Porsche 718 Spyder/GT4 Maintenance Guide

The Porsche 718 Cayman GT4 4.0 and Boxster Spyder 4.0 (2019-2023) are high-performance sports cars designed to provide an exceptional driving experience. Like any performance-oriented vehicle, they require regular maintenance to ensure optimal performance, longevity, and reliability. Maintaining a 718 GT4 or Spyder properly is essential, particularly if you plan to take the car to the track or drive it hard. This guide will walk you through the key service intervals and maintenance considerations, based on Porsche’s recommended service schedule.

Consider checking out our 718 Spyder/GT4 dedicated parts page here!

Recommended Service Intervals for the 718 GT4/Spyder 4.0

Porsche recommends a service schedule that balances time-based and distance-based intervals. Below are the key service intervals you should be aware of, which apply to both the 718 GT4 and Spyder models. If the car is driven more aggressively or used on track, you may need to increase the frequency of these services.

Oil Change and General Inspection

• Interval: Every 10,000 miles (16,000 km) or 12 months, whichever comes first.

The first thing to keep in mind is regular oil changes, as this ensures the engine remains lubricated and performs optimally. At each service, the oil will be changed, and a general inspection of the vehicle will take place.

If the car is driven on the track or used in a more demanding manner, you may want to consider changing the oil more frequently, as track driving can cause the oil to degrade quicker. It’s also a good idea to inspect the brake fluid and coolant during each service, especially after spirited driving. 

Brake Fluid

• Interval: Every 20,000 miles (32,000 km) or every 2 years, whichever comes first.

Brake fluid is an essential component of your vehicle's braking system. It is highly recommended to change the brake fluid every two years to prevent moisture from building up, which can lead to corrosion or diminished brake performance. If the car is tracked frequently, you may want to replace the brake fluid more often, as it can heat up more during high-performance driving. Consider swapping to an uprated brake fluid such as the Motul RB660, especially if you use the car hard. 

Spark Plugs

• Interval: Every 40,000 miles (64,000 km) or 4 years, whichever comes first.

Spark plugs are critical for engine performance and fuel efficiency. Over time, spark plugs can wear down, leading to poor ignition and reduced engine efficiency. For the 718 GT4/Spyder, spark plugs should be replaced every 40,000 miles (64,000 km), though more frequent replacements may be necessary if the car is used heavily or for track days.

Porsche Maintenance Inspection

• Interval: Every 40,000 miles (64,000 km) or 4 years, whichever comes first.

Porsche recommends a more thorough inspection every 40,000 miles (64,000 km) or 4 years. This includes checking components such as the suspension, transmission, cooling system, and exhaust system. It's a more in-depth review of the car’s major systems to ensure everything is functioning properly.

Air Filter Replacement

• Interval: Every 40,000 miles (64,000 km) or as needed depending on driving conditions.

The air filter prevents dirt and debris from entering the engine, so it’s important to keep it in good condition. In normal driving conditions, replacing the air filter every 40,000 miles (64,000 km) is typically sufficient. However, if you drive in dusty conditions or on tracks, the air filter may need replacing more frequently. JXL Performance recommends using the K&N Performance Replacement Air Filters, check them out here.

Transmission Fluid

• Interval: Every 40,000 miles (64,000 km) or 4 years, whichever comes first.

For the Porsche 718 GT4/Spyder with the manual gearbox, Porsche recommends changing the transmission fluid at the 40,000-mile mark. This ensures that the gearbox continues to shift smoothly and reduces the risk of premature wear. If you drive the car more aggressively or on the track, you may want to consider changing the fluid more often.

Tyre Replacement

• Interval: Typically, tyres should be replaced every 20,000-25,000 miles (32,000-40,000 km), depending on wear and driving style.

Tyres are a critical part of maintaining performance and safety. The lifespan of your tyres will depend on several factors, including driving style and road conditions. If you use the 718 GT4 or Spyder for track days, the tyres may wear out much quicker and need replacing more frequently.

Key Considerations for Track Use

If you plan to take your Porsche 718 GT4 or Boxster Spyder on the track regularly, there are some additional maintenance tasks you’ll need to consider:

• Increased Oil Change Frequency - Track driving generates more heat and stresses the engine components, which can cause the oil to break down faster. Consider changing the oil more frequently — potentially every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or more, depending on track use.
• Brake Maintenance - Track driving also places additional stress on the braking system. The brake pads and discs will wear much quicker when subjected to repeated high-speed braking. It’s crucial to monitor the condition of the brakes and replace them as needed, with some owners opting for track-specific brake pads for enhanced performance.
• Tire Care - Track days can cause significant wear to your tyres, especially when cornering at high speeds. Consider replacing the tyres more frequently, and ensure you are using tyres suitable for track use. Keep an eye on tyre pressures before and after each track session to ensure optimal performance.
• Suspension Components - After heavy track use, it's important to check the suspension for any signs of wear. The GT4 and Spyder come with a sportier suspension setup that can be stressed during track use, leading to faster degradation of suspension parts. Check for any unusual noises or handling characteristics.

Conclusion

Maintaining your Porsche 718 Cayman GT4 or Boxster Spyder 4.0 is essential for ensuring long-term reliability and performance. Following Porsche's recommended service intervals will keep the car in top shape, but if you plan to use your car for more spirited driving or track days, consider adjusting the maintenance schedule accordingly. Regular oil changes, brake fluid replacement, and inspections are key to keeping the car running smoothly and performing at its best.

By staying on top of these maintenance tasks and addressing issues promptly, you can enjoy the full performance potential of your Porsche 718 GT4 or Spyder for many years to come.