Hi guys.

A friend of mine just recently bought a 2001 996 C2 with 56K miles on the clock after previously owning a 986, which was tragically totaled after being rear ended by some young girl texting while driving, I think. He sent me a couple questions that I thought I'd send out to the 996 audience here to see if it's normal or not.

At 35 MPH indicated, he says he hears a whine coming from the rear of the car. The whine is audible from 35 - 55 and then goes away after 55. There is no vibration that he can detect. A forum search came up with "possibly time to change the gear oil." The question is whether this is a normal noise on the 996 C2 or not.

The second question was related to tire wear, but I don't have enough info to pose it here.

Thanks in advance.

 

These cars are well known for gearbox whine. Is he sure it's not just that?

Tire wear I'm guessing is probably related to the inner edge wearing faster than the outer edge, which is perfectly normal. This is due to the performance alignment the cars have and is common to all 911 models. If you change the alignment so the tires wear evenly you decrease the handling abilities.

 

Agree strongly with above poster Teflon but would add it could also be a rear wheel bearing and the sound being left behind at a faster speed. My best guess is check the inside edge of the rear tires.

 

I would also say gear box whine. On tire wear, yes the inner edge will in fact wear, you normally will go through 2 sets of rears for every 1 of fronts. Now, that being said, Porsche recommends 2* toe out, if you go to a neutral toe you'll get better wear, but..your car will lose some handeling ability, but if you're just street driving, even spiritedly, you should be ok.

 

Thanks guys. I passed along the consensus of your opinions. I've also suggested that he join this great site in case he has more Q's.

Enjoy your rides!

JB

 

He should also join the PCA and go to some local events.

 

Thanks guys! JB was taking his time to help me out and i highly appreciate it. The car is actually a Carrera 4 - not sure that makes any difference to the question. I think it is very possible I am being hyper-sensitive. I am a PCA member - joined when I bought my first one. Once weather dries up a bit I will unbox her and see what I can find out on the road.

Does anyone have a spare owner's manual by any chance? A few of my questions would be easily answered there. Also, isn't there a Porsche site with the tech manuals online?

Thanks again - big thanks to JB. Happy holidays!

 

I have a copy of the manual in PDF format, I can send it to you if you like.

 

Yes - most definitely. What do you need from me?

 

Shoot me a PM with your e-mail address, it will be safe with me I assure you. I also have a link to DYI manuals.

 

I haven't been on the forum long enough to pm. So I will use a spare address - jacff2009 at gmail dot com

And again, many thanks! - Joe

 

Check you mail Let me know if you don't get it.

Jim

 

I had a VERY similar issue with my 996 when i first bought it. Put on some brand new Michelin Pilot Super Sports and its now quite and all the odd road noises went away.

 

my guess is that it is tire noise. check the edges for wear differences and what they call "feathering".

 

Inside of rears are worn but smooth - I see or feel no feathering or cupping. Front tires are pretty new and look fine. We are driving it as much as weather allows and will take it in for 60k service in a few weeks and have them check it but dealer says pretty much same as you guys.

I have been on some other lists but this has to be the best one. You guys are great!

Thanks. --Joe