage 996 ?
Reported or suspected cause
original water pump
Reported cause
No successful repair reported for this finding.
1
Identified cause
0
Suspected cause
0
Reported fixes
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Explicit resolution reports before identified causes, performed actions and suggestions. Within each level, matching component labels precede direct query mentions and inherited thread context; successful versus unsuccessful discussion counts, owner confirmations and independent discussion support determine order. This is not a probability of success.
Discussions that report identifying a cause
1
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Reported cause
My 1999 aero kit c2 has 148,500 miles on the original engine; my water pump unknowingly lasted 148,000 miles, as my mechanic told me it was the original water pump when he removed it !
Leading evidence: 'original water pump' (1 discussions report identifying this cause; no attributable repair resolution). Across 1 matching discussions, the most frequently mentioned possible cause is 'original water pump' (1 discussions; 1 report identifying it and 0 suggest it). The most frequently discussed action is 'Check book' (1 discussions). For that action, 0 discussions report a resolution and 0 report an unsuccessful attempt. No action has an explicit, attributable resolution report under the current rules. These are forum reports and suggestions, not a confirmed diagnosis.
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Install which opens sooner than the standard thermostat
Performed · outcome unconfirmed
No successful repair reported for this finding.
0
Reported fixes
0
Unsuccessful attempts
1
Discussions
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Discussions that performed work without a confirmed outcome
1
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Performed · outcome unconfirmed
the engine has a lower temperature (72 degree C) thermostat fitted which opens sooner than the standard thermostat
Explicit resolution reports before identified causes, performed actions and suggestions. Within each level, matching component labels precede direct query mentions and inherited thread context; successful versus unsuccessful discussion counts, owner confirmations and independent discussion support determine order. This is not a probability of success.
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1
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Performed · outcome unconfirmed
125k+ on m1 oil, original ims(flange and rms was changed due to leak though), usual maintenance, recent oil sample came back good, redline it every time I drive it.
Replace a/o separator, coil packs and a few other things
Performed · outcome unconfirmed
No successful repair reported for this finding.
0
Reported fixes
0
Unsuccessful attempts
1
Discussions
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Performed · outcome unconfirmed
I've replaced the A/O separator, coil packs and a few other things, but I've mostly been driving the crap out of it.
Explicit resolution reports before identified causes, performed actions and suggestions. Within each level, matching component labels precede direct query mentions and inherited thread context; successful versus unsuccessful discussion counts, owner confirmations and independent discussion support determine order. This is not a probability of success.
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Performed · outcome unconfirmed
AOS, water pump, engine mounts, voltage regulator, coil packs, brake discs are about all that have been replaced, all by me.
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Suggestion
what it doesn't say it the hours since fillup to trouble shoot a coolant dump, get it in and out of the shop, up and down on the trailer, and most of htat mileage is in and out of the garage around the block to check things...
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Suggestion
a year or two ago, found a very clean 'local' cab with ~413,000km(or maybe it was 431k?), engine/trans untouched, priced was right and sold quick...unfortunately not to me...
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Suggestion
I think his car might be marginally faster than the one I ended up buying, but mine rides much tighter and is 3 letter grades nicer looking with lower miles and a clean carfax.
These are separate views of the same evidence. Frequency alone does not establish a fix, and these counts must not be added together.
original water pump
No successful repair reported for this finding.
1
Identified cause
0
Suspected cause
0
Reported fixes
Read evidence and context
Discussions that report identifying a cause
1
0 original-poster resolution reports. Counts can overlap; they are not unique people or a success rate.
0 discussions have direct query context; 0 report a fix in that context. Other evidence may inherit the discussion’s subject.
Reported cause
My 1999 aero kit c2 has 148,500 miles on the original engine; my water pump unknowingly lasted 148,000 miles, as my mechanic told me it was the original water pump when he removed it !
Counts describe captured discussions, not unique people or a diagnosis. Author identities are not reliably stored. Exact duplicate evidence is counted once across matching discussions; one discussion counts at most once per action/state. Multiple repairs reported together remain a combination. Suggestions and failed attempts do not establish a fix. Matches cover whole discussions and can include related faults, model variants and incomplete threads.
328 eligible posts · 0 unverified posts · 1 discussions match the subject in their title or opening post.
Rennlist: 1 discussions
0 evidence records excluded for query context · 1 excluded by outcome qualification · 0 adjusted by outcome qualification.
1 acknowledgements have no verified action link; they do not establish a repair result.
Trying to better understand the
Durability of 996's I did research
Of mileage on cars in the marketplace
I searched autotrader and ebay
and found 60 cars with over
100k miles and none mentioned
Replaced ims or replaced engine
Some may have been advertised
in both and there are several other formats for sales
I think these high mileage cars
Bode well for the durability issues.
If your 996 is over 100k please post, if you of a 996 with the highest miles please post
This is the kind of post I like. A confidence builder that tells you it's OK to drive the crap out your 911.Not a 996 but my Porsche mechanic has one customer that has over 270k on his late 80's 911. My 2002 currently has 68k on her but I'd love to average 10k a year for the next decade.
I had a customer who was the first owner of an 87 911 with 469,000 on the odometer. The engine was never opened up! I changed his oil every three weeks ( he traveled a lot ) with regular castrol 10w30 oil and half a quart or marvel mystery oil. It ran fine until he was rest ended, which retired the car...
Only 83k on mine, but I plan on keeping on top of the maintenance and plan on driving it like it's stolen. This thread will soon be filled with naysayers and comments about how your data sample is incomplete etc etc etc.. Ignore them ! So who has the highest mileage??
Rb101 I think is about 150 k miles according to a survey I did a while back on earliest
VIN
125k+ on m1 oil, original ims(flange and rms was changed due to leak though), usual maintenance, recent oil sample came back good, redline it every time I drive it.
99 C2 at 112K miles with original IMS in it. Tracked it for one session a couple of weeks ago and had a good run even with all stock components (except oil pan)... ran perfect.
154,700 miles as of today - of which all but the first 37,000 are miles under my butt in the last 7 1/2 years. It's my daily driver AND fun car, all rolled up into one.
Original, very strong engine. IMS upgrade at 110,000 miles, along with the first clutch replacement at the same time. Had the transmission pulled apart at 120,000 to replace the Pinion bearing and most of the others while in there. AOS, water pump, engine mounts, voltage regulator, coil packs, brake discs are about all that have been replaced, all by me.
I know this is good stuff
This is contrary to many opinions about the Blow-up- ability of these cars
If everyone who reads this
Knows that they too can get
100 thousand mores miles out of their cars 996's will be
Reconsidered
Hey.. I'm new here..
This isn't my car. I saw this on youtube not too long ago and I think it suits this topic...
You Tube
500,000km = 310,685 miles...
141,000 and counting on my daily driver '99 C4 Aero. Same engine until 133,000, then engine replaced by PO because he hit a semi's castoff tire tread and knocked the oil filter housing off and starved the engine of oil. He got his insurance company to buy a replacement (used) engine with 61,000 miles, so my engine has only 69,000 miles.
01 -c4 - 108,000 had The IMSB/rms/aos done @ 100,000 running great.
Nice to.see some positive vibes here for a change
Gone but not forgotten:
95 - 993 turbo
98 - BMW 335 tt
92 - 928S
74 - 911S Targa
72 -
2002 C2 103,000 miles here.
Just did clutch/flywheel/rms/aos/plugs/maf/cam tensioners/and everything else that was accessible
Car runs great and faster than ever. No major problems.
was looking for a cheap 996 for D.D. a year or two ago, found a very clean 'local' cab with ~413,000km(or maybe it was 431k?), engine/trans untouched, priced was right and sold quick...unfortunately not to me...
We have a Macster beater finally. We need to get that guy on these forums so he can wonder why he bought this car after reading all these horror stories and sermons from KK.
ya for sure..,the m96/70 is definitely the better engine/driveline than the m96/01, just showing the daily usability of the 996 series
think the m96/01 might largely avoid its issues if used on a regular basis, driven hard and maintained well, perhaps a picky engine, but still a good one..?
