Porsche Carrera RS 3.8

Porsche recalled approx. 20,000 vehicles (model years 1995–1996): bio-based plastic wiring harness insulation hardens, cracks under heat and vibration — short circuit and engine failure possible. Check recall status before purchase.

Symptoms: Electrical faults, engine failure, irregular injection; in the worst case a smouldering fire in the engine bay.

The 993 RS uses a dry-sump system, which can nevertheless show oil pressure drops under extreme longitudinal loads on track. Suspension upgrades generating higher G-forces increase the risk.

Symptoms: Oil pressure warning under heavy braking or cornering on track, engine cuts under high G-loads

Valve guides wear under heat and high RPM. Excessive clearance draws oil along the valve stems into the combustion chamber. The cylinder head must be removed for boring and pressing in new guides.

Symptoms: Blue smoke on overrun and when lifting off the throttle; elevated oil consumption; oily spark plugs (cylinder-specific).

The hydraulic timing chain tensioners on the M64/20 lose oil pressure after the engine stands. On cold start the timing chain rattles until the tensioners refill.

Symptoms: Loud rattling on cold start for 10–30 seconds; with advanced wear permanent clattering

The O-rings on the engine case through-bolts of the 964/993 M64 harden with age and leak. Repair requires complete engine disassembly.

Symptoms: Oil seeping from the side of the engine case, oil film beneath the engine block, elevated oil consumption

The timing chain on the M64/20 stretches at high mileage and with irregular oil changes. Chain elongation causes valve timing deviation and rattling.

Symptoms: Rattling from the engine area, slight power loss, valve timing outside tolerance on diagnosis

The rear main seal (RMS) leaks with age. Replacement requires gearbox removal. Typical problem on all high-mileage M64 engines.

Symptoms: Oil drops between engine and gearbox, oil film on flywheel, oil smell from warm engine

Steel brake lines are particularly vulnerable to corrosion in the underbody area. Corroded brake lines are a significant safety hazard — replace completely if any deterioration is found.

Windscreen and rear window frames are prone to rust, especially if windows were replaced incorrectly. Moisture ingress and adhesive residue accelerate the attack.

Hollow sections of the rear bumper supports rust from the inside due to dirt accumulation. Regular cleaning and cavity preservation are essential.

The climate control panel can remain permanently switched on due to leakage current, draining the battery within 48 hours. Repairing the blower motor and temperature sensor is usually cheaper than a new unit.

Aluminium brake calipers corrode heavily, especially during winter use or extended storage. Pistons seize, braking becomes uneven. Rebuilding or replacement is necessary.

Steering rack tends to develop oil leaks with age. On vehicles prior to 1996 with 18-inch wheels without the factory supplement, there is a risk of steering rack fractures.

Control arm and suspension bushings age considerably. Knocking and cracking noises when compressing and steering indicate worn rubber-metal elements.

Alternator wears with age. Diodes, voltage regulator and bearing wear are typical failure causes. Rebuilt exchange units are considerably cheaper than new parts.

Hydraulic clutch cylinders leak with age. Master and slave cylinders lose brake fluid, clutch pedal sinks through to complete failure.