Porsche 987 Boxster/Cayman Resources

Buyer's Guide

What to know before purchasing a 987

Overview

The Porsche 987 Boxster/Cayman (2005-2012) represents a significant evolution from the 986, with improved styling, more power, and the addition of the Cayman coupe variant. The mid-engine layout delivers exceptional handling, and many consider the Cayman one of the best-handling cars Porsche has ever made. Like the 997, the 987.1 (2005-2008) has IMS bearing concerns while the 987.2 (2009-2012) with DFI engines does not. The Cayman R and Boxster Spyder are particularly desirable.

Quick Facts

Production 2005-2012

Total Produced ~150,000 worldwide

Price Range $20,000 - $80,000+

Best Years 2009-2012 (987.2 with DFI engine, no IMS)

Model Variants

Boxster / Cayman

2005-2012

Base models with 2.7L (240-255 hp) or 2.9L (255 hp). Excellent entry point.

Desirability: Medium

Boxster S / Cayman S

2005-2012

Performance models with 3.2L/3.4L (295-320 hp). Better brakes, LSD available.

Desirability: High

Cayman R

2011-2012

Lightweight special with 330 hp, sport suspension, and bucket seats. The driver's choice.

Desirability: High

Boxster Spyder

2010-2012

Lightweight roadster with manual top, 320 hp, and aggressive styling. Very desirable.

Desirability: High

Pre-Purchase Inspection Checklist

Critical areas to examine before purchasing. Bring this checklist when viewing a 987.

Engine (987.1)

IMS Bearing Status 987.1 (2005-2008) has improved IMS bearing but failure is still possible. Verify if retrofitted. If bad: $2,000-3,500 for retrofit
Bore Scoring M97 engine can develop bore scoring. Listen for knocking, check for smoke. If bad: $10,000-20,000
Oil Consumption Some consumption is normal. Excessive consumption indicates bore issues. If bad: Varies

Engine (987.2)

No IMS Concerns 987.2 (2009-2012) DFI engines have no IMS bearing. Major reliability improvement. If bad: N/A
Carbon Buildup DFI engines can develop intake valve carbon deposits at high mileage. If bad: $500-1,000 for cleaning
Direct Injectors DFI injectors can fail causing rough running. If bad: $800-1,500

Transmission

Manual Transmission 6-speed manual is robust and engaging. Test all gears. If bad: $2,000-4,000
PDK (987.2) Dual-clutch is fast and smooth. Check for shudder or harsh engagement. If bad: $2,000-5,000
Clutch Manual clutch should engage smoothly. Mid-engine makes replacement easier. If bad: $1,500-2,500

Body & Convertible

Convertible Top (Boxster) Test operation. Hydraulics and cables can fail. If bad: $1,000-2,500
Manual Top (Spyder) Spyder has manual top. Check fabric and frame condition. If bad: $500-1,500
Window Regulators Test both windows. Less problematic than 986 but can fail. If bad: $300-600

Suspension

PASM Shocks If equipped, test in all modes. Shocks can develop leaks. If bad: $2,000-4,000
Control Arm Bushings Common wear item causing clunks and handling issues. If bad: $400-800

Pricing Guide

Prices as of 2026. Values vary by location, options, and market conditions.

Project Car

$15,000 - $25,000

987.1 cars with unknown IMS status or significant issues.

Driver Quality

$25,000 - $40,000

Good 987.1 S or entry 987.2 examples. Daily driver ready.

Excellent

$40,000 - $60,000

Well-maintained 987.2 S, Cayman R, or Boxster Spyder.

Concours / Collector

$60,000 - $100,000+

Low-mileage Cayman R or Spyder with documentation.

Red Flags - Walk Away If...