2000 Porsche Carrera 4
with 135K miles on the odo. Bought it four years ago with 107K miles
. Engine is solid with regular oil changes and preventative maintenance
2004 C4S,
I'm at 107,000. Just replaced the water pump and valve cover sealant.
Otherwise it's still runs like a scolded dog and put a big *** grin on my face everyday.
2002 996 6 speed 84000 miles no ims/rms or engine failure only brake switch, ignition switch, cracked coolant tank + maintenance stuff. Still original clutch. My 1986 Porsche 928 32valve 5 speed has 180000 miles. San Diego California.
Here's a '99 in my area for sale right now with 198k miles on it. His price is a bit high, but it's a good looking car.
http://seattle.craigslist.org/tac/cto/4474104882.html
And whether she'll take $19,998...
Are those Porsche optional oem wheels on it?
If the 200k miles on the orig engine, RMS, IMS and clutch are genuine... then I'm impressed.
Sounds as robust as a 944.. 😉
I am new to Rennlist, but saw this thread and wanted to add that my 2002 C2 is about ready to turn over 232,000. It's on its original clutch (which still grips great but chatters), and original IMS bearing. In 2006 it received turbo brakes and a PSS9 kit. The current set of pads have about 145,000 miles on them, and look to be able to go another 35,000. Replaced the alternator at 202,000. Power steering pump sounds like the Red October. I think I can milk the clutch another 18,000, at which time I'll replace it and the IMS bearing.
My '99 has just turned 137,000 mi. It's had plenty of PM done to it by previous owner of 13 years (DD). It had it's last clutch and LN IMSB done at 100,000... I'm currently fixing the "DSBT" (drivers side bolster tear) with a Leather World Repair/Refinish kit (Savanna Beige)...I'll post some B&A photos when I'm done.
My 1999 aero kit c2 has 148,500 miles on the original engine; my water pump unknowingly lasted 148,000 miles, as my mechanic told me it was the original water pump when he removed it !
That interior is amazing considering the age of the car and the mileage. No question Porsche cars last a long time
My 2000 C4 just turned 148K miles last week with the original IMS. I do see a new clutch in it's future
I'm at about 85,000 Miles on a 2002 996 C2
Issues:
- New clutch at 80
- Alternator at 70
- Water Pump at 82
No IMS issues to speak of.
It's got an Aero Kit so keeping that in tip top shape has actually been the biggest expense over the last 5 years
This is hands down one of the best threads out here...finally some + interactions. I think this thread should always be bumped to the top of all the 996 threads! Keep posting...
Currently in the shop for water pump and radiator, but not surprising as I close in on 200,000 miles.
2003 996 C4S driving daily, year round, hoping to see a million miles in my lifetime.
I just started posting on
Pfanaticle
too.
What a great thread. I got my car a short time ago, it didn't have many miles on it at all. I read the horror stories and decided to replace the things in the stories. I don't regret it but after reading this thread I now believe the car will outlast me. My suggestion is for anyone that doesn't own one of these cars is to go buy one today, if the information on this thread becomes well known prices will double!
2002 C2 Targa Tiptronic -- 169,xxx miles; all original engine, original IMS; change synthetic oil every 3K miles; runs great.
Some cosmetics starting to show (wood veneer detaching in some places; chrome peeling from wheels. Leather seats/interior in fantastic shape (garaged and/or covered its entire life.
Went tot he dealer this weekend to get parts for my car. Just had to wonder around the sales lot because you know. Anyway there were 2 sales guys come out to look at my 996 C4 and started asking all kinds of questions. Seemed the older one wanted it.
Surprisingly, it was not IMS or RMS related. At the time, my mechanic and I thought it was a blown head gasket. There was even coolant coming out of the exhaust pipes. But we did not do an engine tear down, so we can't say for sure.
With the benefit of hindsight, I would now guess that it was a cracked cylinder head.
Edited to add additional information which may be of interest:
It actually began as a problem with the Variocam Plus system. The problem would cause at least one cylinder to shut down occasionally. If I remember correctly, my mechanic determined this from some engine computer error codes.
b-man
I've recently hit 100000km (60 k miles)
I know it's not a lot yet but I fully expect the car to go on forever
Really enjoying it
Got it when it had 67k km, it's my DD here in the great white north
142,000 on original engine. Bought it two years ago at 100k with new clutch w/IMS. I've replaced the A/O separator, coil packs and a few other things, but I've mostly been driving the crap out of it. Love the car!
This is a very nice place to put my first post as my 996 c2 conv (dec. 1998) just hit 280k kilometers, which is about 170k miles.
It has the original engine and tiptronic automatic and the IMS bearing is also the same as the one it originally left the factory with.
Last year i replaced the alternator, water pump, coils and various other small items. And I am urrently considering replacing the IMS bearing for a ceramic upgrade, though the engine still runs exactly like it should we have just found some plastic residu in the carterpan... My mechanic tells me we should pull out the engine to replace the chaintracks. Upgrading the IMS bearing while the enige is out would be strongly recommended.
(edit: Corrected miscalculation on the km's to miles conversion, definitely not used to miles ;-P)
I live in the Netherlands and drive my car all year, our winters aren't extremely cold but we do get some snow and ice.
We do get a LOT of rain and humidity though...
Oh that is cold enough. Though I imagine it comes down to how loose your engine was at the start of it's life and how it broke in. Unfortunately I know of at least a dozen failed engines from acquaintances and friends at the track and coffee meets. This number alarms me when I personally know more people on their 2nd engine then their original.
Also does your Country enforce ethanol in the gas?
Does your motor make any chain noises?
What kind of oil have you used throughout your ownership?
Do you park in a garage and also do you use a block heater at all?
If you do get your chain guides replaced, please post pics. I'd be curious at the wear. I've seen chain guide wear all over the place which I attribute to maintenance, driving habits, oil and change intervals.
BTW, congrats on your mileage and usage. I think you got great value out of your 996 ownership, unlike some people.
No, no chain noises... The oildrain plug was seized so they took the pan off, that's the only reason the plastic residue was found.
I'll check on the oil-type my garage uses on my car.
No, my 928 sits in my garage and the 996 sits outside on my driveway (no heater, cover, etc).
I'll get pictures taken and post them here when I do get them changed out, but first I'll drive it a few thousand miles more to get a clearer idea of the current amount of wear.
Thanks, I hope to reach the mileage I have on my 928 which is almost 440k kilometers.
Today my wife rolled 100000 miles on her 2000 C2. We bought it 3 years ago with 82000 on it. We couldn't be happier with it. All original. Planning on may more years and miles. Unless I get a great deal on a turbo cabriolet.... Uh Yeah.
I purchased a 2003 996 Turbo last September and been looking/considering buying another 911; Looking at 964 and 993s. My wife saw a listing of a 99 C2 Cab with 105k down the street from our home. I'm not thinking we need another 996 but the price on these are hard to beat.
My TT has 36k miles so I was not sure we want to look at the car she found because of the high miles. The owner addressed IMS and RMS when the clutch was replaced a few years back. He said he was going to take the car in for 100000 mile service at the end of the month.
If the car looks in good shape and the PPI checks out, this should be a no brained right?
Just because it is cheap compared to the 964/993 market doesn't mean it will satisfy you in the same way an older car will. The 996 will be a nice car to drive and if what you want is a good daily driver to spare miles on the tt, it makes sense. But if you're looking to have a "different" Porsche experience it probably isn't the right car.
Its actually a car for my wife. I was looking at the 964 and 993s for her so I can drive it as well for a different Porsche experience but the prices that I am seeing are 35-45k. My DD is a BMW 335.
She has been looking at first gen caymans but saw this car two days ago. This 99 C2 Cab would be about 10k cheaper then a base first gen cayman but all needs to check out for me to want to buy for her.
