What it's really like owning a 986 Porsche Boxster

[@riggs1590]

It's nice to see someone so happy with their car rather than looking to change it for the next newest thing. The changes you've made are mostly spot on, you've knocked years off your Boxster. Not a fan of the big wing personally, but hay its your car. Have you ever added up how much you've spent over the years, or would you rather not? 😮

[@Paul1962]

Thanks a lot for the kind and positive words! I totally get where you're coming from about being happy with what you have. and I couldn't agree more about the satisfaction of enjoying and enhancing what you already have. As for the costs, well, let's just say I've spent a shed load on maintenance, upgrades, and modifications. But if you work it out over 10 years, the yearly costs are no more than running any other car; you're not spending big bucks every year. the memories created with the car are priceless, and that's what matters most. The wing is one of those things you either love or hate. Basically, I agreed with Clarkson; the back of the Boxster looked unfinished, just wrong. The only practical solution I could see was a wing, but none of the wings looked right. That's until the Cayman GT4 came along. For me, it is the lesser of two evils, and the wing looks a bit better than nothing at all. Most of the mods are aimed at making it more usable, younger, or higher spec. It's all about smiles per gallon, not miles per gallon.

[@clumprider]

Bought myself a relatively affordable 1998 2.5 Boxster last year as a project, slowly getting there with it, much to the thanks to your channel. Keep em coming. Cheers from Scotland.

[@geerider1]

Excellent video! I admire your knowledge and skills. I recently purchased a 2004 Boxster and the first issue I'm correcting is the burned out/ missing bulbs in the rear. I'm hoping to keep my car as well maintained as you have! 👍👍

[@jonfrench7133]

What a fascinating video and totally admire your dedication to fix and improve. Only thing for me is that spoiler, fully incongruous with the flow of the car. Aside form that hats off to you

[@Paul1962]

Thank you so much for your kind words and thoughtful feedback! I truly appreciate your admiration for the video and recognition of the dedication put into fixing and improving the car. It's always encouraging to hear positive comments. I understand your perspective on the spoiler, and I appreciate your honesty about it feeling incongruous with the overall flow of the car. Different tastes and preferences in automotive design are entirely valid, and I value diverse opinions. Your feedback helps me consider various viewpoints, and it's something I'll keep in mind for future projects. It now has "RS" style mounts, which stand out even more, lol. But I will paint the spoiler silver in the spring, so hopefully it will blend in a little more. Once again, thank you for taking the time to share your thoughts. I'm glad you enjoyed the video overall, and I'm grateful for the support! If there's anything specific you'd like to see or discuss in future videos, feel free to let me know.

[@andrewlundie8155]

I have a 1999 2.5 Boxster similar to yours and I have been following your videos over the years and I have found them most useful in sorting out the problems I’ve come across . The mileage you’ve done also shows how well made these cars are made. You’ve done a good job modifying your car and it's looking great. I appreciate how time consuming it is to make your vodeos, so thanks for keeping them going all those years. Looking forward to watch your next update.

[@Paul1962]

Thank you so much for your kind words! It's always great to hear from fellow Boxster enthusiasts like you. I'm glad to know that you've found my videos helpful in maintaining your 1999 2.5 Boxster. These cars are indeed well-made, and it's a pleasure to work on them. Your support and encouragement mean a lot, and it keeps me motivated to continue sharing my updates. Stay tuned for more exciting content in the future!

[@Boxster986Fan]

Great video! Life is about the experience not the cost. Taking the good with the bad. You clearly agree and even though we are polar opposite on our goals with our Boxsters I love what you’ve done with yours 😎 Every time you give the car a little TLC, even something like a new armrest, it seemingly drives better because it feels loved.

[@Paul1962]

Absolutely, it's all about the journey, and it has been an amazing journey. That's what makes it more than just a car.