987.1 with unknown IMS status
Evidence of bore scoring
PDK with shudder or rough engagement
Water damage from clogged drains
Salvage title without documentation
Heavy track use on street car (Cayman)

What to Look For

Desirable features and options that add value:

987.2 (2009+) for no IMS concerns
Cayman S or Boxster S for best performance
Manual transmission for engagement
Complete service documentation
PASM adaptive suspension
Sport Chrono Package
Cayman R or Boxster Spyder for collector potential

Ownership Costs

Insurance $1,000-2,000/year

Annual Maintenance $1,500-3,000 for regular service

Common Repairs $800-2,000/year typical

Fuel Economy 20-27 MPG

Expert Tips

The 987.2 is the safest buy with no IMS bearing concerns
The Cayman is often considered the best-handling Porsche
Cayman R and Boxster Spyder are appreciating classics
Manual transmission is more engaging but PDK is faster
987 parts are more affordable than 911 parts
The mid-engine layout makes certain maintenance easier
Join Rennlist.com for excellent owner community
Budget for consumables but enjoy lower running costs than 911

Common Issues

Known problems, symptoms, and solutions for the 987 platform

IMS Bearing Failure (987.1 Only)

Advanced

Symptoms: Metallic debris in oil, grinding noise, oil pressure warning, catastrophic engine failure

The 987.1 (2005-2008) uses the M97 engine which has the IMS (intermediate shaft) bearing that can fail. This dual-row bearing supports the intermediate shaft that drives the camshafts. When it fails, metal debris contaminates the engine and failure is catastrophic. The 987.2 (2009+) uses a different engine design with no IMS bearing concern.

Estimated Repair Costs

DIY $500-1000

Shop $2000-3500

987.1 only (M97). 987.2 has different design - no IMS concern.

Common Fixes

987.1: Proactive IMS bearing replacement highly recommended
LN Engineering or IMS Retrofit single-row bearing upgrade
Regular oil analysis to detect early bearing wear
987.2: No IMS bearing - not a concern on these models
Always verify production date when purchasing a 987

Common Parts

Part	Part Number	Est. Price
IMS Bearing Retrofit	LN Engineering	$400-600
IMS Guardian	LN Engineering	$80-120

Sources: LN Engineering, Rennlist

Bore Scoring / Cylinder Wear (987.1)

Advanced

Symptoms: Ticking/knocking noise, smoke on cold start, excessive oil consumption, low compression

The M97 engine in the 987.1 can develop cylinder bore scoring, where the cylinder walls become damaged, allowing oil to bypass the piston rings. Cylinder 6 is most commonly affected due to cooling system design. The 987.2 with the MA1 engine has improved cooling and does not have this issue.

Estimated Repair Costs

DIY N/A

Shop $5000-15000

987.1 M97 engine. Borescope inspection recommended.

Common Fixes

Borescope inspection essential for pre-purchase (987.1)
Minor scoring: monitor with oil analysis, use quality oil
Moderate scoring: cylinder sleeving by specialists
Severe scoring: engine rebuild or replacement
Prevention: proper warm-up, quality oil, avoid short trips

Common Parts

Part	Part Number	Est. Price
Cylinder Sleeving	LN Engineering	$800-1200/cyl

Sources: Flat Six Innovations, Rennlist

Rear Main Seal Leak (987.1)

Advanced

Symptoms: Oil drips from bell housing area, oil smell, clutch slipping (manual), burning oil smell

The M97 engine in the 987.1 can develop rear main seal (RMS) leaks, similar to the 997.1. Oil leaks onto the clutch in manual transmission cars, causing slippage. The leak can also affect the intermediate plate seal. This is less common in the 987.2.

Estimated Repair Costs

DIY $400-800

Shop $1500-2500

987.1 shares RMS issues with 986/996.

Common Fixes

Rear main seal replacement (requires transmission removal)
Replace clutch if contaminated with oil
Often combined with IMS bearing upgrade to save labor
Use updated seal design for longer service life
Inspect intermediate plate seal while apart

Common Parts

Part	Part Number	Est. Price
Rear Main Seal	99710322571	$30-60

Sources: Pelican Parts, Rennlist

Air/Oil Separator (AOS) Failure

Moderate

Symptoms: Smoke from exhaust, oil consumption, rough idle, check engine light, vacuum leaks

The AOS separates oil vapor from crankcase gases. When it fails, oil is drawn into the intake manifold and burned, causing smoke and consumption. The AOS diaphragm can also tear, creating a vacuum leak that affects idle quality. This affects both 987.1 and 987.2 models.

