3
Regularly check your vehicle for signs of
damage.
Damaged or missing aerodynamic compo-
nents such as spoilers or underside panels
affect the driving behavior and therefore
must be replaced immediately.
Your car may have all or some of the components
described in this manual.
Should you have difficulty understanding any of
the explanations of features or equipment installed
in your vehicle, contact your authorized Porsche
dealer. He/She will be glad to assist you. Also
check with your dealer on other available options
or equipment.
Throughout this booklet, left is designated as the
driver’s side of the vehicle, and right as the pas-
senger’s side of the vehicle.
Text, illustrations and specifications in this manual
are based on the information available at the time
of printing.
It has always been Porsche’s policy to continuous-
ly improve its products. Porsche, therefore, re-
serves the right to make changes in design and
specification, and to make additions or
improvements in its product without incurring any
obligation to install them on products previously
manufactured.
We wish you many miles of safe and pleasurable
driving in your Porsche.
Important
For your own protection and longer service life of
your car, please follow all operating instructions
and special warnings. These special warnings use
the safety alert symbol, followed by the words
Danger, Warning and Caution. These special
warnings contain important messages regarding
your safety and/or the potential for damage to
your Porsche. Ignoring them could result in seri-
ous mechanical failure or even physical injury.
fDo not alter your Porsche. Any alteration could
create dangerous conditions or defeat safety
engineering features built into your car.
fDo not misuse your Porsche. Use it safely, and
consistently with the law, according to the driv-
ing conditions, and the instructions in this man-
ual.
Alteration or misuse of your Porsche could
cause accidents and severe or fatal personal
injuries.
Note to owners In Canada, this manual is also available in French.
To obtain a copy contact your dealer or write to: Note aux proprietaires Au Canada, ce manuel est également disponible
en francais. Pour en obtenir un exemplaire, adres-
sez-vous à votre concessionnaire ou écrivez à
l’adresse ci-dessous.
Porsche Cars Canada, Ltd.
Automobiles Porsche Canada, LTEE
5045 Orbitor Drive
Building #8, Suite 200
Mississauga, Ontario
Canada L4W 4Y4
Telephone number for customer assistance:
1-800-PORSCHE / Option 3
4Fuel Quality Your engine is designed to provide optimum performance and fuel economy using
unleaded premium fuel with an octane rating of 98 RON (93 CLC or AKI).
Porsche therefore recommends the use of these fuels in your vehicle.
Porsche also recognizes that these fuels may not always be available. Be assured that your vehicle will operate
properly on unleaded premium fuels with octane numbers of at least 95 RON (90 CLC or AKI),
since the engine’s “Electronic Octane™ knock control” will adapt the ignition timing, if necessary. Fuels containing alcohol and ether Some areas of the U.S. require oxygenated fuels during certain portions of the year.
Oxygenated fuels are fuels which contain alcohols (such as methanol or ethanol) or ether (such as MTBE).
Under normal conditions, the amount of these compounds in the fuel will not affect driveability.
You may use oxygenated fuels in your Porsche, provided the octane requirements for your vehicle are met.
We recommend, however, that you change to a different fuel or station if any of the following problems occur with your vehicle:
– Deterioration of driveability and performance.
– Substantially reduced fuel economy.
– Vapor lock and non-start problems, especially at high altitude or at high temperature.
– Engine malfunction or stalling. Fuels containing MMT Some North American fuels contain an octane enhancing additive called methylcyclopentadienyl manganese tricarbonyl (MMT).
If such fuels are used, your emission control system performance may be negatively affected.
The check engine warning lights on your instrument panel may turn on.
If this occurs, Porsche recommends you stop using fuels containing MMT.
7
Environmentally friendly vehicles Modern environmental technology ensures compli-
ance with all emission laws applicable worldwide.
It has the following advantages:
– Rapid operational readiness of the catalytic
converters ensures low emissions, even in
short-trip operation.
– Reliable operation and good emission control
over a long useful life.
– Please observe the chapter “FUEL ECONOMY”
on Page 184.
Recycling – for a Porsche, this is virtually
an academic question More than two-thirds of all Porsches ever built are
still running.
