987 Boxster strut problem and fix
Thread Starter
Racer
Joined: Aug 2001
Posts: 279
Likes: 1
From: Cary
987 Boxster strut problem and fix
My 05 Boxster S with 78k miles has front passenger strut issue. It just started to “knock” when going over rough pavement. It sounds similar to a shock not tightened down enough. So, I tightened the top strut lock nut while holding the center Allen keyed shaft stationary. This temporarily made the knocking sound go away, but, it came back a few days later. FYI, the bump stop buffer foam has long since disintegrated away. So, is my strut bad and needs replaced?
Instructor
Joined: May 2018
Posts: 124
Likes: 47
From: NJ
There is what is called a "strut bearing" at the top of the strut. I think it is more of a bushing, but I have heard many instances where they fail and do just as you are experiencing. My 987.2 developed this issue shortly after purchase. Requires removal of the strut and replacement of the bearing. Parts are not expensive, but the labor will be a few hours, plus alignment. Best to replace both sides at the same time, given the work required. Some might suggest replacing the struts too, but I have not heard one instance of the struts on these cars wearing out, and my parts supplying dealer says they have sold none that were needed for worn-out replacements. So that would be your call.
So Strut Bearing failure could be your problem, but it should be checked by a trained tech.
So Strut Bearing failure could be your problem, but it should be checked by a trained tech.
Racer
Joined: Jun 2019
Posts: 252
Likes: 62
From: Western Pennsylvania
My 2008 Boxster S (with 50K miles) had a faint knocking noise originating from front of car while on rough pavement. It went away when after changing the right side lower control arm (with a bad ball joint). I ended up replacing the control arms on both sides and the suspension tightened up immediately. Wear items like the ball joints fail so slowly, that one doesn't realize how handling is affected. It's only when they are replaced that one really notices the improvement. BTW, it your car has a squeaking noise when the front is bounced while parked, then it's likely the lower control arm(s). There a a couple of YouTube videos on the subject and is not a very complicated DIY project. It however, it is a real PITA removing the three nuts and bolts fixing the arm to the car.
Thread Starter
Racer
Joined: Aug 2001
Posts: 279
Likes: 1
From: Cary
Thanks guys, good info. I have done similar replacement jobs but on 944’s. While not the same, I have sense of the work. Interesting comment on the strut wear not likely the culprit at 78k miles. That is what I was trying to ascertain.
Racer
Joined: Jun 2019
Posts: 252
Likes: 62
From: Western Pennsylvania
The ball joint in my right side lower strut was shot at 50K miles, so I am not sure failure is a function of mileage. The most common reason for failure seems to be damage to the rubber protection boot and water infiltration. Moreover, it's difficult to detect a bad ball joint until it no longer under tension (meaning that the ball is freed from the steering knuckle).
Instructor
Joined: Jun 2017
Posts: 245
Likes: 64
From: Boston, MA
There is what is called a "strut bearing" at the top of the strut. I think it is more of a bushing, but I have heard many instances where they fail and do just as you are experiencing. My 987.2 developed this issue shortly after purchase. Requires removal of the strut and replacement of the bearing. Parts are not expensive, but the labor will be a few hours, plus alignment. Best to replace both sides at the same time, given the work required. Some might suggest replacing the struts too, but I have not heard one instance of the struts on these cars wearing out, and my parts supplying dealer says they have sold none that were needed for worn-out replacements. So that would be your call.
So Strut Bearing failure could be your problem, but it should be checked by a trained tech.
So Strut Bearing failure could be your problem, but it should be checked by a trained tech.
