Vehicle Segment:
Mid-engine two-seater sports car.
Brand Philosophy:
Porsche's commitment to driving dynamics, performance, and luxury automotive engineering.
Key Competitors:
Chevrolet Corvette, BMW Z4, Mercedes-Benz SLK, Audi TT Roadster.
Vehicle Appeal:
Mid-engine layout for optimal weight distribution and handling, convertible experience, Porsche brand prestige.
Manual Value Proposition:
Provides OEM-level technical information for accurate and efficient servicing and repair, essential for maintaining the performance and longevity of a high-performance Porsche.
Primary Coverage:
Workshop Service and Repair
Target Audience:
Dealership Technicians, Professional Mechanics, Advanced DIY Enthusiasts
Estimated Page Count:
Extensive (Specific count not provided, but described as 'all you need to know' and 'full dealer workshop manual')
Type:
Factory Workshop Manual (OEM)
Distinction From Aftermarket:
Not a Haynes, Clymer, or Bentley manual; equivalent to dealer-issued documentation.
Engine:
Detailed diagnostics, repair, overhaul, specifications, cooling system, lubrication system, fuel system, ignition system, emissions control.
Transmission:
Manual and Automatic transmission repair, servicing, diagnostics, fluid specifications, control systems.
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), steering system (including power steering), wheel bearings, hub assemblies.
Brakes:
Hydraulic system, ABS, traction control, brake pad replacement, rotor servicing, caliper repair, bleeding procedures.
Electrical:
Complete wiring diagrams, component testing, diagnostic procedures, starter, alternator, battery, lighting systems, comfort systems, infotainment.
Bodywork:
Exterior panels, doors, hood, trunk, convertible top mechanism, interior trim, body sealing.
HVAC:
Climate control system diagnosis, repair, refrigerant handling, component replacement.
Safety Systems:
Airbag system diagnosis and replacement, seatbelt mechanisms.
Preventative Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, fluid checks and changes, belt inspections.
Troubleshooting:
Extensive diagnostic charts, fault code interpretation, symptom-based troubleshooting guides.
Repair And Rebuild:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, overhaul, and adjustment.
Special Tools:
Identification and usage of Porsche-specific tools required for various procedures.
Torque Specifications:
Precise torque values for all critical fasteners.
Depth:
Comprehensive from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including advanced electrical diagnostics.
Readability:
Crisp and clear pages, easily readable.
Searchability:
Likely searchable text within PDF for efficient information retrieval (standard for professional PDFs).
Print Clarity:
High quality, designed for clarity.
Binding:
Digital Format (PDF)
Paper Quality:
Not applicable for PDF format, but implies original print quality was high.
Engine Family:
M97 (Flat-6 / Boxer)
Displacement Base:
3.2 Liters (approx. 3174 cc) for Boxster, 3.4 Liters (approx. 3387 cc) for Boxster S
Bore X Stroke Base:
93.0 mm x 77.5 mm (3.2L), 93.0 mm x 82.7 mm (3.4L)
Compression Ratio Base:
11.1:1
Engine Code Base:
M97.20 (3.2L), M97.21 (3.4L)
Horsepower Base:
245 hp @ 6200 rpm (3.2L), 280 hp @ 6200 rpm (3.4L)
Torque Base:
236 lb-ft @ 4700 rpm (3.2L), 236 lb-ft @ 4700 rpm (3.4L) - Note: Torque curve is broad.
Fuel Delivery:
Sequential Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 Octane or higher recommended)
ECU Type:
Bosch Motronic (specific variant for 987.1)
Length:
Approx. 4375 mm (172.2 in)
Width:
Approx. 1775 mm (69.9 in)
Height:
Approx. 1295 mm (51.0 in)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2280 mm (89.8 in)
Curb Weight Base:
Approx. 1340 kg (2954 lbs) for Manual Transmission
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Specific rating varies by configuration, consult vehicle VIN plate.
Front Trunk Volume:
Approx. 130 liters (4.6 cu ft)
Rear Trunk Volume:
Approx. 240 liters (8.5 cu ft)
NHTSA Front Impact:
Generally good ratings for the era, specific 5-star ratings likely for frontal impact (verify specific year/testing data).
IIHS Side Impact:
Generally good ratings for the era, specific 'Good' ratings likely for side impact (verify specific year/testing data).
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System
Traction Control:
Standard Traction Control System (Porsche Stability Management - PSM)
Stability Control:
Standard Porsche Stability Management (PSM) which integrates ABS, ASR, and MSR.
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags, side airbags (possibly integrated into seats).
Rollover Protection:
Integral roll-over protection bars behind the headrests.
Seatbelts:
Three-point inertia-reel seat belts with pretensioners and belt force limiters.
Infotainment System:
PCM (Porsche Communication Management) with optional navigation, CD player, and Bose audio system.
Driver Assistance Features:
Primary focus on driving dynamics rather than extensive electronic driver aids found in modern vehicles. Features like PSM are key.
Connectivity Options:
Optional Bluetooth connectivity for phone calls, optional SiriusXM satellite radio.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically 10,000 miles or 1 year, whichever comes first. Long-life synthetic oil is mandatory.
Major Service Interval:
Spark plugs and drive belt replacement typically recommended around 60,000 miles or 4 years. Check manual for specifics.
Engine Oil Type:
Fully synthetic, SAE 0W-40 or 5W-40 meeting Porsche A40 specification (e.g., Mobil 1 0W-40 or equivalent).
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 8.2 - 8.7 liters (8.7 - 9.2 US quarts), depending on engine variant. Always check dipstick.
Coolant Type:
Porsche approved G48 (or equivalent blue ethylene glycol based coolant) with distilled water. Never use tap water.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 Plus or DOT 5.1 (ensure compliance with Porsche specifications).
Transmission Fluid Type Manual:
Specific synthetic gear oil meeting Porsche specifications (e.g., Pentosin Gear Oil G50).
Transmission Fluid Type Automatic:
Specific ATF meeting Porsche specifications (e.g., Pentosin ATF T-IV or equivalent for Tiptronic).
Intermediate Shaft Bearing:
While the 987 generation generally improved upon the 986's IMS issues, it is not entirely immune. Some early models with specific serial number ranges may still be susceptible. This manual would detail inspection and repair if applicable.
Oil Pressure Issues:
Potential for oil pressure related issues, particularly related to the dry-sump lubrication system. The manual would cover diagnostics for this.
Convertible Top Mechanism:
The hydraulic system and cables for the convertible top can require adjustment or repair over time. The manual provides detailed procedures for this.
Rear Main Seal:
A common potential leak point, especially as the vehicle ages. This manual would detail replacement procedures.
Porsche Legacy:
Long history of building iconic sports cars with a focus on performance and driver engagement since the 1940s.
Boxster Origin:
Introduced in 1996 as Porsche's entry-level roadster, designed to broaden the brand's appeal and compete in the growing sports car market. The 987 generation represents the second iteration of the Boxster.
Manufacturing Location:
Finland (Valmet Automotive plant) for the 987 generation.
Production Years 987:
2004-2012 (with the 2005-2008 models being the initial 987.1 iteration).
Car And Driver 10Best:
The Boxster (including the 987 generation) has frequently been recognized on Car and Driver's 10Best list for its exceptional handling and driving dynamics.
Automotive Journalism Accolades:
Consistently praised by automotive critics for its superb chassis balance, steering feel, and overall sports car character.