Just in case recycling is ever necessary, we
take the following precautionary measures:
– Identification of all materials.
– Use of recyclable materials.
– Reusable components designed for simple
removal.
– These reasons result in a further increase in
the recycling rate which is currently 80 per
cent.
Emission control is built in Innovative engine technology combines high en-
gine performance and environmental compatibili-
ty.
The engine diagnosis system electronically moni-
tors the components and systems that affect ex-
haust gases.
This continuous monitoring and fault storage ena-
bles swift, reliable diagnosis and fault detection.
Any fault messages are indicated to the driver by
the “Check Engine” warning light and the on-board
computer.
fPlease observe the chapter “WARNINGS ON
THE INSTRUMENT PANEL AND THE ON-
BOARD COMPUTER” on Page 114.
Controls, Instruments
11 Controls, Instruments
Before driving off... ...................................... 12
Break in hints for the first
2,000 miles/3,000 kilometers ...................... 14
Keys ........................................................... 17
Security Wheel Bolts .................................... 17
Doors ......................................................... 23
Alarm System,
Passenger Compartment Monitoring ............. 24
Power Windows ........................................... 26
Inside mirror ................................................ 28
Automatic Anti-Glare
Interior Mirror and Door Mirrors .................... 28
Door Mirrors ................................................ 29
Seat Adjustment .......................................... 32
Seat Memory ............................................... 34
Heated Seats .............................................. 36
Steering Wheel Adjustment ........................... 37
Multi-functional steering wheel ....................... 38
Sun Visors ................................................... 39
Safety Belts ................................................. 40
Airbag Systems ........................................... 42
Child Restraint Systems ................................ 49
LATCH System
Child seat bracket on the passenger’s seat .... 53
Child Restraint Anchorage ............................ 54
Clutch Pedal ................................................ 55
Parking Brake .............................................. 55
Brakes ........................................................ 56
ABS Brake System
(Antilock Brake System) ................................ 59
Sport Mode ................................................. 61
Porsche Stability Management (PSM) ............. 62Porsche Active Suspension Management
(PASM) ........................................................ 65
Retractable Rear Spoiler ............................... 66
Parking Aids ................................................ 68
Interior Lights .............................................. 70
Operation, Instruments ................................. 72
Ignition/Starter Switch with anti-theft Steering
Lock ........................................................... 74
Starting Procedures ..................................... 76
Stopping engine ........................................... 77
Instrument Panel USA Models ....................... 79
Automatic Speed Control Indicator light ......... 82
Instrument Illumination .................................. 82
Trip Odometer ............................................. 83
Speedometer .............................................. 84
Changing over between Miles / Kilometers .... 84
Tachometer ................................................. 85
Turn Signal Indicator Light ............................. 85
High Beam .................................................. 85
Cooling System ........................................... 86
Tiptronic ...................................................... 87
Fuel ............................................................ 88
Clock .......................................................... 89
Outside temperature .................................... 89
Check Engine Warning Light .......................... 90
Central warning light .................................... 91
Brake warning light USA ............................... 91
Brake warning light Canada .......................... 91
On-Board Computer (BC) .............................. 92
Light Switch .............................................. 122
Welcome Home Lighting ............................. 123
Automatic Headlight Beam Adjustment ........ 123Turn Signal/ Headlight Dimmer/Parking light /
Flasher Lever ............................................. 124
Windshield Wiper / Washer Lever ................ 125
Automatic Speed Control ............................ 128
Air conditioning .......................................... 130
Automatic air conditioning system ...............133
Central and side vents ................................ 136
Fresh-air intake .......................................... 136
Emergency Flasher Switch .......................... 137
Ashtray ..................................................... 138
Cigarette Lighter ........................................139
Sockets .................................................... 140
Storage in the passenger compartment ....... 141
Cupholder
(holder for drinks cans and cups) ...............143
Fire extinguisher ........................................145
Trunk Entrapment ....................................... 146
Front Luggage Compartment lid .................. 147
Front Luggage Compartment ...................... 149
Rear Lid .................................................... 150
Rear Luggage Compartment ....................... 151
Porsche Communication Management
(PCM) ........................................................ 155
Car Audio Operation/Tips ........................... 156
HomeLink .................................................. 159
Roof Transport System ............................... 162
12
Controls, Instruments
Dear Porsche Owner A lot has gone into the manufacture of your
Porsche, including advanced engineering, rigid
quality control and demanding inspections.
