AP 997S

Give Eric @ http://bumperplugs.com/ a try. He can paint them to your body (car) color if you want.

Just remember when working w/ interior panels or trim pieces to be patient and cautious. The plastic fasteners are 'fragile' and you don't want to break or snap one. I might suggest using one of the many plastic tools available (Harbor Freight has a set for just a couple of bucks) for 'prying off' interior trim. Metal tends to scratch or cut leather, plastic, etc. Good Luck!

Do a search on on this site as well as other Porsche Forums (ie. 6Speedonline.com) and you'll find plenty of information. Your questions have been answered lots of times in other threads. Just take the time to search for them. For example, power for the Dension is typically taped from the 6 Disc Changer connector located on the passenger (right) side of the trunk behind some plastic or carpet trim (don't recall which). In your case, C4 configuration, it might be behind the carpet in the 'trunk well'. Most installs (at least mine) typically mount the IPOD right w/ the Dension unit. The kit has a nice 'clamp' that holds it in place. All the controls are on the PCM so I didn't see the need to have the IPOD in the cabin. Since you bought from Eric I'm sure he has some fairly detailed procedures & pictures for you to examine. Give him a shout. Bottom line it's a fairly simple install process if you're a DIY'r and are patient. Please take my search recommendation as a positive suggestion. Good luck

Check w/ the dealer to see if the replacement motor has the 4yr/50K warranty. Typically they don't but you might want to negotiate something better than their 'standard'. With 2 years and/or 70K miles left on the CPO you should be in fine shape. I have a 2005 early build (#334) and have had the RMS replaced about a year ago (under warranty).

$42K would be an absolute steal if the car in question is good and clean. 1. You can't get a CPO on any Porsche if it's original warranty has expired. Of course CPO can only be offered by a Porsche dealer. 2. You can get a aftermarket maintenance warranty. Not a lot good things reported on these programs. Lots of restrictions, deductibles, etc. 3. The alleged problems of a MY2005 are over stated. The most common is the infamous RMS but that effects all Porsche's in general due to the split case design. 4. MY2005 had a few factory recalls but for the most part they were low level problems (ie. exhaust tips, air filter housing, etc.). There were a couple of most significant recalls such as TIP tranny replacement but those effected the very early build cars. You can have a dealer service shop check the status of a car you're interested in by having them look into the database by the VIN. As you can see from my profile I own a early build 997S (#337 of the line). It's been fairly reliable in the 2.5 years I've owned it. I had the RMS replaced awhile back while under warranty as a result of a small amount of oil seepage. You are going to start seeing a lot of 2005 997 Porsche's on the market w/o any warranty left. Depending on the car condition and service records I wouldn't hesitate buying one if the price is right. Good luck on your quest!

AP, a week ago is correct, that was my oversight, no need to pick me apart here thought, we're all trying to help eachother... This is what I propose, if its doable and I can get the switch and the panel cut-out for a 5th button: let me know what you think. Loren, is there a part number for that exhaust switch? Sam Sam, No offense meant. I'm always ready to help a fellow Porsche mate. Its just that a lot of forum users simply don't bother to search for similar threads or questions. I'm sure the Porsche switch w/ the exhaust icon will work just fine. It might be a bit more costly implementation (switch & new bezel) than a Radio Shack toggle switch. You also have to route your wiring from that point to the engine compartment. Not a big deal just more wire routing than a console implementation. Let us know how it progresses. If I didn't mention it before you can install the mufflers first w/ the vacuum lines and do the 'on/off' switch afterwords. The actual muffler part is fairly simple. Should take you a 1/2 day at most. I did X51 headers at the same time. Figured since I was mucking w/ the mufflers the headers were just another few (6 per side if I recall) bolts. Arnie

Beg to differ. In this case the factory implementation of PSE via the Sports Chrono was not optimum. In fact I believe they changed the scheme on the new 2009 car to allow the driver to go loud or quiet regardless of the Sports Chrono Mode. Just the way the DIY'rs have done for years . . . . a simple on/off switch. Why not have the sweet sound w/o the suspension harshness and modified throttle mapping S/W algorithm. are you saying do NOT hook it up like factory does to the "SPORT" button? Precisely! I thought we went through this over a week ago. Do you read the replies to your thread? Simply do a search on the various Porsche forums under "PSE" or "PSE Switch" and you'll discover a myriad of information. All that is needed is a simple single pole single throw toggle switch that provides a +12 volt signal to the PSE solenoid. Most guys (my self included) install the switch in the ash tray comparment. Makes it easy to get to (open the ash tray cover) and it's sort of a stealth approach. If you not a DIY type of owner then take to your car to a Porsche dealer and throw money their way. They'll be happy to hook you up just like the 'factory'. :cheers:

Beg to differ. In this case the factory implementation of PSE via the Sports Chrono was not optimum. In fact I believe they changed the scheme on the new 2009 car to allow the driver to go loud or quiet regardless of the Sports Chrono Mode. Just the way the DIY'rs have done for years . . . . a simple on/off switch. Why not have the sweet sound w/o the suspension harshness and modified throttle mapping S/W algorithm.