Estimated Repair Costs

DIY $200-400

Shop $400-800

Both 987.1 and 987.2 can have AOS issues.

Common Fixes

AOS replacement (located under intake manifold)
Replace vacuum lines while accessible
Updated AOS design available for better durability
Check for collateral damage from oil in intake
Clean throttle body if oil contaminated

Common Parts

Part	Part Number	Est. Price
AOS Assembly	99710704453	$200-350

Sources: Rennlist, Pelican Parts

Coolant Pipe and System Failures

Advanced

Symptoms: Coolant loss, overheating, coolant warning, sweet smell, puddles under car

The 987's mid-engine layout requires long coolant runs from the front-mounted radiators to the rear engine. Plastic coolant pipes, water pump, and expansion tank all degrade with heat and age. Coolant pipe failure can cause overheating and engine damage if not addressed immediately.

Estimated Repair Costs

DIY $200-400

Shop $500-1000

Same plastic pipe issues as 986. Aluminum upgrade available.

Common Fixes

Replace plastic coolant pipes with aluminum upgrade
Replace water pump with metal impeller version
New expansion tank (common failure point)
Replace thermostat during cooling system work
Flush and refill with proper coolant mix

Common Parts

Part	Part Number	Est. Price
Coolant Pipe Kit	Various	$150-300
Water Pump	99710601106	$120-200

Sources: FCP Euro, Rennlist

Convertible Top Issues (Boxster)

Moderate

Symptoms: Top won't open/close, slow operation, error messages, hydraulic leaks, torn fabric

The Boxster's power convertible top is complex and can develop issues. The hydraulic pump and rams wear, causing slow operation or failure to complete cycles. Microswitches fail, preventing operation. The fabric top itself wears and can develop tears or leaks at seams and the rear window.

Estimated Repair Costs

DIY $100-400

Shop $400-1500

Boxster only. Hydraulic system issues common.

Common Fixes

Hydraulic fluid top-off (use correct fluid)
Hydraulic pump and ram replacement
Microswitch adjustment or replacement
Top fabric replacement for tears or worn seams
Rear window replacement if delaminating
Convertible top reset procedure after battery disconnect

Common Parts

Part	Part Number	Est. Price
Hydraulic Pump	98756160901	$400-700
Microswitch	Various	$30-60

Sources: Pelican Parts, Rennlist

Carbon Buildup on Intake Valves (987.2 DFI)

Moderate

Symptoms: Rough idle, misfires, reduced power, hesitation, poor fuel economy

The 987.2 uses direct fuel injection (DFI) which doesn't wash the intake valves with fuel. Over time, carbon deposits accumulate on the intake valves, affecting airflow and combustion. This requires periodic cleaning via walnut shell blasting, typically every 50,000-80,000 miles.

Estimated Repair Costs

DIY $200-400

Shop $500-1000

987.2 DFI engines. Walnut blasting every 50-80k miles.

Common Fixes

Walnut shell blasting to remove carbon deposits
Chemical treatments (less effective but less invasive)
Catch can installation to reduce oil vapor deposits
Use quality fuel with good detergent additives
Periodic spirited driving to help burn off deposits

Common Parts

Part	Part Number	Est. Price
Walnut Media	N/A	$30-50
Intake Gaskets	9A111023500	$20-40

Sources: Rennlist, Planet-9

Window Regulator Failure

Easy

Symptoms: Window won't go up/down, grinding noise, slow window operation, window drops

The 987's frameless windows use regulators that wear over time. The cable-driven regulators can fail, causing the window to drop or operate erratically. Since the windows must drop slightly for the door to open and close, a failed regulator can make it difficult to close the door properly.

Estimated Repair Costs

DIY $100-200

Shop $300-500

Frameless windows. Adjustment and regulator issues.

Common Fixes

Window regulator replacement
Motor replacement if regulator is intact but motor failed
Check door seal condition when windows are serviced
Lubricate window guides during service
Window reset procedure after replacement

Common Parts

Part	Part Number	Est. Price
Window Regulator	98754207504	$150-250

Sources: Pelican Parts, Rennlist

Restoration Guides

Comprehensive guides for rebuilding and restoring your 987

Complete Suspension Refresh

Intermediate 10-14 hours $600-1,200

Full front and rear suspension rebuild for the 987 Boxster/Cayman's MacPherson strut front and multi-link rear suspension, restoring precise handling.

