Boxster Overheating Mystery: Expert Porsche Help Needed

I had a similar issue with my 2011 Porsche Cayman last summer. The symptoms matched yours exactly, check engine light and engine running hot. Took it to my Porsche specialist, and they diagnosed a faulty radiator shutter wiring harness behind the front bumper. The wiring had worn through due to movement and exposure, causing the radiator shutters to stay closed. This prevented proper airflow to cool the engine. The fix required removing the front bumper to access and replace the damaged wiring harness. It was a significant job because of the location, but not a complex repair for someone who knows Porsches. This is actually a known issue with these models. Since the repair, my engine temp has been perfect and no more check engine light. I'd recommend getting it checked at a proper Porsche specialist, this isn't something you want to ignore as continued overheating can cause more serious engine damage.

Thanks for sharing your experience! Glad to hear you got it sorted. I'm starting to think my issue might be similar to what you described. Would you mind sharing roughly how much the repair set you back? Also, just curious, have you had any cooling-related issues pop up since the fix? I've got a good Porsche specialist in mind, just trying to get an idea of what I'm in for cost-wise.

Hey there! Happy to help with those questions. Since getting my Cayman fixed at the Porsche specialist, it's been running like a dream, no cooling issues whatsoever. The controlled air damper malfunction is completely gone, and the engine temp stays exactly where it should be. The total bill came to 215 Euro for fixing the radiator shutter wiring harness (it was pretty worn out behind the bumper). Honestly, it was worth every penny considering how well it's running now. I know these repairs can seem pricey, but it's definitely cheaper than letting engine problems get worse! If you've got a good Porsche specialist in mind, I'd say go for it. These guys really know their stuff when it comes to these specific issues. Trust me, you'll feel the difference once it's sorted, my Cayman feels like a different car now that everything's working properly. Let me know how it goes with your Boxster! Always happy to chat about Porsche stuff.

Update on my Boxster situation, just got back from the mechanic and you were spot on! Took it to the Porsche specialist I mentioned, and they found the exact same issue with the radiator shutter wiring. The wiring was completely shot, probably from years of wear and tear. Total damage was around 250 Euro, which isn't too bad considering what I was imagining. They had it fixed in about half a day, and the difference is like night and day. Engine's running at perfect temp now, and that annoying check engine light is finally off. Thanks again for steering me in the right direction. Would've probably spent way more time and money going down the wrong path with my old mechanic. Really appreciate everyone's help on this one! Feels great to have my Boxster back in proper shape.