A focused pre-purchase checklist for a used 981 Boxster or Cayman. A professional pre-purchase inspection (PPI) at a Porsche specialist is strongly recommended; this list is what to watch for.
Engine
- No IMS worry: the 981's MA1 engine has no IMS bearing, so ignore IMS scaremongering — it does not apply.
- Cold-start the car yourself. Listen for an unusual rattle/tick (possible bore scoring — rare, but expensive). Check for white startup smoke (AOS).
- Ask for an oil consumption history; check the dipstick/electronic level and oil condition.
- Look for oil weeping at the bellhousing (rear main seal), especially on manuals.
Cooling
- Check the coolant level and look around the expansion tank and front coolant pipe for crusty residue or weeping (cracked tank / pipe seals).
Transmission
- PDK: confirm the fluid has been serviced; feel for clean, crisp shifts with no flare or "Gearbox fault" warnings.
- Manual: check clutch bite point and that it is not slipping (also flags possible RMS contamination).
Brakes & suspension
- Measure pad and disc wear; if it has PCCB (yellow calipers), budget heavily for replacement and check for chipping — worn PCCB is a major hidden cost.
- Drive over bumps listening for front-end clunk (control-arm bushings) and check for PASM faults.
Body & electrical
- Boxster: cycle the convertible top fully several times; any pause or fault is a costly microswitch job. Check the roof drains are clear (under-seat module water damage).
- Test the PCM/infotainment, all electrics, and the A/C output.
Paperwork
- Verify the service history (especially oil, brake fluid, and any PDK service).
- Check all outstanding recalls by VIN at recall.porsche.com (rear-axle carrier, airbag module).
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