Number of delivered 991 GT3s returned to dealers
#31
Rennlist Member
Delivery 1/14/2014
Location: Vancouver WA
Car was given back to dealer on 2/20/2014
#36
Since we're possibly looking at 2-3 months, I felt very uncomfortable leaving the car at the dealership that long so I asked for the car back so I can store it in my garage, citing facts about others being allowed to keep their cars home. The dealer had to check with Porsche and they approved my request but they will flat bed it me. Kinda ironic considering I live 1.1 mile away from the dealer and have already put 2,500 hard miles on the car.
For all the negative comments out there, I personally have great respect for the way Porsche is handling this (OK, they get an F on communication but that's not terribly relevant to me). They could have sent a few engineers and mechanics over from Germany then flew all US master techs somewhere central (?Atlanta) and gave them hands on instructions on how to replace the conrod bolts and even provide proper torque guns/wrenches. That would have been much cheaper and clearly not violating any warranty repair obligations. Porsche realizes owners would be unhappy and that a possible resale hit may ensue so they decide to replace the entire engine instead. They also give 911 loaners, flat bed cars, work on compensation, etc. Sure, I am very sad and annoyed that I can't drive my car on the road and having missed driving at COTA and many other track days (I drove 40+ track days the past 12 months) but I do not fault them (someone please protect me from the wrath of haters).
I am a firm believer that Porsche had no knowledge this happened earlier and I feel bad for them. Call me whatever you want but my respect and loyalty to the brand has strengthened with how they are handling this.
For all the negative comments out there, I personally have great respect for the way Porsche is handling this (OK, they get an F on communication but that's not terribly relevant to me). They could have sent a few engineers and mechanics over from Germany then flew all US master techs somewhere central (?Atlanta) and gave them hands on instructions on how to replace the conrod bolts and even provide proper torque guns/wrenches. That would have been much cheaper and clearly not violating any warranty repair obligations. Porsche realizes owners would be unhappy and that a possible resale hit may ensue so they decide to replace the entire engine instead. They also give 911 loaners, flat bed cars, work on compensation, etc. Sure, I am very sad and annoyed that I can't drive my car on the road and having missed driving at COTA and many other track days (I drove 40+ track days the past 12 months) but I do not fault them (someone please protect me from the wrath of haters).
I am a firm believer that Porsche had no knowledge this happened earlier and I feel bad for them. Call me whatever you want but my respect and loyalty to the brand has strengthened with how they are handling this.
#37
For all the negative comments out there, I personally have great respect for the way Porsche is handling this (OK, they get an F on communication but that's not terribly relevant to me). They could have sent a few engineers and mechanics over from Germany then flew all US master techs somewhere central (?Atlanta) and gave them hands on instructions on how to replace the conrod bolts and even provide proper torque guns/wrenches. That would have been much cheaper and clearly not violating any warranty repair obligations.
#38
Rennlist Member
Join Date: Oct 2010
Location: Limassol, Cyprus and DFW, Texas
Posts: 4,637
Received 389 Likes
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204 Posts
I agree with SamFromTX above - it seems Porsche is doing the right thing.
Unfortunately, this is one of the worst things that can happen to Porsche for the new model GT3. Poor engine design. I don't care what people say, having a new car with the need for an engine replacement will bring down the value. It shouldn't though. A new engine should be better, more robust, and hopefully increase the life of your vehicle. In the future, not many people will be wanting a 2014 GT3 unless they can get it at a discount (which would be a good deal). I'm actually not trying to be negative or put down current owners...it's just reality. Those who think this will absolutely have no effect on the value of your car are mistaken. That is why Porsche will do the right thing and offer appropriate compensation packages which is the right thing to do. Not only will you have a kick *** car, you may even come out ahead with the right compensation package!
Unfortunately, this is one of the worst things that can happen to Porsche for the new model GT3. Poor engine design. I don't care what people say, having a new car with the need for an engine replacement will bring down the value. It shouldn't though. A new engine should be better, more robust, and hopefully increase the life of your vehicle. In the future, not many people will be wanting a 2014 GT3 unless they can get it at a discount (which would be a good deal). I'm actually not trying to be negative or put down current owners...it's just reality. Those who think this will absolutely have no effect on the value of your car are mistaken. That is why Porsche will do the right thing and offer appropriate compensation packages which is the right thing to do. Not only will you have a kick *** car, you may even come out ahead with the right compensation package!
