Hi everyone,
have a couple questions:

- what is a good price for 2003, 89k miles, new clutch / brakes?
- what are common problems associated with these vehicles? I checked in the knowledge base thread and couldn't find it immediately
- what are good options for baby seats? (upgrading from Lotus Elise due to upcoming firstborn!)
- other items of note in ownership

Thanks in advance and looking to gain some knowledge!

 

Considering the higher than average miles on a 2003 model, you're probably going to be able to get a good deal if it's the right car for you. I'd think lower $40k range unless it has extremely desirable options. On a car like that, a PPI is going to be a really good investment, so definitely be prepared to spend a few bucks on that. Is it a rare color or well modified? I assume there is something about it that is drawing you in, relative to other lower mileage cars.

Regarding your other questions, some common issues include the rear spoiler hydraulics and the second gear pop-out issue on 6MT models, but you can search around and easily find a more exhaustive list here on the forum. I have no knowledge about baby seats relative to the car so cannot help you out specifically there.

Take your time and find the right car for you, and I think you'll be really happy with the car overall, despite coming from a little go-kart Lotus!

 

The allure is really price: $34k from a Porsche dealer, so I'm assuming I can target $32k, which is a steal based on other cars for sale.
I will definitely have a PPI completed, along with oil leak and compression tests - should I use a different dealer to prevent bias?
Thanks for the note about the spoiler motor / 2nd gear. Normally there is a specific thread for "common issues" - is there one here?
Looking forward to the new car!

 

Wow, that's really a terrific price indeed if the car checks out. I'd highly recommend using a different dealer for the PPI, for what I assume are obvious reasons. Does it have options like the X50 package or sport seats? Irrelevant at the price point you're talking about, but that would indicate an even more desirable car.

Search for stuff like 'rear spoiler failure' or 'second gear pop out' and I bet you come across relevant threads in a hurry, as there are a lot of them on this board. Best wishes to you!

 

Absolutely use a different dealer or an good indie for the PPI.

 

Just test drove the vehicle, no pop out and all motors / switches work.
- The only problem is a white deposit on the tailpipes after driving in the wet today - is this an indication of any issues?
- When is the boost supposed to come on? I noticed it doesn't come on until after ~3500 rpm

The dealer has serviced the vehicle since 2006 / 35k miles, and provided me with a VERY comprehensive history. Vehicle is at 89,500 miles. I heard there is a 90k service - what does this consist of?

Already completed:
- clutch / pressure plate / throw out bearing @ 85k
- tires / brakes / rotors / sensors @ 84k
- O2 sensor @ 81k
- left side oil tank replaced due to oil leak @ 79k
- power steering pump / turbo oil tank cracked & replaced @ 76k
- fuel gauge @ 76k
- blower motor replaced @ 70k
- ignition switch @ 62k

 

OK, so let me add to your confusion.... Forget the acquisition cost for a moment. You will need to make a decision. You either go for a bone stock car OR you go for a well modded car. So the decision for you to make right now is... do you plan to "add" stuff to it or not. If the answer is yes... you need to start figuring out what the mods are you are looking for and hunt for a car that has all that stuff already done by a trustworthy and capable tuner. You will save a bunch of money and headaches and your back account will be very happy with you AND you will have a car that drives good from the get go. Look at the pricing for the car, get the youngest - 2002 or later if you are thinking of a 996T - fewest miles and owners and good / complete maintenance records. If possible, buy a car that has never seen the snow or the rain. The other track, buying a stock car without any (except fancy wheels and an exhaust perhaps) items added or deleted might be less challenging in view of what to look for, but more challenging to find... For once, look for a nice internal / external color combination that YOU like. Porsches are notorously bland in color. There are only a few bright colored animals out there and they require a premium. Oh and one more thing... You are talking about a child seat?... Make sure your car has 18 inch rims. The ride with 19 inch is pretty hard to say the least. Good luck!!

 

sometimes the coolant cap ( cheap ) leaks. also the coolant reservoirs have been known to yellow and sometimes get hairline cracks, creating slow leaks and requiring replacement ( not as cheap ). also leaving a whiteish dried coolant residue near the tailpipes.

the 90k service has fairly comprehensive checklist and includes changing plugs, checking belts etc etc.

i keep this around like a screen saver great cars. good luck.

Major maintenance after: 30,000, 60,000, 90,000, 120,000 miles etc. (48,000, 96,000, 144,000, 192,000 km etc.)
-Diagnosis system: Read out fault memory
-Polyrib belt: Check condition
-Change the engine oil and oil filter
-Replace the spark plugs
-Vehicle underside and engine compartment: Visual inspection for leaks (oils and fluids) and abrasion (lines and hoses)
-Underbody panels: visual inspection for completeness, installation and damage
-Coolant hoses: Check condition;
-Radiators and air inlets at front: Visual inspection for external contamination and blockage;
-Coolant: Check the level and antifreeze protection
-Air cleaner: Replace the filter element
-Particle filter: Replace the filter element
-Fuel system: Visual inspection for damage, routing and secure fit of line connections
-Power steering: Check the fluid level and bellows
-Parking brake: Checking the free play of the parking brake lever
-Brake system: Visual inspection of the brake pads and brake discs for wear
-Brake hoses and lines: Visual inspection for damage, routing and corrosion. Checking the brake fluid level
-Clutch: Check the play and pedal end position
-Throttle actuation: Check smooth operation, check the full throttle position with the Tester
-Steering gear: Visually inspect the bellows for damage
-Tie rod joints: Check the play and dust bellows
-Axle joints: Check play, visual inspection of dust bellows for damage, check screw connections of running gear adjustment facility, front and rear, for secure fit
-Drive shafts: Perform a visual inspection of the boots for leaks and damage
-Exhaust system: Visual inspection for leaks and damage, check suspension
-Tires and spare wheel (collapsible wheel): Check the condition and the tire pressure
-Check the door locks, lid locks and safety hooks of the front lid to ensure that they are secure and functioning properly:
-Check lid lock, front and rear; Check safety hook, front lid; Function test, check door lock; Check door and lid tightening torques
-Seat belts: Check function and condition
-Vehicle lighting: Check function; All headlights: Check adjustment; Horn: Check operation.
-Windscreen wiper/washer system, headlight washer: Check fluid level and nozzle settings, pay attention to antifreeze protection in the winter months. -Electrical equipment as well as warning and indicator lights: Check operation.
-Test drive:
-Remote control, front seats, foot and parking brakes (also actuation travel), engine, clutch, steering, transmission, ParkAssist, automatic speed control, TC/PSM switch, heating, air-conditioning system and instruments: Check operation.
-Oils, fluids: Visual inspection for leaks