Hey guys, I'm almost set on buying my first Porsche, and I'm getting a 2008 997 Carrera S with 40K miles, but I've been reading about the "Cracked cylinder" issue people been having, should I be concerned or go ahead with the purchase?

 

A 2008 with 40 miles?

All kidding. Aside, the 997 is very reliable. Go ahead and enjoy the car.

 

LOL , Thanks.

 

Cracked cylinder issue?!?

 

IMS bearing but only on the early 2005's. No worries about engine problems for a 2008. Go for it!

 

As long as the PPI checks out, you shouldn't have an issue. These are reliable cars when they are taken care of.

Ken

 

First I've heard of a "cracked cylinder issue."

If you are concerned about any inherent mechanical issues, then get a decent aftermarket warranty. Also, the direct injection engine starting in the '09 997.2 models are a completely different design and have NO IMS or RMS issues, so if you have the budget, go for that year or newer. If you buy a 997.1, then go for an '06 or newer model.

 

This is probably the best advice yet. Pay a third party to do a thorough pre-purchase inspection (PPI).

Be sure to get a DME report showing the number of engine overrev's in ranges 1 through 6. I'd pass on any car in the 5-6 range. A blip in 4 might be OK. Really low numbers in 1-2 and zeros everywhere else is ideal.

Paint thickness readings are awesome too. They will show hidden resprays or unreported body repairs.

Search the forums here for more on PPI and DME reports.

And finally, do not fall in love with any car until the PPI comes back clean. There are plenty of beautiful used Porsches out there in your price range with the options you want. Do not settle, just be patient and keep looking.

 

I think the OP is referring to the "D chunk". This something that I understand happened with earlier water cooled engines. If one stays with the 2007/2008 models there is a minimal chance for an IMS bearing failure.

I would not be concerned with a 2007 or 2008. Simply consider one with complete service records and make sure you get a good PPI.

 

What, no love for the 06? You know they have the same bearing.

 

March 2005 built cars through MY08 all have the same bearing. MY07/08 offers no advantage other than being a newer car. I've also read about scorched cylinders and D-chunk, but both seem very rare as well.

The internet tends to blow all these issues way out of proportion. The vast majority of 997.1 owners will attest to very reliable cars. But when a post does occur regarding an engine failure, it fuels the flames of internet rumors and misinformation.

 

Do it, you wont regret it. (PPI is a must)

 

I forgot to mention that the latest Porsche buyers guide from Excellence magazine is just recently in the news stands and bookstores.

 

997 rates high as a daily driver.

I've had 2, great cars!

 

As others have stated, make sure to get a thorough ppi. If all checks-out ok, it will be a fantastic car to drive. The cars are solid, reliable and great looking! Post pictures if you go ahead with the purchase.

Mark/Pelican Parts