[@Boxster986Fan]

💯😎

[@stevesymons9996]

Hi Had mine for 16 years love it and watching your videos great to see would love to meet up and see your car hope you have many more years together steve

[@gregpark1359]

Thanks for your honesty. It’s been a huge journey for you. I’ve have a 2001 S and don’t like telling my wife all the little bits I keep having to do. Fortunately after 6 years of ownership it pails into insignificance vs what issues you have had. Maybe it’s the Australian dry climate compared to the UK. I have a few small issues at present re electricals and you’ve given me some ideas. Much appreciated.

[@MarcusWellstead]

Thanks for sharing this. Enjoyed it. The best upgrade you made for me were the lights. Massive difference to the looks.

[@Paul1962]

Glad you enjoyed the video, makes them worth the time i put in :)

[@Disturbingkreationztvseries]

Great video mate. I love your wisdom and experience. I am 3 years into my Boxster journey.

[@Paul1962]

Thank you so much for your kind words! I'm thrilled to hear that you enjoyed the video and appreciate the wisdom and experience shared. It's fantastic that you're three years into your Boxster journey - what an exciting adventure! If you have any questions or if there's anything specific you'd like to discuss about your journey with the Boxster, feel free to share. Here's to many more years of joy on the road with your beloved car! Safe travels! 🚗✨

[@Disturbingkreationztvseries]

Appreciate it and I will.

[@LifeSOSlive]

As a prospective owner, this has been really helpful. Looking forward to seeing how the rear spoiler evolves. Cheers!

[@Paul1962]

Glad you found it helpful! Exciting times ahead-can't wait to see how the rear spoiler turns out too. Cheers!

[@josegerena1028]

Congrats ! The porsch looks geat with all the upgrades you hav done . Sweet ride!

[@Paul1962]

Thanks Glad you like it

[@IsraelSocial]

The door hatch fixs kills me lol xD thanks for the video, you give me some ideas!

[@Paul1962]

glad you liked it, got so ides out of it. makes it all worth while :)

[@ceeloG1234]

Looks like new, great job 👏🏼!! Don't listen to these random haters

[@Paul1962]

Thank you! I don't listen to them, I don't think of them as haters, just people with an unusual prospective. :)

[@hummerlanding7295]

Great video. Love the upgrades.

[@chrisandonas1105]

Great video! I have thoroughly enjoyed the journey!

[@Paul1962]

Thank you so much, really glad you enjoyed it.

[@adtvchannel3]

what and amazing video, I am not on board with that wing but at the end of the day is your car and you can do what you want with and and put it how you like it, thanks for this amazing video ,

[@Paul1962]

Hi there! Thank you so much for checking out the video and for your kind words! I'm thrilled to hear that you enjoyed it. I totally get that the wing might not be everyone's cup of tea, but I appreciate your open-minded perspective. Indeed, personalizing our cars is a unique form of self-expression, and it's fantastic to hear that you respect that. Thanks again for tuning in, and I hope you continue to enjoy the content! If there's anything specific you'd like to see in future videos, feel free to let me know. Cheers!

[@xavierortiz2690]

Big Thumbs Up!

[@Paul1962]

Thanks

[@peterk4123]

Thank you, great video! I own my 986 since 1999 and enjoying it like you do. I did many upgrades, but my taste is to OEM or invisible.

[@Paul1962]

Thank you so much for your kind words! It's awesome to hear from a fellow enthusiast who shares the same love for the 986. It sounds like you've had quite the journey with your car since 1999, and I admire your approach to upgrades, preferring the OEM or subtle touches. That's a testament to your appreciation for the original design and engineering. Here's to many more years of enjoyment behind the wheel of our beloved cars.

[@dean8644]

Lovely car well done

[@henkwallet6756]

Most of the repairs are similar to what I did. Nice to see what you did the last 10 years.

