A Year With My Porsche 996! My Experience!

[@mdw1000]

Got you beat on running cost - only a 55 dollar oil changed required for the NC Miata this past year! NCs sound like 996s. They were very unloved by the larger community until recently.

[@jcbryant4200]

I just bought a 2002 C4S. Black body, black interior, wheels with red calipers, gt2 wing, wide body. It’s amazing. Some nice upgrades including IMS, new clutch, new break system, a ridiculously good sound system and exhaust upgrade. Only negative is it had 130k miles but the car is perfect and I love it so far. It’s exciting to share in this experience with others.

[@JAYREAD]

Congratulations! That sounds WONDERFUL!

[@stewartlee247]

Me,either!

[@drbrucelippmann8874]

Hi Jay Nice video. I bought a 1999 911/996 about a year ago. It had 120,000 miles when I bought it but it had the IMS bearing and new clutch, tires and brakes done at 119,000 miles. I paid $22,000 for mine. Oh, it’s a cabriolet. So far, I’ve done an oil change ($160), a new battery ($300), a new rear window ($230 for the window and $500 for installation as it had to be sewn in), and new hydraulic rams for the top to go up and down ($3200 of which $2200 was for parts). So I’ve got $4400 in repairs in the first year. I’ve put on 6,000 miles and I’ve enjoyed every mile! Love the car, the way it drives and handles. It’s a 6 speed. Nothing better than dropping the top and hugging curves on mountain and foothill roads. I’m in central California close to Yosemite National Park. Anyway, I’m totally please with my purchase. I’m almost 72. Living each day and loving it!

[@JAYREAD]

Age doesn’t factor in car excitement! It never gets old! Aren’t they wonderful cars?

[@drbrucelippmann8874]

@@JAYREAD yes this 996/911 is awesome! I love it! I’ve got a need for speed and this does it for me.

[@QBNTO1]

4:55 that jeep comes up on you fast! 😂😂👍🏻

[@daviddee7103]

Thanks for the video and review, yes nice folks at Danbury, I live in Maryland and traded my cayman S for a 911 991 a few years ago, I did the deal over the phone, drove up to Connecticut picked up my 911 and drove back home with no surprises. Still love my 911!!!

[@stevejames4015]

Bought my first 911 (2002) 5 years ago - bought the best example I could find. Love driving it - so true about opening conversations with others, Porsche or not. Cheers from sunny Arizona.

[@JAYREAD]

Cheers Steve!

[@Jbizzle_klok]

You've just convinced me to pull the trigger on my own 996 purchase. I will email with some questions I have to hopefully make a better informed decision on my purchase. Thanks for the video!

[@goofah10]

You can get the sprint booster which is supposed to give the impression of the tip being more responsive. Have a look for it online. I have been thinking about getting a 911 Tip 996 in exchange for my 986 Boxster, and if I did I think the Sprint Booster would be on the top of my list for upgrades.

[@buckyes6749]

Love my arctic silver C4s. Such a fun ride. I am 53 wanted a 911 since I was a kid. Glad to have great AC, power, performance, and AWD. I had to have my signal-cluster replaced as well, did the clutch/flywheel/RMS, and oil sending unit at 57k, and now I need to do exhaust. Not sure what to do there yet. Not allot of garages around me to do it

[@997GURU]

Approved ! Tip is Top, Manual fantastic 😀

[@pierrenovak4971]

Hi Jay, great video, I like your relaxed and honest style. I just recently bought a 2005 996 C2 cabriolet, which apparently are very rare for that year and I have not done my IMS RMS either. I would be curious to know which bearing you would install if you were to do it today? I am thinking of going the EPS roller bearing route, as our friends at Friends Green Porsche in England seem to favour. Luke has a great KZbin channel that has really good 996 content. The car is in exceptional condition, I am in Canada, and it was never winter driven and now has 54K kms. Keep up the good work!

[@JAYREAD]

Yes, Friends make great videos! I watch them! I would do the IMS Solution. Very similar to the EPS solution. The problem is that to do it on a Tip, it is $4,500 because you have to drop the engine! I’ll get there!

