2005 PORSCHE BOXSTER check engine

Maintenance, Car Care
181
Fuels containing MMT Some North American fuels contain an octane en-
hancing additive called methylcyclopentadienyl
manganese tricarbonyl (MMT).
If such fuels are used, your emission control sys-
tem performance may be negatively affected.
The check engine warning light on your instrument
panel may turn on.
If this occurs, Porsche recommends you stop
using fuels containing MMT.
Portable Fuel Containers
Danger!
Portable fuel containers, full or partially em-
pty, may leak causing an explosion, or result
in fire in case of an accident.
fNever carry additional fuel in portable contai-ners in your vehicle.

Maintenance, Car Care
189
Power Steering
Warning!
Risk of accident.
When the engine is stopped (e.g. when on
tow) or the power steering has failed there is
no steering assistance.
Therefore, substantially more force will have
to be exerted in order to steer.
fExercise great care when being towed.
fHave the fault remedied at your nearest autho-rized Porsche dealer. Note
The flow noise heard at full steering lock is design-
related and does not indicate a defect in the stee-
ring system.
Checking hydraulic fluid fPlease observe the chapter “EXERCISE EXTRE-
ME CAUTION WHEN WORKING ON YOUR VE-
HICLE” on Page 168.
The hydraulic fluid reservoir is located in the engi-
ne compartment.
fOnly use hydraulic fluid authorized by Porsche.
fPlease observe the chapter “CAPACITIES” on
Page 266.
fCheck the fluid level with the engine stopped
and cold (approximately 68°F/20°C).
1. Open the engine compartment lid.
Please observe the chapter “OPENING ENGINE
COMPARTMENT LID” on Page 185.
2. Open the reservoir cap.
3. Wipe measuring rod.
Close lid and reopen. The fluid level should lie
in the area below the ”Cold“ marking.
Add hydraulic fluid if necessary.
4. Close cap carefully.
Close engine compartment lid.
Noticeable loss of fluid indicates leakage in the
system.
The cause should be remedied immediately at an
authorized Porsche dealer.

190
Maintenance, Car Care
Air Filter The air filter is on the left-hand side of the engine
compartment.
A dirty air filter not only reduces engine perfor-
mance, but can lead to premature engine wear.
Regular filter replacement is part of the routine
maintenance service.
fIn dusty conditions, check the filter element
more frequently and replace if necessary. Combination filterThe fresh air passing through the combination
filter into the passenger compartment is virtually
free of dust, pollen, and unpleasant odours.
fIf the outside air is polluted by exhaust fumes,
press the circulating-air button.
A dirty filter can be the cause of reduced air
throughput:
fHave the filter replaced by an authorized
Porsche dealer.
Regular filter replacement is part of servicing.
Automatic Transmission Fluid The torque converter and the transmission are lu-
bricated with Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF).
The final drive requires transmission oil.
fPlease observe the chapter “CAPACITIES” on
Page 266.
Do not tow the car or run the engine without ATF
in the transmission. The automatic transmission
may be damaged by even a tiny speck of dirt, only
a clean funnel or spout must be used when adding
AT F.
The ATF and transmission oil has to be checked
and changed at the intervals listed in your Mainte-
nance Schedule.
We recommend that you have the ATF and trans-
mission oil changed at your Porsche dealer, who
has the required lubricants and the necessary fil-
ling equipment.
If you suspect an oil leak in the transmission, have
your authorized Porsche dealer check it out imme-
diately.
Manual Transmission Oil The transmission oil has to be checked and chan-
ged at the intervals listed in your Maintenance
Schedule.
fPlease observe the chapter “CAPACITIES” on
Page 266.
We recommend that you have the transmission oil
changed at your Porsche dealer, who has the re-
quired lubricants and the necessary filling equip-
ment.
If you suspect an oil leak in the transmission, have
your authorized Porsche dealer check it out imme-
diately.