Interval Every 60,000-80,000 miles

Cost (DIY) $600-1,200

Labor 8-12 hours shop time

Parts List

Part	OEM Number	Aftermarket	Est. Cost
Front Control Arm (Left)	99734105310	Lemforder, URO	$120-200
Front Control Arm (Right)	99734105410	Lemforder, URO	$120-200
Front Strut Mount (Pair)	99734351900	Sachs, Lemforder	$80-150
Tie Rod End (Pair)	99734713100	Lemforder, Meyle	$60-120
Front Sway Bar End Link (Pair)	99734306901	Lemforder	$40-80
Rear Control Arm Upper (Pair)	98733105101	Lemforder	$100-180
Rear Control Arm Lower (Pair)	98733105201	Lemforder	$100-180
Rear Trailing Arm Bushing Set	99733105500	Powerflex	$60-120
Rear Sway Bar End Link (Pair)	99733306700	Lemforder	$40-80
Wheel Bearing (Each)	99705302304	FAG, SKF	$80-150

Tools Needed

Floor jack and jack stands
18mm, 19mm, 21mm sockets
Ball joint separator
Tie rod end puller
Spring compressor
Torque wrench
Penetrating oil
Alignment specs printout

Procedure

Raise vehicle and support on jack stands at all four corners.
Remove all wheels and photograph suspension for reference.
Soak all suspension bolts with penetrating oil.
Front: Remove sway bar end links, tie rod ends, and control arm bolts.
Separate ball joint from knuckle using separator tool.
For struts: mark camber position, remove upper mount nuts and pinch bolt.
Use spring compressor to replace strut mount/bearing.
Install new front components - torque control arm to 89 ft-lbs.
Rear: Support trailing arm before removing control arm bolts.
Replace upper and lower control arms - torque at ride height.
Check for cracked spring perches (known issue).
Install wheels and lower vehicle.
Professional alignment mandatory.

Pro Tips

The 987 shares suspension with 997 but has mid-engine weight distribution.
Check spring perches for cracks - common issue.
Cayman has fixed roof = stiffer chassis than Boxster.
Consider PASM shock replacement if equipped and leaking.

⚠️ Warnings

Spring compressors are dangerous - follow instructions.
Never strike ball joints directly.
Mid-engine cars are sensitive to alignment.
PASM shocks require diagnostic tool to calibrate.

References

Rust Prevention and Inspection

Intermediate 4-12 hours $100-800

Comprehensive rust inspection guide for the 987, which is fully galvanized but still requires attention to water intrusion and drain systems.

Interval Inspect annually

Cost (DIY) $100-800

Labor Varies by severity

Parts List

Part	OEM Number	Aftermarket	Est. Cost
Front Trunk Seal	98756193100	URO	$60-120
Door Seal Set	98753193101	URO	$100-200
Convertible Top Drain Tube (Boxster)	98756172100	Aftermarket	$30-60
Battery Box	98761118303	Fabricated	$100-250
Rust Converter	—	POR-15, Eastwood	$20-40
Cavity Wax	—	Fluid Film	$15-30
Epoxy Primer	—	Eastwood	$30-60
Seam Sealer	—	3M	$15-25

Tools Needed

Inspection mirror and flashlight
Wire brush
Compressed air
Safety glasses and respirator
Spray wand for cavity wax

Procedure

The 987 is galvanized and generally rust-resistant.
Clean undercarriage before inspection.
Check front trunk for water intrusion - DME and fuse box located here.
Inspect battery box for acid corrosion.
Boxster: Check convertible top drains - clogs cause interior damage.
Examine door bottoms and rocker panels.
Check wheel wells for debris damage.
Surface rust: wire brush, convert, prime, topcoat.
Apply cavity wax to hollow sections annually.
Clear all drain tubes with compressed air.

Pro Tips

Most 987 rust is from water intrusion, not structural.
Front trunk contains expensive electronics.
Boxster drains must be kept clear.
Annual Fluid Film prevents most issues.

