944 migrating to a Cayman S...help!
09-14-2015, 10:16 PM
#1
Advanced
Thread Starter
944 migrating to a Cayman S...help!
Hey all,
I currently own an 85.5 944 and love it. Now that I've grown up and got a real job, I'm in the market for a used Cayman, and actually stumbled upon a really nice one. I have a few questions...Here are the specs:
* 2006 Cayman S
* Red - beautiful paint
* Interior black - good condition (some wear on the seats and buttons)
* 53k miles
* Price: $24k - is this a good price? My research indicates yes.
* Navigation pkg but no Sport Chrono or other (from what I remember)
Since I've owned a 944, I'm used to doing a lot of the mechanical work DIY-style, and getting used parts from the junkyard. I'm not really used to taking cars to the mechanic and especially dealer for that matter. My question is - is the Cayman DIY-able? Or do most jobs require special tools that require a dealer? And how expensive are parts?
My other question is what to look out for when test driving / getting the car inspected. I know a lot of people recommend a PPI, but unfortunately there are very limited options in my area. From being a car person, I can tell all of the little things are great (windows, AC, radio, buttons, rotors, brakes, tires, etc.). Is there something in the engine that is worth paying to get inspected? Or suspension parts to look out for? Any guidance is appreciated.
Anything else I should look out for, I'm all ears!
Thanks in advance guys/gals,
Lina
I currently own an 85.5 944 and love it. Now that I've grown up and got a real job, I'm in the market for a used Cayman, and actually stumbled upon a really nice one. I have a few questions...Here are the specs:
* 2006 Cayman S
* Red - beautiful paint
* Interior black - good condition (some wear on the seats and buttons)
* 53k miles
* Price: $24k - is this a good price? My research indicates yes.
* Navigation pkg but no Sport Chrono or other (from what I remember)
Since I've owned a 944, I'm used to doing a lot of the mechanical work DIY-style, and getting used parts from the junkyard. I'm not really used to taking cars to the mechanic and especially dealer for that matter. My question is - is the Cayman DIY-able? Or do most jobs require special tools that require a dealer? And how expensive are parts?
My other question is what to look out for when test driving / getting the car inspected. I know a lot of people recommend a PPI, but unfortunately there are very limited options in my area. From being a car person, I can tell all of the little things are great (windows, AC, radio, buttons, rotors, brakes, tires, etc.). Is there something in the engine that is worth paying to get inspected? Or suspension parts to look out for? Any guidance is appreciated.
Anything else I should look out for, I'm all ears!
Thanks in advance guys/gals,
Lina
09-15-2015, 01:23 AM
#2
Rennlist Member
Hey Lina,
I'll take a crack at some of your questions.
I came from 944 ownership to my Cayman as well.
Parts will be similar to new or OE parts for a 944. Probably a bit higher. I don't know that you will find too many used parts though. The cars are much newer and were made in much lesser quantity than the 944 line, so there simply are not that many junkers around.
The engine is harder to access, and there are many more electrical parts and controllers than the 944. It is a good idea to buy a cheap ($50 or less) code reader or a Durametric cable to be able to diagnose issues and to reset codes.
But, I believe the cars are very good for the average DIY mechanic, and the online forums, Pelican Parts tutorials, and even YouTube videos help considerably.
I believe the price you posted is good, but I don't really follow current pricing either.
Be sure of the state of the clutch in a 52K mile car. Also note that plugs, and serpentine belt should be refreshed by this time.
Does the owner have maintenance records? A solid maintenance history will go a long way to understanding the prior care and the car's current condition.
Frequent oil changes are probably the single most important maintenance item for these cars. Once a year or 5-6K miles is the limit that you don't want to see exceeded. Porsche's maintenance schedule says 10K miles, but few people will run that long.
Other than Torx bits, triple square bits, and the aforementioned code reader, you should not run into too much need for unusual tools.