These engineering and safety features will be
enhanced by you... the safe driver... – who knows his car and all controls,
– who maintains the vehicle properly,
– who uses driving skills wisely, and always
drives within her/his own capabilities and the
level of familiarity with the vehicle.
You will find helpful hints in this manual on how to
perform most of the checks listed on the following
pages.
If in doubt, have these checks performed by your
authorized Porsche dealer.
Before driving off... Check the following items first fTurn the engine off before you attempt any
checks or repairs on the vehicle.
fBe sure the tires are inflated correctly.
Check tires for damage and tire wear.
fSee that wheel bolts are properly tightened
and not loose or missing.
fCheck engine oil level, add if necessary.
Make it a habit to have engine oil checked with
every fuel filling.
fCheck all fluid levels such as windshield wash-
er and brake fluid levels.
fBe sure the vehicle battery is well charged and
cranks the engine properly.
fCheck all doors and lids for proper operation
and latch them properly.
fCheck and if necessary replace worn or
cracked wiper blades.
fSee that all windows are clear and unobstruct-
ed.
fCheck air intake slots and area between front
lid and windshield are free of snow and ice, so
the heater and the windshield wipers work
properly. fIf a child will be riding in the vehicle, check
child seat/child seat restraint system to ensure
that restraints are properly adjusted.
fCheck all exterior and interior lights for opera-
tion and that the lenses are clean.
fCheck the headlights for proper aim, and if
necessary, have them adjusted.
fCheck under the vehicle for leaks.
fBe sure all luggage is stowed securely.
Emergency equipment It is good practice to carry emergency equipment
in your vehicle.
Some of the items you should have are:
window scraper, snow brush, container or bag of
sand or salt, emergency light, small shovel, first-
aid kit, etc.
Controls, Instruments
13
In the driver’s seat... fCheck operation of the horn.
fPosition seat for easy reach of foot pedals and
controls.
To reduce the possibility of injury from the air-
bag deployment, you should always sit back as
far from the steering wheel as is practical,
while still maintaining full vehicle control.
fAdjust the inside and outside rear view mirrors.
fBuckle your safety belts.
fCheck operation of the foot and parking brake.
fCheck all warning and indicator lights with
ignition on and engine not running.
fStart engine and check all warning displays for
warning symbols.
fNever leave an idling car unattended.
fLock doors from inside, especially with chil-
dren in the car to prevent inadvertent opening
of doors from inside or outside.
Drive with doors locked.
On the road... fNever drive after you have consumed alcohol
or drugs.
fAlways have your safety belt fastened.
fAlways drive defensively.
Expect the unexpected.
fUse signals to indicate turns and lane changes.
fTurn on headlights at dusk or when the driving
conditions warrant it.
fAlways keep a safe distance from the vehicle in
front of you, depending on traffic, road and
weather conditions.
fReduce speed at night and during inclement
weather.
Driving in wet weather requires caution and re-
duced speeds, particularly on roads with
standing water, as the handling characteristics
of the vehicle may be impaired due to hydro-
planing of the tires.
fAlways observe speed limits and obey road
signs and traffic laws.
fWhen tired, get well off the road, stop and take
a rest. Turn the engine off. Do not sit in the ve-
hicle with engine idling.
fPlease observe the chapter “ENGINE EX-
HAUST” on Page 8.fWhen parked, always set the parking brake.
Move the Tiptronic selector lever to ”P“ or the
gearshift lever to reverse or first gear.
On hills also turn the front wheels toward the
curb.
fWhen emergency repairs become necessary,
move the vehicle well off the road. Turn on the
emergency flasher and use other warning de-
vices to alert other motorists. Do not park or
operate the vehicle in areas where the hot ex-
haust system may come in contact with dry
grass, brush, fuel spill or other flammable ma-
terial.
fMake it a habit to have the engine oil checked
with every fuel filling.
Danger!
