brennislhomme

Hey all, first time / long time. I finally caught the bug and unloaded my BMW & Mercedes to find a 997.1 - really excited to be here.

So, the seller of a 997.1 C4S I'm interested in had a potential buyer do a PPI - it returned back with 11 codes thrown, and they recommended replacing the starter and clutch. Not the greatest sign, not gonna lie, and most likely why the car is still for sale. Myself and my mechanic have had some trouble deciphering what the codes might mean. I've searched but still haven't had luck with many of these.

Could anyone tell me if these are of the "walk away asap" variety?

P0028 - Valve lift control final (Bank 2)
P0010A - Camshaft Position Actuator Circuit (Bank 1)
P002 - not found, but P0002 is Fuel Volume Regulator Control Circuit Range/Performance (?)
8020 - Multi-function steering wheel timeout
8007 - Gateway incorrect coding
8004 - PCM/Radio code (?)
C140 - Communication instrument cluster (display)
C152 - Communication PSM control unit (drive) - Airbag?
C102 - CAN single-wire operation "comfort" (?)
8021 - GPS antenna - open circuit (?)
8042 - Front luggage compartment unlocking (?)

groovzilla

How was the DME computer readout for over revs (Manual Transmission) and cam deviation numbers?

Petza914

Should just be able to Google each of those codes to see what they relate to. If the car was scanned while the engine wasn't running you'll get more codes than when it is. If the car has aftermarket stereo stuff, it will likely throw gateway communication codes even if everything works right.

4Driver4

I always find it interesting when people post a list of codes without taking the time to list the meanings of each code.
I guess it's better to have every person who wants to help Google the codes individually than to have the OP take a few minutes to add a few words on each code?

That said, whenever I see a list like this, I immediately think about the battery. Step one for me would be to install a new battery and drive the car a bit. See if anything comes back.
HTH

brennislhomme

They didn't seem to do a DME readout or cam deviation numbers in this PPI. I'm half thinking if these codes aren't huge issues, I'll get another PPI with DME and cam deviation too.

No you're right, totally. My initial post was absurd in hindsight, thinking someone might spot a code or two they were familiar with. I just updated my post with what my mechanic and I could find on the internet.

ATX_Native

Did your first PPI include a Borescope inspection of the cylinders?

Petza914

These are the 3 of concern that need further investigation before deciding to purchase. The first 2 are related to the Variocam solenoids for the Variocam + intake valve lift & duration functionality.

P0028 - Valve lift control final (Bank 2)
P0010A - Camshaft Position Actuator Circuit (Bank 1)
P002 - not found, but P0002 is Fuel Volume Regulator Control Circuit Range/Performance (?)

brennislhomme

It did yes - all cylinders are stated to be OK.

brennislhomme

Ahh I see! That helps. I guess without further investigation it's going to be tough to know if these are major or minor issues. Is it common to work through thrown codes on PPI?

Bruce In Philly

2009 C2S 196K miles

From the cheap seats, something to ponder: I would walk away from this car. Unless of course, you are getting a killer deal and expect to put money into it. So... either one of two things... when you get a bunch of codes, either they all are caused by the same upstream issue, or this car was neglected. Normally, items fail in a linear fashion... one occurs, the owner gets it fixed, then another... etc. An owner who lets these things pile up is an owner I don't want to buy from.

Just for completeness, I can examine the codes in my car and I will get a few oddballs such as "comfort" or some "communications" error... these turned out to be nothing, at least for ten or so years never manifested into a problem. But those engine issues... I dunno.

Peace
Bruce in Philly (now Atlanta)

groovzilla

Ok take a deep breath----> Lots of fun/excitement when buying a 997 however you must get a proper PPI or you will pay down the road.
Get a proper PPI with DME readout and Bore Scope Inspection at good Indy Porsche Specialist shop not affiliated with the sellers shop..
What year is car?? Manual or PDK?? How many miles??

brennislhomme

Thanks Bruce I appreciate that, definitely resonating with what you're saying.

HAHA. Yeah, you nailed it. I got the bug, been kicking the tires of my slow vintage cars for too long. Thanks for that.

It's a 2006 C4S manual with 56k miles, asking price is $54k

brennislhomme

**duplicate post

groovzilla

**Make sure your PPI includes photos of each cylinder. COnfirm this prior to Inspection.
Don't accept "Yeah everything looks ok"as a Bore Scope Inspection. Many new buyers have been burned.

Goose 993

Can get a base 997.2 with a tad more miles for mid 40's.Not sure if you want the 4wd though.