[@wilbertmcmaster8025]

Nice to see FGP get recognised here. I have just bought a 2002 996 from Luke but haven't collected it yet due to lockdown. Could have it delivered but I want to drive it home to Northern Ireland! My first Porsche at 60, fulfillment of a boyhood dream!

[@emilioantu7685]

I enjoyed you comments and review. I have owned my 2003 Porsche Carrera Cab. for a little over a year and love driving it daily. I get many positive comments from other people and I always tell them they should own one. I am also a member of PCA and plan to part take in upcoming events in the local Longhorn Chapter. I look forward to seeing more of your reports and comments.

[@JAYREAD]

I saw one yesterday in the sun with its roof down and thought it looked every bit as nice as a new one, to be honest. Lovely cars!

[@clubracer6]

I’ve had 70+ cars and my 40th AE 996 is one of my favorites and I plan on keeping it a long time! You should consider getting the magnetic drain plug for your oil. Did you have them cut open the oil filter during those oil changes to look for metal bits? You can also send you oil in for analysis. I feel if you do that, you can get some peace of mind and continue to put off the IMS replacement. If you can hardwire the camera’s you can also change your own oil. It is probably the easiest car to change the oil on. The biggest hassle is getting rid of the old oil. Other than that, it is a 10 minute job. Great video! Oh, you may want to check out the Fister muffler mod. Sounds great!

[@deedoubleyatraining]

Have no fear Jay, we the people are watching!!! I’m so glad that Porsche ownership has brought you the full sense of car/friend community, I feel much the same. Keep them coming, and Thankyou for your continued enthusiasm.

[@JAYREAD]

So YOU are my viewer! I did wonder who it was! Thanks so much!

[@timelesskeeper]

Great advice! Your best days are ahead.

[@JAYREAD]

Exactly!

[@MrDesmonick]

Great video! My 996 has also introduced me to a whole new group of people, a whole new load of bills, and a reason to drag my spanners out, which I enjoy!

[@JAYREAD]

It was definitely a lifestyle choice as well as a car choice, Nick, for sure. Spannering isn’t my gig though! Cheers chap!

[@simonrose8558]

Thanks Jay, I am buying a 996 targa manual this weekend. Its checked out fine so just sorting insurance ect,

[@JAYREAD]

OOOOH! How nice! How exciting! Is it your first?

[@simonrose8558]

Yes my first 911...very excited

[@18echosf]

I have to say, Jay.........I love your channel for a reason that most folks might not..........you seem like an average guy who just loves driving his Porsche! With 40+ years of driving Porsches as my daily drivers, I’m similar to you in a couple of ways.........I no longer work on my own cars (too old), I don’t do any major modifications (Porsche did it right the first time), and at 76 years of age, I still drive my car every single day, just for the joy of driving the finest sports car ever built (IMHO)! And, I noticed you ran your car thru an automatic car wash.........something most Porsche owners would cringe at.......but not me! I actually just use waterless car wash products in my garage to keep the car clean. Anyway.........keep up the great job on YT and I look forward to your drive on The Tail of the Dragon!

[@FlatCapDriver]

Like your attitude, I haven’t washed my 996 in a year and it lives outside and is my daily driver. It’s covered in moss! (I feel I may have gone too far in neglecting it 🙄)

[@JAYREAD]

Thank you very much indeed! Life is for living, right? No one gets out alive!

[@18echosf]

@@JAYREAD Yes, that’s exactly right, Jay. However, for me it’s coming to an end. I don’t mean to bum you out, but I was very recently diagnosed with a terminal illness. I know you’re not in the market for a car but, sadly, I’ll be selling my 991.2 in the not to distant future. The details of my Porsche are shown in a couple of my YT videos. Be well and stay happy............Adrian.

[@JAYREAD]

@@18echosf much love, Adrian. It’s coming to an end for all of us in one way or another. My sincere best wishes to you. Keep kicking till the last, I bloody well will!

[@18echosf]

@@JAYREAD Thank you, so much. PS: I can tell from watching your videos that you’re a kind soul. Stay well.

[@ronapicelli3910]

Great video Jay!!! I’m still delaying my IMS as well...Hopefully we’re all okay with that!!!

[@JAYREAD]

I am! I’m not sure that all will be though!