Like any model of car, there are certain things that these cars are susceptible to. In addition to the normal maintenance items they sometimes need window regulators, water pumps, transmission mounts, various electrical switches/components.
In all, my Cayman has been more trouble free than any of my 944s although those were obviously older vehicles which could have been the majority of the difference.
As far as looking at the condition of this particular car, if you don't take it to a marque specialist who knows what to specifically look for you will be taking somewhat of a chance.
If you are mechanically inclined (sounds like you are) you can perform a thorough test drive checking for noises, vibrations, etc.
Obviously check the function of every **** and switch and feature.
Most inspections will include removing the oil filter, cutting open and inspecting the filter pleats for any sign of metallic debris. Magnetic debris of any real amount is bad, while a couple of aluminum flakes are typical.
The filter can be removed without draining the oil in the sump and only the amount of oil in the filter canister will be lost.
I would not expect a 50K mile Cayman to have a truly worn suspension yet, but tire condition might be an indicator of wear or alignment problems.
Note that these cars typically wear out two sets of rear tires for each front set, and you will find that tires, 9 quarts of good synthetic oil, and the various filters will be more expensive than the equivalent 944 parts.
This might get you started, but others can jump in with what I've missed here.
I'll take a crack at some of your questions.
I came from 944 ownership to my Cayman as well.
Parts will be similar to new or OE parts for a 944. Probably a bit higher. I don't know that you will find too many used parts though. The cars are much newer and were made in much lesser quantity than the 944 line, so there simply are not that many junkers around.
The engine is harder to access, and there are many more electrical parts and controllers than the 944. It is a good idea to buy a cheap ($50 or less) code reader or a Durametric cable to be able to diagnose issues and to reset codes.
But, I believe the cars are very good for the average DIY mechanic, and the online forums, Pelican Parts tutorials, and even YouTube videos help considerably.
I believe the price you posted is good, but I don't really follow current pricing either.
Be sure of the state of the clutch in a 52K mile car. Also note that plugs, and serpentine belt should be refreshed by this time.
Does the owner have maintenance records? A solid maintenance history will go a long way to understanding the prior care and the car's current condition.
Frequent oil changes are probably the single most important maintenance item for these cars. Once a year or 5-6K miles is the limit that you don't want to see exceeded. Porsche's maintenance schedule says 10K miles, but few people will run that long.
Other than Torx bits, triple square bits, and the aforementioned code reader, you should not run into too much need for unusual tools.
Like any model of car, there are certain things that these cars are susceptible to. In addition to the normal maintenance items they sometimes need window regulators, water pumps, transmission mounts, various electrical switches/components.
In all, my Cayman has been more trouble free than any of my 944s although those were obviously older vehicles which could have been the majority of the difference.
As far as looking at the condition of this particular car, if you don't take it to a marque specialist who knows what to specifically look for you will be taking somewhat of a chance.
If you are mechanically inclined (sounds like you are) you can perform a thorough test drive checking for noises, vibrations, etc.
Obviously check the function of every **** and switch and feature.
Most inspections will include removing the oil filter, cutting open and inspecting the filter pleats for any sign of metallic debris. Magnetic debris of any real amount is bad, while a couple of aluminum flakes are typical.
The filter can be removed without draining the oil in the sump and only the amount of oil in the filter canister will be lost.
I would not expect a 50K mile Cayman to have a truly worn suspension yet, but tire condition might be an indicator of wear or alignment problems.
Note that these cars typically wear out two sets of rear tires for each front set, and you will find that tires, 9 quarts of good synthetic oil, and the various filters will be more expensive than the equivalent 944 parts.
This might get you started, but others can jump in with what I've missed here.
Last edited by Spokayman; 09-15-2015 at 01:32 AM. Reason: addnl info
09-15-2015, 01:33 AM
#3
Advanced
Thread Starter
Hey Lina,
I'll take a crack at some of your questions.
I came from 944 ownership to my Cayman as well.
