Funny, I bought my 997 and break were about 80% good according to the Porsche dealer that did PPI (different dealer than the one who sold me the car)
And I sold it 3 years / 25000 km later and breaks are still 80% good according to my local P dealer.

I guess my fun of downshifting and rev-marching, mixed with gundo exhaust saved the brakes...

 

It's good to hear that the Gundo hack actually has a positive impact -- beyond the music it turns the exhaust note into.

While I'm pretty good at the rev matching, I admit I typically slow down mainly with my brakes. I get 10-15K miles with a set of brakes, especially up front where most of the work is done. I used to have a mechanic who called the Porsche rotors "cheese graters." I think there's some truth in that. Even if the OP were extremely lucky, I think he should budget brake work every couple of years. I believe I paid $1,500 for just the rears on my last go around, including rotors, pads, sensors, and labor.

TPMS are good for about 7 years, and with OEMs, I think I paid close to $200 a pop, each at different times. Batteries start failing, brake lines need flushing, and trim pieces start showing wear. A new clutch can cost thousands. Being a Porsche, everything just costs more, especially if you go OEM. I think a realistic maintenance budget is around $4K/ year, or less if you're handy.

I was kidding before about mod costs, but as probably most of us know, they can be hard to resist. I'm one of those who drank the Kool Aid. I have Fabspeed cats, a Gundo hack, a plenum, and a tune, and lots of little aesthetic upgrades. I love them, and they contribute immensely to my enjoyment of my car. By definition, they're not necessary, but they don't come for free, either. The cost should at least be considered.

 

Start saving for AOS, water pump and alternator. They "may" require replacement at 50-60k miles.

A few here bought cars of similar mileage and ended up having to replace the clutch due to prior owners.

Good luck.


A lot of DIY's out there. I do my own wrenching and I average around <$1000.00 the last 3 years.

 

Around 60K, spark plugs, AOS, water pump, alternator, battery. brake pads, tires, clutch (depends on how it's driven), drive belt, are all that comes to mind, I'm sure there are a few other wear and tear items that I have not mentioned.

 

With regards to tires, when it comes near time to replace them, do a cursory search of your local Craigslist. I found several good sets of gently used tires (and wheels) for considerably cheaper than new. *Buyer beware* obviously, but you can sometimes find good stuff for short money. The last two sets of winter tires I got gently used off CL for 1/3rd the cost of new. 911 tire fitments pretty much only fit 911's so I have a feeling some sellers let them go for pretty cheap based on how limited a market they have.

 

I just did plugs, belt, cabin and intake filter, battery, rear breaks, oil and filter and break fluid flush and paid $1800 at local shop "approved" by local PCA. Chapter (NY). By "approved" I mean PCA accepts them to provide your car an inspection for auto cross or track days.

I bought my first 911 last year with 60k miles on it. I was given good advice by a dealer when I started inquiring about maintenance. First I was asked if I was going to have a garage queen, track car, or daily driver? when I decided that I was looking to use it as a spirited daily driver and use it whenever possible, I was told not to waste my money on a low mileage car as they bring a premium price and once you start racking up the miles you will erode the value. So, I purchased the best one owner CARFAX clean 911 in my price range. PPI is crucial and look up car history.

 

That's pretty much what I am looking for also. Thanks for your insights.

How many miles on it now? I know every car and situation is different, but can you tell me briefly how much you have spend and how much you have driven so far?

 

I see, $4K is pretty high and I would def. need to plan my finances out for that

 

"2008 Carerra with 30-40K miles, what would I be getting myself into?"


You are getting yourself into a abysm of pure enjoyment! Anyone else here can attest to that.

Dealership maintenance is a bit steep, but find yourself a good indy to do the minor work.

I have learned it is very easy to do some of the work yourself if you are somewhat mechanically inclined. Brakes, brake fluid flush, oil change, serpentine belt, struts,

and basically most of the stuff that is bolt on and only requires a bit of reading and common sense. Not to forget the awesome sense of accomplishment when done by yourself. Also have to take in mind that no one else, not even Porsche dealer, will put in the care and love like yourself.



You will be surprise how “analog” Porsche 997s are.



One thing is for sure, the pleasure of driving it cannot be compared to anything else. well, maybe really good sex! haha

 

I'm more worried about the unknown repairs and the costs involved, oil/brakes is something I can be prepared for.

 

What a joke!!!! My car has 106,000 miles on a 06 997 Cab and I have NEVER spent $4000 in one year. Dont listen to forum scum, they just like to see themselves type. In this last year, I have gone from 97000 to 106000 and have spent $300........an oil change!

 

$4K? That includes dancing girls and beer right? I certainly don't want to jinx myself but my costs after four years of ownership are not $4K yet. If it weren't under warranty when the water pump went TU it still would not be $4K. Note, not a DD. I have other cars to haul the dogs and kids.

 

60k service - $1000
Brake bleed and fluid change
Spark plugs
Cabin air filter
Drive belt
Oil and filter
Intake filter

Rear Breaks $600
Pads
Drums
Sensors and all the little stuff

Battery - 200

 

....and I purchased at 60k mikes and did nothing until now. I put about 7000 miles on it. Clutch is good. Need new tires now.

The service made a noticeable difference.

Also did belt....is not previously listed

 

Forum scum? That's a bit harsh. Frankly, suggesting $300 per 10,000 miles as a reasonable budget for the OP is dangerously misleading, and not at all typical.