It would be nice to see what the 100k plus 996 owners have in common vs. the owners who's engines went ka-boom a long time before 100k. Premium oil? More frequent oil changes? Proper oil levels? RPM's above 2500? Oh BTW I just did my 4th oil change on my 76k mile 2002 Targa and am happy to report absolutely ZERO shiny bits on the filter or magnetic drain plug. Original IMSB and I do religiously change my oil every 6 months or 5k miles, use Joe Gibbs DT40, maintain proper oil level and keep my RPM's at a minimum 2,000 -2,500 rpm's while cruising.
As someone who has owned both a 996 NA and 996 TT, I can tell you that the two cars are different, not only in the obviously expected acceleration department, but the 996 NA being lighter feels more tossable and nimble-essentially more fun as a driver's car, at least IMHO. Agreed it's not at all like the older air cooled 911's of which I've also owned several over the years. However for what you are looking for, given the IMS/RMS issues have been addressed, and given the price point, I'd buy that car in a heartbeat.
Not trying to answer on his behalf but here what he said back in December. See post #82:
"I am new to Rennlist, but saw this thread and wanted to add that my 2002 C2 is about ready to turn over 232,000. It's on its original clutch (which still grips great but chatters), and original IMS bearing. In 2006 it received turbo brakes and a PSS9 kit. The current set of pads have about 145,000 miles on them, and look to be able to go another 35,000. Replaced the alternator at 202,000. Power steering pump sounds like the Red October. I think I can milk the clutch another 18,000, at which time I'll replace it and the IMS bearing."
I have reached 89000 miles still original IMS bearing and clutch, however the alternator died. Dealer wants $1200 for a new alternator, Pelican parts have rebuilt for $600 so I had it rebuilt for $100. Took me about 2 hours because one bolt was rusted, used wd40 fished it out. Tight spot but easy for a DIY. I don't worry about the IMS since we have a better chance of getting cancer and last but not least spending 25% of the value of my car for 5% failure is a bad investment unless a clutch job is needed. I've never found metal in my fuel filter. Scaremongering sells products and services.
Well, ladies and gentlemen, we can now state that the life expectancy of a 996 dual mass flywheel is 246,000 miles. About a month ago, we needed to replace the original fuel pump. Three days ago it failed to fire again. Preliminary diagnosis is a worn out dual mass flywheel (wobbles) preventing proper signal from crank position sensor to ECU. Dull gray lining: we were trying to get an honest quarter million miles out of the original clutch, but will replace it 3,800 miles short of that goal, since we're removing it anyway to replace the flywheel. (Sigh.) We will also replace the original IMS bearing (favoring the LN).
This car has solidified its "trooper" status. We project reaching the half million mile mark sometime in 2029.
127500 mles. Water pump @ 85000, clutch around the same time. Engine overhauled by me @ 112000, w/water pump, LN IMS, 3.6 nikkies, etc. changed. Lots of items, but still not selling it!
Recent IMS at 173K, did the motor & tranny mounts, RMS, new clutch and other cats and dogs. Replaced the coils for the first time (amazing). IMS wasn't too bad but I put the LN IMS in as recommended by my indy and all on this board. It is a ball to drive over the Angeles Crest and gives pleasure twice a day (to & from work). Found the best Indy in the world and will keep it going as long as I can.
Great to hear stories like this - I'm only at 71k ... New water pump, did ims when I had rms leak. Rebuilt alternator. Else just normal service items ...
My car just turned 119,000 over the weekend. After reading some of these other posts I don't think 119,000 miles is even enough to qualify to post in the high mileage thread anymore! Which is awesome. Multiple Porsche 996s approaching 300,000 miles, WOW... who would of thunk it?!
The inglorious 996... soon to be known as the most reliable high mileage Porsche ever built?
A friend of mine just bought a '99 a couple weeks ago with 195,000 miles. Passed PPI with flying colors from a well-respected local Porsche mechanic. He paid $9,500 for the car, so I think a very fair deal. I looked at the car and it's in great shape. Not even a door ding.
My '03 C2 has 57k on the clock. New clutch at 45k, did the IMS thing 2k ago, just because. Replaced a water pump at 48k. It's my daily driver and makes the commute a hoot.
My 02 C4 Cabriolet just hit 57,000 miles. Just purchased it a month ago. I haven't replaced the IMS. I bought it because it was a one owner car and they took excellent care of it and i'm gambling that they had already had it replaced. The dealer had no record of it unfortunately. Wish there was a simple way of checking.
[Image-only post; no author-written text. Original image references:]
https://cimg4.ibsrv.net/gimg/rennlist.com-vbulletin/536x366/d38809_742f07126a004417804fd4dc606de2c1_e6abb92809755a0605cf40ff6b738e5ac99a0469.jpg
If it had an LN bearing they would have a record on file. Look under the hood see if it has a sticker indicating IMS replacement. I'd try real hard to try and contact the original owner. If it hasn't been done you really should consider it.
I checked under the hood last night and couldn't find anything saying it's been replaced. I also went went through everything in the glove box which looked like it had never even been opened. I did come across a business card of a piano teacher located near me in Chicago. Hoping it can be a good lead to contact the previous owner.
I declare 120k miles! Running perfectly. Unbelievable how solid this thing drives with 120k on it. There is simply no doubt the Porsche 996 is the greatest value high performance sports car on planet earth. When I think I probably could not get a penny over 18k for my car it just blows my mind. It still pulls and sounds like a BEAST above 4,000 rpm.
I know this isn't an especially high number - but when the wife and I pulled back into the garage after a weekend of anniversary fun, it caught my eye.
Nowhere near as high as some, but I hit a significant number this morning:
[edit: actually I should come back in 33 miles, really... I blame lack of coffee.]
Does this count?
I looked at a 2000 C2 Coupe in Clearwater, FL with 105k miles on the odometer. But when I looked at carfax/autocheck to further investigate it's history, both agencies reported 212,XXX miles on the car back in 2012 or 2013 (can't remember) which was before the current owner says he bought the car. The cluster (white dials) had obviously been changed at some point.
The owner had no clue and seemed genuinely surprised when I brought the car fax situation to his attention. The look on his face was not acting.
When I asked to see service docs, I was told the car was maintained by a Russian mechanic friend who's shop is down the street from the car owner. Work done under the table and nobody kept docs. He said he's selling the car because he got an AMG 4-door now and the porsche doesn't suit his family needs any longer.
I drove the car and it ran fantastic, it went through the gears smoothly and it had a VERY strong feeling engine with aftermarket exhaust and a K&N intake kit installed. Engine may have been replaced at some point, no clue... If I were making a track car, that might be a good candidate to put a cage in and put on some go-faster parts and rubber bits all around. It was advertised at $11.9k not too long ago, probably still for sale.
But the suspension felt like it had 400k on it, and the paint job had been touched up horribly. I think his car might be marginally faster than the one I ended up buying, but mine rides much tighter and is 3 letter grades nicer looking with lower miles and a clean carfax.
So, pertinent to this thread... that C2 coupe has got 212,XXX plus three or four more years of driving around hot and sunny Florida on the clock. And is still running strong.
I am in the car business and go to a few auctions a week - I was at an auction in San Antonio this week and saw a black 01 C2 Cab with a Tip with the odometer reading 313k. I should have taken a picture of it - the car was in good shape other than the typical wear on the leather seats. Air was cold and no warning lights on. The car ended up selling for $6500.
These threads are awesome. It would take three times the time line to see those kind of miles on a 1980's 911.
These significantly newer 996's are amazing on many levels. Just shows that the newer 911s actually want to be driven beyond the typical "Nice weather weekend car" duties. Butzi would be pleased.
This explains why it was hard for me to find a very low mile, pristine 996 C4S.
