🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Porsche

Model:

Boxster

Generation:

987

Model Years:

2005, 2006, 2007, 2008

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The Porsche Boxster (987) represents a premium mid-engine sports car offering exceptional driving dynamics, precise handling, and a distinctive Porsche driving experience. Positioned as an accessible entry into the Porsche brand, it competes with vehicles like the BMW Z4, Mercedes-Benz SLK, and Chevrolet Corvette.

Competitive Analysis:

The 987 generation of the Boxster distinguished itself with improved styling, a refined interior, and enhanced performance over its predecessor. Its mid-engine layout provides superior weight distribution and agility, a key differentiator against front-engine rivals. This manual provides the necessary technical depth to maintain and repair this sophisticated German sports car.

Key Features:

Renowned Porsche handling, engaging driving experience, high-quality interior appointments, powerful flat-six engines, and iconic styling. This manual is essential for any owner or technician looking to preserve its performance and longevity.

📋 Manual Details

Systems Covered:

Engine Mechanical, Engine Management, Fuel System, Cooling System, Exhaust System, Drivetrain, Transmission (Manual & Tiptronic), Clutch, Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering System, Brakes (ABS/PSM), Body & Chassis, Electrical System, Climate Control, Interior, Exterior Lighting, Safety Restraints (Airbags/Seatbelts), Diagnostic Procedures, Troubleshooting.

Estimated Pages:

2000+

Manual Type:

Factory Service Manual / Workshop Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Detailed breakdown and assembly procedures for the M96.25 (2.7L) and M97.01 (3.2L/3.4L) flat-six engines, including cylinder head removal/installation, camshaft timing, piston and connecting rod installation, crankshaft and bearing service, oil pump, oil cooler, and lubrication system.

Engine Management:

Diagnosis and repair of DME (Digital Motor Electronics) control unit, ignition system, fuel injection system (including direct injection for later models), throttle body control, emissions control systems (EVAP, secondary air injection), crankshaft and camshaft position sensors, MAF/MAP sensors, O2 sensors.

Fuel System:

Fuel pump and sender unit replacement, fuel filter service, fuel pressure regulation, fuel injector testing and replacement, fuel tank service.

Cooling System:

Radiator and fan replacement, water pump service, thermostat replacement, coolant flush and fill procedures, leak detection, pressure testing.

Drivetrain:

Rear-wheel drive system servicing, differential inspection and fluid change, axle shaft and CV joint inspection and replacement.

Transmission:

Manual transmission (G86) clutch inspection, replacement, and bleeding. Tiptronic (PDK precursor) transmission troubleshooting, fluid and filter changes, shift control system diagnosis.

Suspension:

Front and rear strut and shock absorber replacement, control arm bushings, ball joint service, anti-roll bar links, wheel bearing replacement, alignment specifications.

Steering System:

Power steering pump and rack diagnosis and repair, tie rod end replacement, steering column adjustment.

Brakes:

Brake pad and rotor replacement (front and rear), brake caliper service, brake fluid flush and bleed, ABS/PSM (Porsche Stability Management) system diagnosis, sensor testing, hydraulic unit troubleshooting.

Body Chassis:

Body panel removal and installation, door, hood, and trunk latch mechanisms, convertible top operation and service, chassis component inspection, rust prevention.

Electrical System:

Comprehensive wiring diagrams, fuse and relay identification, battery and charging system testing, starter motor and alternator service, lighting system repair, horn, wipers, power windows, power locks, and seat adjustment systems.

Climate Control:

HVAC system diagnosis, refrigerant handling, blower motor and evaporator core replacement, climate control unit troubleshooting.

Safety Restraints:

Airbag system diagnosis and component replacement, seatbelt operation and replacement, SRS control module.

Maintenance:

Oil and filter changes (engine and transmission), air filter replacement, cabin air filter replacement, spark plug replacement, brake fluid replacement, coolant replacement, drive belt inspection and replacement, battery maintenance.

Diagnostics:

OBD-II diagnostic trouble code (DTC) interpretation, live data stream analysis, component-level testing using diagnostic tools, troubleshooting flowcharts for common and uncommon faults.

Repair:

Step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, and calibration for virtually all vehicle systems. Includes detailed torque specifications for fasteners.

Troubleshooting:

Systematic approach to diagnosing issues, including symptom-based troubleshooting, common failure modes, and specific diagnostic tests.