200
Maintenance, Car Care
Storing your Porsche If you intend to store your Porsche for a prolonged
period, please consult your authorized Porsche
dealer. The staff will be glad to advise you on the
most suitable and necessary methods.
fClean your vehicle thoroughly inside and out-
side.
Clean the engine compartment.
The under carriage and chassis components
should be free of dirt and salt deposits.
fFill up the fuel tank.
fChange the oil and oil filter, and run the engine
for several minutes.
fIncrease the tire pressure to 58 psi (4 bar).
It is not recommended to lift the vehicle, due to
the possibility of corrosion on shock absorber
piston shafts.
The vehicle should be moved slightly, approxi-
mately every four weeks, to prevent flat spot
on the tires. Climate control
The air conditioning system should be in good wor-
king condition and fully charged.
Windshield/Headlight washer
fCheck and correct antifreeze/cleaning solution
level as necessary.
Electrical system
fRemove the battery from the vehicle and store
it in a cool dry place, not on a cement floor.
When the battery is disconnected, the
alarm system is deactivated.
fRecharge the battery every 3 months. If the
battery remains in the vehicle with the cables
connected, it is necessary to check, remove
and recharge the battery every 2-3 weeks.
Do not fast charge the battery.
fPlease observe the chapter “BULB CHART” on
Page 239. Vehicle interior
The interior must be dry, especially in the area of
the floor carpets. The use of drying agents (Silica-
Gel) is recommended in vehicles with leather inte-
rior and in areas with high humidity. The recom-
mended amount is 3 fabric bags of 1.1 lbs. (500
grams) each placed on the floor carpets.
Windows, doors, lids and top must be closed. The
air vents should be opened.

230
Practical Tips, Emergency Service
Charge stateA well-charged battery prevents starting problems
and has a longer useful life.
Traffic density, speed limits, requirements
regarding noise, exhaust gas and fuel consump-
tion reduce the engine speed and, hence, the
generator output.
However, the large number of electrical loads has
markedly increased the demand for electrical
power.
In order to avoid unintended battery
discharge
fSwitch off unnecessary electrical loads in city
traffic, on short trips and in queues.
fAlways withdraw the ignition key when leaving
the vehicle.
fAvoid frequent operation of the convertible top
and operation of the Porsche Communication
Management system when the engine is not
running.
Battery carefKeep battery surface clean and dry.
fEnsure that cell plugs and terminal clamps are
firmly secured.
Checking acid level
The acid level should be more frequently checked
by a qualified specialist workshop during the
summer months and in predominantly warm
countries.
Charging the battery
Your Porsche partner will be pleased to advise you
about a suitable charger.
1. Always observe the instructions of the charger
manufacturer.
Depending on the type of charger, the battery
may have to be disconnected. Extremely
important: disconnect the negative cable first,
and then the positive cable – danger of short
circuit!
Reconnection must be carried out in reverse
order.
2. Before charging, cold batteries must be
warmed up indoors.
3. Frozen batteries must not be charged. They
must be replaced with a new battery.
4. When charging, ensure adequate ventilation. 5. Connect charger to the battery.
Only plug into the mains and switch the
charger on when it has been correctly
connected up.
Warning!
Hydrogen gas generated by the battery
could cause an explosion, resulting in severe
personal injuries.
fCharge battery in a well ventilated area.
fNever charge a frozen battery. It may explode
because of gas trapped in the ice. Allow a fro-
zen battery to thaw out first.
fIf you get electrolyte, which is an acid, in your
eyes or on your skin, immediately rinse with
cold water for several minutes and call a doc-tor.

