Porsche Enthusiasts Club Forum

Hi Everyone,

I am looking at buying a 996 2002 or 2003 with around 55 to 60k on the clocks, either from Shirleys or Autobahns. Has anyone had any dealings with these people good or bad. I understand Martin at the unit next door to Shirleys is good & knows his stuff & the same for the guys at PCT next door to Autobahn - but what are the sellers like ??. Is the warranty any good & worth it etc & what should I be wary of.

I also understand from the things I've read on the internet that with the 996's there are issues with engine failures on 3.4l & some 3.6l, Nickosil engine blocks cracks (same as BMW) on early models, RMS failures. Has anyone had any experience of this & what advice would they give me.

As I say I am really interested in buying a 996, but before I commit & make a very expensive mistake, I just need to ensure I know about the problems you guys have experienced, as you drive these fantastic cars all the time

Stu

Hi

I've just bought a 996 and had the same dilema's, in the end I decided sod it. Buy one that has a full history and from a dealer at least then you have some where to go if it goes wrong.

Have a read on http://www.911Uk.com lots of interesting topic on the 996 forum. Remember people only ever post the issues, should give you a heads up on what to look out for.

Good to see your post on here Stuart - hopefully you will get some feedback from the 996 guys

Look forward to meeting you on 13th July

Paul

pistonheads has had a 996 reliability survey, have a look http://www.pistonheads.co.uk/gassing/to ... ics%20here!

stu,
I'd go for it !!! don't bother reading all the forums about RMS or you'll go potty, I've bought a 996 (without warranty) and it's brilliant, I use it everyday and it's bone dry underneath, every cars going to have a few faults but there's thousands of trouble free 996's on the road, I just think too many people harp on about the RMS,
cheers
mick

Hi

Have you thought of going for a private sale. Swot up on the car you desire to assist you to sort the wheat from the chaff.

Plenty to choose from so no need to rush out and decide on the first one

If you find a local car get Martin Brown to do a pre purchase inspection report

It' worth every penny

That's what I did

Downside of going private is sorting out a good car but you will get the car you want and be loads in pocket even after paying for the inspection.

hi guys - me again.

seen a couple of cars yesterday & the one I like most is the 996 on a 53 plate at Autobahn, with FPSH & they have offered me a good deal, although I've since done a HPI check & found out that it still has outstanding finance on it. This may be just an admin error (I hope) & that it is in the process of being paid off, but can never be too careful, so will wait & see what Autobahn have to say about it in morn.

Yes have also thought of private, but have px my car to help raise funds, so out of the question at mo.

Cheers stu

Hi Stu
When I bought my 996 I had it checked out by Peter Morgan, that showed that there was outstanding finance, it had been the dealer that had taken out this finance when he purchased the car, if they have a stock of expensive cars, they have to fund them that way.

Good luck and I hope you enjoy your car as much as I have when you get it.

Dibs

Thanks for your replies everyone, in particular to Paul Bird & Chris Hood who both gave me invaluable advise.

Well I have now put a deposit on a 996 (53 plate) with FPSH. Have spoken to the service department of the garage where all the services had taken place. They clarified what works had been done & also reassured me with where the vehicle is being sold. I have also spoken with the finance company who have confirmed no finance is outstanding & have faxed me a copy No Interest Letter.

Looks like I will get it at the weekend, so once I do I will join the club & then you can meet my ugly mug very soon.

Thanks again guys - Stu