Porsche Carrera 2
Technically identical to the M64.01 — same 3.6-litre boxer, identical 184 kW, same weaknesses. Denotes exclusively the combination with the 4-speed Tiptronic (only in the Carrera 2, never in the Carrera 4). The 964-era Tiptronic is a torque-converter automatic with a manually shiftable gate — technically remarkable for its time, but far removed from modern dual-clutch gearboxes. Same Freudenberg flywheel issue until mid-1992.
Tiptronic in the 964 — the gearbox nobody asked for
Buying an air-cooled 911 with a torque converter automatic is a decision you have to justify to the car. The 4-speed Tiptronic costs direct throttle response, manual gear control, and the core pleasure that makes the 964 an experience. Only upside: lower entry price. Always get the manual.
Engine Weaknesses 7
Age, thermal stress and Loctite bonding make the studs brittle. When they break, hot exhaust gases escape and permanently damage the cylinder head and liner. Engine overhaul costs €8,000–15,000.
Symptoms: Power loss in individual cylinders; compression loss; exhaust smell during operation; often only visible when removing the valve cover.
The high-pressure lines from the thermostat housing to the oil filter housing become brittle and corroded with age. If they burst while driving, the oil pump drains the sump in seconds — engine failure. Preventive replacement strongly recommended.
Symptoms: Oil spots in the right wheel arch; visible corrosion on hose crimp fittings; sudden oil pressure warning during driving.
At high mileage, the chain tensioners rattle on cold start until oil pressure builds up. Worn tensioners can be pushed in with two fingers. Timing chain replacement requires complete engine disassembly.
Symptoms: Metallic rattling for 2–5 seconds on cold start; noise fades once at operating temperature. With heavy wear also present when warm.
At high mileage, piston rings and cylinder bores wear out. Complete engine overhaul required. Identical problem to the M64.01.
Symptoms: Blue smoke under load; oil consumption above 0.5 L/1,000 km; power loss.
The O-ring seals at the cylinder bases harden with age and start leaking. Oil collects on the aluminium blower housing below the cylinders. Early 964 units (up to approx. 1991) have no groove system — a labour-intensive retrofit solution is required.
Symptoms: Oil spots under the vehicle at the centre-rear; oil visible on aluminium duct parts below the cylinders; oil smell after driving.
The two relays in the DME control unit (fuel pump + Motronic) are permanently energised and fail from heat stress. The number one breakdown cause on the 964. Cheap to fix, but inconvenient when it happens on the road.
Symptoms: Engine cranks but won't start; no fuel pump priming noise after switching on the ignition.
The magnesium coating on the lower valve covers flakes off and releases oil. Identical problem to the M64.01.
Symptoms: Oil drops after extended standing; oil film on underside of engine.
Vehicle Weaknesses 7
Especially on Cabriolet and Targa: weld seams at the windscreen-to-frame transition rust due to chassis flex. Repair requires windscreen removal.
ABS control unit located in the trunk. Connector pins corrode due to moisture ingress. Replacement costs up to €4,000. Preventive cleaning of the connectors is recommended.
The engine bay wiring harness of the 964 has become brittle with age. Insulation cracks on contact. Repairs by previous owners using unsuitable connections increase the risk of short circuits and fire.
Rubber bushings in the front control arms wear after approximately 80,000 km. Full control arm replacement necessary — bushings cannot be pressed in separately.
The 964 steering rack (the 911's first power steering) leaks at shaft seals and O-rings. Replacing the rack costs €1,000–3,000 depending on parts quality.
Leaking battery acid attacks the battery tray in the trunk. Corrosion spreads beneath the trim and can penetrate structural areas.
Mechanical flaps at the heat exchanger outlets seize up over time. Broken cables lead to one-sided loss of warm air. Exhaust smell when heat exchangers are leaking.