[@jamesadey8744]

Glad you're enjoying your 996. Very true about screen technology. I chose a Porsche Cayman without satnav for this very reason. They look awful when they become dated.

[@nickvangopoulosphotography6921]

Watch all your videos Jay, Thoroughly enjoy all the information and your thoughts on your one year ownership. I have owned my first Porsche "2008 Cayman 987 2.7 5 spd manaual" for 4 yrs next month. I have always wanted a 911 but i don'r think i can bring my self to sell this one ,it is that good. Looking forward to hopefully see you do a review of the 987 Caymans and your thoughts.. Keep the videos coming .Cheers Nick.

[@JAYREAD]

I love Caymans! I’m sure we will get one soon! Thanks very much, Nick!

[@AutoAmateur]

Another great video J! You continue to raise the bar. Ps. Your 996 is looking epic!!

[@JAYREAD]

Thank you, my friend!

[@stuartwatson745]

I like your style with these Jay. Balanced and open. I also like the new intro, great stuff.

[@JAYREAD]

Cheers Stuart! I’m glad of the feedback.

[@arighosal4809]

Happy 996 Anni Jay! Glad you are still enjoying the car; keep it and drive the heck out of it!

[@JAYREAD]

Thanks so much, as ever, Ari! I bloody well will!

[@arighosal4809]

@@JAYREAD wish I could join you and James for your epic Tail and ATL trip! My schedule doesn’t permit unfortunately. Next time! Looking forward to the vids however!

[@philbert9967]

Happy Anniversary! I’m just a few months away from one year anniversary of 996 ownership myself. I’d like to recommend the Fister Exhaust. Sounds great without being too loud and no drone on the highways. Looking forward to more 996 content this year 👍

[@JAYREAD]

You’re the third person to say that to me today! I think it’s on the cards but we’ll see! Thanks very much. More 996 stuff coming!

[@davemilner7965]

Really enjoy your videos and have recently bought a 996.2 Carrera 4 Cabriolet so am joining you on the 911 journey. Loving it so far as I’d always wanted one and finally decided, with my wife’s agreement, to just go for it. I’ll let you know how I get on

[@JAYREAD]

Please do, Dave. A community of 996 guys and gals right here!

[@michelclairoux8189]

I have bought last October a Carrera S Cabriolet 2012 (991.1) with 47000 km (30K miles) (still in my garage). I put more money than you did without driving it. I followed Porche maintenance schedule: spark plugs , coils, serpentine belt, oil with filter and air filter. I also flushed the coolant, put news metal pedals, screens in front of radiators, Joye Auto Car Play and backup camera. All by myself. So I am surprise of your maintenance costs for an older car. Waiting good weather here in Quebec.

[@JAYREAD]

There is more that I could have done, I suppose, such as plugs and coils but they don’t really need doing. All it’s needed has been oil change and filter and it’s run wonderfully throughout the year. Let’s see if my luck holds into year two!

[@daddycool12ka4]

The day I bought my 2002 C2 tip, my wife saw a 2010 Jaguar XK on the forecourt and I could see she was more interested in that as it had more mod cons and a screen...but the back seats were useless...and so I'm glad we bought the 996...and Silver too and the same Carrera 2 wheels ☺️

[@JAYREAD]

It’s comforting to know that you made the same decision as me! I really meant it too: I made the right decision for once in my life!

[@cornishrider]

Thanks Jay, I'm here in the UK and 18 months from 50 and am determined to get a 996 when I'm 50. I too thought about an XK as I sold/marketed both when new, but there's nothing quite like a 911.

[@JAYREAD]

Go for it! I don’t think you’ll be disappointed. If you need anything, just email me. [e-mail]

[@cornishrider]

@@JAYREAD Thanks Jay will do! 👍

[@greggbull9543]

Always enjoy your videos Jay, cheers mate. I watched all the “Best Buy” videos just to get a feel for each model generation. I opted for a 993 C2 Cab with a manual gearbox (the C2S, C4S and Turbos are just to expensive) I chose a cabriolet mostly because all the coupes were being cobbled up in record time at record prices. I wanted to go back in time and relive simpler times, I have a thumbing great slushbox equipped AWD V8 BMW as a daily. I’ll keep watching your videos because I enjoy your analytical approach the reviewing motors (automobiles) Cheers 🍻

[@JAYREAD]

Cheers Gregg, as ever! Yes, simpler times, that what I was trying to say. The sheer fun of driving and not being in a mobile entertainment center!

