I'm preparing to buy a used boxster (probably an '03) this spring/summer. Consumer Reports likes the '05 Boxster but says that the '03 had higher than usual number of repairs.

Can anyone explain this? If there weren't huge changes between '02 and
'03 why would there be more problems with the '03?

What is the experience of the board with the '03.

Thanks,

HB

 

03 was a facelift model that added a few horses, front bumper changes, and glass rear window!


'03 was the first generation of the facelift with the above changes. Not sure about reliability, but my '02 was perfect with one electrical exception (check engine light came on and never came off... ecu got replaced under warranty).

 

I don't like consumer reports, because if the majority of people reporting data had problems, then obviously the data will be skewed.

 

From what I've read, some of the initial issues with the '03 had to do with the switch to Vario-Cam. This was an upgraded feature from the '02 engine, but were only worked out in MY'04. That could be the root of the repair issues.

 

good luck on your purchase!

my 01 has been problem free! (knock on wood!)

i'll be selling mine within a year and will be moving up to the 04 or 05 S.

keep us posted on your purchase! =)