Positioning:
The 996 generation marked a significant shift for the Porsche 911, transitioning to a water-cooled engine, making it a pivotal model in the marque's history. This manual serves owners and technicians of this important transitional period.
Competitors:
Competed against vehicles such as the Ferrari 360 Modena, Aston Martin DB7, Chevrolet Corvette C5, and Dodge Viper.
Major Advancements:
First 911 to feature a water-cooled engine, significantly revised chassis and bodywork, introduction of the Tiptronic automatic transmission option, and advancements in safety and electronics.
Value:
Provides definitive factory-level repair and maintenance information, essential for preserving the integrity and performance of a classic 911.
Powertrain:
Engine (cooling, lubrication, fuel, ignition, emissions), Transmission (manual & automatic), Drivetrain
Chassis:
Suspension (front & rear), Steering, Brakes (ABS, PTV), Wheels & Tires
Body And Interior:
Body structure, panels, doors, windows, seats, trim, climate control
Electrical And Electronics:
Battery, charging, ignition, lighting, instrumentation, comfort systems, safety systems, diagnostic systems, wiring diagrams
Maintenance:
Routine maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, inspection schedules
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting charts, diagnostic codes, component testing, fault finding procedures
Repair:
Component removal and installation, adjustments, specifications, torque values, overhaul procedures
Special Tools:
Identification and usage of Porsche-specific tools
Wiring Schematics:
Detailed electrical circuit diagrams for all systems
Depth:
Factory-level detail suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts
Diagnostic Focus:
Extensive coverage on identifying and resolving complex system faults
Rebuild Procedures:
Detailed instructions for engine, transmission, and major component rebuilds
Engine Type:
Naturally Aspirated Flat-Six (Boxer)
Cooling System:
Water-cooled
Displacement:
3.4L (M96.01/02), later 3.6L (M96.03)
Horsepower:
Approx. 300-320 hp (depending on year and variant)
Torque:
Approx. 258-273 lb-ft (depending on year and variant)
Fuel Delivery:
Sequential Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI) with Bosch Motronic ECU
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 Octane or higher recommended)
Ignition Type:
Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) with coil-on-plug
Maintenance Considerations
Ims Bearing Issue:
The Intermediate Shaft (IMS) bearing is a known potential failure point on some 996 models; manual will detail inspection and replacement procedures.
Standard Transmission:
6-Speed Manual Transaxle
Optional Transmission:
Tiptronic Automatic Transmission (5-speed)
Clutch Type:
Hydraulically actuated single dry plate clutch
Transmission Fluid:
Manual: Typically gear oil (e.g., Pentosin MTF LT-2 or equivalent), Automatic: ATF (e.g., Pentosin ATF1 or equivalent). Specifics in manual.
Length:
Approx. 4430 mm (174.4 in)
Width:
Approx. 1770 mm (69.7 in)
Height:
Approx. 1305 mm (51.4 in)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1320-1400 kg (2910-3086 lbs) depending on configuration
Gvw:
Refer to vehicle identification plate
NHTSA Ratings:
Specific ratings may vary; early models might not have undergone extensive standardized testing compared to later eras. Manual will cover passive safety systems.
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Traction Control:
Porsche Traction Management (PTM) and/or Porsche Stability Management (PSM) available on later models or as options.
Airbags:
Driver and passenger front airbags. Side airbags available as an option on later models.
Rollover Protection:
Integrated rollover protection system behind the seats
Audio System:
Factory options included CD players and premium sound systems (e.g., Bose). Manual will detail system operation and troubleshooting.
Navigation:
Optional GPS navigation systems were available.
Stability Control:
Porsche Stability Management (PSM) became available and standard on later 996 models, enhancing active safety.
Telematics:
Limited by modern standards; early features might include phone integration options.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 10,000-15,000 miles or annually, whichever comes first. Consult manual for exact specifications and oil type.
Major Service Interval:
Intervals for spark plugs, brake fluid, air filters, etc., will be detailed in the manual.
Engine Oil:
High-performance synthetic oil, e.g., Mobil 1 0W-40 or Porsche A40 approved. Manual will specify exact grade and capacity.
Coolant:
Porsche specified engine coolant (typically a glycol-based antifreeze) – capacity will be listed in manual.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 or DOT 5.1 brake fluid recommended. Manual will specify.
Common Wear Items:
Clutch wear, suspension bushings, exhaust system components, ignition coils, mass air flow sensor (MAF).
Specific 996 Concerns:
IMS bearing failure (especially earlier models), rear main seal leaks, cylinder bore scoring (rare but documented). Manual will cover diagnosis and repair.
Brand Legacy:
Porsche has a storied history of building high-performance sports cars, with the 911 being its most iconic and longest-running model.
996 Introduction:
The 996 generation, introduced for the 1998 model year, was a radical departure from the air-cooled 993, representing the most significant redesign of the 911 in its history. It was designed by Harm Lagaay.
Production Period:
1997-2005
Manufacturing Location:
Stuttgart, Germany