⚠️ Warnings

Water in frunk destroys DME.
Battery acid causes severe corrosion.
Always wear respirator when grinding.

References

Electrical System Service

Intermediate 8-14 hours $300-800

Complete electrical service for the 987 covering ignition, sensors, and common electrical issues including window regulators and convertible top systems.

Interval Address as symptoms appear

Cost (DIY) $300-800

Labor 6-10 hours shop time

Parts List

Part	OEM Number	Aftermarket	Est. Cost
Ignition Coil Pack (Set of 6)	99760210402	Bosch	$150-300
Mass Air Flow Sensor	99760612400	Bosch	$80-150
Oxygen Sensor Set	99760612600/700	Bosch, NTK	$300-500
Window Regulator	98754207504	URO	$150-250
Convertible Top Microswitch	Various	Aftermarket	$30-60
Central Locking Pump	99756192100	Rebuilt	$200-400
Crankshaft Position Sensor	99760610601	Bosch	$60-120

Tools Needed

OBD2 scanner (Durametric preferred)
Torx driver set
10mm socket
Multimeter
Trim removal tools
Contact cleaner
Dielectric grease

Procedure

Begin with diagnostic scan for fault codes.
Check front trunk for water intrusion.
For coil replacement: open engine lid, disconnect and remove coils.
Inspect spark plug wells for oil contamination.
For MAF: clean with MAF-specific cleaner only.
For window regulator: remove door panel, support glass, swap regulator.
Boxster top issues: check hydraulic fluid level first.
Clean all ground points with wire brush.
Clear codes and verify repairs.

Pro Tips

Many electrical issues trace to water damage in frunk.
987.1 and 987.2 have different oil filter locations.
Frameless windows require precise adjustment.
Durametric scanner provides much better diagnosis.

⚠️ Warnings

Water in frunk destroys DME.
Never use carburetor cleaner on MAF.
Support window glass before removing regulator.
Disconnect battery before electrical work.

References

Interior Restoration

Intermediate 10-18 hours $300-1,000

Complete interior refresh for the 987 Boxster/Cayman covering leather care, convertible top maintenance, and common wear items.

Interval As needed

Cost (DIY) $300-1,000

Labor 8-14 hours shop time

Parts List

Part	OEM Number	Aftermarket	Est. Cost
Leather Repair Kit	—	Leatherique, Colourlock	$50-100
Convertible Top Fabric (Boxster)	98756191900	Haartz Stayfast	$300-600
Convertible Top Hydraulic Fluid	Pentosin CHF 11S	Pentosin	$25-40
Shift Knob	99742407504	Aftermarket	$60-150
E-Brake Boot	99755298001	Leather replicas	$30-60
Seat Foam (Driver)	98752191103	Recovered	$100-200
Cabin Air Filter	99757221901	Mann, Bosch	$25-50
Door Seal Set	98753193101	URO	$100-200

Tools Needed

Trim removal tools
Torx driver set
Microfiber cloths
Leather cleaner and conditioner
Convertible top cleaner
Heat gun

Procedure

Document condition with photos.
Clean leather thoroughly with dedicated cleaner.
Fill cracks with leather filler, sand, dye.
Condition all leather surfaces.
Boxster: Clean top fabric with specific cleaner.
Inspect and treat fabric with protectant.
Check hydraulic fluid level in reservoir.
Lubricate top mechanism pivot points.
Replace worn boots and knobs.
Replace cabin air filter.
Apply UV protectant to exposed surfaces.

Pro Tips

987 leather responds well to conditioning.
Sport seats wear faster on driver bolster.
Convertible hydraulic fluid often overlooked.
Cayman has less top mechanism but same interior.

⚠️ Warnings

Never operate top when wet or freezing.
Don't use silicone on leather.
Be careful with aged trim clips.

