hi, there,
I have a 2007 997.1 TT and seldom drive in the raining condition. I was driving in the pretty heavy rain last night. When I went home, I found out there was a lot of steam/vapor coming out form front bumper area and I have never saw that before. Please see attached picture.
Does anybody know if this is normal. Please kindly advise. Thanks in advance.

 

I tried to post a picture, but I can't

 

I can only speculate, but I would guess that you are experiencing the same event that you get with a cup of hot coffee on a cold day. The beverage is not above boiling point, but the warm air that surrounds above the coffee interacts with the colder surrounding air. Add to the fact that the rain is probably hitting the warm radiator, you get a fog of sorts.
Either that or you have radiator leaks, but with the cold damp weather, I would guess the first.

 

I understand the cold water hit the radiator might become vapor. But I have never seen this on other cars. Is this special for the Porsche 997??

 

Doesn't rain where I live, but this does happen to me at the Carwash (winter & summer), would be interested to know if this is "normal" or should I replace/troubleshoot the radiators.

 

I do find out my coolant level is bit low. But, I haven't check the coolant level for a long period time.
I jest want fine out if this is normal or something is not right??

 

Had the same, after a few more weeks it was leaking coolant from two of the front radiators.

When the car is properly varmed up, try to smell the radiators, coolant has a very distinctive scent.

 

Well since coolant is not a consumable, if you are losing it, that could be a problem. Like stated above, you can smell the coolant, it has a maple syrup sweet smell when hot.

 

It happens to me also, it's just steam coming from the bumper. Just the rain water drying up. Never had a problem.

This is from the GT3 forum but it has relevant information.

http://rennlist.com/forums/997-gt2-g...-it-rains.html

 

Yup happens often on my 997 when rain and temps are conducive for making radiator fog ...

 

has happened to me before....my temps and coolant levels are fine as well.

 

That is normal, the front radiators get very hot and when water gets on them (car wash, rain, etc.) you will see steam from time to time. However, do check your coolant level to make sure you are not losing coolant and look under the car for any leaks - the front radiators do have a tendency to collect dirt, leaves, etc. and they tend to rot out, but when they do, you will see a drop in the coolant level and steam when there is not external water as in rain or car wash.

 

Normal as others have said.

 

Normal condition
Elliot

 

Happened to me as well. Normal as others have said.


-Vin