Intermediate shaft bearing failure
May have no obvious symptoms before failure; sometimes there is metallic debris in the oil filter, a rattly startup, or a sudden engine cut-out.
Should I buy a 1998–2004 Porsche 911 3.4 Petrol Automatic 996?
Considering a 1998–2004 Porsche 911 3.4 Petrol Automatic 996? This guide explains the problems associated with this model and what to examine when viewing one. Condition, maintenance history and previous repairs matter, so judge the exact car on evidence rather than badge appeal.
At a glance
Generation: 996
We have detailed information drawn from more than 2 billion data points and an extensive list of potential faults for this vehicle. Below is a sample of three. Run a bespoke report by entering your vehicle details to see the full list.
This guide explains the model. Your registration tells the real story.
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Common Porsche 911 (1998–2004) problems
Automatic transmission limp mode and shift faults
Harsh upshifts, a thump when selecting drive, flashing gear display lights, reluctance to change gear, or revs rising without matching road speed.
Front radiator and air-conditioning condenser corrosion
Weak or warm air conditioning, coolant loss from the front of the car, damp staining behind the bumper grilles, or a sweet smell after a drive.
Porsche 911 buying questions
Is a 1998–2004 Porsche 911 worth buying?
It can be, but only if the individual car backs it up. For the 1998–2004 Porsche 911 3.4 Petrol Automatic 996, treat model-level patterns as viewing priorities and let condition, history and inspection evidence decide.
What common problems affect the Porsche 911 (1998–2004)?
The problem cards above list the model-level checks for this guide. Read them as priorities for inspection and paperwork review, not proof that every example will have those faults.
What should I check before buying a Porsche 911?
Look for evidence, not just assurances: MOT advisories, service history, repair invoices, warning lights, fluid leaks, tyre and brake condition, and how the car behaves on a proper test drive. And of course, look at your personalised Should I Buy This Car? report, outlining a full list of common issues in detail, a personalised road test, a plain-English explanation and a MotorIQ score.
A model guide is useful. A report on its registration is better.
The guide above gives you the model-level pattern. A personalised MotorIQ report checks the registration-specific record and turns it into an ownership view before you commit.
Or enter the vehicle manually