Looking At A Boxster Today - RMS Concern

[132]

Gents,

I am looking at a privately owned 2.5 Boxster today. I have heard and read lots about the RMS issue, but need some pointers on how easy it is to detect without the use of a ramp etc. If it obviously has a problem, I would rather not spend £200+ having it inspected for them to tell me that…I will, of course, have any car I am serious about properly inspected before taking the plunge.

Thanks in advance.

[BliarOut]

It's not easy to spot, even on a ramp as there is an undertray. Look at the owners drive and garage, that may give you a clue. Although RMS's do fail, the internet is full of horror stories.

My advice is have a look at a few and you'll soon get a feel for the good uns and the bad uns. Once you find one you really like, get an OPC or knowledgeable indie inspection.

Oh, and enjoy it once you get one, they really are superb cars

[132]

Many thanks. I do hope Boxster ownership will be an enjoyable experience.

[BliarOut]

132 said:

Many thanks. I do hope Boxster ownership will be an enjoyable experience.

Oh it will

[ChrisW.]

I was told that much of the RMS problem has been caused by dealers reporting an oil mist weep from the RMS (which was really of little consequence) to justify the replacement of the RMS.

If left it is true that a bad RMS leak can damage the clutch -- but it's easy to replace the clutch when doing the RMS. Many dealers do this at the same time because it's so easy to pad the RMS job.

No workshop will say how much extra money they make from doing this "safety first" job, but Porsche are in a catch 22 position.

Porsche could advise leaving the majority of weeping RMS' until there is a real problem --- in another 30 or 30,000 miles once the leak is significant, but before any crankshaft alignment issues could arise.

But they don't want to prejudice their dealers who sell Porsche to make a profit.

Where is the balance ?

The general public are not even aware of the RMS forum hype, so Porsche leave those who worry to worry, and their dealers to keep taking the cash.

My 2p !

For peace of mind, spend £700 per annum on a Porsche extended warranty (which is very good ... to be fair).

[thong]

you dont need a ramp of any type to get the jist of the 996/boxster RMS prob you've just got to look at someones driveway ??????????,it's cover'd in oil off my husband's trimph 996,guy's this is like a ferrari timming belt thread :-),how you do the smiley's on ph.

[anniesdad]

So....132, how did you get on?

[132]

All,

Thanks so much for your thoughts. Tonight I am collecting a 1998 2.5. The car is Silver with Blue leather and hood. It has 67K on it, but is backed up by a complete history (mostly main dealer), including an extensive service a few months ago. There was certainly no evidence of oik leaks where the car had been parked, and certainly no indication from the last service that there any RMS issues.

A couple of questions: how much does it cost to have the hood window replaced? Where from?

Also, is anyone aware of any cost effective brake upgrades e.g. Boxster S calipers, 996 calipers etc?

You will be hearing from me more regularly!

Thanks again.

[anniesdad]

Great stuff! Enjoy the car...

132 said:

oik leaks

Did you do that on purpose? Mind you wouldn't that be oink leaks?

132 said:

A couple of questions: how much does it cost to have the hood window replaced? Where from?

There was an article in a recent Porsche & 911 World edition regarding replacement rear windows. It might be worth a look on their website for some info.

[BliarOut]

Standard brakes on the Boxster are very good. If they are not, the pads/discs may need replacement as well as the fluid.

Porsche brakes do need a fairly firm press if you are not used to them, but they are very effective when working .

[Stirlings]

Rear Windows
Your local aute trimmer should be able to replace the rear window with no problems
My local chap charges £250
but ok labour is cheaper in cornwall than the thames valley