[@Paul1962]

Thanks

[@poisonarrow0631]

Hi as I am wanting to get one, what would you say you spent on maintenance on average per year ? Also another thing: the Porsche letters on the back, is that a sticker? if yes where can I get one

[@Paul1962]

That’s a really tough question to answer, mainly because I bought the car as spares and repairs, so I had to spend quite a lot in the early days. I have the service and MOT done at the same time, which costs me around £300-£350 at my local garage. I only have the plugs changed every two years. I’d say it's no more expensive to maintain than any other car, and I don’t think it’s that costly to keep up. Some of my friends’ cars cost a lot more, and they’re just normal cars. You do need to be prepared to hunt around to get good prices on parts, but they’re not complicated to work on, so don’t let any garages tell you otherwise. Hope that helps! Ps, its not a sticker, i got my hands on a Porsche badge for the later cars at a very good price :)

[@poisonarrow0631]

@@Paul1962thanks so much for the answer !

[@disturbingkreationz]

Great video mate.

[@Paul1962]

Thanks, glad you enjoyed it.

[@TreesOnTheBeach]

What a beauty! You have done a really nice job.

[@Paul1962]

Thank you so much 😀

[@perolav2]

I have had my Boxster S since 2011. I must have been lucky. WHen i bought the car i had the IMS and clutch replaced. Other then that i only had oil and coolent/brake fluid replaced. Thats it. I kept my car dead stock. Nothing upgraded

[@Paul1962]

That's really good; they are essentially very reliable cars. I knew mine wasn't going to be easy since I bought it as spares and repairs.

[@miklom41]

🔥🔥🔥💎💎💎, I’ve the 01 Boxster , nice car love it

[@Paul1962]

Thank you,

[@liakak]

What are the wheel specs? What size and offsets?

[@Paul1962]

Hi, I got the rims back in 2014, so it was a long time ago, but they are 19" but I can't really remember to much more about them. I think the rears were 10Js and the fronts somewhere around the 8.5J, but don't quote me on that. not sure what the offsets were, but they are staggered. I got them aftermarket, but Porsche do use the same wheels, I think round the 2015 models. if you go on some of the wheel sites you can state "to fit the 986 Boxster". this is a video I did on the wheels, there mite be some more info in it. kzbin.info/www/bejne/oGOsZISqpL5ng6M www.ebay.co.uk/itm/265808037843?hash=item3de364c7d3:g:ZtcAAOSwThRi5~zs&amdata=enc%3AAQAIAAAA8ArLPEbdwXgKjCI5LiTHeBrKtivp%2BKhj29ELxJnjA6anDdKYgC7elR3S5IZxTnoZsVEnWVI%2FYBv37mvcseTAtCVio8OFIJfVHjgIFUrMR7W65Sed%2FAXYnWjXeM2J8byJjg%2FeWDNcU3S3RtqdMYphrY5GqSzjrcrjWEX%2BfBySW4kU6JgPgebja%2BAH1fm4AMuZkqPsBAtNrb9oU5xzOFDfa5KUmIBi3wtE0fyWujiFtNiQFcP1teAmlk5xSsMB1PilqS7odJ8J0vI47ERTC8CyUQlfiL7CDe7WY8Ibt6W5BPecQeSLos6J9fFP%2BfVwm1lx6w%3D%3D%7Ctkp%3ABk9SR-6upbOcYw www.ebay.co.uk/itm/153757017367?_trkparms=amclksrc%3DITM%26aid%3D1110006%26algo%3DHOMESPLICE.SIM%26ao%3D1%26asc%3D258819%26meid%3D7f8c59d4b6d440b2a303e2f2f25a2ae1%26pid%3D101195%26rk%3D12%26rkt%3D12%26sd%3D265808037843%26itm%3D153757017367%26pmt%3D1%26noa%3D0%26pg%3D4429486%26algv%3DSimplAMLv11WebTrimmedV3MskuWithLambda85KnnRecallV1V2V4ItemNrtInQueryAndCassiniVisualRankerAndBertRecallWithVMEV3CPCAuto&_trksid=p4429486.c101195.m1851&amdata=cksum%3A1537570173677f8c59d4b6d440b2a303e2f2f25a2ae1%7Cenc%3AAQAIAAABcObhgc4Nk8%252BdtAwOww4FKLaj%252FQ5qqgDlQCuqZA43WcPFUWDERCUugbbOk7XQv0JXlBfqCg2xKF3WcPghxGMFw2oSlXvfExEaMYr7I7LmrHcP6czY1wIMt0ORyKiCWt95xldincyyBx3g%252BNDW%252B%252FhWUgTaBhK6xAm%252BJIbCOMehu%252BdwqCEUne7Fot6q7q8a2ULwafgxB9yrLiVGZ8YBW8L%252BwzQXPZi7%252BGMXLVgUGyXOfIo1gnlnWh1u8rZr6ypsMdaW5O5EiGzL4cvYeE1CrBWhZAF1PspgW9L%252FLUrRanXW4MOFMo59oebAl73wtvkF6Ku0yJ1E8g8O89PKkeflvEfRdeTP3ETMfG5zI1R4rhUFeqrEOgoSQbYMjE2PbwnhB3VJ8HHcU38%252BkNRW60Fpd%252BycztYWtqX74fsNtiRZl9b%252BnW3z%252BOPy8mLG6zWrhQAEH3kXr3VLV1ECf4taW%252BF3sG%252FfZ%252FRtSWK3G0rEXC25MACOX9bp%7Campid%3APL_CLK%7Cclp%3A4429486&epid=25025526189

