Segment:
Mid-engine sports car, convertible roadster.
Competitors:
BMW Z3/Z4, Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class, Chevrolet Corvette (later models), Nissan 300ZX (earlier models), Toyota MR2.
Key Selling Points:
Porsche's renowned handling, distinct styling, mid-engine balance, open-top driving experience, performance heritage.
Design Philosophy:
Lightweight construction, optimized weight distribution, driver-focused cockpit, aerodynamic efficiency.
Manual Value Proposition:
Empowers owners to perform essential maintenance and understand complex repairs, saving money and preserving vehicle integrity. The 'best bang for the buck' for Boxster owners seeking reliable service information.
Years Covered:
1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004
Estimated Page Count:
Extensive (typical for Porsche service manuals)
Type:
Service and Repair Manual
Powertrain:
Engine mechanicals, fuel system, ignition system, cooling system, exhaust system, lubrication system, engine management (DME), transmission (manual and Tiptronic automatic).
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), steering system, brake system (including ABS), wheel and tire specifications.
Electrical:
Complete electrical schematics, lighting, instrumentation, comfort systems, anti-theft systems, power accessories, battery and charging system.
Body:
Exterior body panels, interior trim, convertible top system (operation, maintenance, repair), glass, seals.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, brake pad and rotor service.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures, fault code interpretation, symptom-based troubleshooting for common issues.
Repair:
Step-by-step repair instructions for major components and systems, including engine rebuild, transmission overhaul, suspension component replacement, electrical component diagnosis and repair.
Special Tools:
Identification and usage of Porsche-specific tools required for various service procedures.
Depth:
Comprehensive coverage from basic owner maintenance to advanced engine and transmission rebuilds, including electrical diagnostics and body repair.
Searchability:
Searchable text content for quick information retrieval.
Printability:
Printable pages for on-site reference.
Quality:
High-resolution digital reproduction of original factory documentation.
Type:
Not Applicable (Digital PDF)
Type:
Not Applicable (Digital PDF)
Engine Type:
Flat-six (Boxer) engine.
Displacement And Power:
2.5L (204 hp), 2.7L (225 hp), 3.2L (250 hp, S models).
Horsepower Range:
204 hp to 250 hp (depending on model year and variant).
Torque Range:
217 Nm (2.5L) to 305 Nm (3.2L) (approximate).
Injection:
Electronic Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI).
Type:
Dry-sump lubrication system (integrated oil tank).
Dme System:
Bosch Motronic (e.g., ME 7.8 for later models).
Type:
5-speed Manual Transaxle.
Type:
5-speed Tiptronic Automatic Transaxle.
Clutch:
Hydraulically actuated single dry plate clutch.
Gear Ratios:
Specific ratios detailed in manual for each variant.
Manual Transmission Fluid:
Refer to manual for specific Porsche-approved gear oil (e.g., Mobil Mobilube PTX 75W-90).
Tiptronic Transmission Fluid:
Refer to manual for specific Porsche ATF fluid (e.g., Pentosin ATF 1).
Length:
Approx. 4,315 mm (169.9 in).
Width:
Approx. 1,770 mm (69.7 in).
Height:
Approx. 1,290 mm (50.8 in).
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2,415 mm (95.1 in).
Front Trunk Capacity:
Approx. 130 liters (4.6 cu ft).
Rear Trunk Capacity:
Approx. 150 liters (5.3 cu ft).
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1,350 kg to 1,440 kg (2976 lbs to 3175 lbs).
Crash Test Performance:
Good overall safety performance for its era; specific ratings vary by testing agency and year. Refer to manual for structural details.
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS).
Traction Control:
Optional Traction Control (ASR - Automatic Slip Regulation) on early models, PSM (Porsche Stability Management) on later models.
Airbags:
Driver and passenger airbags, side airbags (optional or standard depending on year/market).
Rollover Protection:
Integral rollover protection system behind the seats.
Head Unit:
Various Porsche CDR (e.g., CDR-220) or Blaupunkt/Becker units, depending on market and options. Manual covers basic operation and connections.
Audio System:
Optional Bose sound system.
Stability Control:
Optional Porsche Stability Management (PSM) available on later models, integrating ABS, ASR, and stability control functions.
Phone Integration:
Optional CD changer, some models may have provision for early mobile phone integration (often requiring specific modules not covered in detail).
Oil Change:
Typically every 10,000 miles or 1 year, whichever comes first. Refer to manual for specific intervals based on driving conditions.
Major Service:
Includes spark plug replacement, coolant flush, brake fluid flush, often around 30,000-60,000 miles or specified time intervals. Consult manual.
Engine Oil:
Refer to manual for specific Porsche A40 or C30 approved synthetic oil (e.g., Mobil 1 0W-40 or 5W-40).
Coolant:
Porsche G48 antifreeze (a blue ethylene glycol-based coolant).
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 brake fluid.
Power Steering Fluid:
Pentosin CHF 11S or equivalent approved hydraulic fluid.
Intermediate Imsa Seal:
Potential IMS (Intermediate Shaft) bearing failure on early models, though less prevalent than on later Boxster generations. Manual provides inspection and replacement procedures.
Rear Main Seal:
Potential rear main seal (RMS) leaks. Manual details diagnosis and replacement.
Coolant Tanks:
Cracking or failure of plastic coolant expansion tanks. Manual covers replacement.
Convertible Top Motors:
Failure of hydraulic motors for the convertible top. Manual includes troubleshooting.
Porsche Legacy:
Built upon Porsche's tradition of sports car engineering, racing success, and distinctive design.
986 Introduction:
Introduced in 1996 (as a 1997 model in some markets), the 986 represented Porsche's first mainstream mid-engine sports car, aimed at a broader market than the 911.
986 Updates:
Key updates include engine size increases (2.5L to 2.7L, and 3.2L for Boxster S), aerodynamic revisions, interior material upgrades, and the introduction of PSM.
Production Period:
1996-2004.
Manufacturing Location:
Valmet Automotive plant in Uusikaupunki, Finland (initially), later shifted to Porsche's plant in Stuttgart, Germany.
Car And Driver 10Best:
Boxster models frequently appeared on Car and Driver's 10Best lists during their production years, recognized for their performance and handling.
Motor Trend Car Of The Year:
While not a primary winner, it was a strong contender and highly regarded in its segment.
Jd Power Ratings:
Generally received strong reliability and performance ratings from JD Power for its segment, though specific year data varies.