I started this Post on November 9, 2013 as a way
To Counteract all the negative posts about engine problems
As I suspected these are great engines which can last a long time with old school maintance
165,000 on Mine. Less than 1,000 miles on the rebuild after it developed a crack on cylinder 1. Seats and Steering wheel were redone but other than that the car looks pretty much in excellent shape. Most people still think its new especially with the LED lights and the litrnonics.
105k miles (175k km) on mine. Feels awesome to read all the posts.
I had the clutch and flywheel recently done, as well as IMSB and RMS.
Car feels strong and tight.
I'm about an hour south of Nashville, in a fairly rural area with lots of good roads. And some not so good.. I get to Nashville fairly regular for appts with the cancer doc and business meetings, looking at cars for sale, etc. My 996 does really good as a daily, even in the 'heavy at times' traffic coming in and out at rush our. Downtown streets are a little nasty and rough, but the car presents no driveability issues that I've found.
Often, much more so now than in the past, some of my daily work commute invovles bumper to bumper traffic. Often not a lot, a mile or two as for some reason traffic on the freeway just slows to a near crawl.
The Boxster is pretty easy to drive in bumper to bumper as the clutch is easy to control and little slippage is required and I can get the car moving from a stop with very little clutch slippage and throttle. I also try to let the vehicles ahead get a bit ahead before moving off to cut down on the number of times i have to get the car rolling from a dead stop which cuts down on wear and tear on the clutch.
The Turbo too is pretty easy to drive in bumper to bumper traffic. The clutch is boosted which means the clutch action in the Turbo is less than in the Boxster. And I don't have any problem with the Turbo's clutch control. My style of driving in Turbo is similar to the that when in the Boxster so I make as little use of the clutch as possible. In both cars I *never* slip the clutch to slowly inch the car forward. I always wait until there is sufficient room to get the car moving and to be able to fully release the clutch even if I then shortly have to bring the car to a stop again.
When I'm stopped I whenever traffic permits slip the gear box into neutral and release the clutch. This lets the friction disc transfer heat to the flywheel and pressure plate. (I've seen "abused" clutches in one case a driver got caught in Bay Bridge bumper to bumper traffic and managed to overheat the clutch to the point when the transmission was removed and the clutch disassembled the frictioni disc material had delaminated from the excessive heat build up.)
Shortly after I bought the Turbo I managed to get into some horrific bumper to bumper traffic on 50 highway on the way to Lake Tahoe and points east one July 3rd day and this goingi *up* highway 50. The car was fine but after some miles of this bumper to bumper traffic the idle speed increased to around 1K as the engine controller increased the idle speed to improve engine cooling and possibly to have the alternator to generate more electricity. I had the A/C on, the radiator fans were running and so was the engine compartment fan. The car was fine but I spotted a number of cars on the side of the road with the classic signs of overheating problems. Once I made it to the summit traffic thinned out and that was that.
The Turbo clutch is original and has over 147K miles on it. Likewise the Boxster clutch is original and has over 303K miles on it.
Granted my mile or two of bumper to bumper during my (most of the time morning commute but sometimes even in the evening commute) is not nearly as bad as say the bumper to bumper traffic on some LA area freeways. And I use radio traffic reports to avoid bumper to bumper traffic whenever I can but if I end up in it with either car it is not a real problem. Just a bit inconvenient.
Only had mine maybe three months but it was bought as a daily. My commute is ten miles into DC - if I can get out of bed early enough it's reasonably free flowing but there's always a bit of unavoidable traffic. A couple of days a week I cycle if the weather's good, occasionally I use the metro if I know I'm out late that evening. Other than that it's 996 every chance I get, although I do have to show the others some love every now and then.
138K, everything everyday DD, from bumper to bumper traffic, lots of in town running around, short store runs, business stops, meetings, short trips to some weekend runs down the interstate. It is one helluva car!
As far as I know (pretty good records), original engine, 2nd clutch, various cooling, brake and suspension items to keep it stock. Stock ends now!... 19" wheels, lowering a bit, when it's clutch time, maybe some head work and that other thing we like to talk about😗
Good to know. Just got back from the mechanic today, I'm not in such a good mood. I wonder how much "maintenance" these cars are requiring to get to those high miles. Mechanic wanted to do first oil change after the IMS Solution install to check for debris, I was dumbfounded at the cost. Doing these at the shop are not an option going forward.
Mechanic also pointed out yellowing coolant reservoir and failing passenger side window regular should be replaced sooner rather than later. At these rates, these will be done at home. Doing the search 996 coolant reservoir replacement, I half wanted to laugh but then started cursing.
I got the car to do canyon runs while spending time with my daughter because I couldn't take her on the motorcycle. Now it looks like I'm going to be wrenching instead of spending time with her...counterproductive.
RMS, IMS Solution, clutch, flywheel, water pump done before I drove 1 mile. Drive 1K mile and get dumped with window regulator and coolant reservoir. If this keeps up, she will be for sale before the end of the year...maybe spring time since it's a cab and the weather will help my sale.
You are gripping about the costs but sounds like it is of restoring the car, not fixing what's broke. I'm guessing out of everything you have had done or are about to do the window regulator is the only thing that is actually a problem?
And which part of these makes people think they are cheap to own? Is it that they are 12-17 years old or that they are German sports cars?
You can get them used for $100 all day long from American eBay. Or heck, if you can wait a few weeks I'll give you one with 80k miles if you pay for the shipping.
Regulator replacement is easy and the part is only $125? Big whoop. Expansion tank is also not rocket science, but it takes a bit of parts removal to get it out.
Best line ever: And which part of these (Porsches) make people think they are cheap to own? Is it that they are 12-17 years old or that they are German sports cars?
A little common sense here!
He nailed it, I severely underestimated. My 22 year old Italian sport bike has been very reliable, maybe that's why I thought a 14 year German sports car wouldn't be that bad.
I was planning on averaging $1K - $2K per year and do maintenance myself as time permitted. With my commute, oil changes alone will take almost all of that if done at the shop. Letting the shop do everything, not an option at the rate things are piling up.
I don't mind rolling up my sleeves, but these things are piling up at an annoying pace. Things that have surfaced in the one month I've had the car: headlights not aligned anymore, turn signal working intermittently, fuel tank not filling up properly, cab top starting to struggle a bit, + aforementioned issues or reservoir and regulator. I've also topped off the oil twice and coolant once. Mostly quick fixes, but come on.
Despite the griping, I do love driving this car. I don't know that I love it enough though. I think we can all agree these cars aren't for everyone, I maybe one of those.
If your mechanic keeps replacing parts that he thinks _might_ give you trouble in the future, there is no telling how much you'll spend. The first five items - assuming the RMS wasn't dripping and the clutch wasn't slipping - were all done as PM; you can't blame those on the car being a lemon. In fact, of all the things you listed, adding oil twice and coolant once in only 1,000 miles would be the thing I'd find most worrisome.
The only completely maintenance-free 14-year-old cars are the ones in museums; the 996 is no different. I'm going to hazard a guess that your Italian sport bike has vastly fewer parts and systems than the 996. 50% fewer? Maybe 80% fewer?
A DIY oil change takes 45 minutes and will set you back $100 - and your daughter might even be willing to help. If you truly are willing to roll up your sleeves, the vast majority of what will need fixing can be done by you at a fraction of what you'll pay your mechanic - especially if your budget really is $1K-$2K a year. A set of tires is going to eat your budget for a year; brakes, rotors, fluids, and the other consumables that will be eaten during those canyon runs will also tear through your budget. DIY is realistically the ONLY way you'll keep the car running properly with that spend level if consumables (tires, brakes, wipers, plugs, coils, belts, filters, etc. etc.) are included in that number.
I hope this passes and you get to the part when you really enjoy the car without begrudging the running costs. If you don't think you'll get there, bowing out before something REALLY expensive happens might be the way to go.
Agree. With all of those things + purchase price of the car, still cheaper than a modern entry level luxury car. That's why the purchase was so compelling. I was just hoping that would be it for a while.