[@Mr030171]

Paul, your car is amazing. I recently purchased a 2002 S and I oils like to know where you purchased the spoiler ”silver” at the end of video. I also would like to know where you purchased the side skirts? I plan on shipping it to the US at the end of 2026.

[@Paul1962]

I got the side skirts from Ebay, these are the only one i can find at the moment. www.ebay.co.uk/itm/175216276432?epid=623731476&hash=item28cbb433d0:g:Iu8AAOSwQN5aX2VA&amdata=enc%3AAQAIAAAA8GWMETNq6vrz%2BUkvhXoSglW1pxp%2BzgD68IxFBY%2FH0raKh613vZtwHrlpASZXf7PVL4k4cKKNlme%2F8gfXdLi2xy7lzURzOu62hA1wCAr0xFwRoDehoXB6w4Po%2BSqBh5LhWASjLFBzlxTPusee235f1y7E%2FGzbymTP1K52aWpS4rGLrypHz40KLpG0rwCB9fPIW53Y6%2Bqj%2BtyWUGP3rpR0fS553SPcnwq%2F8ZYTKbgvry0X1FABmKi1cTBGJF6t7sadPs00ezuMIQVeLQIzZWN8Y7AFNqaIkU5lOJnVcxHnTknHh6RAnpDk9%2B8nBU6kjnhWqw%3D%3D%7Ctkp%3ABk9SR5Kjnvn4Yg But you will need to check with the seller which ones you get as they are different skirts in each photo. As for the Silver spoiler I still have it if you would like it let me know where you are based and we can work something out to collect or post it.

[@RSDiif]

What front bumper and side skirts are these? They look great

[@Paul1962]

997 GT3 style bumper for the 996/986 from www.design911.co.uk/ and the side skirts are also the GT3 style, I originally got them off eBay, but that was 9 years ago. you mite be able to get them from Design 911 too.

[@IsraelSocial]

Do you have the link for the seat belts?

[@Paul1962]

I haven't, but they are standard belts, not specific to any model. so should be plenty on eBay. Here is a link to a set, but there are loads to choose from at all price points. www.ebay.co.uk/itm/151764064708?itmmeta=01J1YVQ8NVW82HTXTHJHEATX0R&hash=item2355d7d9c4:g:ThgAAOSw6Hhhkpkz&itmprp=enc%3AAQAJAAAAwNZCzaN6QOuXliM8We434075R4%2FT06JidzLKuHKqR20dJo0e1lx1kDQ%2BQRPYN44sqX9d7hl5YgIYpLfy1rEh%2F1Dr0WRtGnm778487vuJoBrAnk%2F8vHRdIZkVpK1va5ZgHywIJHlau79SI5qL%2BpVDKBun2fkDmF7BlCbS8dxiI%2Fq4%2B5mI2FtvK1hXsRPKfE8MZDiy5itb9qBorc16apcyM%2FHUYtJ72vdcROM9B2z7z2D9gUJD8%2BDd6Gr5YEvKP01c6g%3D%3D%7Ctkp%3ABlBMUIKL3duPZA