#39
Second hand buyers of this car aren't stupid. This fiasco will be exploited in the negotiations for the next purchase. That's just reality in buying a used car. You're dreaming if you think the 2014 is as desirable as the 2015.
Regardless of the compensation package, if it amounts to anything, no current 2014 owner or buyer will come out ahead. This is one to walk away from.
Regardless of the compensation package, if it amounts to anything, no current 2014 owner or buyer will come out ahead. This is one to walk away from.
#40
Production date???
Delivery Date: 1/7/14
At the dealer: 2/20/14
Loaner: Panamera 4
Mileage:310 thought I would throw that in
Other problems: thermostat bad, over filled with oil from the factory, blue smoke at cold start up
Is it a Lemon: YES
Delivery Date: 1/7/14
At the dealer: 2/20/14
Loaner: Panamera 4
Mileage:310 thought I would throw that in
Other problems: thermostat bad, over filled with oil from the factory, blue smoke at cold start up
Is it a Lemon: YES
#41
Latest news from Porsche:
Porsche to replace GT3 engines due to fire risk
By Peter Valdes-Dapena @peterdrives March 18, 2014: 5:58 PM ET
Porsche will replace the engines in 785 high-performance sports cars because of a risk that the current engines could catch fire. The move was made in response to two engine fires in Porsche 911 GT3s.
The GT3 is a track-oriented two-seat version of the 911 sports car. Prices for the car start at $130,000. It can go from zero to 60 miles per hour in just 3.3 seconds, with a top speed of 195 miles per hour.
The decision to replace the engines was made after Porsche engineers investigated two engine fires that occurred in Europe. Neither fire caused an accident or any injuries. Porsche had already warned owners last month to stop driving the cars and to have them picked up and taken to a Porsche dealer.
Engineers discovered that the fires were caused by a loose rod inside the engine. The loose rod caused damage that then allowed lubricating oil to leak out and ignite.
The 785 cars that will have their engines changed include 408 in the United States. The move doesn't involve any other Porsche models beyond the 911 GT3. Porsche is part of the Volkswagen Group
Porsche to replace GT3 engines due to fire risk
By Peter Valdes-Dapena @peterdrives March 18, 2014: 5:58 PM ET
Porsche will replace the engines in 785 high-performance sports cars because of a risk that the current engines could catch fire. The move was made in response to two engine fires in Porsche 911 GT3s.
The GT3 is a track-oriented two-seat version of the 911 sports car. Prices for the car start at $130,000. It can go from zero to 60 miles per hour in just 3.3 seconds, with a top speed of 195 miles per hour.
The decision to replace the engines was made after Porsche engineers investigated two engine fires that occurred in Europe. Neither fire caused an accident or any injuries. Porsche had already warned owners last month to stop driving the cars and to have them picked up and taken to a Porsche dealer.
Engineers discovered that the fires were caused by a loose rod inside the engine. The loose rod caused damage that then allowed lubricating oil to leak out and ignite.
The 785 cars that will have their engines changed include 408 in the United States. The move doesn't involve any other Porsche models beyond the 911 GT3. Porsche is part of the Volkswagen Group
#43
Completion date Jan 24
Arrived Emden Jan 28
Still there. According to my dealer's regional manager who called Porsche, all cars in Emden were moved to a protected area to avoid the elements. (I have absolutely no proof of this) Reasonable speculation is that they will be shipped to the NA dealerships where the engine will be replaced locally. Again, not confirmed in any way, just speculation.
Update Location FL, no loaner
Arrived Emden Jan 28
Still there. According to my dealer's regional manager who called Porsche, all cars in Emden were moved to a protected area to avoid the elements. (I have absolutely no proof of this) Reasonable speculation is that they will be shipped to the NA dealerships where the engine will be replaced locally. Again, not confirmed in any way, just speculation.
Update Location FL, no loaner
#44
Racer
Thread Starter
Updated PDF file ... including owner disposition of GT3 as we decide to keep or return our cars ...
(file may not appear on smartphones ... go to tablet or your PC)
(file may not appear on smartphones ... go to tablet or your PC)