So I'm looking at buying my first pcar and I've been looking at a used C4s, thinking 2002-2004. I know about the RMS issue, but many have told me that it's blown out of proportion. I just have a few questions (sorry if this is noobish)

1) Other than the RMS issue, what should I look for when checking out various cars?
2) Some 2002s I've looked at, well their warranties are out next year. What are your thoughts on a really clean, low-mileage creampuff that doesn't have a lot of warranty time left on it?
3) How concerned should I really be about the RMS issue?


thanks.
-Bryan

 

There might be a stunningly gorgeous '04 C4S Cab for sale in your future.

 

at least u dont have to buy bumperplugs anymore

 

 

Not too shabby, but thinking of a coupe...

Any input guys??

 

I bought my C4S a month ago and I can tell you, you will not regret the purchase. The car is amazing.

I went the CPO route though, and I have factory warranty left as well. Its a nice piece of mind.

However if you get a 2002 with a tad of factory warranty left just make sure and take it and have them take a look at it before the warranty runs out.

 

Thanks...

You guys know the major differences between 2001-2005 regarding the C4s?

(sorry for all the newb questions)

 

Hey Eric, didn't you just buy that one. What are you getting now?

 

As a RMS victim myself, its not the end of the world, nor should it deter you from buying a P-car. Like most members have said time and time again...the engine is bulletproof. My cousin who bought a CPO 02 cab @ same time as my '00 in June, he's getting his RMS taken care of under warranty. Im out $1400, but again, no regrets...luv the Pcar!

 

i think C4S started in 2002. i also don't think there is any changes up to 2005.

i bought my 02 from a private seller. but for assurance, a dealer bought the car, inspected it, and certified it. i did have to pay almost 3500 for the process. but i felt much better buying it from a dealer and with more warranty, also got a better lease rate from porsche.

my original 4 year warranty ends next march. i was able to get few things taken car of. afterall, the extended one is not the same. for example, rattles is definitely not covered. i also got my exhaust tips replaced due to few peeled spots.

it is an awesome car. you will love it.

 

Corey:

Ordered it January '04 (after seeing all the 997 spy shots and hating it). Got it May '04. 8k miles, absolutely showroom perfect.

I love the car.

Got a call the other day about a TTS Cab, Guards. Not yet ready to make that jump, but considering if the money works out. It's got a few miles on it, so we'll see how much they want to sell it.

With the 997 TT around the corner, and winter approaching, it would have to be an irresistible offer. Especially since the C4S Cab is just about everything I'd want in a car.

 

You should definitely have a PPI (Pre-Purchase Inspection) done by a Porsche dealer if buying the car from anybody other than a dealer. If you're buying from a dealer, and the car isn't CPO (and maybe even if it is) then you should ask them to take car to another Porsche dealer to do a PPI. It'll only cost you $200 and it can save you thousands and a lot of possible headaches in he future! Also, make sure to ask the dealer for a full dealer warranty and service history. They can do this based on the VIN.
See above. If the PPI is clean, and the warranty and service history check out ok, then you should be fine. These are very reliable cars.
If the car has a history of RMS issues, stay away from it since they can reoccur. In general, if the car hasn't had any RMS issues by 35-40K miles, it probably won't have any. My C4 got its first (and only) RMS leak at 32,500 miles and that's one of the higher mileage ones I've heard of for a first time.
The C4S started in 2002 and there were no changes between then and when it ceased production for the 2005 model year.

 

All 996 had a change in 2003 and up to MOST, with PCMII vs PCMI.

So if you are looking at a 2002 with Nav vs a 2003 with Nav get the 2003. If you are looking for a car and want to put a new stereo system in get an 02 it's easier and no fiber optic.

 

Thanks for the replies everyone. The one I'm looking at is a 2002 w/ nav from a private party. He's a former 6-speeder and from the pictures it seems like it's in excellent condition. I should know in the next few days whether I'm moving...which means time for a new car!!

Much appreciated - hope to be a "real" member soon...

 

bk9, You are a real member already, Welcome to the 6speed family, It is not a pre-requisite to own a p-car to participate in this forum.. Good Luck with your decision.