[@ScattyPlanet]

Is there any way I can intercept that heavy duty positive cable without opening the bonnet,which is jammed shut

[@Paul1962]

Depending on the year of your car , some have a jump start terminal in the fuse box, also there may be an emergence release cable up under the front of the left hand wing (fender Drivers side in a left hand drive car) ). If not try the opposite wing. you might need to pull the arch liner down a bit.

[@simonodell2103]

The spoiler doesn't work for me.Looks like a gold medallion on a hairy chest type modification.But each to their own. 😊

[@Paul1962]

I'm sorry to hear that the spoiler modification didn't meet your expectations. It's true that aesthetic modifications like spoilers can be quite subjective, and what appeals to one person might not resonate with another. Ultimately, vehicle customization is all about personal expression and making your car reflect your own style and preferences. While the spoiler may not be to your taste, it's great that there's such a wide variety of options out there for people to choose from. Thanks for sharing your perspective!

[@deanlutgert8292]

Nice ride what about the dash if you do the dash please make a video because I'd like to change mine to a black one

[@Paul1962]

I am hoping to get that sorted next summer, but I have said that the last 4 summers 😊

[@janstaes2172]

wow great comprehensive video on owning a boxter

[@Paul1962]

Thank you so much! Glad to hear that you enjoyed the video. If you have any questions or if there's anything else you'd like to see in future videos, feel free to let me know. Happy driving!

[@carlosneves8704]

Hello Paul9162, i have a problem that no one has ever solved, and as you said, we could post any question, there it goes: When i leave my garage, and then arrive to a place normaly at weekend, we go to the local coffe, than i stop the car, and it starts whistle the alarm, and was never solved, i have the car for 7 years, and he is from 1999, so it has 24 years, is it any way to solve this problem?

[@carlosneves8704]

and it is also a 986 as yours with 2.5 Boxster

[@Paul1962]

Is it the alarm making a noise, or is it a whistling noise coming from around the fuel cap?

[@98luckyneon]

No ims work? What was the cost for you on roof replacement? Considering buying a 2000 s with 50k but it needs some work.

[@Paul1962]

Mine is one of the early cars, so it was before the IMS problems started. the new roof was £650 fitted, www.carhood.com/ The cars are pretty straightforward and inexpensive to maintain; you just need to shop around for resources and services.

[@RawkustvOfficial]

That wing and those wheels are definitely an acquired taste 😬

[@stephenoliver1437]

I’ve had my 99 for twelve years been the best roadster should have had one a lot earlier previous car MGTF 160 from new engine rubbish head gasket went twice just as MG went bust cost nine hundred a time moved it on to have the booster best turn I done if you get a good one that’s the main thing. My is two owners from new and good service history most major items to break are the front springs alternator and battery break pipes all replaced as well. The mileage current 112 k occasionally redex treat for eathanol fuel mileage yearly now retired fifteen hundred. Just a note get one with a hardtop for winter good during the cold months and if it’s not garaged. I run my on kumho tyres good wearing overhaul and not road noisy as some more expensive brands they will be going on my 981 cayman when needed to be replaced Sunday car. Overall the 986 gives a super ride and less noisier than the 981

[@Paul1962]

Thank you for sharing your experience with your 99 roadster! It's great to hear that you've enjoyed it for over twelve years and that it's been such a reliable car for you. It sounds like switching from the MGTF 160 was the right choice, especially given the issues you had with the head gasket. Your advice about getting a hardtop for winter is really helpful, especially for those of us who don’t have a garage. I cover mine in the winter months as I dont use it much over the winter. keep the brand rolling, Paul 🙂

[@SimonVerrechia]

Great commitment, but that wing is yuk

[@Paul1962]

Are you referring to the aftermarket wing, or the Cayman GT4 wing?