Parts will be similar to new or OE parts for a 944. Perhaps a bit higher. I don't know that you will find too many used parts though. The cars are much newer and were made in much lesser quantity than the 944 line, so there simply are not that many junkers around.
The engine is harder to access, and there are many more electrical parts and controllers than the 944. It is a good idea to buy a cheap ($50 or less) code reader or a Durametric cable to be able to diagnose issues and to reset codes.
But, I believe the cars are very good for the average DIY mechanic, and the online forums, Pelican Parts tutorials, and even YouTube videos help considerably.
I believe the price you posted is good, but I don't really follow current pricing either.
Be sure of the state of the clutch in a 52K mile car. Also note that plugs, and serpentine belt should be refreshed by this time.
Does the owner have maintenance records? Frequent oil changes are very important in these cars. They still have an IMS bearing that can fail although it is extremely rare in the Caymans.
Other than Torx bits, triple square bits, and the aforementioned code reader, you should not run into the need for unusual tools.
Like any model of car, there are certain things that these cars are susceptible to. In addition to the normal maintenance items they sometimes need window regulators, water pumps, transmission mounts, various electrical switches/components. In all, my Cayman has been more trouble free than any of my 944s although those were obviously older vehicles which could have been the majority of the difference.
As far as looking at the condition of this particular car, if you don't take it to a marque specialist who knows what to specifically look for you will be taking somewhat of a chance.
If you are mechanically inclined (sounds like you are) you can perform a thorough test drive checking for noises, vibrations, etc.
Obviously check the function of every **** and switch and feature.
Most inspections will include removing the oil filter, cutting open and inspecting the filter pleats for any sign of metallic debris. Magnetic debris of any real amount is bad, while a couple of aluminum flakes are typical.
The filter can be removed without draining the oil in the sump and only the amount of oil in the filter canister will be lost.
I would not expect a 50K mile Cayman to have a truly worn suspension yet, but tire condition might be an indicator or wear or alignment problems.
Note that these cars typically wear out two sets of rear tires for each front set, and you will find that tires, 9 quarts of good synthetic oil, and the various filters will be more expensive than the equivalent 944 parts.
This might get you started, but others can jump in with what I've missed here.
I'll take a crack at some of your questions.
I came from 944 ownership to my Cayman as well.
Parts will be similar to new or OE parts for a 944. Perhaps a bit higher. I don't know that you will find too many used parts though. The cars are much newer and were made in much lesser quantity than the 944 line, so there simply are not that many junkers around.
The engine is harder to access, and there are many more electrical parts and controllers than the 944. It is a good idea to buy a cheap ($50 or less) code reader or a Durametric cable to be able to diagnose issues and to reset codes.
But, I believe the cars are very good for the average DIY mechanic, and the online forums, Pelican Parts tutorials, and even YouTube videos help considerably.
I believe the price you posted is good, but I don't really follow current pricing either.
Be sure of the state of the clutch in a 52K mile car. Also note that plugs, and serpentine belt should be refreshed by this time.
Does the owner have maintenance records? Frequent oil changes are very important in these cars. They still have an IMS bearing that can fail although it is extremely rare in the Caymans.
Other than Torx bits, triple square bits, and the aforementioned code reader, you should not run into the need for unusual tools.
Like any model of car, there are certain things that these cars are susceptible to. In addition to the normal maintenance items they sometimes need window regulators, water pumps, transmission mounts, various electrical switches/components. In all, my Cayman has been more trouble free than any of my 944s although those were obviously older vehicles which could have been the majority of the difference.
As far as looking at the condition of this particular car, if you don't take it to a marque specialist who knows what to specifically look for you will be taking somewhat of a chance.
If you are mechanically inclined (sounds like you are) you can perform a thorough test drive checking for noises, vibrations, etc.
Obviously check the function of every **** and switch and feature.
Most inspections will include removing the oil filter, cutting open and inspecting the filter pleats for any sign of metallic debris. Magnetic debris of any real amount is bad, while a couple of aluminum flakes are typical.
