Positioning:
The 1998 Porsche Boxster was Porsche's entry into the affordable mid-engine sports car segment, designed to broaden the brand's appeal.
Competitors:
Competed against sports cars like the Chevrolet Corvette C5, Nissan 300ZX, Toyota Supra, and BMW Z3.
Powertrain Layout:
Mid-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout for optimal weight distribution and handling.
Design Philosophy:
Emphasized the classic Porsche driving experience, focusing on chassis dynamics and driver feedback.
Convenience:
Provides instant, accessible, and easily searchable repair information compared to outdated printed manuals.
Primary Coverage:
Service, Repair, Maintenance, Diagnostics
Estimated Pages:
Extensive (Digital content, not a fixed page count)
Type:
Official Factory-Derived Service and Repair Manual Software
Format:
Online Software Access (Web Browser)
Subscription Period:
1 Year of access included, with discounts available for additional years.
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, Engine management, Fuel system, Ignition system, Cooling system, Lubrication system, Exhaust system, Drivetrain (clutch, transmission, axles)
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), Steering, Brakes (hydraulic, ABS), Wheels and Tires
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, Lighting, Instrumentation, Power distribution, Starting and Charging system, Body electrical (doors, windows, seats), Climate control electrical
Body And Interior:
Body panels, Doors, Hood, Trunk, Interior trim, Seats, Convertible top system
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, Filter replacements, Fluid checks and top-offs, Spark plug replacement, Belt inspection and replacement
Repair And Rebuild:
Engine disassembly and reassembly, Transmission overhaul, Brake caliper and rotor replacement, Suspension component replacement, Steering rack repair
Diagnostics And Troubleshooting:
Fault code interpretation, Component testing, Symptom-based troubleshooting, Electrical system diagnostics
Special Tools And Procedures:
Identification and usage of specialized Porsche tools for various repair tasks
Depth:
Comprehensive, from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed wiring schematics and diagnostic procedures.
OBD Ii Support:
Covers diagnosis and troubleshooting using OBD-II standards and Porsche-specific diagnostic protocols. Manual will likely detail necessary scan tools.
Access Method:
Web-based access via internet browser
Scalability:
High resolution digital content, scalable for clear viewing on any device
Binding:
N/A (Digital Format)
Paper Type:
N/A (Digital Format)
Device Compatibility:
Compatible with any PC, laptop, smartphone, or tablet with an internet connection and web browser.
Engine Type:
Naturally Aspirated Flat-Six (Boxer Engine)
Displacement:
2.5 Liters (2480 cc)
Bore X Stroke:
93.0 mm x 78.5 mm
Compression Ratio:
11.0:1
Horsepower:
201 hp @ 6000 rpm
Torque:
216 Nm (159 lb-ft) @ 4500 rpm
Injection Type:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (Bosch Motronic M5.2.2)
Fuel Requirement:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 Octane or higher recommended)
Oil Capacity With Filter:
8.5 Liters (9.0 US Quarts)
Recommended Oil Viscosity:
SAE 0W-40 or 5W-40 (API SJ/SL)
Transmission Type:
5-Speed Manual Transaxle
Transmission Type:
Tiptronic 5-Speed Automatic Transaxle
Manual Gear Ratios:
Specific gear ratios are detailed within the manual for each gear and reverse.
Automatic Features:
Tiptronic system allows manual gear selection via steering wheel buttons or gear lever.
Manual Transmission Fluid:
Porsche Spec (e.g., Pentosin ATF 9000 or equivalent GL-4/GL-5 rated gear oil for manual gearbox, check specific manual section for precise fill)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Dexron III / Mercon compatible fluid (specific Porsche spec fluid recommended)
NHTSA Rating:
Information not readily available for this model year's specific NHTSA ratings in a standardized format.
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Traction Control:
Optional Porsche Stability Management (PSM) available on some models.
Airbags:
Driver and Passenger front airbags.
Roll Over Protection:
Integrated roll-over protection bars behind the headrests.
Seatbelts:
Three-point inertia-reel seatbelts with pre-tensioners.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 10,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first. Specific interval depends on driving conditions.
Major Service Interval:
Includes spark plug replacement, air filter, cabin filter, and drive belt checks/replacement around 30,000-40,000 miles.
Brake Fluid Flush:
Every 2 years regardless of mileage.
Coolant Type:
Porsche Approved Antifreeze/Coolant (e.g., G05)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 High-Temperature Brake Fluid
Intermediate Shaft Bearing:
While the 2.5L engine in the '98 Boxster is less susceptible than later models, IMS bearing failure is a known concern for the M96 engine family. Manual provides inspection and replacement procedures.
Rear Main Seal Leak:
Potential leaks from the rear main seal, often discovered during clutch service. Manual details inspection and replacement.
Oil Separator System:
Cracked or malfunctioning oil separator can lead to oil consumption and blue smoke. Manual covers diagnosis and replacement.
Water Pump:
Water pump failure can occur, leading to coolant leaks. Manual provides replacement instructions.
Convertible Top Mechanism:
Hydraulic or mechanical issues with the convertible top can arise. Manual details troubleshooting and repair.
Heritage:
Porsche has a long-standing reputation for producing high-performance sports cars with exceptional driving dynamics.
Introduction:
The Boxster (986) was introduced for the 1997 model year in Europe and 1998 in North America, marking Porsche's first foray into the entry-level roadster market.
Design Influence:
The design was heavily influenced by the classic Porsche 550 Spyder.
Manufacturing Location:
Initially produced in Stuttgart, Germany, and later at a Valmet Automotive plant in Uusikaupunki, Finland.