[@mikeg8835]

Your Boxsters looking good nowadays Paul , Did my red seat belts inspire you by any chance mate !!

[@Paul1962]

They may have left an impression 🤔😀

[@nitramh24]

I love the car, and think it looks awesome! Even the rear spoiler looks great, but I wouldn’t have installed it if I owned a Boxster without some major engine and suspension mods done first. A flashy spoiler should be reserved for builds that also walk the talk, and not just look fast. That being said, your mods look like they were done by the factory👍

[@Paul1962]

Thank you 😃 Power wise the only mod i would consider is a full engine swap to a more powerful unit, that way it still keeps servicing and maintenance nice and simple. As for the suspension i have adjustable trailing arms front and back which allows me to adjust the castor angles, toe and camber are already adjustable. i have looked in to Coilovers, but they are all 20-30% harder at the softest setting and the car is as hard as i want to go already. the other problem is they are 10mm lower that standard at they highest setting, which would be perfect for the back, but the front is fine at the standard high.

[@nitramh24]

@@Paul1962 With an engine-swap the car would be complete, and fully "worthy" of the rear spoiler😅

[@Paul1962]

​@@nitramh24996 GT3 3.6-liter 360 bhp @ 7200 rpm and torque of 273 ft lbs @ 5000 rpm. 🤔🤔🤔🙂 Don't go putting ideas in my head!

[@nitramh24]

@@Paul1962 You should absolutely do that😂

[@squarebid3]

I had my 986 boxster for 11 years and served me very well, roughly how much as yours cost you over the years with regards to ownership.

[@Paul1962]

I would guess at around 6 maybe 7K, but a large chunk of that was on stuff i didn't really need 😃

[@squarebid3]

@@Paul1962 people often said I bet they cost a fortune to run but mine never did other than the normal wear and tear which you would expect it was quite reasonable really, absolutely great cars anybody who refers to them as hair dressers car obviously hasn’t driven one.

[@goldpony10]

Bloody hell. All of your repairs and my repairs, we could purchase a 911

[@RollingShutter]

incredibly riced out boxster. but good job keeping it on the road.

[@Paul1962]

Thanks for the comment! I know the styling isn't for everyone, but I appreciate the props for keeping it on the road. It's all about enjoying the drive and making the car my own!

[@RollingShutter]

@@Paul1962 yeah. no hate here at all. I am a designer and I just believe modification should be "period correct". there are millions invested in how a car looks and slapping after market "LED" stuff on it doesn´t really make it fresh, or modern, it just looks wrong. I have the OEM factory Xenon Headlight Unit and they would look a million times better on your porsche.

[@BLCKCSTLS]

If it was a japanese car youd call that riced out so this might have gotten schnitzled.

[@Paul1962]

It's interesting how different cultures have their own unique styles when it comes to car customization. While some might call this "riced out" for a Japanese car, it's all about personal taste and individual expression. This particular build took inspiration from another style, which is what makes the automotive world so diverse and exciting! 😊

[@Cranktothemetal]

Looked better when it was original

[@Paul1962]

I appreciate your perspective, and it's not uncommon for people to have a preference for the original version of something. Nostalgia often plays a big role in our attachment to the original, and change can sometimes be met with mixed feelings. However, it's important to remember that adaptations and updates are often made to appeal to a new generation or to bring fresh perspectives to a beloved concept. While the original may hold a special place in our hearts, the new version might have its own unique qualities that others enjoy. It's all a matter of personal taste, and it's perfectly okay to appreciate both the original and the updated version for what they bring to the table.

[@michaelrejoinbradford1282]

There is always one

[@abrahambarkhordar5572]

Hi I like the new look, what’s the wing?

[@michaelsnelling2918]

did the opposite with my 2003 facelift model … reverted to the original wheels and side scoops to maintain Grant Larsen's vision for the design …

[@raynash4748]

that wing is silly.... silly.