IsItAGoodCar

Common Problems with the
2005–2008 Porsche 911 (997)

We've identified 3 known issues that can affect the 2005–2008 Porsche 911 (997). 2 of these are serious faults that could be expensive to repair.

3
Known Issues
2
Serious
1
Moderate
0
Minor

The 2005–2008 period has 2 more issues than the Porsche 911 (997) average across all year periods.

All Known Issues

Bore Scoring (Gen 1)

SeriousEngine

The Lokasil/Alusil cylinder liners degrade, causing the piston to score the walls. Eventually requires a full rebuild.

Most affected: Carrera S (3.8), Carrera (3.6)

Estimated cost: £8,000–£12,000 (rebuild)Affects: 2004–2008Often appears around: 40k-80k miles

Typical symptoms

  • •Ticking noise at idle
  • •High oil consumption
  • •Sooty left exhaust tip

What to inspect before you buy

  • ✓Get a specialist bore scope inspection
  • ✓Listen for a rhythmic "slap" when warm

IMS Bearing (997.1)

SeriousEngine

While the 997.1 uses a larger bearing than the 996, early 2005 models still use the smaller bearing. Later 997.1 cars use a larger, more robust bearing but failure is still possible.

Most affected: Carrera 3.6, Carrera S 3.8

Estimated cost: £1,500–£2,500 (preventative)Affects: 2005–2008Often appears around: 30k-70k miles

Typical symptoms

  • •Metal debris in oil filter
  • •Oil leak near rear main seal area
  • •Sudden engine failure

What to inspect before you buy

  • ✓Ask if IMS upgrade has been fitted
  • ✓Check if car is a 2005 model year (highest risk)

Cracked Ignition Coil Packs

ModerateEngine

The coil packs on 997 engines are prone to cracking and failing, causing misfires. A relatively inexpensive fix but common across all variants.

Most affected: All models

Estimated cost: £200–£400Affects: 2005–2012Often appears around: 30k-60k miles

Typical symptoms

  • •Engine misfire
  • •Check engine light
  • •Rough idle
  • •Hesitation under acceleration

What to inspect before you buy

  • ✓Scan for misfire codes
  • ✓Inspect coil packs for visible cracks

Buying Tips for the 2005 Porsche 911 (997)

  • ✓On 997.1 models, check if an IMS retrofit or a larger factory bearing is fitted.
  • ✓Look for sootier residue on the left exhaust tip, which can be an early sign of bore scoring.
  • ✓Verify the operation of the PASM dampers; leaking struts are common on S models.
2004 Porsche 911 (997)2009–2012 Porsche 911 (997)

Browse 2005–2008 Porsche 911 (997) in our Directory

View MOT history, registration data, and reliability scores for 2005–2008 Porsche 911 (997) vehicles.

View 2005–2008 Directory

Other Porsche 911 (997) Year Periods

20042005–20082009–2012

Looking at a specific 2005 Porsche 911 (997)?

Enter the registration number to check its full MOT history, outstanding finance, write-off status, and more.

Free Vehicle Check