Looking for my first 991S. Not sure to get a 2012 vs a 2013 since the 2012 was the first year the 991's came out are they more prone to reliability issues? Did they make any design changes in the 2013's to correct issues with the 2012's? The 2012's are lower in price so not sure if they are fine or not.

Thanks,
Jon

 

I have a very early build (Jan 2012) "2012.5" 991C2S, purchased new. It had many "campaign" recalls to reset things, replace rubber parts and the like. That went on for a while, to include 2013 cars. Apart from that sort of thing the car has been totally free of defects, including some that were reported in low numbers at high volumes on in various web sites in great detail. Those include stumbling under acceleration, excessive rattles, failing AC, leaks that cause discoloration inside- all of which should be very apparent when you test a car.


Most of the price variance is due to mileage and condition. So, I check records in detail to understand the service history, needs for costly service items (brake components, tires, filters, AC), and overall stuff like mileage, condition body/paint, wheels, adequacy of repairs and the like. Service histories should be available to you from the owner (a good sign) or from Porsche dealers (in the national database if the car was serviced at a dealership).


Beyond that carefully consider what options are on the cars (and how much you really care about them). Options like Sport Chrono, PDK, PSE, leather interior, sunroof, paint choice, sound system etc., pushed prices up astoundingly.

 

Thanks. So based on this I'm leaning to just getting a 2013 which should have been updated with all the campaigns. I just know buying the first year a new design comes out is a bad idea in general but I'm trying to just assess the risk of the 2012's versus a 2013 for reliability and issues.

 

I bought a late 2012 (built in May 2013) and have had only two forced warranty problems:
1. Radiator overflow valve- replaced and no further problems. Soon after purchase
2. Engine compartment gas shocks. Just before warranty expiration- replaced

I have had no problems that were not covered by warranty or campaign.

I would check with your Porsche dealer to ensure they are willing to accomplish all recalls for a non-original owner.

I would also check on the door panels to ensure their integrity.

ChuckJ

 

I just sold my 2012.5 991 S and picked up a 2013 991 S.

Had my 2012.5 for over two years. I had two problems with the change over valves (PSE and the heater) and one of the engine fans quit. All fixed under warranty. The last year that I had the car, there were no problems at all. I wouldn't hesitate on getting a used 2012.5 at all as long as it had been properly maintained and a PPI checked out. Mine was a great car.

I loved my 2012.5 - the only reason I traded it on a 2013 was that this particular 2013 was pretty special (the most insanely optioned 2013 C2S I have ever seen).