2012–2016 Porsche Boxster / Cayman (981)
Browse our directory of 2012–2016 Porsche Boxster / Cayman (981) vehicles. Access instant MOT history reports, tax status, and reliability insights for any registration listed below.
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Common Problems & Reliability
The 2012–2016 Porsche Boxster / Cayman (981) has 4 known issues. 1 are moderate concerns worth inspecting before purchase.
PADM Failure
ModerateDynamic engine mounts can fail internally, causing a dashboard error.
Symptoms: PADM Fault message
Est. repair cost: £1,200–£1,500 per side
Door Card Warping
MinorThe adhesive on the door panel trim fails, causing the edge to pull away. Purely aesthetic but common.
Symptoms: Door trim lifting at the window line
Est. repair cost: £500–£1,000 per side
Exhaust Valve Seizure
MinorThe sports exhaust (PSE) valves can seize in the closed position, particularly on cars that do regular short journeys. Results in loss of the sport exhaust sound.
Symptoms: Loss of sport exhaust sound, Valve warning on dash
Est. repair cost: £300–£600
PCM Infotainment Freezes
MinorThe PCM 3.1 system can suffer from screen freezes and reboots, particularly on earlier 981 models. Software updates usually resolve the issue.
Symptoms: Screen freeze, System reboot...
Est. repair cost: £0–£200 (Software update)
Buying Tips for the 2012–2016 Porsche Boxster / Cayman (981)
- ✓Check the door panel tops; the trim can warp and lift away from the glass.
- ✓Verify the operation of the active engine mounts (PADM) if Sport Chrono is fitted.
- ✓Check the exhaust valves; they can seize on the sports exhaust (PSE).
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