[@DJBobbyChicago]

Take the plastic off your furniture lol Great video! 996revival🙂

[@juandelagarza6718]

I own a 996 6 speed and a 997S automatic and love driving both, I have considered selling the 996 because I have a bad left knee but when I drive it I change my mind because it’s such a pleasure to drive. Maybe I’ll get my knee fixed.

[@JAYREAD]

I’m never selling mine!

[@bak2mb]

today my long time dream finally happened after 2 Macan ownership.Traded my M2 for a 991.2 Base and cant stop smiling....what a car!!!!

[@JAYREAD]

Bahahahaha! WOOOOOO HOOOOOO! Congratulations, my man! ❤️

[@bak2mb]

@@JAYREAD Thanks m8t!!!

[@pteodoro79]

Great raw info! Keep us updated on the ims and the oil pressure sender! Good luck!

[@JAYREAD]

Thank you! Yes, will do!

[@pteodoro79]

@@JAYREAD I am looking at the European Parts solution www.europeanpartssolution.com/ims-bearing-upgrade-kit and have mixed reviews from Porsche fanatics/ LN engineering fans. Wondering if you had a chance to look into this. Interested in your thoughts. Thanks!

[@davidholman2951]

Looking forward to seeing your road trip with James

[@inaj27]

I just got my 996 ❤, and I’m so lucky 🍀 to have got it well preserved

[@JAYREAD]

You are very lucky!

[@lepepus]

I maintain that you should have chosen a manual, but the 996, which I used to hate like every good Porsche fan, is really groing on me. The early 4S 996 is probably now one of my favorite and desirable 911s! Maybe should have picked one up a few years ago... I do love my 987.2 Boxster though

[@michaelwelschmidt9338]

Some of the most criticized cars become the most valued. It’s funny how the 986/996 was so criticized, yet sold so well. They only achieved their high depreciation because they were so abundant. Continue to watch the valuations increase steeply from the bottom, there is no way but up. The attention they got through the past criticism of the headlights is only going to boost valuations as the headlights become a must have quirk in a collector car that time has been very kind to.

[@jaapthieme6561]

I have the same feeling with my 996 triptronic Jay! But my Alfa Spider has a manual. I didn't do my ims also. But change the oil and oil filter is very important!

[@JAYREAD]

We have similar tastes, I reckon! Yes, it’s booked in!

[@jaapthieme6561]

My cars are in Europe unfortunately. I must do a road trip in the US still in the planning when covit ends...my Spider comes from California.

[@tz6414]

Have had my 996 for almost 15 years now, don’t drive it a lot mind often not for weeks. Still it’s a bit of fun, too harsh for me to have as a daily. It does feel really old , dated and crude compared to my new Mercs. The performance is far less than the looks suggest. Pretty tame below 4k then picks up above that, but not dangerously fast. Good thing is that you can wring it out but not bee too illegal. My wife thinks it’s coming to the end of its life with its various problems that I seem to be always fixing. She is right, the values today way exceed it’s real value as an old car.

[@askiff1415]

996 is an official Porsche ‘classic’. Are you Interested in upgrading to the PCCM+?

[@JAYREAD]

I am but it’s slide down the list of priorities. They’re expensive and I would prefer to spend the money on a nice exhaust. I’m sure I’ll do it one day.

[@askiff1415]

@@JAYREAD yes they are quite pricey. For me it’s a battle between modernising the house and trying to slip in the odd few thousand on the car once 😉. Everyone that’s had the upgrade in their 996 has been fantastically happy with the added functionality, fit and finish. I have to wait until it’s available on the 997 😕

[@mbjohnston]

Jay, what exhaust systems are you considering?

[@JAYREAD]

@@mbjohnston I was thinking of the Fabspeed Maxflo or, if I have my brave trousers on, the Fabspeed Muffler Delete. Any thoughts?