The oil was a just a quarter of a bottle each time, both after some spirited sessions - she didn't really need it, I was just being ****. The coolant, I'm planning on getting a new reservoir cap soon, it's the original.
Fair point, but the only unexpected repairs have been a battery, a couple of bulbs, and a flat tire in the entire time I've had her. Really has been remarkable. The Porsche seems to be something new every week.
Yup, I was planning on doing routine maintenance myself most of the time. And all of those things I listed, those have been or will be DIY - but I've addressed something on the car almost every weekend and something new pops up all the time...very annoying.
The $1-$2K was an estimated average figure, some years more some less. I also assumed I'd be doing at least all the simple maintenance and most of the intermediate ones. But the more I read RL, the more I question how many of these things I'll be able to do myself...AOS, reservoir, spark plugs, etc).
I appreciate that, thank you. The running costs are higher than expected, but it's more the constant attention. But it is fair for the performance, nothing else in this price range comes close in my mind. I'm gambling that the 996 is at the bottom of the depreciation curve. The original plan was to buy a low mileage example, do preventative maintenance, hold on to it a few years while the kid is still small, and sell for close to what I purchased it for. I think I'll still be able to sell for my purchase price and maybe more since I did install the IMS solution and the mileage on the car will still be relatively low. What I factored incorrectly was the effort/cost to upkeep every year.
Yes, it does... However, it also says 17.9 miles... what it doesn't say it the hours since fillup to trouble shoot a coolant dump, get it in and out of the shop, up and down on the trailer, and most of htat mileage is in and out of the garage around the block to check things... actually 12 seems generous...
It was way more time to get my head around water vs air. Testing to find the actual source and then $15 and 15 min later back on the road this afternoon just need to burp the system.
Can't say I'll ever get to some of the mileage some of your guys are. But my 02 C4S just turned 60,000 km running with #4 scored. The tick and oil consumption has remained the same over last 30,000 km. Total 136,000 km now.
The car is all original, with exception the exhaust and sport cats. 14 years old now of which I have owned it for 12 and no troubles its been pretty rock solid car. My 996 turbo which is 1 year older has seen multitudes of repairs, none engine related but every thing else seems to go on it.
My bad... The car being discussed is a cabrio and I thought he was talking about the rear regulators. Those run a lot more than the front and are not easy to find discounted. I have to replace both in my car and ordered a pair from a German seller. Saved me approximately $1k vs. trying to find them in the USA. (I should also add that I lived in Germany 20 years and speak natively, so calling ebay seller off-line and setting up the deal was easy for me. But, most Germans speak very good English).
Thanks for the update. Luck seems to be on your side. Glad you're still able to drive it and oil consumption is still staying consistent. Are you still driving it in the winter since you first discovered the scored cylinder? Also how much oil is being consumed again?
Yes in winter when the roads are dry, I use 1 quart for every 2 tanks of gas. I check oil levels after every drive. I think most of the oil is burnt during engine warm up and startups. It seems to use a lot less oil when driven under casual driving.
167k miles on mine.
And yes lately it's had a few issues - water pump, cam sensor, and alternator. But even adding those costs it provides me with 90% of the thrills that a new one would at a cost that is substantially less.
Even if I added all my receipts it would still be less than 60% of the cost of a new one. And in the course of that investment I've had a great time daily driving it, putting it on the track, and autocrossing it for the last 8 years.
These cars aren't cheap to maintain but if you're willing to get dirty it can save you quite a bit of money.
And to the public they still think it's a new vehicle and that it's super fast. If only they knew the family Cayenne can blow it out of the water in terms of straight-line acceleration. That's the beauty of the 996, most of the 911 perks but at a more reasonable cost.
Bought my car in CA 2+yrs ago with no history other than CarFax. It is now in Italy with over 172+ km on it. It is usually driven on the Autostrada at 4K rpm in 6th. Absolutely no issues, change oil (synthetic Castrol Edge) every three months. The Porsche Dealer(s) cannot understand the paranoia over the IMS, but they have performed a couple but they don't see a reason to. Italians and Germans drive their cars hard and fast. Maybe that is the 'fix'?
Well, this thread gives me some confidence about keeping my car. I have a '99 C2 Cabrio with stainless exhaust, Brembos, Radius wheels, short shifter, 63K on car but had new engine at 40K. Car runs excellent with no issues and is a joy to drive. I've had it about 6 months but have put on maybe 300 miles since I got it. Why so little? I started reading posts on this site and got freaked out about it blowing up! IMS/RMS, cracked heads, AOS, etc.
The car sat for about 4 months without driving or starting it. One day I washed it and then put it back in the garage. Next day it was making a rattling sound from the engine and of course, I'm thinking the worst, IMS again or AOS. Loaded it up on my tilt back and towed it to an indy shop. Guy listens to it and says, "has it been sitting?". He says you got to drive these things. The oil drains out of the lifters if it sits too long is what he said. Anyway, we let it idle for about 15 minutes then drove it for a good half hour and now it runs smooth with no noise.
I've taken it out a few times since then and would like to do some longer road trips (1,000 miles or so) but still a little gun shy. Now reading all these posts, I'm feeling a little more confident in the car.
Wondering how many use there cars for long trips or mostly do you drive local?
Thanks.
Drove mine something like 1200mi to get it home after I purchased it. Short of it being absolutely filthy and needing a break from the tire noise, it was great. Got 27mpg IIRC.
I'm at 57,000 or so: amateur range, for this thread.
Engine out around 12,000 at BevHills Porsche long before I bought it; couldn't ever determine for what reason (if anyone knows how one might find such info, I welcome it). Auxiliary cooling fan went out over the weekend, so: in for replacement this week. Bought it in the 45,000 mile range. At my current rate of mileage, I should hit 100,000 in late 2021, 150,000 around 2027, and 250,000…likely after a few joint replacements, and cataract surgery.
Just went over 139K miles delivering Christmas presents to kids on Saturday. Stats: Man. Date 7/98; original engine M96/0166W14443; unmolested IMSB; original clutch; lots of other maintenance done; still looks and drives great!
141000 on my daily driver C4S. It is truly a military machine. All original. unmolested IMSB. unmolested RMS. Original clutch. Zero Leaks. Uses 1 quart in between oil changes.
As far as reliability:
The transmission was replaced on warranty at 49,500 miles, but that was apparently because of wear or damage from heavy track use.
The power steering pump seized at 50,100 miles
The alternator went out at 99,000 miles
02 C4S. I bought it in 7 months ago with 47k miles. PO replaced clutch at 38k and it looks the the rest of the work was normal stuff like brake bads and oil changes. Headlight switch was also replaced.
In 7 months I put 16k miles on it and now at 63k. I drive it to work everyday even in light snow.
I personally replaced both front wheel bearings, changed diff and tranny and coolant. I also did the spark plugs about a month ago. They still had some life but figured around 60k is good time for spark plugs.
If i need to do a clutch, I'll replace, RMS/IMSB/AOS along with it. Otherwise, probably just going to keep the oil fresh and the RPMs high.
Basically i am really happy with the car and plan to put 20k miles on it each year.
Btw, I have changed the oil five times in last 7 months and send samples to get analyzed. I know getting so concerned about oil can be a too much to think about for some people, but I really enjoy it.
Updating my input from earlier: 2002 Targa (Tip);
- Presently now at 178,5xx miles;
- still original IMSB;
- compression and leakdown tests great at 170K;
- Mobil 1 oil changes every 3K miles (except when samples sent for oil analysis, then 5K miles);
- periodic oil analyses all good (Blackstone)(latest sample results pending from last week);
- filter dissection = clean (5K mile interval; no metallic particles seen -- photographed as evidence).
First owner 156K miles were 90-95% highway (daily driver 100 miles to and from work)!
Our ownership: mixed city and highway, but probably 60% city.
No track.
PLAN: Drive it into the ground, without abusing it, that is...
There are at least 4 other threads on this topic - Dear Moderator: is there a way to combine these?
