BOXSTER HAUS Monthly

August 2025

In August, here we feature a selection of Porsche models that have visited our shop, including our own! Three 996.1 (Coupes & Cabriolets) several Boxsters & OG (first series) Cayenne V8

2003 Porsche 986.2 Boxster 2.7 (Engine)
5 Speed, 69.000km. Owner Kieren G

Brief: Post Purchase Inspection and work through what was required.

Kieren, a first-time Porsche owner, is proud of his vehicle, having previously driven an NB MX5 for a decade. Although the Boxster has low mileage, it has been stationary for about two years and requires some repairs. The body and interior are well-preserved. After thoroughly inspecting the 986 a week earlier, we opted to divide the work into two phases. The initial phase involved installing Zimmermann discs and Textar pads, which was urgent because the existing discs were undersized. We also performed a power brake bleed flush, a task often neglected despite its importance. Regular brake fluid flushes are a critical maintenance task, as they help prevent internal corrosion, keep the brake pedal responsive, reduce the risk of high-heat fade, and prolong the lifespan of costly ABS components. The second phase was suspension upgrades.

2004 Porsche 955 Cayenne S 4.5 (Engine)
V8 Auto. 160,000km. Owner Tom S.

Brief: Will not start. Fix!

A complex project. All signs pointed to a faulty fuel pump—one of two—in Cayenne’s fuel system: a primary pump (where the fuel filter is situated) and a secondary pump. This pump activates once the fuel reaches a certain low level. All tests were fine, but there was weak cranking and no spark at the plugs. Long story short: severe wiring harness issues, on the LH sill area and beneath the engine fuse box. Nasty corrosion, especially on the crucial wiring nodes. Service due and brake overhaul.

1999 Porsche 996.1 Cabriolet 3.4 (Engine)
6 Speed, 234,000km. Owner Greg L.

Brief: Major Service, Suspension, Engine Mounts, Brakes, and Coolant Leak.

Gre’g’s first Porsche. Lovely condition. Had a new engine replaced approximately 15k ago. Our brief was extensive (Major service, brakes, suspension, engine mounts and more). Having just fitted the iconic Porsche Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tyres, the morning she arrived. We inspected the car a week prior; our primary concern was the coolant leak. Possible radiator leak; after a pressure test, we discovered a small leak in the hose and junction pipe. No stock (new) in Australia; ultimately, one was found in the US— Expect to complete in week 4.

1998 Porsche 911 (996)
Tiptronic. 80,000 km. Owner Joshua O.

Brief: The Idler Pulley Bolt had broken.

It was a challenging job with limited space. The broken bolt was still in situ. Prayer and patience ruled. The goal was to complete the task without removing the engine. It was a perfect opportunity to replace all pulleys/bolts, the tensioner and auxiliary belt. Great result. A very low-mileage car, another Hong Kong import in fantastic condition. Further work was required, i.e. suspension, brakes and the pesky wheel bearing. All booked for a later time.

2000 Porsche 986.1 Boxster 2.7 (Engine)
5 Speed, 134,000km. Owner Mo M.

Brief: Soft Top mechanism issues. Fix!

Mo has owned his Boxster for 15 years; his previous Porsche was a 997 4S (Dubai). He never regarded the Boxster as a true Porsche until he drove one! The task was simple: get the soft top to operate! The solution was complex. Julian is a master at the intricate work. After testing all sensors and the usual suspects, such as ball joint sockets and motors, the issue appeared to be in one of the transmission gears. The breakage was found in both LH and RH gears. The plastic gears, which are part of a watch-like mechanism, had split.

1998 Porsche 996.1 3.4 (Engine)
6 Speed Coupe 180,000km. Owner: Boxster Haus

Brief: Failing Starter Motor

As is often the case, we are happily working on other Porsches and tend to delay our own! Starter motor issues on 20-25-year-old models like the 996, 997, Boxsters, and Caymans are common, usually because the starter gear fails to disengage. The rattling sound can be quite irritating and sometimes embarrassing! It was time to fix it. Although the starter motor isn't conveniently located, it offers a good chance to clean and lubricate parts that are usually inaccessible. Upon inspection of the starter motor (Once removed), there was an enormous amount of play in the pinion gear, necessitating replacement. However, there was always a possibility that the ring gear on the flywheel was worn. Unfortunately, that proved to be correct. At 180,00km, we will wait until the clutch needs replacing, then replace the flywheel. The irritating noise is still present!