[@mbjohnston]

@@JAYREAD I think it depends on what you’re trying to achieve. If my goal was simply sound pleasure, I think it’s a fantastic option. I personally love taking my 996 on long rides and would be concerned about the exposure for those types of trips. I really wanted to hear James Project 996 review of the Fister system but will have to wait. So, I hope to continue to learn from others experiences, yours included, as you make these mods. Best of luck!

[@jamesbennett8248]

Nice video, you should really look into having the "Fister" muffler hack done. Sounds fantastic and very reasonable price. Just a mod to your original mufflers.

[@JAYREAD]

Yes, agreed. Fister might be the way to go.

[@ChipMahoney]

Thanks for the video drive along. I have a 996 in guards red. It has such a classic look thanks to famed designer Pinky Lai. While other cars can usually only add fancy headlights or taillights, the 911 996 is an actual work of art that transforms time.

[@fernandovara5498]

Hey jay!!! Be careful with the fab speed muffler delete . I loved >>>> I won’t go back to stock!!!! But it is extremely /// extremely//// loud >>>>

[@kellycoffey4501]

I currently have my mufflers off at a shop getting the Fister mod done. I’m conflicted about starting the car in this state. Part of me wants to hear the unrestricted muffler delete sound. Part of me is worried I’ll like it too much! Hahahahaha

[@willdolan9056]

another great video Jay.!!

[@JAYREAD]

Cheers Will!

[@jasonevans2170]

Thanks. Very interesting to hear a review after a year on the 996. I’ve a 997 and love it - very dependable and (relatively speaking) practical. What are your thoughts on manual convertible 996’s?

[@JAYREAD]

I like them, of course! They are not to my own personal taste or weren’t when I bought mine because, for my first 911 I wanted a classic looking coupe but I think they’re great cars actually. Soft tops can require some work as they get old so check that it’s in good condition if you are looking at one (hydraulics and condition of the fabric itself and that the rods are still intact).

[@drbrucelippmann8874]

I have a 996 convertible and LOVE it. I’ve got the 6 speed manual. It’s a blast!

[@ktmbilly3963]

Love Porsches !!! Have two . Ones A 996

[@stms4411]

I like your attitude Jay. But I do have to laugh when you say you’ve basically spent nothing and then itemize about $4k of costs. Granted, I know most of it was not to address something broken, but your definition of nothing is different than mine😉. As for what else you’d buy? I was thinking 996 911 or 987 boxster or cayman. Ended up w a 981 boxster s. You did quite well on purchase price, but as reliable as Porsches tend to be, I preferred to go with an 8 model year old car vs an 18 y/o one. Of course as you mentioned admiration for the boxster in this video it’s a future option (for ‘and’ or ‘either’). Do the IMS and you can prob sell it for $40k. Drive it for 2 years and likely make $5k for driving it. That doesn’t hurt, does it? Then get a manual!

[@LordLauderdale]

Nice video and approachable reviewer.

[@JAYREAD]

Thank you very much!

[@LordLauderdale]

@@JAYREAD thanks you for the review !

[@nolanohana]

Nice example Jay, these are fun cars

[@JAYREAD]

Thank you!

[@fernandovara5498]

Been there done that >> Before I even star using My 996.1 cable throttle / M030 suspension!!! Cheers 🍻

[@fernandovara5498]

IMS DONE W EUROPEAN SOLUTIONS CONICAL BEARINGS

[@MrCarrerah]

Hi, i am looking for a nice dashcam for my 996 like the Vantrue. Could you show how youre dashcam is positioned on the windshield?

[@JAYREAD]

I can’t add pictures here but it is mostly hidden behind the rear view mirror and to its left as you look at it. The mirror doesn’t hide all of the camera but most of it and you need to leave some exposed so the cabin camera can ‘see’ everything. Vantrue is very good and I am very pleased with it. Buy the GPS and the OBD2 adaptors if you get one. Easy to install.

[@mrh6577]

I’ve got quite a few videos on exhausts, I’ll see if I can upload some. I have 200 cell crossover pipes, 200 cell Xpipe videos and valvetronic boxes which I fitted. Please, Please don’t do a muffler delete, you’ll regret it as the sound is way too loud and sounds rubbish, in my opinion. I have also designed a Helmholtz resonator which I fitted to my exhaust to change the tone. After many different attempts I’ve got the exhaust where I want it. Good luck with your new manual Boxster, and it’ll be convertible 😂🤣 You know you want one

[@JAYREAD]

Hahaha! Hmm. Maybe! Yes, I’d be interested in more exhaust videos!

