1998 Porsche 911: common problems and reliability

Is 1998 a good year for the 911?

Across the 29 911 model years we track, complaint volume runs from 2 (1998) to 100 (2007). With 2 complaints, the 1998 911 sits belowthe model's median of 16.

These are raw NHTSA complaint totals, not adjusted for how many cars sold or how long each model year has been on the road. Older and higher-selling years accumulate more complaints.

Where owners report problems

Recalls affecting the 1998 911

What owners report on the 996 911

Owners view the 996 as an attainable entry into 911 ownership, praising its driving experience and value for money. Many describe it as a fun, basic, and easy-to-live-with sports car that is very capable even without modification. The dominant criticism center

• IMS bearing failure: Frequency: very frequent. A known weak point on non-Turbo 996 engines; owners report it can fail even on lower-mileage cars. Early 1999-2000 cars with dual-row bearings are considered less prone to failure.
• Porous engine block: Frequency: isolated. One owner reported a 2002 model that had a porous block replaced by Porsche under warranty in 2005.
• Rear wing actuator failure: Frequency: isolated. Mentioned as a potential issue on 996 models with active rear wings; actuators can fail and are expensive to replace.
• Main and rod bearing wear: Frequency: isolated. A euro shop reported seeing many 996 engines with worn main and rod bearings.

Owner insights for the 996 911. Read the full 996 owner report.

Typical used price

Used 911 listings typically run $76,988–$270,070 across 1998 to 2026 model years.

Compare the 911 against its rivals