References

Parts & Suppliers

Trusted sources for OEM, aftermarket, and used parts

OEM Featured

FCP Euro

Industry-leading lifetime replacement guarantee on all parts - comprehensive 987 coverage

Lifetime Warranty OE Quality

Free over $49 Lifetime

OEM Featured

Pelican Parts

Comprehensive 987 parts catalog with detailed tech articles for DIY repairs

OEM Parts Tech Articles DIY Support

Free over $99

OEM

Porsche Parts

Factory genuine Porsche parts direct from the manufacturer

Factory Original Genuine Porsche

Genuine OEM

OEM

Sunset Porsche Parts

Porsche dealer parts department with competitive pricing

OEM Dealer New Genuine Parts

Fast shipping

Performance Featured

LN Engineering

IMS bearing solutions for 987.1 (987.2 has no IMS concern) - essential for early models

IMS Bearings Engine Components M97 Expert

Performance Featured

Flat 6 Innovations

987 performance specialist with engine upgrades and IMS solutions for 987.1

IMS Solutions Performance Builds Engine Specialist

Performance

Fabspeed

Premium exhaust systems that unlock the flat-six sound

Exhaust Systems Performance Parts

Performance

Softronic

ECU tuning to extract more power from the M97/MA1 engine

ECU Tuning Performance Software

Performance

Elephant Racing

Premium suspension components for track or street performance

Suspension Handling Kits Track Parts

General

AutohausAZ

Large selection of replacement parts at competitive prices

Replacement Parts Maintenance Items

Free over $99

General

ECS Tuning

Wide selection of OEM and aftermarket parts with detailed fitment data

OEM Parts Aftermarket Options

Free over $99

General

PartsGeek

Budget-friendly replacement parts for common maintenance items

Budget Parts Fast Shipping

Specialist Featured

Planet-9 Store

Active Boxster/Cayman community with group buys and 987-specific parts

987 Community Group Buys Community Resource

Specialist Featured

Numeric Racing

Precision shifter assemblies that transform the 987 driving experience

Shifters Transmission Parts

Specialist

GMG Racing

Track-focused upgrades for the 987 Cayman S and Boxster S

Track Parts Race Prep

Specialist

Bilt Racing Service

987 specialists known for track builds and suspension setups

Track Builds Suspension

Used/NOS Featured

Planet-9 Classifieds

The go-to marketplace for used 987 parts - active community with vetted sellers

987 Community Vetted Sellers

Used/NOS

Rennlist Classifieds

Large Porsche community marketplace with active 987 section

Forum Marketplace Wide Selection

Used/NOS

6SpeedOnline Classifieds

Large enthusiast community with Boxster/Cayman parts section

Forum Marketplace Enthusiast Parts

Used/NOS

eBay Motors

Global marketplace for used and NOS 987 parts

Used Parts NOS Global Sellers

Used/NOS

Car-Part.com

Search nationwide salvage yard inventory for 987 parts

Salvage Parts Low Cost

Helpful Tools

Pelican Parts Tech Articles Extensive library of 987 DIY articles with step-by-step instructions LN Engineering Torque Specs Torque specifications for M97 and MA1 engine work Durametric Diagnostic Essential diagnostic software for 987 - dealer-level access to all modules

Torque Specifications

Factory torque values for common service items

Reference Sources

Engine

Component	Torque Spec	Notes
Spark Plugs	22 ft-lbs (30 Nm)	-
Ignition Coil Bolts	7 ft-lbs (10 Nm)	-
Oil Drain Plug	37 ft-lbs (50 Nm)	Replace crush washer
Oil Filter Cap (987.2)	19 ft-lbs (26 Nm)	-
Intake Manifold	7 ft-lbs (10 Nm)	-
AOS Mounting Bolts	7 ft-lbs (10 Nm)	-
Coolant Pipe Fittings	15 ft-lbs (20 Nm)	New o-rings
Water Pump Bolts	7 ft-lbs (10 Nm)	-
Serpentine Belt Tensioner	44 ft-lbs (60 Nm)	-

Suspension

Component	Torque Spec	Notes
Wheel Lug Bolts (M14)	96-118 ft-lbs (130-160 Nm)	118 ft-lbs revised spec
Front Strut Pinch Bolt	65 ft-lbs (85 Nm)	-
Front Control Arm to Frame	89 ft-lbs (120 Nm)	-
Front Control Arm Ball Joint	56 ft-lbs (76 Nm)	-
Tie Rod End Nut	37 ft-lbs (50 Nm)	-
Strut Top Nut	44 ft-lbs (60 Nm)	-
Sway Bar End Links	48 ft-lbs (65 Nm)	-
Rear Control Arm Eccentric	74 ft-lbs (100 Nm)	-