[@aboyandhisdog]

Jay, from the outside it looks like you have window tint, but from the inside they look quite clear. What is correct, and if you have tint, does it keep the temps down in the car? Thank you! -Tom

[@JAYREAD]

Hi Tom! I do have a tint, yes. The car came with them and I quite like the look so I kept them on. I think they do help a bit in the summer with the heat. The difference isn’t dramatic because the interior is black after all.

[@aboyandhisdog]

@@JAYREAD Thanks for that, Jay. I have two dogs that are always with me and I am thinking of trying to cut down on the UV's from the rear window of my 997. I really need to try something for the summer. I think a trip to my local window tint guy is in store!

[@michaelwelschmidt9338]

The XK would have been a bit redundant in your garage. You have a more diverse collection.

[@JAYREAD]

It’s true, I think. I’m happy. :-)

[@Sandiegocruiser]

Is targa shaped different why don’t you like it

[@JAYREAD]

Yes, it is. That’s the reason. I don’t like the shape.

[@Sandiegocruiser]

@@JAYREAD looking at it online I couldn’t tell the difference I am really interested in targa since you can access the rear seats from the back of the car. I wanted a convertible but those repairs can get costly so I think targa is a good option

[@JAYREAD]

@@Sandiegocruiser Take a look at the shape of the rear window compared to the coupe. It loses the classic curves. Each to their own. People love them for exactly the reason you describe!

[@johnrb9397]

JESUS BLESS YOU JAY.

[@JAYREAD]

Jesus loves me, John.

[@moneyparhar]

Get sports headers and fister mufflers. Mufflers bypass would be too loud and drone. Oil change or that thier is place called @FCPEURO they have life time oil change and parts warranty. Anything u buy from them it's life time. Oil, brakes, tires, wipers lights. Anything. Plus they located in Connecticut. Easy fast shipping. Check them out on IG

[@JAYREAD]

Thank you! I will!

[@OneDullMan]

I will always say the older 911s were far better looking and why I much prefer my long gone 1989 SC over my 1999 996 C2.

[@JAYREAD]

On looks, I tend to agree, but to drive, I disagree! The 996 drives ten times better than the older ones IMHO!

[@radekw708]

have to get rid of that tint

[@JAYREAD]

Nope!

[@the1beard]

Convertibles are not as rigid noticeably different The Targa is just a convertible with a Targa top in place of the fabric roof The Coupe Manual is the best drivers car

[@JAYREAD]

If they’re silver, they’re faster too!

[@fernandovara5498]

Cheers 🍻 mate >>> River rat 996

[@JAYREAD]

Cheers!

[@laiebi_3639]

On the verge of getting a 996T, hope I don't make a huge mistake

[@JAYREAD]

I can’t see how you could actually!

[@laiebi_3639]

@@JAYREAD Just fear to get sth with a damage I cannot foresee and that could have been detected beforehand. On other hand I tested all I could to minimize the risk, but I'm no expert on the matter at all and I'm not very riske averse

[@laiebi_3639]

@@JAYREAD Just signed the contract, can pick it up in 2 weeks

[@JAYREAD]

@@laiebi_3639 Bahahaha! It’s good work! Well played!

[@YowserUK]

Shame about the U.S Spec bumper, lets the rear down, but beautiful car otherwise.

[@JAYREAD]

Thanks! I know what you mean. At least mine are painted. They look a lot worse when they’re black.

[@sgttombailes3380]

5 years w/ my 996 has cost WAY less than my BMW 530i .. Buy a 996!!!

[@JAYREAD]

^^^ This! ❤️❤️❤️

[@SpasticusMaximus]

Hair remains magnificent chummy.

[@JAYREAD]

None taken! (LOL)

[@fernandovara5498]

Your route will be a by-pass

[@brightenupcc]

I lost interest after the word 'tiptronic'

[@JAYREAD]

I lost interest after the word ‘John’.

[@timmeonine7885]

He should of spent less on the car and more on his hairpiece

[@JAYREAD]

‘Should have’.