The Porsche 718 Boxster represents one of the most compelling mid-engine sports cars available on the used market today. Since its introduction in 2016, this fourth-generation roadster has evolved from a controversial turbocharged departure to a sophisticated range that includes naturally aspirated flat-six variants. With depreciation curves levelling off and exceptional driving dynamics that remain unmatched in the segment, the 718 Boxster offers extraordinary value for discerning enthusiasts.
However, purchasing any used Porsche requires meticulous attention to detail and comprehensive knowledge of potential issues specific to each model variant. The 718 generation brought significant engineering changes, from the adoption of turbocharged four-cylinder engines to advanced electronic systems that demand proper maintenance protocols. Understanding these complexities before committing to a purchase can mean the difference between years of exhilarating ownership and costly mechanical surprises.
This comprehensive buyer’s checklist provides the essential knowledge required to evaluate any used 718 Boxster with confidence. From identifying genuine GTS 4.0 variants to assessing the condition of complex hydraulic systems, every critical inspection point is covered to ensure your next Porsche purchase delivers the performance and reliability you expect.
Pre-purchase porsche 718 boxster model year analysis and variant identification
Understanding the specific model year and variant of any 718 Boxster is fundamental to accurate valuation and performance expectations. The 982 generation underwent significant changes throughout its production run, with early models featuring exclusively turbocharged four-cylinder engines and later variants reintroducing naturally aspirated flat-six powerplants that transformed the driving experience entirely.
Model year identification begins with understanding Porsche’s August-to-July production cycle. A 2017 model year car could have been manufactured as early as August 2016, whilst the final examples rolled off production lines in July 2017. This timing matters significantly when assessing warranty coverage, recall campaigns, and production-specific improvements that Porsche implemented throughout each model year.
982 generation boxster vs boxster S performance specifications
The foundation of the 718 range consists of the base Boxster and Boxster S, both utilising turbocharged flat-four engines that marked a dramatic departure from previous generations. The standard Boxster employs a 2.0-litre turbocharged unit producing 300 horsepower, whilst the Boxster S features a larger 2.5-litre turbo delivering 350 horsepower. Both engines incorporate Variable Turbine Geometry technology, borrowed from Porsche’s diesel heritage.
Performance differences between these variants extend beyond mere power output. The Boxster S includes larger brake discs, revised suspension tuning, and additional cooling capacity to manage the increased thermal loads. When examining used examples, verify the presence of the distinctive quad exhaust tips on S models, as these visual cues help confirm authentic specifications against potential badge engineering or misrepresentation.
GTS 4.0 naturally aspirated engine verification points
The introduction of the GTS 4.0 in 2020 marked a pivotal moment for the 718 range, reintroducing the naturally aspirated flat-six engine that enthusiasts had been demanding. This 4.0-litre unit, shared with the Cayman GT4, produces 394 horsepower and transforms the character of the car entirely. Verification of genuine GTS 4.0 specification requires attention to several specific details beyond the obvious visual cues.
Authentic GTS 4.0 models feature unique engine bay components, including specific intake manifolds and throttle bodies that differ markedly from the turbocharged variants. The exhaust note provides immediate confirmation – the naturally aspirated flat-six produces a distinctive high-frequency wail that reaches crescendo above 6,000 RPM, completely unlike the muffled turbo four-cylinders. Additionally, genuine GTS models include standard equipment such as PASM sport suspension and 20-inch wheels that should be present unless specifically deleted by the original owner.
PDK Dual-Clutch transmission vs Six-Speed manual gearbox assessment
Transmission choice significantly impacts both driving experience and long-term ownership costs. The seven-speed PDK dual-clutch automatic offers lightning-fast shifts and superior acceleration figures, completing 0-62 mph runs approximately 0.3 seconds quicker than manual equivalents. However, PDK-equipped cars command higher purchase prices and require expensive fluid changes every 60,000 miles or six years, with service costs approaching £800 at Porsche dealerships.
Manual transmission cars, whilst slower in absolute terms, provide greater driver engagement and lower maintenance costs. The six-speed manual gearbox requires only standard gear oil changes and clutch replacement intervals typically extend beyond 60,000 miles with careful use. When evaluating manual cars, test for smooth gear changes across all ratios and listen for any grinding or hesitation during shifts, particularly into second gear where wear typically manifests first.
The PDK transmission offers virtually seamless shifts and is ideal for driving regularly in urban situations, whilst the six-speed manual appeals to those who prefer traditional driver engagement, particularly for countryside or track day driving.
PASM sport suspension and torque vectoring PTV system functionality
Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM) transforms the 718 Boxster’s dynamic capabilities, allowing drivers to toggle between comfort and sport settings via dashboard controls. Standard suspension systems, whilst competent, cannot match the adaptability and precision offered by PASM-equipped cars. This option proves particularly valuable on cars fitted with larger wheel sizes, where the adaptive damping helps manage ride quality over poor road surfaces.