272
Index
IndexAABS (antilock brake system) .......................... 55
Air conditioning ...................................114
, 117
Air distribution ....................................114, 117
Air filter ...................................................... 190
Airbag system .............................................. 49
Disposal ............................................... 50
Switching passenger’s airbag on and off . 48
Air-conditioning compressor ................116, 119
Alarm system ............................................. 141
Alcantara ................................................... 199
Antenna .............................................141, 194
Antilock brake system................................... 55
Warning light ........................................ 56
Ashtray ...................................................... 122
Assembly aids for wheel changes................. 224
Assistant ...................................................... 64
Audio operation .......................................... 139
Auto-button air conditioning ......................... 117
Automatic
Anti-glare mirrors .................................. 30
Car washes ........................................ 192
Door locking ......................................... 24
Headlight beam adjustment.................. 109
Speed control ....................................... 76
Automatic air conditioning system ................ 117
Average consumption............................87, 100
Average speed .....................................87, 100
BBackrest
Adjustment ........................................... 34
Release ................................................ 34
Battery....................................................... 229
Care .................................................. 230
Charge state....................................... 230
Putting vehicle into operation ............... 232
Remote control ................................... 235
Removing ........................................... 233
Warning light......................................... 84
Winter driving...................................... 231
Before driving off ....................................12
, 13
Blower adjustment..............................114, 117
Brake light..........................................249, 250
Brakes
Brake pad warning light ......................... 85
Fluid ...........................................175, 266
Fluid warning light ............................... 175
Pads ..............................................14, 54
Test stand ............................................ 60
Break in hints................................................ 14
Bulbs
Chart ................................................. 239
Replacing ........................................... 239
CCabriolet .................................................... 154
Canholder .................................................. 128
Capacities, overview ................................... 266Car care ..................................................... 168
Car telephone ............................................. 141
Car washes ................................................ 192
Catalytic converters ....................................183
Cautions............................................ 168
, 202
Central locking....................................... 19, 21
Emergency operation ..................... 19, 22
Central vents .............................................. 120
Central warning light..................................... 85
Changing wheels ......................................... 224
Check engine
Warning light......................................... 84
Checking pressure ...................................... 223
Chield retraint system.................................... 45
Child restraint system
Switching passenger’s airbag on and off . 48
Chime ........................................................ 108
CHRONO stopwatch ......................................92
Circulating-air button .......................... 114, 117
Clock .................................................. 83, 100
Clutch ........................................................ 146
Clutch pedal ................................................. 51
Combination filter ........................................190
Comfort seat ................................................ 34
Coming Home mode ................................... 108
Compact disc
holder ................................................ 127
Player ................................................ 140
Storage .............................................. 136
Convertible top ........................................... 154
Care................................................... 193
Coolant ....................................... 80
, 170
, 266

Index
273
Level.................................................. 170
Temperature gauge.............................. 80
Warning light ........................................ 80
Cooling system .....................................80
, 170
Cruise control ............................................... 76
Cupholder .................................................. 128
DDashboard ................................................... 65
Data bank .................................................. 258
Defrosting windows .............................114
, 117
Diagnostic socket .................................15, 227
Diagrams ................................................... 268
Dimensions ................................................ 267
Dipped beam .............................................. 241
Door ............................................................ 25
Guard lights ........................................ 251
Handles................................................ 25
Locks...........................................25, 194
Mirror heating ....................................... 33
Windows ....................... 25
, 28, 154
, 196
Driving hints ................................................. 12
Driving in winter .......................................... 152
Driving performance ................................... 265
Drop-center rim .......................................... 215
DVD Navigation........................................... 136
EElectrical system ........................................ 226
Emergency flasher ...................................... 121
Emergency operation
Central locking................................19
, 22
Convertible top ................................... 157Lids ...................................................228
Tank cap ............................................179
Emergency program, Tiptronic .....................152
Emergency service......................................202
Emergency starting with jump leads .............236
Emergenzy operation....................................22
Emission control system ........... 7
, 84, 182
, 183
Engine
Checking the oil level .............................97
Exhaust ..................................................8
Number ..............................................259
Oil consumption ....................................14
Oil level indicator...................................97
Oils ....................................................266
Speeds ................................................14
Starting ................................................67
Switching off.........................................67
Engine compartment
Blower .......................................... 70, 80
Lid ............................................ 135, 185
Lid warning light ..................................134
Environment ...................................................6
FFire extinguisher .........................................131
Flat tire ......................................................219
Floor mats ..................................................199
Fog lights .................................. 108
, 246
, 249
Footwell light ..............................................250
Front lid......................................................135
Fuel ................................................ 4
, 82, 178
Containers ..............................................8
Economy ............................................177
Evaporation ........................................184Level gauge ......................................... 82
Level warning light................................ 82
Portable Containers ............................ 181
Recommendation ....................... 180
, 181
Tank.......................................... 178, 179
Function keys ............................................... 40
Fuses ........................................................ 227
GGarage door opener................................... 142
Garage lift ................................................. 218
Gearchanging ............................................ 145
Glove compartment .................................... 127
Gong .............................. 68
, 69, 88, 107
, 108
Ground clearance ........................................... 8
HHandbrake ................................................... 51
Hardtop ..................................................... 162
Headlights ......................................... 109
, 241
Adjusting ................................... 252, 253
Cleaning system ................. 110
, 184
, 266
Heated rear window...................... 33
, 165
, 166
Heating ............................................. 114, 117
High beam
Indicator light ....................................... 79
Lever......................................... 108, 109
Home mode............................................... 108
HomeLink .................................................. 142
Hoods ............................................... 132, 135
Horn ..................................................... 15, 21