I surprised you went the CD changer route as opposed to simply installing a IPOD interface (ie. Dension Gateway). The Dension cost less than $500 plus it has the ability to interface to Blue Tooth phones if you add the BT option. CDs are becoming the cassette of the 80's; it'll fade away just a quickly. With the IPOD, hard drive or USB memory device you literally have hundreds of CD's are your finger tips. To each his own. Enjoy the music!

Maybe we can synthesize it and bottle it as Porsche cologne or aftershave. Most Porsche enthusiasts will buy anything labeled 'Porsche'. :cheers: :thumbup: :cheers: :thumbup:

Are you saying the car was damaged while on the auction grounds? Had the title been transferred yet? If so, I suspect the auction company has liability insurance and if they don't you should pursue full damage reimbursement in court. Based the damage I see from the pics it might cost up to $10K or so to fix/replace. So $5.5K + $10K for a 2000 non 'S' Boxster is not such a great deal. How many miles on this 'fire sale' car? Sorry to hear your misfortune.

Don't really want to a cynic but do you guys think Porsche really gives a s**t about their NAV system mapping? Especially in light of all the economic chaos. They had years (prior to the down turn) to get it right and chose not to. They went so far as to block NAVTEQ from supplying map updates directly (PCM 2+) to Porsche customers. In case it's a surprise Porsche doesn't embrace user electronics (ie. NAV, audio, etc) as part of the 'driving experience' and therefore it's not on their priority list. So get used to the out of date maps and the exorbitant fees Porsche charges for 'so called' up dates. OK . . . I'm off the soap box . . . . . Next? :soapbox: :soapbox: :soapbox: :soapbox:

re: PSE You would have to modify and wire up the PSE solenoid to a different switch in order to control it yourself. It's not impossible just requires a bit of work. Search the various Porsche forums and you'll find many threads covering the PSE switch mod.

Tekky, Your car is not 'pre-wired' for the PSE. If you were to have it installed per factory methods (ie. integrated w/ the Sport Mode Button and DME) you're looking at another $600+ for your local dealer to do it. It's a fairly labor intensive process. Most guys (myself included) install the PSE w/ a simple on/off switch (mine is hidden in the ashtray) and wiring (+/- 12 vdc) to the solenoid that controls the vacuum to the muffler's plenum's. That too is not a simple job (might require removing seat(s), console, snaking wire harness under carpets/trim to the engine compartment, etc. etc). It takes a good 4/6 hours to get that wire harness from the passenger compartment to the motor compartment. It's not fun working inside the cabin when you're 6' tall and 200 lbs. That aside I think it's the best method for install since it lets you control the 'loudness' via a simple toggle switch and not the DME. The DME disables the PSE Loud Mode when speeds are below a certain MPH due to some German residential noise abatement law. Now there are a lot of PSE installs that simply don't connect any of the controls or wiring. The PSE is set for loud mode all the time which may work fine for you. I chose to be able to control it depending on my situation; wife in the car, didn't want to attracted attention, parking garages, etc. So if your handy, have time on your hands and aren't afraid to 'tear' into your car it's a very doable task for the average DIY'r. You need to be patient and careful dealing w/ interior trim pieces to avoid damage and be somewhat ambidextrous since the getting the wire harness through the cabin-to-motor grommet is not easy. Simple electrical skills are required but nothing elaborate. Now that you've heard all this you probably have already decided to buy the Borla system. It's cheaper and much easier to install (all bolts). On the other hand it's not a Porsche OEM part (some folks think that's important) and it's 'loudness' cannot be controlled. The PSE exhaust tips are indeed unique and most Porsche affectionados recognize them right off the bat. Borla puts out a nice product (given the long development time they take) and they too have a nice distinctive tip setup. Forget the notion of increase horsepower by adding a muffler. It won't happen. The decreased weight of the Borla might offer a slight advantage. Bottom line . . . It's a decision thats been made by many on these boards. I faced the same and decided to go w/ the PSE. I haven't regretted it. Good Luck!

Now you need to see if it was installed at the factory or afterword. Many afterword installations don't install the electrical parts so it can't be switched on or off. Typically those installs just install the mufflers and neglect the control wiring/electrics since it relatively tough to do. They don't utilize the vacuum solenoid in a dynamic fashion . . . . . The mufflers are always in the 'loud' state. Simply do a search on this forum or 6speed.com and you'll find numerous threads regarding the PSE.