I actually started a poll thread in 2006 when I did NOT have a 996, because I was a fan back then. I now have one.
Here are the similar threads:
https://rennlist.com/forums/996-foru...leage-car.html
https://rennlist.com/forums/996-foru...t-there-7.html
https://rennlist.com/forums/996-foru...-01-996-a.html
This story about
the 996 with 500k on the clock
got me wondering about who has the highest mileage one here... Anyone anywhere near close to this example?
I have a 1999 996 here now for an IMSR procedure that has 8,000 miles. Has original tires.
Another on the way with 11,000 miles. Low mileage cars don't impress me, but they are very good for business.
There is a chap with a 40th AE - that has done - 323K miles now.
I am pretty sure it's all original except for - clutch - AOS - brakes and rotors and radiators - he posted a few posts down from the pic post what he had done to it.
https://rennlist.com/forums/996-foru...l#post13946578
167,000+ miles on my '99 Boxster... many track miles, highly abused car. Original IMSB, RMS, etc. I expect it to blow up at each event, but so far running great. Leak down test a few thousand miles ago was in the few percent range on every cylinder.
2002 C4 Cab with Tip. 74k miles. Fun car, not a daily driver. IMS was replaced at 63k (LN Ceramic) and RMs/AOS done at the same time. Looks and runs fantastic... hoping for many more miles.
maybe he thought he was in the lowest mileage thread.
After seeing post of 300k miles and more. Not sure why anyone would bump the thread and bury them.
It's nice to be included and to contribute
Check this one out - 500k Kilometres .... 300K + Miles
http://www.pistonheads.com/gassing/t...&t=1601182&i=0
Owner delivers some parts for and works on old F1 cars - so knows a thing or 2 about cars
Yep 99's had double row and seem quite hardy...
The things this guy did are pretty amazing and he knows engines.
I thought this bit quite revealing...
A few things are different on my car to most 996,
the engine has a lower temperature (72 degree C) thermostat fitted which opens sooner than the standard thermostat
. The car also has no aircon hence my radiators are completely exposed to the ambient airflow down the rad ducts rather than being partially shielded by the aircon condensers, a second point on this is that the aircon condensers (when the aircon is on) heat the ambient airflow before it reaches the radiators which reduces the efficiency of the standard radiators when compared to them running with no aircon condensers fitted. Finally my fan on/off temps are set lower than a standard car, the fans go immediately to high speed when activated and constantly run at low speed below 60KPH to provide additional airflow to the rads at slow speeds.
One of the issues (for want of a better term) with the 996 is that it has a huge coolant capacity and therefore A LOT of thermal mass in the coolant, this means once it is hot it takes quite a bit of time to get this energy back out of the coolant and into the ambient atmosphere. If you can stop it getting that hot in the first place by increasing the cooling systems ability to shed heat to atmosphere you are in a much better position
[QUOTE=black04;14007348]<<<<<<<Originally Posted by beetleything View Post
It's nice to be included and to contribute
http://www.pistonheads.com/gassing/t...&t=1601182&i=0>>>>>>>>
FYI Very long thread. That motor is apart now for a rebuild.
From what I understand, motor oil analysis of the basically stock/original motor revealed high copper content. A tear-down found worn camchain guide material had damaged a crank bearing.
The conclusion is that 996 camchain guides should be replaced at 250k Miles. It sounded like cylinder and valve wear was substantial as well. (the OP speaks a foreign language, British English
so the terminology is a little confusing. Feel free to clarify or correct me)
Thankx for the update... Yes it is a very long thread, I was only about 1/3 or less into it, I was saving the rest for some late nite reading. I'm sorry to hear that it had to be taken apart. I wonder if he is running the stock oil filter plastic can with the by-pass? I have started disabling the by-pass on all my personal m/96 engines ( I own 3 cars with it). I like the no-mess and environmental friendly cartridge type filter, but the by-pass placed in the very bottom where all the heavy debris accumulate is not a good design, so I disable it. I use Mobil 1 0w40 Fs oil with Porsche OEM, Mann,Mahle, and K&N filters and have not had any problems crushing filters. I live in Alabama so it never gets extremely cold.
It is a very interesting thread with all the things he has modded/improved on the car. And the way it is being utilized. I will read the rest to see the other information.
What makes you think you're in the danger zone? Keep up on the preventive maintenance and it could easily go another 100,000 miles. The "Apollo" 996 just recently killed on the track by "Hoovie" went 243,000 and still had pretty good HP / Torque. It probably could have gone even farther if Hoovie had done any preventive maintenance whatsoever, he didn't.
Just wear and tear, really! Surely crank bearings and all that good stuff wears overtime, my car has done 10k/miles a year since it was new! had RMS done at some point (3 years ago)
This one got posted on the FB 996 Carrera owners page.
404.000km to date; engine failed after 380.000 (some bearing failure but not IMS) and got rebuild since. Owner says car was meticulously maintained by previous owner with regular oil changes.
Not sure you'd be here!!! That is a beautiful car so could not resist!! If you can share some more technical details everybody would appreciate! And the picture of the km of course!
Volkert
This thread is amazing. It's refreshing to see and hear these stories, as opposed to the reels and reams of disappointment found over in the IMSB threads.
My '02 Carrera just turned 175,000 k. Original engine. LN bearing at 145,000. Joe Gibbs oil, uses about 1/2 quart every 3,000 miles or so. Pulls like a freight train.
No major work other then the ims sometime in the last 20k best i can figure (receipt came with car). Bought the car with 198k as a roller with a crack in the oil pan skirt from a track accident. Didnt really do any research or have much in the way of maintainence records, i didnt really care. Car had a lot of nice parts and was going to swap the motor anyways. I was able to weld up the motor and it runs great. The engine sn is right for the age so im guessing its original. My guess is the cars that get driven do much better then the ones that sit.
[Image-only post; no author-written text. Original image references:]
https://cimg5.ibsrv.net/gimg/rennlist.com-vbulletin/1632x1224/img_5197_d575a43bdf33da8ef725a89af9881f2cfdb70dbe.jpg
1999 (3/98) Carrera 2, bought in Feb 2018 at 171k. Just turned 183k last weekend after running the mountains and the Tail of the Dragon
Daily driven and enjoyed...had originally planned a re-build at 200k..but after reading this I don't know. Original engine, LNE bearing at 148k by the PO, and she uses no oil. I do want to change the chain pads however. Pulled the pan a few weeks ago and the only thing I found were tiny bits of plastic from the chain pads. Perfect condition in there otherwise.
Rescued: '01 996 C4 Tip 160K All orig.
Formerly from: IN, AL
Dealer notes: Too many things to fix and unfamiliar with most of the car's symptoms. Not running or broken (AC, window, side mirror, dead batt, CEL on, no takers).
Inspection & smog results: Failed
Weather temp during visit: 100deg. F (clear)
Test Drive log: Front end clunks & vibrations, brake pulsations, warm stalls and tail pipe smoke. However, TIP shifts well and Engine pulls strong.
My impressions that day: Seems like the car isn't raced, just worn out. Estimated time to sort the car out by myself is 1-2yrs.
Purchase Analysis: Very high risk but very high Driving reward if sorted.
Haggling log: 1st attempt Failed @$8K. 2nd and final attempt (I was ready to walk away if this one fails) passed @9995+fees.
Reason for purchase: My first coupe was a 1996 Ford probe (jet Black, 5spd, paid$6K circa 1998). One night during dinner at a restaurant, (looking out) a 1999 911 same color parked next to my Ford. I said to myself that car's rear is better looking than my ford and I'll have that one someday.