Technical Depth:

Comprehensive, from basic scheduled maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls. Covers factory diagnostic procedures and specifications.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF

Print Quality:

High-resolution scans, clear text, and legible diagrams suitable for printing.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Options:

Boxster (2.7L Flat-6), Boxster S (3.2L Flat-6, later 3.4L Flat-6)

2005-2006 Boxster (2.7L):

Horsepower: 245 hp @ 6500 rpm, Torque: 270 Nm (199 lb-ft) @ 4700 rpm

2005-2006 Boxster S (3.2L):

Horsepower: 280 hp @ 6200 rpm, Torque: 340 Nm (251 lb-ft) @ 4700 rpm

2007-2008 Boxster (2.7L):

Horsepower: 245 hp @ 6500 rpm, Torque: 270 Nm (199 lb-ft) @ 4700 rpm

2007-2008 Boxster S (3.4L):

Horsepower: 295 hp @ 6250 rpm, Torque: 340 Nm (251 lb-ft) @ 4700 rpm

Fuel Type:

Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 Octane or higher recommended)

Fuel Delivery:

Sequential multi-port fuel injection (MPI) for earlier models, direct fuel injection (DFI) introduced for later models in this range.

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

6-Speed Manual Transmission (G86)

Optional Transmission:

5-Speed Tiptronic Automatic Transmission (Type 269)

Manual Gear Ratios:

Refer to manual for specific ratios per gear and final drive.

Tiptronic Features:

Paddle shifters on steering wheel or gear selector, automatic shifting modes, sport mode programming.

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 4375 mm (172.2 in)

Width:

Approx. 1771 mm (69.7 in)

Height:

Approx. 1290 mm (50.8 in)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 2415 mm (95.1 in)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 1350 - 1450 kg (2976 - 3197 lbs) depending on model and options.

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Rating:

Not directly rated by NHTSA for this specific generation, but generally considered very safe for its class.

Active Safety Features:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Porsche Stability Management (PSM), Traction Control (TC).

Passive Safety Features:

Driver and passenger front airbags, side airbags integrated into seats, rollover protection system (integrated into A-pillars and behind headrests), three-point inertia-reel seatbelts with pretensioners and belt force limiters, energy-absorbing interior materials.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Porsche Communication Management (PCM) with options for navigation, CD player, radio, and optional Bose or Bose High-End Sound System. Aux input available.

Driver Assistance Features:

Parking sensors (front and rear), cruise control, PSM system. Optional Xenon headlights, automatic climate control.

Connectivity Options:

Bluetooth connectivity for hands-free calling and audio streaming available on later PCM versions. CD changer option.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 15,000 km (9,000 miles) or 1 year, whichever comes first. Refer to the manual for specific model year recommendations.

Brake Fluid Flush:

Every 2 years, regardless of mileage.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Around 60,000 miles (96,000 km) for standard plugs, or 90,000-120,000 miles (145,000-193,000 km) for iridium plugs, depending on engine type. Consult the manual.

Drive Belt Inspection:

Inspect annually or every 15,000 miles. Replacement as needed.

Engine Oil Spec:

Porsche A40 or approved synthetic oils (e.g., Mobil 1 0W-40, 5W-40, or 5W-50, depending on climate and specific engine variant). Refer to manual for exact Porsche part numbers and viscosity recommendations.

Coolant Spec:

Porsche Premium Coolant (G48) or equivalent, mixed 50/50 with distilled water.

Brake Fluid Spec:

DOT 4 (or DOT 5.1 if specified for track use)

Transmission Fluid Manual:

Refer to manual for specific gear oil specifications (e.g., API GL-4 or GL-5, specific viscosity).

Transmission Fluid Tiptronic:

Porsche ATF (Automatic Transmission Fluid) or approved equivalent. Specific P/N required, consult manual.

Common Issues:

IMS (Intermediate Shaft) bearing failures (less prevalent in 987 vs 986 but still a consideration for early models), bore scoring in some early M97 engines, clutch release bearing issues, water pump leaks, convertible top hydraulic leaks, plastic coolant pipe failures (especially at the rear crossover).

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Porsche has a storied history in motorsport and sports car manufacturing, known for innovation, performance, and precision engineering. The Boxster lineage draws from this heritage, offering a pure driving experience.

Model Evolution:

The 987 generation, introduced for the 2005 model year, was a significant evolution from the 986. It featured updated styling, a significantly revised interior, and more powerful engines. The introduction of direct fuel injection (DFI) in the updated 3.4L engine for the Boxster S in 2007 further enhanced performance and efficiency. This period represents a refinement of the Boxster concept.

Production Period:

2004-2012 (987 generation)

Manufacturing Location:

Valmet Automotive plant in Uusikaupunki, Finland.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Automotive Awards:

While specific awards for the 2005-2008 models vary, the Boxster series consistently receives accolades for handling, design, and driving dynamics from automotive publications like Car and Driver, Road & Track, and MotorTrend over its production run.

Owner Satisfaction:

Generally high owner satisfaction for driving experience and build quality, with common automotive concerns around maintenance costs and specific known issues as detailed in the manual.