My 2005 997S has an 'aroma' not a smell. I too think it's a combination of heated tires (PS2's are a fairly soft compound), brakes, coolant, oil, etc. No leaks just an aroma. :drive: :drive: :drive:

If you looking to buy a later model w/ original or CPO warranty left then an auction (and it's cost advantage) is a good way to go. I've been to a few auctions over the years and if I recall they do allow inspection and in some cases a test drive on the auction grounds. You might want to bring along a Porsche 'expert' to 'inspect' the car before you bid on it. Maybe you could offer a few hundred dollars to an 'certified' Porsche technician or competent independent to go along w/ you. Devise a checklist of items to look at to avoid becoming 'captured' by some visual beauty. To coin a phase . . . Beauty is only skin (metal) deep. I'd be cautious of high mileage cars. Good Luck!

Congrats on your purchase. :cheers: I have 05 997S as well w/ close to 17K miles. Your 10K mile car must have sat in the garage a great deal of the time. The more you drive it the more you'll enjoy it. I suspect you've already had a Porsche dealer go through the recalls/updates against your VIN. There were a couple of 'mandatory' recalls so if it hasn't been done I suggest doing it. Won't cost you anything. As far as an IPOD is concerned I can recommend the Dension 500. Pretty simple install and it works flawlessly. Check out pricing w/ Eric at Bumperplugs.com. He supplies a great deal of Dension units to the Porsche community. BTW: I love Slate Gray. My old Boxster S was Slate and it was a stand out. Although dark, it doesn't require the maintenance that black does. :renntech:

I think once the air bag is deployed the center section is virtually destroyed. I've seen them listed on eBay but not often. You might be lucky and find someone who is replacing his steering wheel w/ an aftermarket or function button type who be willing to sell you his old one. You might try LA Dismantler @ http://www.911pcar.com/. They might have just what you're looking for. If you end up buying it from Porsche you'd better be willing to open up your pocket book.

I think you've got the right part ID'd. It should simply have tabs that fit in holes underneath the front plastic bumper/fascia. Based on the picture you posted it might be a better idea to simply pull it off and not replace it. It appears that the wife tends to scrap a lot of driveways or objects (ie. parking lot wheel stoppers). :oops: I don't believe it will affect handling or air flow to any great extent.

I thought the case was genuine leather. **** . . . they fooled me w/ faux leather. It does have a nice embossed logo and plastic sleeves to hold all your Map & PCM DVDs & CDs. In Porsche eyes its worth a pile of german marks. :) :cheers: :thumbup:

I'm considering upgrading my EARLY 2005 997s' PCM and navigation discs. The dealer wants $150 to upgrade the PCM and $200 for the new NAV discs. My questions is, is this in any way worth it ? What do you get with the updated PCM and are the new NAV discs THAT much better? Could someone post either pictures and or experiences please. THANKS ! JR If you have the initial NAV disc (04/2004) you'll get the mapping and POI up to mid 2007 (08/2007) w/ the update. That's just over 3 years of changes or updates. Depending on your geographic area and the road or POI changes since the initial release it could be beneficial. There are no new features included w/ the update. Make sure you're dealer is prepared to include the upgraded Bose Amp in case that needs to be changed. Review this thread for more details concerning the Bose Amp. Is it worth it? Depends on how much you use it and if you're anal about keeping your configuration current. Good Luck and keep us posted.

Rock chips can be avoided by simply using an aftermarket (ie. Colgan) bra. They're relatively inexpensive ($125) and suit this activity perfectly. There's even a 'bra' for the rear view mirrors. Good protection whether you drive or tow. Masking tape will work for the smaller rocks; it's a lot cheaper but a bit unsightly but who cares.

I doubt if any 'independent' has the PIWIS ($$$$) unless they service a high volume of late model Porsche cars. The Durametric S/W device (a lot of Porsche shops and enthusiasts own them) might be able to set or reset various parameters or switches. I know it resets the service indicator. Possibly someone will chime in if it does other functions. Good luck & keep us posted!

If the exhaust sound increases when you're in 'sport mode' than I have to assume you have a PSE. There are many ways to tell if you have a PSE. The most visible is if the exhaust tips (chrome plated) are different sizes (diameter) and offset. The standard (non PSE 997S) stainless tips that are equal in size. It's easy to spot the solenoid that activates the PSE 'valves' and if look underneath you'll be able to see the actual vacuum operated valves that attach to each muffler. Do a search on this forum or others. There are plenty of pictures that will help you. This forum has the install procedures in their technical archives that will certainly help spot things. I am surprised that you got little help for your Porsche dealership. Loren's suggestion of loose or broken parts may also be a factor but I think when you said the exhaust level increases when you push the 'Sport Mode' button it sort of points to PSE. If you do have a factory installed PSE then it will cut out if you fall beneath a certain speed. Germany has some noise regulations that Porsche had to abide with and so they simply made the PSE DME (main computer) controllable. It now makes some sense that the service action was to lubricate the 'butterfly valve'. Maybe it was sticky or not working correctly. Of course if that didn't fix the problem you might have a faulty muffler/valve. In any event it should be covered under your warranty (assuming it's still active). If you have no warranty left possible the exhaust system is covered under the emissions warranty which I believe is longer than the 4 yr period. I could be wrong. Good luck and keep us posted.