Brakes

Component	Torque Spec	Notes
Front Caliper Bolts	63 ft-lbs (85 Nm)	-
Rear Caliper Bolts	63 ft-lbs (85 Nm)	-
Brake Rotor Screws	7 ft-lbs (10 Nm)	-
Brake Line Fittings	13 ft-lbs (18 Nm)	-
Pad Wear Sensor	Hand tight	Clips into place

DIY Maintenance Guides

Step-by-step tutorials for common maintenance tasks

Oil Change

Easy 30 min $60-90

Complete oil and filter change for M97 and MA1 engines.

Interval Every 5,000-7,500 miles

Cost (DIY) $60-90

Tools Needed

19mm socket for drain plug (987.1)
8mm Allen for drain plug (987.2)
Oil filter wrench or 76mm cap
Drain pan
Funnel
Ramps or jack and jack stands

Procedure

Warm the engine for 2-3 minutes - warm oil drains better.
Drive onto ramps or raise and support the car safely.
Locate the oil drain plug on the bottom of the engine.
Position drain pan and remove the drain plug.
Allow oil to drain completely - at least 10 minutes.
987.1: Spin-on filter under the car. 987.2: Cartridge filter on top.
Remove old filter. For 987.2, unscrew housing cap with 76mm tool.
987.1: Cut open old filter and inspect for metal debris (IMS check).
Apply fresh oil to new filter's gasket (987.1) or replace O-ring (987.2).
Install new filter. 987.2: Insert cartridge and torque cap to 19 ft-lbs.
Replace the copper crush washer on the drain plug.
Reinstall drain plug and torque to 37 ft-lbs (50 Nm).
Add 8-9 quarts of 0W-40 or 5W-40 synthetic oil.
Start engine, check for leaks, verify level.

Pro Tips

987.1: Cut open filter and inspect for metal debris (IMS warning sign).
987.2 has no IMS concern - uses different engine design.
Use quality synthetic oil meeting Porsche A40 specification.
The 987.2 uses a top-mounted cartridge filter like BMW.

Brake Pad Replacement

Easy 1-2 hours $100-180

Front and rear brake pad replacement on the 987's Brembo calipers.

Interval Every 20,000-40,000 miles

Cost (DIY) $100-180

Tools Needed

19mm socket for lug bolts
7mm Allen socket for caliper pins
Brake piston spreader or C-clamp
Wire brush
Brake cleaner
Brake grease
Jack and jack stands

Procedure

Loosen lug bolts while car is on the ground.
Raise and support the car safely on jack stands.
Remove wheel to access caliper.
Disconnect brake pad wear sensor if equipped.
Remove the two 7mm Allen caliper guide pin bolts.
Swing the caliper up and support it - don't let it hang by the hose.
Remove the old pads from the caliper bracket.
Inspect rotor for scoring, cracks, or minimum thickness.
Clean pad contact surfaces with wire brush and brake cleaner.
Open brake fluid reservoir, then compress caliper piston(s).
Apply brake grease to pad backing plate contact points.
Install new pads - wear sensor slot goes on the inner pad.
Swing caliper down and reinstall guide pins to 22 ft-lbs (30 Nm).
Reconnect wear sensor.
Reinstall wheel and torque lugs to 96-118 ft-lbs.
Repeat for all corners.
Pump brake pedal until firm before driving.

Pro Tips

S models have larger brakes than base models.
Four-piston calipers require all pistons pushed back evenly.
Bed new pads with moderate stops - avoid hard braking initially.
Wear sensors should be replaced with new pads.

Spark Plug Replacement

Easy 1 hour $50-100

Replace spark plugs on the M97 or MA1 flat-six engine.

