996 Power Loss & Rough Running: Manifold Sensor Alert

Hey there, I had a similar issue with my 2004 Porsche Boxster last year. The symptoms you're describing match exactly what I experienced, rough running, power loss, and increased fuel consumption. I got it checked at my local Porsche specialist, and it turned out to be the intake manifold pressure sensor wiring harness. The wiring had deteriorated over time and was causing intermittent connection issues. The mechanic found multiple spots where the wiring insulation had worn through, causing shorts in the system. The repair involved replacing the entire wiring harness for the sensor. It wasn't a particularly complex job, but it needed specific Porsche diagnostic equipment to properly calibrate the new sensor setup. Had it fixed in about half a day. This isn't a major mechanical issue, but it's definitely something you want to address soon to prevent any potential damage to other systems. You'll want someone who knows Porsches well, these sensors are pretty specific to our cars and need proper diagnostic tools. Hopefully this helps with your decision.

Thanks that's exactly what I was dealing with! Glad to hear it wasn't anything more serious. Just curious, do you remember roughly how much you ended up paying for the fix? Also, has everything been running smoothly since then, or have you noticed any other quirks pop up?

Hey again! Yeah, absolutely happy to help! I remember being pretty relieved when it turned out to be just the sensor wiring issue. It cost me 95€ to fix, the mechanic replaced the wiring harness for the intake manifold pressure sensor, and honestly, it was money well spent. Since getting it sorted, my Boxster's been running like a dream, no more jerking, no power loss, and my fuel consumption is back to normal. It's been about a year now, and I haven't had any related issues pop up. The check engine light hasn't come back either, which is always a good sign! Actually, the car feels even better than before, guess I'd gotten so used to the slight performance issues that I didn't realize how much it was affecting the overall drive. Now it's back to being the smooth, responsive Porsche it should be. If you're still looking for a mechanic recommendation, just let me know. My guy really knows his stuff with these cars!

Thanks a ton for all the details! I finally got the courage to take my 996 to a mechanic yesterday. Funny enough, it was exactly what you described, the wiring harness was shot. Cost me a bit more, around 120€, but totally worth it. The whole experience wasn't nearly as stressful as I thought it would be. The mechanic walked me through everything they were doing, showed me the worn-out wiring, and had it fixed in just a few hours. Took it for a test drive afterward, and wow, what a difference! The engine's running smooth as silk now, no more jerking or power issues. Can't believe I was putting off getting it checked for so long. Really appreciate your help in pointing me in the right direction. Saved me a lot of worry and probably prevented bigger issues down the road. My Porsche's purring again, and my wallet didn't take too big of a hit. Cheers!