Porsche Torque Vectoring (PTV) represents another significant enhancement, providing electronic limited-slip differential functionality that improves cornering agility and traction. PTV systems can be identified by their distinctive brake cooling ducts and specific differential housing visible from beneath the car. Testing requires dynamic driving on varied road surfaces to assess the system’s intervention during cornering and acceleration out of turns.
Critical mechanical inspection protocol for porsche 718 boxster systems
Comprehensive mechanical inspection of any used 718 Boxster demands systematic evaluation of engine, transmission, suspension, and auxiliary systems that define the car’s performance and reliability. Unlike earlier Boxster generations, the 982 series incorporates complex turbocharged engines and advanced electronic systems that require specific diagnostic approaches to identify potential issues before they become expensive repairs.
Professional inspection should always include connection to Porsche’s PIWIS diagnostic system, which reveals fault codes, over-rev events, and historical data that standard OBD scanners cannot access. This information provides invaluable insights into how the car has been driven and maintained throughout its service life.
Turbocharged Flat-Four engine oil consumption and bore scoring detection
The turbocharged flat-four engines in base and S models, whilst generally reliable, can exhibit elevated oil consumption rates that owners should monitor carefully. Normal consumption ranges from 1 litre per 1,500 miles to 1 litre per 3,000 miles depending on driving style and engine condition. Consumption exceeding these parameters may indicate worn piston rings, valve seals, or more serious internal damage.
Bore scoring, whilst less common in 718 models than earlier generations, remains a potential concern in high-mileage or poorly maintained examples. Inspection requires borescope examination of cylinder walls through spark plug holes, looking for vertical scoring marks or excessive wear patterns. Any evidence of bore scoring typically necessitates complete engine rebuild, making thorough pre-purchase inspection absolutely essential.
IMS bearing and RMS leak inspection for early 982 models
Although the 982 generation eliminated the notorious Intermediate Shaft (IMS) bearing issues that plagued earlier Boxster models, early production cars can still exhibit Rear Main Seal (RMS) leaks that require attention. RMS leaks typically manifest as oil seepage where the engine meets the transmission, creating characteristic staining patterns on the bellhousing and surrounding components.
Inspection for RMS leaks requires examination from beneath the car using proper lighting and clean surfaces to distinguish fresh seepage from historical staining. Minor seepage may be acceptable on higher-mileage cars, but active leaks warrant immediate attention and potential negotiation of purchase price to account for repair costs typically ranging from £800 to £1,200 including labour.
Convertible Soft-Top hydraulic system and microswitch operation
The 718 Boxster’s convertible soft-top system operates through a complex arrangement of hydraulic rams, microswitches, and control modules that work in precise sequence. The roof mechanism should complete its full cycle in approximately nine seconds, with smooth operation throughout both opening and closing sequences. Any hesitation, binding, or incomplete operation indicates potential hydraulic pressure loss or microswitch malfunction.
Common failure points include hydraulic pump wear, fluid leaks from aged seals, and microswitch degradation that prevents proper system operation. Roof alignment should be perfect when closed, with equal gaps along both sides and proper seal compression against the windscreen frame. Misalignment often indicates structural damage from previous accident repairs or component wear that requires expensive rectification.
PCCB ceramic brake disc condition and replacement cost analysis
Porsche Ceramic Composite Brake (PCCB) systems, identifiable by their distinctive yellow callipers and cross-drilled ceramic discs, offer superior performance but command significant replacement costs. Ceramic disc condition assessment requires careful visual inspection for crack patterns, edge chipping, or scoring that indicates approaching replacement intervals. Unlike steel discs, ceramic components cannot be resurfaced and require complete replacement when worn.
Replacement costs for PCCB systems typically exceed £5,000 for a complete set, making condition assessment critical during purchase negotiations. Front discs generally require replacement every 60,000-80,000 miles depending on driving style, whilst rear discs often last considerably longer. Any visible damage or wear approaching minimum thickness specifications should factor into purchase price calculations given the substantial replacement costs involved.
Coolant system pressure testing and radiator end tank integrity
The 718 Boxster’s cooling system operates under higher pressures than naturally aspirated predecessors, placing increased stress on radiator end tanks, hoses, and connection points. Pressure testing should be performed with the system cold to identify any leaks or weakness that could lead to catastrophic overheating. Radiator end tanks, constructed from plastic materials, are particularly susceptible to cracking as the car ages.