274IIdentifikation number................................... 258
Ignition lock............................. 67
, 69, 70, 147
Immobilizer .................................................. 17
Instrument
Illumination ........................................... 76
Lights ................................................ 108
Panel ................................................... 73
Interior lights .............................................. 251
Interior mirror ............................................... 30
JJump lead starting ...................................... 236KKeylock...................................................... 147
Keys ............................................................ 17
with remote control ............................... 18LLATCH System.............................................. 47
Leather care............................................... 198
License plate light....................................... 108
Lids ...................................................132
, 135
Emergency unlocking.......................... 228
Light
Flasher................................ 79
, 108
, 109
Low beam ..................................108, 109
Switch................................................ 109
Light alloy wheels ....................................... 198
Inscription .......................................... 215
Load switch-off ........................................... 226Loading information .................................... 216
Locking ................................................. 20
, 23
Luggage
Net ........................................... 130, 187
Luggage compartment ............... 136
, 137
, 250
Lid warning light.................................. 134
Lids ................................................... 134
MMaintenance ............................................... 168
Make-up mirror ............................................. 41
Maximum permitted engine speeds ....... 14
, 146
Mirrors ......................................................... 31
Anti-glare .............................................. 30
Multi-Functional steering wheel
Function keys........................................ 40
NNavigation .................................................. 138
Notes on
Car care ............................................. 191
Maintenance ....................................... 168
Number plate light ............................. 108
, 249
OOctane rating..................................... 180
, 181
Off delay .................................................... 108
Oil ............................................................. 266
Checking level ...................................... 97
Consumption ........................................ 14
Level checks ...................................... 173
Level indicator ...................................... 97On-board computer .................................. 8
, 86
Basic settings .......................................99
Language versions................................99
On-board literature ..........................................2
Orientation light ..........................................125
Outside temperatur indicator..........................83
PPaint
Care...................................................191
Data ...................................................259
ParkAssistant................................................64
Parking
Aids .....................................................64
Assistant ..............................................65
Brake ...................................................51
Light ..................................................108
Particle filter ...............................................190
Plastic parts ...............................................197
Platform lift.................................................218
Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM) .
61
Porsche Ceramic Composite Brake (PCCB) .......8
Porsche Communication Management ..... 8
, 138
Porsche Stability Management (PSM) ..............58
Information light ....................................60
Power measurements ..................................168
Power steering fluid level .................... 189, 266
Power windows .............................. 25
, 28, 154
Practical tips ..............................................202