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1990 Porsche 911 problems

The most common problem on the 1990 Porsche 911 is body and structure. It has fewer complaints than a typical 911 model year.

Typical yearClose to a typical year
Owner complaints
1
Recalls
4
Service bulletins
92
Worst area
Body
Fuel economy
16-17mpg

The worst 1990 Porsche 911 problems

Ranked by number of owner complaints. Mileage and cost come from what owners wrote.

  • Body
    1

Problems by type

Tap a problem to see which part fails, at what mileage and in which other years.

  • Body
    1

Recalls 4

Steering: steering wheel/handle barReported August 8, 1996 · 12,538 vehicles affected
What is wrong
A part of the steering column upper universal joint cracked during the manufacturing process.
Risk
This condition could result in noise and free play in the steering system and if left uncorrected, will result in loss of steering control.
Remedy
Dealers will inspect the universal joint for cracks and will replace cracked joints with new parts.

Recall number 96V147000 · Recall details

Electrical system: wiring: fuses and circuit breakersReported December 7, 1993 · 11,346 vehicles affected
What is wrong
After the engine has been turned off, the rear heater will automatically operate in order to dissipate heat in the engine heating system. During this operation, the resistor for the rear heater blower can become overloaded due to a binding or seized rear heater blower.
Risk
The overloaded resistor can create heat sufficient toignite the plastic air pipe to which it is connected, resulting in an enginecompartment fire.
Remedy
Porsche dealers will install a new resistor containing a circuit breaker.

Recall number 93V204000 · Recall details

Vehicle speed controlReported October 5, 1992 · 11,091 vehicles affected
What is wrong
The ball sockets on the cruise control linkage can break, allowing the cruise control linkage to become detached on one end and jam on nearby components, which could impair throttle plate operation.
Risk
Impaired throttle plate operation could prevent theengine from returning to idle, resulting in unwanted engine speed and possiblevehicle accident.
Remedy
Replace the current plastic ball sockets with a new linkage using steel ball sockets, and lubricate the cruise control relay lever. Owners are advised not to use the cruise control until the modification is installed.

Recall number 92V142000 · Recall details

Latches/locks/linkages: hood: latchReported January 15, 1991 · 2,451 vehicles affected
What is wrong
Luggage in the luggage compartment and or plastic trim surrounding the safety latch may prevent the latch on the front hood from properly locking.
Risk
Latch failure could cause hood to open and obstruct thedriver's front view which could result in an accident.
Remedy
Replace plastic trim piece and install a bracket behind the safety latch to prevent interference.

Recall number 91V012000 · Recall details

See all 4 recalls for the 1990 Porsche 911

Technical service bulletins for the 1990 Porsche 911 92

Bulletins tell dealers how to fix known problems. A warranty extension means the manufacturer pays for that repair for longer.

See all 92 bulletins for the 1990 Porsche 911

1990 Porsche 911 fuel economy

Official EPA estimates in miles per gallon (MPGe for electric). Ranges cover trims that share the same engine.

EngineDriveCityHighwayCombined
3.6L 6‑cylRWD14-1521-2216-17
3.6L 6‑cyl4WD142016

What 1990 Porsche 911 owners say

Most recent owner complaints, unedited.

Filed Feb 26, 1997 · Body · CA

Hood cylinder failed 2 times, once causing injury.

Used buying checklistWhat to check on a 1990 Porsche 911 before you buy

Compare the 1990 Porsche 911

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Questions about the 1990 Porsche 911

Is the 1990 Porsche 911 reliable?

Owners have filed 1 complaint about the 1990 Porsche 911, fewer than a typical 911 model year.

What is the most common problem with the 1990 Porsche 911?

Body and structure, with 1 complaint.

How many recalls does the 1990 Porsche 911 have?

4 recalls, covering steering, electrical system and vehicle speed control.

What gas mileage does the 1990 Porsche 911 get?

Official estimates for the 1990 Porsche 911 range from 16 to 17 mpg combined. The most efficient version (3.6L 6-cyl, RWD) gets 14-15 city and 21-22 highway.

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