The Long Drive home 60miles: Very nervous (what did i just get myself into) yet very excited (2decades later, finally got that 911 that was next to my Probe, relief). I was hungry for fast food after the purchase. So I dined in while staring at the 911's rear and remembering the past. Then before leaving the parking lot the car hesitated and stalled (OH ****, tried again no start, f$%k). I paused there for 5minutes thinking about to not burn the starter and drain the battery while sweating under the summer heat, NO a/c and a window that won't roll down. So i brought out the obd scanner and deleted all DTCs (crossed fingers). I then turned key to start and pressed down gas pedal, lo and behold it started and with a roar. So i scrammed outta there just find out a mile later that the dealer didn't fill up the gas tank and i have to make a pitstop for a fill up (****). The closest station was a Citgo (I'm like man...I think this 911 is looking for some premium Shell gas). So while i filled it up with the 91special, i whispered to it (OMG pls. pls. start so we could go home and fix you UP). The C4 started with no drama (relief) and we sped out of the small town.
Before the interstate entrance is a traffic light turned red & i stopped and it was Hot inside the car (no A/C, no roll down window but sunroof open). Then after 30 seconds, rain poured due to that humid summer day. I had to close the sun roof, crap. Then turned on the wipers just to discover that the blades were shot and can't wipe the water out properly, (**** we are just having to deal with these events on & on). Moving on to the express way slowly in the rain and eventually passing the rain clouds is my exit to a mountain pass before the next freeway home. I drove up to the mountain observing the car's squeaks and vibrations (this may need ball joints, tie rods, tires, alignment etc and definitely new brakes). The up hill climb was a piece of cake and i was carefull down hill due to the worn out brakes. After the down hill, i found myself on a wide open 2 mile stretch of lonely road. I just had to open the Taps and the hell with it (this is the only way to find out if the car is broken or not). Switch to manual mode, down shift to 3rd rev up to 6k, shift to 4th rev up to 5500, we're now on 3triple digits, shift to 5th and let off pedal to speed limit. Wow, wow, thank God it is in good shape (it put a smile on my face).
We made it home. I Parked it outside and opened the rear to cool it down. Kids playing outside thought it is a brand new sports car (they had no clue). My children want a ride with it, so i took them for a spin and they realized there was no a/c and wanted to go home right away, Haha. When it cooled down i jacked up the wheels one by one to find out the problems to sort out for the many months to come, it was many.
A year or so have passed and the car is now 96% sorted out. Passed smog and inspection and now in good working order in stock form. It is rewarding me for every drive and speed runs (Thank God for his treasures). I cannot explain the gratification of fixing up by myself a really good platform of a sports car. It started as a dream, a dream saved, a dream realized & thank you for your time.
List of problems: Catalyic converter x1 and rusted clamps (all), rusted or broken header bolts (all), rusted O2sensors x2, cracked coils x6, busted inner cv boots x3, busted control arms x2, busted tie rod ends x2, busted front top strut mounts x2, busted front shocks and bump stops x2, busted front sway bar links, rear rotors & pads shot, driver's window regulator shot, driver's side mirror loose, wipers, various light bulbs burned out, rusted tail lamp housing, oil change, oil filter, air filter, cabin filter, busted a/c condenser x2, stage 1 resistor failed, fog light fuse failed, all speakers deteriorated excluding the subs, fuel cap rubber gasket, oil cap hose cracked, MAF dirty, rock chips on windsheild, lift support @frunk busted, one really old tire, wheel balance, alignment.
"The cheapest Porsche you can find will be the most expensive Porsche you can own..." Truer words have never been spoken!
I'm glad it's worked out for you so far - it was a heck of a gamble! Good luck with future projects and keep your fingers crossed. It seems like most of the stuff you've done is collateral to the engine (the heart of the beast, and the most expensive to deal with). Make sure you keep it running properly with frequent oil changes (no more than 4 or 5k mi.) and regular maintenance.
G TS, nice work recovering a well-used 996. I've done the same but not nearly as much needed for a C2 with 54K. You wrote, "
I cannot explain the gratification of fixing up by myself . .. " and I know the feeling. Congrats.
This is correct. I have both the '01 996 C4 Tip and TT Tip, both on stock wheels. Both have Bilstein B6 shocks (firmer than stock). C4 has stock springs (US spec), TT has stock Euro spec springs. C4 is a downhill monster and TT is the uphill monster. By just upgrading to B6 shocks and thick sway bars & drop links...Wow, wow, these are comfortable racers. Be particular on tires as well. I like Pzeros & Pilot sports, but pricey. If on a budget Conti's and Sumi's will do just fine.
Thank you for your kind words. I saved a 996TT as well. The confidence garnered from fixing up my C4 made room for a Turbo. It is super gratifying as well, 420hp worth of planted exhilaration. Chapter 2 (Saving 996TT), I will post soon.
Chapter 2
Saved: '01 996TT Tip 102K All orig. (with lowering springs, thick sway bars, K&N)
Formerly from: CA, FL
911 search priority analysis log @3yrs. duration: 1st lowest entry level cost. 2nd clean history. 3rd strong engine & trans. 4th possibly one with a Mezger engine. Side note: 1st, 2nd & 3rd was found on Year2 on my C4 (from previous chapter). However this turbo was listed for $39K on Year2 & had my eye on it (but C4 won that year). Then, this Turbo match-made on year 3.
Dealer notes: In good condition, no takers for over a year & others have their financing fell through.
Inspection & smog results: Pass
Weather temp during visit: 96deg. F (clear)
Test Drive log: First, the car was brought in from storage by a porter. Upon the approach to the lot is a higher than normal ramp 30yards from where i'm standing. I'm thinking...Easy, Easy, pls. use an angle on the ramp, Ahhh cringe...damn he just went straight up, no pausing and scraped the nose loudly, Arrrgh. Second, before driving off i turned on the A/C @max, windows, lights (all good). However the lift supports were all weak. Then i drove off and angled that ramp very slowly (no scrape).
The car drove well in normal traffic with comfort (seems to be perfect). Then it was time for some boost. I found an open road, switch to manual mode, downshift to 3rd and just stepped on it for some booooost. I had to shift to 4th and let off the pedal quickly. This one is just too quick, I can't even glance at the tach because my attention is on the road in front of me and the rear right that was twitching (Blood pressure Rising). I did this boost test x4 times and gave up (rear consistently wants to break loose). Furthermore, there was this small road unevenness before the freeway exit and upon breaking before the bend, the abs kicked in fighting to keep the rear planted (SHIVERS, baffled & time to end this session). The Tip shifts well, engine is very strong, quick and scary.
My impressions that day: This car is definitely raced due to sport springs and sway bar. The car's stance looked mean (slammed in a good way). The right rear wanting to break loose is terrifying (definitely something is wrong with it). This is a monster of a 911. Estimated time to sort the car out by myself is 1-2yrs. I just got to have it.
Purchase Analysis: Risky due to the unstable rear. However, I gained confidence fixing up the 996C4 that i was prepared to save this thing from its near demise.
Haggling log: 1st attempt Failed @24K+fees. 2nd and final attempt (Beforehand, i reminded the sales Mgr. of the car's rear wanting to break loose always during boost and I was ready to walk away if this one fails) passed @26995+fees.
Reason for purchase: My first turbo coupe was 1995 Eagle Talon Tsi AWD (Silver, 5pd, Street clutch, Dunk cat-back, K&N, boost controlled @280HP, paid $7K circa 2001). One Friday night when my young wife & I walked out of the movie theatre, I saw this shiny Silver Monster parked beside my Eagle (Intercooler vents on all, wide fat rear tires, drilled rotors, red calipers, shiny Turbo badge @back Mmm...mmm), A 2001 911 Turbo MSRP $130K+ (Ouch). However, I thought...(just paid 80K for our home, this vehicle was way too much money) but I'll get you (whispered)...someday & waved good bye.
