🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Porsche

Model:

Boxster

Year:

1998

Chassis Code:

986

Engine Code:

M96.01

👋 Introduction

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Provides instant, accessible, and easily searchable repair information compared to outdated printed manuals.

📋 Manual Details

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

Language:

English

Format:

Online Software Access (Web Browser)

Subscription Period:

1 Year of access included, with discounts available for additional years.

📖 Manual Coverage

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.

📊 Manual Specifications

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 Specifications

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

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)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

4315 mm (169.9 in)

Width:

1775 mm (69.9 in)

Height:

1289 mm (50.7 in)

Wheelbase:

2415 mm (95.1 in)

Curb Weight Manual:

1320 kg (2910 lbs)

Curb Weight Automatic:

1370 kg (3020 lbs)

Front Trunk Capacity:

141 Liters (5.0 cu ft)

Rear Trunk Capacity:

141 Liters (5.0 cu ft)

🛡️ Safety Features

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.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Original systems typically included Porsche CDR-210 or Blaupunkt CD/radio units. Manual covers basic wiring and component identification.

Stability Control:

PSM (Porsche Stability Management) was an optional system for enhanced stability. Manual details its operation and diagnostics.

Connectivity Features:

Limited connectivity by modern standards. No integrated Bluetooth or USB ports from the factory.

🔧 Maintenance

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.

📚 Vehicle History

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.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Automotive Press Reviews:

Received praise for its handling and mid-engine balance, though early models faced criticism for interior materials and engine bore scoring concerns (which were more prominent in later versions).