964

1989-1994 / Coupe / Targa / Cabriolet / Germany

Common Chassis and Suspension

9. Power Steering Rack Leaks

Symptoms

Power steering fluid on the garage floor (reddish-brown colour). Low fluid level in the power steering reservoir. Gradual increase in steering effort. Whining noise from the power steering pump (low fluid).

Cause

The rubber seals within the steering rack harden and crack with age. The 964 was the first 911 with power steering, and the rack design is robust but not immune to 30+ years of age-related seal degradation.

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// More 964 problems

Other known issues

Critical Chassis and Suspension

10. Brake Master Cylinder Failure

Brake pedal feels spongy or soft. Pedal slowly sinks to the floor when held under pressure (at a traffic light, for example). Brake fluid level drops without visible external leaks. Warning light on the dashboard. ---

Common Engine

1. Oil Leaks (Chain Tensioner Housings)

Oil residue on the engine's lower surfaces, oil drips on exhaust components (burning oil smell), oil spots beneath the car.

Common Engine

2. Oil Leaks (Cam Cover Gaskets)

Oil on the cylinder heads and barrel surfaces, burning oil smell from exhaust contact.

Critical Engine

3. Oil Leaks (Cylinder Base Gaskets)

Oil around the cylinder bases, dripping down the engine. In severe cases, oil loss between services.

Minor Engine

4. Timing Chain Tensioner Failure

A rattling noise from the front of the engine on cold start-up (chain slap). Erratic idle. In advanced cases, a metallic rattling that worsens with engine speed.

Minor Engine

5. Engine Bay Fires

Burning oil smell from the rear of the car (this is the warning sign). Smoke from the engine bay.

All 964 problems