The Drive home 15miles: Knowing that the Torque on this thing would want to break loose its rear, I drove cautiously. There were so many traffic lights along the way out of this medium busy town and I stopped on each red light while leading the front of the pack. By the 3rd red light, stopped by my rear right is a loud Voilet Challenger Scat pack (didn't want to stop parallel beside me, just right of my tail and stares on rear). I'm thinking...I've done the same thing whenever i see a 911 Turbo on any year model, I understand. By the final light before the freeway and directly behind me is a loud black 6th gen Mustang 5.0 (I'm thinking, this must be a good day for folks bringing out their toys Mmm...mmm and we're about to be left in the dust). I took the center lane on the 4lane freeway and prepared to be dusted, but no...these V8s didn't pass me and we were on a triangle formation in the freeway (hmmm...why wouldn't they pass me, its wide open in front and clear, bizarre). Next is my exit, signalled right and merged to ramp and suddenly these muscle cars shot off like wild wolves chasing prey. I thought (that's respect leaving me in front like a pace car), cool.
We made it home. I pulled the C4 out of the garage and brought the Turbo in. I opened the rear to cool it off and back inside for diner then a movie, Jumanji (In background: child says Turbo's here, I'll be the first to ride). After the movie, I just had to look under the rear of the Turbo. It was too low and can't see anything. I had a hard time looking for the jack points due to its skirts. When it was up i saw the red H&Rs, Bilstein B6 (now this is a mismatch setup & thought of replacing it with the Euro spec stock ones). Then i took off the left rear wheel (a 295 Pilot sport-fat one, Mmmm). Rotors are originals and fully worn. There were a lot of pebbles & some sand sitting on the coffin arm (aha, this one is raced and went off the track). I see this red thick sway bar (Eibachs) and this thick drop link (Meyle). Finally Alas! found a broken off drop link.
The break was at the shock mount point (It is very hard to see without the car up. Just glancing below when the car is sitting down you'll see the bottom of drop links seated fine on swaybar). The cause of break is a halfway inserted bolt of the drop link. Both sides were inserted halfway. It appears to be a rushed install. Thank God for putting me in a Tiptronic, otherwise i would've spun it already during the test drive. The unthinkable dangers of a broken sway bar system in this German muscle car (It was touch & go for me). Thank you God again for putting me and the Turbo in the center of your palm. In addition, thank you God for landing this Mezger safely into my arms (Thank God for his treasures).
Some weeks have passed and the car is now 91% sorted out. I didn't like the B6 and H&R combo (but the show car looks Mmm...mmm). It was just bouncing and scraping (there is no suspension, just bottoming out). However, the B6s are not blown (just incompatible with a lowered spring).
Eventually, I received the Euro spec springs. I mounted these bad boys plus alignment and balance (what a MACHINE). My children compares it to the Joker rides in 6flags (just x6 times better). The Pull on this thing when the Turbo kicks-in is violent, all the way to redline. I cannot explain the gratification of being able to sort and solve the problems of these excellent machines by myself. Moreover, It is giving back what I cannot attain 2decades ago. Thank you God for your gifts. Thank you 911 community for the vlogs and thank you for your time.
List of problems: x1 Broken drop link mount @rear shock, x1 broken rear droplink bolt and thread, x1 busted front top strut mount, rear wiper, x1 front parking light bulb, reverse light, missing front bump stops & boot x2, rear rotors & pads, left rear tire inside wear, lift supports, front speakers deteriorated, MAF dirty, oil change, oil filter, wheel balance, alignment.
LOVED reading this! My current C2 only has 75K miles so it’s a relative infant on this thread, but I can boast that I sold my first MY1999 with over 160K mikes and all original drivetrain AFAIK (bought it at 80K). Ran like a Rolex. All I did from 80K to 160K+ was standard maintenance.
1999 C2 rolled over 160,000 KM (which means I be closing in on 100,000 of them miles things). Also closing in on the time to sell it on to its next keeper.
jb
@plpete84
Do you know if this is on a stock / factory built motor? And did the 40AE cars have the same M96's (I think that's what they have...?) that the rest of us have?
I believe all 40AE are the same standard M96 engine with the X51 package.
X51 adds improved heads, cams, intake manifold, exhaust manifolds and a different oil pan baffle.
This is correct. The ECU has a different tune as well to make all the X51 bits play nice together. As far as I know, he is on the stock motor and running Mobil 0w40 .... so basically everything we know about about keeping the engines running well doesn't matter and we should just rack up more miles
There was a neat article in one of the recent PCA Panorama magazines about his story with the car. Great read.
I�m planning to buy my first 911 and I�m pretty excited about it. I�m focused on a 996 C4S and will daily drive it.
My main question (aside from IMS & RMS issues) Assuming PPI is good, how important is mileage upon purchase? I�m looking at 40k to 110k mile cars.
I appreciate your thoughts in advance.
IMHO, somewhat important. Pick a number that you're comfortable with. For me it was 80K miles or less. I like a car to be driven at least 5k miles a year. At this point this would equate to around 90k miles total, which is not a lot over, say 18 years. Look for maintenance records as that will tell you much more than the number on odometer. It's the garage queens that often end up with problems.
To the comment above -
I have never gone wrong with mostly three things:
- maintenance history (records a plus)
- talking to the owner (
judge them hard
... screw mainstream advice on this - use every stereotype you can think of and apply it to how things could end poorly for you.
You are not buying the car, you are buying the owner
)
- if anything feels off, it probably is (almost got jumped on a by owner for sale ad one time - went against my gut there)
other things (not as important) include:
- a poorly written or organized ad (very indicative IMO - your owner should be able to read and write fluent English)
- how long the car has been listed / on the market
- good price / deal, obviously
- I try to always buy from the owner
- clean title and in
their
name (sons of fathers is an exception)
Honestly, mileage and other things like that don't really raise an eyebrow for me... I have gone against my advice / gut feelings three times when buying a car and they have all ended poorly.
I just turned 170k mi. on my �99 C4. My engine was built out to Stage II Track Performer by FSI in 2018. The engine now has about 25k mi. on it. My suspension has also been totally refurbed except for subframe bushings�
Bought mine with 164k miles on it but it had a cracked cyl 1 and I had to do a complete engine rebuild with new nikasil sleeves. It�s for sale now on Pcarmarket. Been running strong for 30k miles. Now it has 195k on it. most people are amazed when I tell them the mileage. Great car.
https://www.pcarmarket.com/auction/1...11-carrera-8/#
258k - just replaced the CDR220 and factory speakers/amp with a 5700NEX, Soundstream Pico 5-channel, Infinity 4032 4.5�s F&R (kept the �stock� door woofers) and ran nearly a full tank of gas through her out in the Hill Country. Runs like a top.
It was re-engined by Porsche under warranty in 2006, PO did the IMS in 2012, full Fabspeed w/sport cats and Bilstein PSS10/Tarett suspension more recently than that.
Mine has the 'low' mileage of 117k on it now. Bought with 102k on it, did a clutch and LN ims on it. I'm the second owner, the first owner seemed to pamper it, its a cab so I doubt it's ever seen a track. Was used for weekend drives etc.
California car so hasn't been in a cold climate
2004 CS4. Inherited from Dad who had front axles and coolant tank replaced at 104K. In 4 months I’ve had her it’s been tires, PS 4s are great BTW, water pump, thermostat, belt, filters, oil, alternator, oil fill tube, frunk actuator (Ty forum on how to get in) air condensers, wheel liner, assorted bulbs and fasteners and replaced the display in the environmental control. Almost forgot replacing worn Velcro and elastic on the top liner. About 10k so far. Most in the garage except for the air condensers and top work. Not concerned about IMS on its own, it’s a high mileage car with a tiptronic. Had local shops tell me they have not seen any failures with high mileage trips. That said if I had a need to have transmission work done, I’d get it replaced then. Love the car, don’t regret what’s been put into it so far, still think I’m ahead in the grins per mile category.
I'm at 110k miles now on my 99 C2, but I know thats hardly the most. There are at least a few Carreras over 250k and there's a .2 GT3 in Europe thats done mostly track miles at ~300k km, or nearly 190k miles (here's a vid on it:
You Tube
).
The car I bought but never took posession or title of and immediately sold to my young friend, has 198,300 miles. They think still original clutch and IMS bearing.
DRIVEN!