Visual inspection should focus on radiator end tank condition, looking for stress cracks, seepage, or discoloration that indicates thermal cycling damage. Coolant hoses require examination for swelling, hardening, or surface cracking that suggests approaching replacement intervals. Any evidence of previous overheating, such as discolored coolant or mineral deposits, warrants thorough investigation of potential engine damage.
Porsche communication management PCM and electronic systems diagnostic
The Porsche Communication Management (PCM) system in 718 Boxster models represents a sophisticated integration of infotainment, navigation, and vehicle control functions that require comprehensive testing during pre-purchase inspection. Unlike simpler systems in earlier generations, PCM functionality affects everything from climate control operation to advanced driver assistance features that modern buyers expect to function flawlessly.
Electronic system diagnosis must extend beyond basic PCM operation to encompass the numerous control modules that manage engine parameters, transmission behaviour, suspension settings, and safety systems. Any fault codes or intermittent malfunctions can indicate developing issues that may prove expensive to rectify once warranty coverage expires. Modern diagnostic equipment capable of communicating with Porsche-specific protocols is essential for thorough system evaluation.
Common electronic issues in 718 models include PCM software glitches, parking sensor malfunctions, and intermittent dashboard warning lights that may clear and reappear unpredictably. Bluetooth connectivity, Apple CarPlay integration, and navigation system accuracy should all be verified during extended test drives. Climate control operation deserves particular attention, as the automatic systems incorporate multiple sensors and actuators that can fail individually, leading to inconsistent cabin temperature control.
The Sport Chrono package, when fitted, introduces additional electronic complexity through its driving mode selection and launch control systems. Testing should verify proper mode transitions, dashboard display changes, and performance modifications that each setting provides. Any malfunction in Sport Chrono operation typically requires dealer-level diagnostics and can prove costly to repair, making thorough pre-purchase testing essential for equipped vehicles.
Market value assessment and porsche certificate of authenticity verification
Accurate market value assessment for used 718 Boxster models requires understanding the complex interplay between model year, specification level, condition, and current market dynamics. The 718 range exhibits significant value variations between base models and high-performance variants, with naturally aspirated GTS 4.0 and Spyder models commanding substantial premiums over their turbocharged counterparts.
Current market conditions show early base models from 2017-2018 trading in the £40,000-£55,000 range depending on mileage and specification, whilst GTS 4.0 variants typically command £85,000-£100,000 for well-maintained examples. Spyder models often exceed six figures , particularly for low-mileage cars with desirable options packages and manual transmissions. These values reflect the growing appreciation for naturally aspirated engines as Porsche transitions toward electrification.
Porsche Certificate of Authenticity verification provides crucial documentation for any high-value 718 variant, confirming original specification, production details, and factory options installed. This documentation becomes particularly important for rare variants or cars with extensive options lists where authenticity questions could affect values significantly. Certificates can be obtained directly from Porsche for a nominal fee and provide definitive confirmation of original specifications.
Market trends indicate strong future prospects for six-cylinder 718 models, driven by their relative rarity and emotional appeal compared to turbocharged variants. However, four-cylinder models offer exceptional value for driving enthusiasts who prioritise performance over soundtrack, with depreciation curves now flattening as these cars approach their value floor. Understanding these market dynamics helps buyers identify opportunities and avoid overpaying for particular specifications or model years.
Well-optioned cars, particularly those with desirable features like PASM, Sport Chrono, and manual gearboxes, consistently outperform basic specification examples in both driving satisfaction and resale value.
Service history validation through porsche classic partner network
Service history validation represents perhaps the most critical aspect of any used 718 Boxster evaluation, as these sophisticated machines depend entirely on proper maintenance protocols to deliver their intended performance and reliability. Porsche’s recommended service intervals of two years or 20,000 miles must be followed precisely, with genuine parts and approved fluids used throughout the car’s service life.
The Porsche Classic Partner network provides authoritative service history verification through their centralised database system, which tracks all official dealer and approved specialist maintenance performed on individual vehicles. This verification process can reveal service gaps, recall completions, and warranty claims that affect both current condition and future reliability expectations. Cars with incomplete or questionable service histories should be approached with extreme caution given the potential costs involved in rectifying deferred maintenance.
Independent specialist service records require careful evaluation to ensure proper procedures and genuine parts usage throughout the car’s maintenance history. Reputable specialists typically maintain detailed service records and use official Porsche diagnostic equipment, but verification of their credentials and customer satisfaction levels proves essential before accepting their service stamps as equivalent to dealer maintenance.
Major service items specific to 718 models include PDK fluid changes every six years, spark plug replacement at four-year intervals, and brake fluid renewal every two years. Turbocharged models require particular attention to oil change frequency, especially if driven enthusiastically or used for track events. Any deviation from Porsche’s prescribed maintenance schedule should raise immediate concerns about potential internal engine damage or accelerated component wear that could prove extremely expensive to address.