Interval Every 30,000-40,000 miles

Cost (DIY) $50-100

Tools Needed

Spark plug socket (5/8" or 16mm thin-wall)
Extensions
Universal joint
Torque wrench
Compressed air
Dielectric grease

Procedure

Allow engine to cool completely.
Open the engine lid for access.
The 987 has 6 spark plugs - accessed from the top of the engine.
Remove the coil packs by disconnecting connectors and removing bolts.
Use compressed air to blow debris from the spark plug wells.
Using spark plug socket and extension, remove each plug.
Inspect old plugs for wear, fouling, or damage.
Check plug gap on new plugs - should be 0.7-0.8mm.
Hand-thread new plugs to avoid cross-threading.
Torque plugs to 22 ft-lbs (30 Nm).
Apply dielectric grease to coil pack boots.
Reinstall coil packs and torque bolts to 7 ft-lbs (10 Nm).
Start engine and verify smooth operation.

Pro Tips

Use NGK or Bosch platinum/iridium plugs specified for your engine.
Both 987.1 and 987.2 use coil-on-plug ignition.
Inspect coil boots for cracks while replacing plugs.
Replace coils if you're experiencing misfires.

Serpentine Belt Replacement

Easy 1 hour $40-80

Replace accessory drive belt and inspect tensioner.

Interval Every 40,000-60,000 miles or if cracked

Cost (DIY) $40-80

Tools Needed

19mm wrench or socket for tensioner
Belt routing diagram
Flashlight
New belt

Procedure

Open engine lid and locate the serpentine belt.
Note or photograph the belt routing before removal.
Locate the automatic belt tensioner with 19mm bolt head.
Using the wrench, rotate the tensioner to release belt tension.
Slip the old belt off the pulleys while holding tensioner back.
Slowly release the tensioner.
Inspect the old belt for cracks, glazing, or missing ribs.
Inspect the tensioner pulley - spin it by hand for roughness or play.
Route the new belt according to the diagram.
Leave the tensioner pulley for last.
Rotate the tensioner and slip the belt over the tensioner pulley.
Release the tensioner slowly to take up slack.
Verify the belt is properly seated in all pulley grooves.
Start engine and observe belt tracking.

Pro Tips

Take a photo of belt routing before removal.
If the tensioner pulley is noisy, replace it with the belt.
Check idler pulleys for smooth rotation while belt is off.
A cracked belt can leave you stranded - replace proactively.

Community Resources

Popular YouTube channels, forums, and communities dedicated to the 987

Porsche 987 Boxster/Cayman

Buyer's Guide

Overview

Quick Facts

Model Variants

Boxster / Cayman

Boxster S / Cayman S

Cayman R

Boxster Spyder

Pre-Purchase Inspection Checklist

Engine (987.1)

Engine (987.2)

Transmission

Body & Convertible

Suspension

Pricing Guide

Project Car

Driver Quality

Excellent

Concours / Collector

Red Flags - Walk Away If...

What to Look For

Ownership Costs

Expert Tips

Common Issues

IMS Bearing Failure (987.1 Only)

Estimated Repair Costs

Common Fixes

Common Parts

Similar Issue On Other Models

Bore Scoring / Cylinder Wear (987.1)

Estimated Repair Costs

Common Fixes

Common Parts

Rear Main Seal Leak (987.1)

Estimated Repair Costs

Common Fixes

Common Parts

Air/Oil Separator (AOS) Failure

Estimated Repair Costs

Common Fixes

Common Parts

Coolant Pipe and System Failures

Estimated Repair Costs

Common Fixes

Common Parts

Convertible Top Issues (Boxster)

Estimated Repair Costs

Common Fixes

Common Parts

Carbon Buildup on Intake Valves (987.2 DFI)

Estimated Repair Costs

Common Fixes

Common Parts

Window Regulator Failure

Estimated Repair Costs

Common Fixes

Common Parts

Similar Issue On Other Models

Restoration Guides

Complete Suspension Refresh

Parts List

Tools Needed

Procedure

Pro Tips

⚠️ Warnings

References

Rust Prevention and Inspection

Parts List

Tools Needed

Procedure

Pro Tips

⚠️ Warnings

References

Electrical System Service

Parts List

Tools Needed

Procedure

Pro Tips

⚠️ Warnings