Mechanics rescue abandoned Porsche Boxster S 986 from barn to see if they can revive the long-neglected classic

Three and a half years. That’s how long this Porsche Boxster S 986 sat untouched in a dusty barn, accumulating more cobwebs with every passing season.

It showed just 48,000 miles on the clock, but no service history and absolutely no sign of life.

The crew at Porschemode decided to gamble: either it wakes up, or it proves everyone right who said it was scrap.

Here’s how it all went down.

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From forgotten Porsche relic to firing flat-six

When the Boxster first rolled out of storage, there were some who scoffed that it was ‘mission impossible’.

The paint was buried under years of grime, the battery was toast, and turning the key got you nothing but a cough. 

Still, the team started simple: a deep wash and polish. 

The transformation alone was enough to shock them – suddenly, the green paint was glowing again, proving that Porsche build quality runs deeper than dust.

But looking good is one thing. Running is another. 

The Boxster S 986 turned over but refused to fire. 

Upon further inspection, the mechanics at Porschemode discovered the first culprit: the battery, which was dead-dead, even with a jump pack. 

Then came the fuel system. 

The gauges claimed a quarter tank, but the pump wasn’t delivering a drop. 

After ruling out relays and adding fresh gas, the only option left was surgery. 

Out came the old fuel pump, eaten alive by stale petrol, and in went a fresh replacement.

Then came the moment of truth. 

The team turned the key, heard the new pump prime, and – finally – the flat-six roared back to life. 

After years of silence, the 986 was breathing again. 

A quick test drive proved the engine and gearbox were still strong, even if the car rattled and groaned like it was stretching out after a long nap.

What it takes to save a Boxster S 986

A full inspection showed the usual suspects: perished front tires, corroded discs, and AC condensers leaking like sieves. 

The underbody, though, was solid – dry storage had kept suspension and brake lines in surprisingly good shape. 

Porschemode also spotted the infamous IMS bearing risk, which they’ll replace as a precaution before the car finds a new home.

Viewers loved it. 

“The before and after is a testament to the Porsche build quality,” commented one fan. 

And another couldn’t stop staring at that rare green paint: “The after is remarkably good! That green is an extremely rare, but elegant color.”

Porschemode has teased more episodes as they dig deeper into the car’s restoration. 

For now, though, the mission is already half-won. A car written off as junk has proven it still has fight left in it. 

And thanks to a little patience and a lot of persistence, this barn-find Porsche Boxster is getting a second shot at life.

To follow along, subscribe to Porschemode on YouTube, or watch the full video below:

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