The filter can be removed without draining the oil in the sump and only the amount of oil in the filter canister will be lost.
I would not expect a 50K mile Cayman to have a truly worn suspension yet, but tire condition might be an indicator or wear or alignment problems.
Note that these cars typically wear out two sets of rear tires for each front set, and you will find that tires, 9 quarts of good synthetic oil, and the various filters will be more expensive than the equivalent 944 parts.
This might get you started, but others can jump in with what I've missed here.
Thanks! That helps a lot. My biggest concern was the common issues with the 2006 or otherwise to lookout for. In particular, you mentioned the clutch. Are they known to go bad early? I've been reading around but nobody seems to have anything bad to say about the cayman! Window regulators and the like are to be expected with any 10 year old car (in fact the regulator in my '03 Saab is currently shot) so I'm expecting that level of maintenance.
The clutch, transmission, engine and suspension are the ones I know could take a bigger toll on my wallet. Is there a particular sound or feeling associated with the clutch going bad? The clutch pedal was stiffer than my Saab, but similar to my 944. I read somewhere that it could be indicative of a clutch going bad but then it was also argued on several posts...
09-15-2015, 02:04 AM
#4
Rennlist Member
I'm sorry I don't really know what the symptoms of a clutch going out are specific to the Cayman.
I would say the Cayman clutch is heavier than the 944s I've owned, but that was quite a few years ago and the memory is not fresh.
The Cayman clutch is most definitely "more grabby" than the 944 clutches. It's much easier to stall the Cayman if you aren't careful.
I think any clutch can be worn at 50K-60K miles if it was used heavily, and particularly if it was used by someone that was not proficient given the grabbiness of the clutch and the relatively light weight of the flywheel and engine internals.
But I've heard of several clutches lasting to 100K and beyond too, so the prior use has everything to do with it.
I would say the Cayman clutch is heavier than the 944s I've owned, but that was quite a few years ago and the memory is not fresh.
The Cayman clutch is most definitely "more grabby" than the 944 clutches. It's much easier to stall the Cayman if you aren't careful.
I think any clutch can be worn at 50K-60K miles if it was used heavily, and particularly if it was used by someone that was not proficient given the grabbiness of the clutch and the relatively light weight of the flywheel and engine internals.
But I've heard of several clutches lasting to 100K and beyond too, so the prior use has everything to do with it.
09-18-2015, 10:17 PM
#5
You might want to check if your to-be Cayman has had the IMS bearing replaced, or upgraded. if it has had a clutch change you it might have been done, hopefully it has all its maintenance records. I came out of a 944 also into a 01 Boxster and now have a Cayman S. If you liked the 944 (who didn't?) you will LOVE the Cayman...
09-20-2015, 03:12 AM
#6
Rennlist Member
You might want to check if your to-be Cayman has had the IMS bearing replaced, or upgraded. if it has had a clutch change you it might have been done, hopefully it has all its maintenance records. I came out of a 944 also into a 01 Boxster and now have a Cayman S. If you liked the 944 (who didn't?) you will LOVE the Cayman...
The older M96 engines from about late '01 thru '05-'06 (depending upon the model) had a smaller single row IMS bearing which failed all too often. But all Caymans came with the new M97 engine with its larger IMS bearing, and the failure rate is very low. But the larger bearing cannot be removed out through the back of the engine which makes replacement many times more difficult and invasive.
09-20-2015, 03:49 AM
#7
Three Wheelin'
I'll chime in. The price is fantastic, provided the car has full records and you know exactly what has been done on it. There will always be maintenance of known weaknesses, which is the reason Porsche went to the all new 9A1 engine in 2009. That said your biggest concern is the IMS bearing. Rare failure, especially so on higher mileage cars. There is a band aid that will help you sleep at night called DOF. You can google it. I'm guessing more than a couple thousand to have a wrench install it. Provided you can get the full service records, I'd snap this one up!