Porsche 718 Spyder RS/GT4RS Maintenance Guide

Owning a Porsche 718 GT4 RS 4.0 or Boxster Spyder RS 4.0 is an exhilarating experience, but it also comes with the responsibility of proper maintenance to keep these high-performance vehicles running smoothly. Regular servicing is essential not only to maintain performance but also to preserve the vehicle’s value. This guide will help you understand the recommended service intervals, key maintenance tasks, and best practices for keeping your 718 GT4 RS or Spyder RS in top condition.

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Service Intervals for the 718 GT4 RS and Spyder RS

Porsche recommends regular servicing for the 718 GT4 RS and Boxster Spyder RS every two years or 12,000 miles (19,000 km), whichever comes first. This interval ensures that essential components such as the engine, transmission, suspension, and braking systems are checked and maintained to keep the car performing at its best.

It’s important to note that some components may require attention before the regular service interval, depending on usage. For example, if you regularly use your car for high-performance driving or track days, more frequent checks and fluid changes may be necessary.

Key Maintenance Tasks and Their Intervals

Here are some of the key maintenance tasks you’ll need to stay on top of, along with their recommended service intervals:

Oil and Filter Changes

The engine oil is critical for lubricating the 4.0-litre flat-six engine and ensuring it runs efficiently. Porsche recommends oil and filter changes every 12,000 miles (19,000 km) or once every two years, whichever comes first. However, if you’re using the car for frequent track days or spirited driving, more frequent oil changes may be beneficial to keep the engine running smoothly. A 2-3 track day interval for oil changes is recommended in these cases.

Brake Fluid Changes

Brake fluid is another important fluid that requires regular attention. It’s essential for the proper functioning of the braking system, and Porsche recommends changing the brake fluid every two years, regardless of mileage. For cars used on the track, more frequent brake fluid changes may be necessary due to the high stresses placed on the braking system during track use.

Spark Plugs

Spark plugs ensure optimal combustion in the engine. These should be replaced every 4 years or 40,000 miles (64,000 km), whichever comes first, although this may vary based on the type of driving. Performance driving can result in slightly more frequent replacement due to the increased strain on the engine.

Air Filters

Air filters prevent debris from entering the engine, ensuring clean air for combustion. These should be inspected and replaced as necessary every 4 years or 40,000 miles (64,000 km). If you drive in dusty conditions, it’s advisable to check the air filters more regularly.

Transmission Fluid

The transmission fluid ensures smooth gear shifting. Porsche recommends checking the transmission fluid every 12,000 miles (19,000 km) or two years, and changing it if necessary based on driving conditions.

Coolant

The coolant system is vital for maintaining the engine temperature. Porsche recommends inspecting the coolant every 24,000 miles (38,000 km), and replacing it if necessary.

Additional Maintenance for Track Use

Both the 718 GT4 RS and Boxster Spyder RS are designed to perform on the track, and if you use your car for track days, there are some additional maintenance tasks to keep in mind.

• Oil Changes: Track driving places additional strain on the engine, so it’s recommended to change the oil every 2-3 track days. High engine temperatures and the stresses of aggressive driving can break down oil more quickly than normal road use.
• Brake Fluid: The braking system also experiences higher temperatures and stress on the track. Brake fluid should be replaced after every 2-3 track days to ensure optimal braking performance and prevent brake fade.
• Tyres: Track use will wear tyres more quickly, so they should be inspected regularly for signs of wear, and replaced when necessary. The performance tyres fitted to the GT4 RS and Spyder RS are designed for high grip but can wear down faster during aggressive driving.
• Suspension Components: Track driving can put more strain on the suspension, so it’s a good idea to inspect the suspension components regularly. Worn bushings, shock absorbers, or other suspension parts should be replaced if you notice any unusual behaviour in the handling.

Maintaining the Battery

Porsche’s 718 models are equipped with high-performance batteries, but like any car, they require attention. If the car is stored for extended periods, such as during the winter, it’s advisable to use a battery conditioner to keep the battery charged. This will prevent the battery from deteriorating and ensure it’s ready to go when you need it. CTEK is a popular option for battery conditioning/trickle charging.

The Importance of Using Genuine Porsche Parts

For all maintenance tasks, it’s highly recommended to use genuine Porsche parts or parts that are approved by Porsche. These parts are designed specifically for the 718 GT4 RS and Boxster Spyder RS, ensuring they perform to the standards Porsche intended. Using non-approved parts can lead to suboptimal performance and may even affect your car’s warranty.

Service Record and Value Retention

Maintaining a full service history is crucial for preserving the value of your 718 GT4 RS or Boxster Spyder RS. A complete record of all services and repairs will not only help keep the car running at its best but will also be a valuable asset when you decide to sell the car in the future.

Final Thoughts

Proper maintenance is essential to ensure that your Porsche 718 GT4 RS or Boxster Spyder RS continues to deliver the high-performance driving experience it was designed for. Following the recommended service intervals and being mindful of additional maintenance requirements for track use will help keep your car running smoothly and ensure it retains its performance and value for years to come. Regular servicing, along with careful attention to fluids, tyres, and key components, will ensure that your Porsche stays in peak condition, whether on the road or on the track.