Danger of fire in engine compartment due to
burning cigars or cigarettes. Serious perso-
nal injury or death could result from fire in
the engine compartment.
fDo not throw any lit cigars or cigarettes out of
the vehicle.
They can be blown into the air inlets by the air
flow and cause a fire in the engine compart-
ment.
fPlease observe the chapter “ASHTRAY” on Page 138.
14
Controls, Instruments
Break in hints for the first
2,000 miles/3,000 kilometers The following tips will be helpful in obtaining opti-
mum performance from your new Porsche.
Despite the most modern, high-precision manufac-
turing methods, it cannot be completely avoided
that the moving parts have to wear in with each
other. This wearing-in occurs mainly in the first
2,000 miles/3,000 km. Therefore: fPreferably take longer trips.
fAvoid frequent cold starts with short-distance
driving whenever possible.
fAvoid full throttle starts and abrupt stops.
fDo not exceed maximum engine speed of
4,200 rpm (revolutions per minute).
fDo not run a cold engine at high rpm either in
Neutral or in gear.
fDo not let the engine labor, especially when
driving uphill. Shift to the next lower gear in
time (use the most favorable rpm range).
fNever lug the engine in high gear at low
speeds. This rule applies at all times, not just
during the break-in period. fDo not participate in motor racing events,
sports driving schools, etc. during the first
2,000 miles/3,000 kilometers.
There may be a slight stiffness in the steering,
gear-shifting or other controls during the break-in
period which will gradually disappear.
Break in brake pads and break discsNew brake pads and discs have to be “broken in”,
and therefore only attain optimal friction when the
car has covered several hundred miles or km.
The slightly reduced braking ability must be com-
pensated for by pressing the brake pedal harder.
This also applies whenever the brake pads and
brake discs are replaced. New tires New tires do not have maximum traction. They
tend to be slippery.
fBreak in new tires by driving at moderate
speeds during the first 60 to 120 miles/100 to
200 km. Longer braking distances must be an-
ticipated.
Engine oil and fuel consumption During the break-in period oil and fuel consump-
tion may be higher than normal.
As always, the rate of oil consumption depends on
the quality and viscosity of oil, the speed at which
the engine is operated, the climate and road con-
ditions, as well as the amount of dilution and oxi-
dation of the lubricant.
fMake a habit of checking engine oil with every
fuel filling, add if necessary.
Controls, Instruments
17
Keys fPlease observe the chapter “CENTRAL LO-
CKING” on Page 19.
Two main keys and one spare key are supplied
with your Porsche.
These keys operate all the locks on your vehicle.
fBe careful with your car keys: do not part with
them except under exceptional circumstances.
fTo avoid battery run-down, always remove the
ignition key from the ignition lock.
Replacement keys Replacement car keys can be obtained only from
your authorized Porsche dealer, and this can
sometimes be very time-consuming.
You should therefore always keep the spare key on
your person.
Keep it in a safe place (e.g. wallet), but under no
circumstances in or on the vehicle.
The key codes of new keys have to be “reported”
to the car control unit by your authorized Porsche
dealer.
A total of 6 car keys can be taught.
Disabling key codes
If a key is lost, the key codes can be disabled by
an authorized Porsche dealer.
All the remaining car keys are required for this pur-
pose.
Disabling the code ensures that the car can be
started only using authorized keys.
Note
fPlease note that the other locks can still be
opened with the disabled key.
Immobilizer There is a transponder (an electronic component)
in the key grip, containing a stored code.
When the ignition is switched on, the ignition lock
checks the code.
The immobilizer can be deactivated and the en-
gine started only using an authorized ignition key.
Switching off the immobilizer
fInsert the ignition key into the ignition lock.
If the ignition is left on for more than 2 minutes
without starting the engine, the immobilizer is re-
activated.
fIf this happens, turn the ignition key back to the
3 position before starting the engine.
Please observe the chapter “0 - INITIAL POSITI-
ON 1 - IGNITION ON 2 - START ENGINE 3 - IG-
NITION OFF” on Page 74.
Switching on the immobilizer
fRemove ignition key.Security Wheel Bolts fIf wheels have to be removed during a repair-
shop visit, do not forget to hand over the sock-
et for the security wheel bolts along with the
car key.