brake light PORSCHE 944 1987 1.G Owners Manual

INDEX
A
ABS Acceleration diagram Accelerator pedal Air Bag System Air - cleaner
- conditioner
- filter
Alternator warning light Antifreeze Antilock, Brake system Anti-theft alarm Ashtray Automatic- garage door
- speed control
- transmission
- transmission fluid B
Battery
Boost pressure gauge
Brake - booster
- fluid
- fluid warning light
- pads
- parking
- pedal
- system
- warning light
Break-in hints
Bulb replacing
Buzzer 28,39
118-129
55
20, 21, 38, 3980, 8144-4680,81 39
74,75,11028, 39
11
42, 98
25
29
53-55
78,110,128
90-9234
27
39,79,11039
27,37,47,79,80 26
26, 27
26,27,11537
47
93-98
10,18,24,30
C/D
CASIS
Capacities
Car care instructions
Casis
Catalytic Converter
Cautions
Central locking
Central warning light
Cigarette lighter
Cleaning
Clock
Clutch pedal
Collapsible spare tire
Control warning light system
Coolant Temperature Gauge
Cooling system
Corrosion prevention
Dashboard
Defogging/defrosting
Dimensions
Doors
Driving hints
E/F
Electrical system
Emergency- flasher
- starting
Emission Control System
Engine - cooling
- exhaust
- hood
- number
- oil checking & changing
- oil
-speed, max 35
110
61-66
35
50,10267
13
37
41
61-66 40
27
85
36-39 36
74-77
65-66
24
44-46 114
12,138-9, 48, 49
89-92
41
92
100-103 74-77
48
586
69-72
69,110,111,128
34,47,52,106-
108
Fan control switch knob
Fan, radiator
Filling capacities
Fog lights
Fuel - economy
- evaporation control
- gauge
- recommendation
- tank
Fuses and relays
G/H
Gas Station Information
Gasohol
Gasoline
Gear ratio diagram
Gearshift lever
Glove compartment
Hatchback
Headlights
Headlight- dimmer
- flasher
- switch
- washing system
Heater/ventilation controls
Hood - front
- rear
Horn
I/J
Ignition/steering lock
Instrument illumination
Instruments
Interior ligh 44
36, 74 110
30, 96, 97
49
103 37
50, 51
50,110
89,126
126-129 51
50,51
122-125 52-55
42
56
30,95,99 30
30
30
31,32,81,11044-4658
56,57
21,24
24
30
33-40
43, 98
4

Jack
- supports
K/L
Keys
Kickdown
Lane changer
Leather
License plate light
Light switch
Lights - ashtray
- fog
- interior
- license plate
- parking
- turn signal
Locks - doors, wheels
Loudspeakers
Lubricants
Luggage compartment
M/O
Manual transmission
- oil
Mirrors
Oil- change
- consumption
- filter changing
- pressure gauge
- pressure warning light
Octane rating
Oxygen Sensor
P/R
Paint code number 68
87, 88, 129
10-11,86 55
30
65
98
30
98
30, 96, 97
43, 9898
30, 37, 93, 94
30,93,94
10-13, 86 89
110,111 57
52,122-125 77,11022,43
71,72
47, 69
71, 72 38
38
50, 51,106-108 101,102
7
Parking- brake
- lights
Performance
Power assisted steering
Power train
Power windows
Prop-up roof
Radiator fan
Rear - hood
- view mirrors
- window defogger
- wiper
Recirculation Switch
Refrigerant
Relays
Rims
Roof racks
Roof, removable S
Safe driving hints
Safetybelts
Safety belt warning light
Safety compliance sticker
Seat heating System
Seats
Sekuriflex windshield
Shift indicator
Shift points
Side marker lights
Ski racks
Snow- chains
- tires
Spare tire, collapsible
Spark plugs
Specifications, engine
26, 3730,37,93,94116731091259, 6036, 7456,572241424446,11089,12664,112,11357,11459, 60
8-9
17-21,6518,3771514-1631, 63, 643552-559457,11483, 84,112,113
83,84, 111,113
85106-108106-109
Speedometer
Starting procedures
Sun visors
T/U
Tachometer
Technical data
Tirepressure
Tires
Tool kit
Trip odometer
Transmission oil
Trunk
Turn signal lights
Undercoating
Unleaded fuel
V/W
Vehicle identification
Ventilation
Voltmeter
Warning/indicator lights
Washer reservoir
Washing
Water temperature gauge
Weatherstrips
Weights
Wheel alignment
Wheel nuts, lockable
Wheels
Wheel changing
Windows
Windshield- washer reservoir
- wiper/washer lever 3324, 2543
34, 35105-12582,112,113,12947,82-87,112,113683377, 78,11056,5730, 37, 93, 9465, 66,10050, 51,106-108,110
6-744-463835-4081,11061-6636641141158647,64,82-87,11285-8812,63,6481,11031
5

Dear Porsche Owner Before going on a trip...
A lot has gone into the manufacture of your Porsche, including advanced engineering
techniques, rigid quality control and
demanding inspections. These engineering
and safety features will be enhanced by
you... the safe driver...
who knows his car and all controls who maintains his vehicle properly who uses his driving skills wisely, and who always drives within his own capabilities and
his level of familiarity with his vehicle.
You will find helpful hints in this manual on
how to perform most of the checks listed on
these pages. If in doubt, have these checks
performed by your Porsche dealer.
First things first
Turn the engine off before you attempt any
checks or repairs of the vehicle.
Be sure tires are inflated correctly. Check for
damage and tire wear.
See that wheel bolts are properly tightened
and not loose or missing.
Check engine oil level, add if necessary.
Make it a habit to have engine oil checked
with every fuel filling. Check coolant level to assure sufficient
engine cooling.
Be sure you have a well charged battery. Check brake fluid level. If too low, have
brake system checked.
Replenish windshield washer fluid. Check if engine hood is latched safely. Replace worn or cracked wiper blades. See that all windows are clear and
unobstructed.
Keep air intake slots and area between engine hood and windshield free of snow and ice, so that the heater and the windshield wipers work properly.
Check whether all light lenses are clean.
Be sure all lights are working and headlights
are aimed correctly.
Check under vehicle for leaks. Be sure all luggage is stowed securely.
Emergency equipment 3
It is good practice to carry emergency
equipment in your vehicle. Some of the things
you should have are: window scraper, snow
brush, container or bag of sand or salt,
emergency light, small shovel, first-
aid kit, etc.

8

In the driver's seat... On the road...
Check operation of horn.
Position seat for easy reach of controls. Adjust inside and outside rear view mirrors. Attach your safety belts. Check operation of foot and parking brakes. Check all warning and indicator lights when
starting the engine.
NEVER leave car idling unattended. Lock doors from inside, especially with
children in the car.
To prevent inadvertent opening of doors
from inside or outside, drive with locked
doors.

Never drive after you have consumed
alcohol.
Always have your safety belt attached. Always drive defensively. Expect the unexpected. Use signals to indicate turns and lane
changes.
Turn on headlights at dusk. Always keep a safe distance from the vehicle in front of you, depending on traffic, road and weather conditions. Reduce speed at night and during inclement weather.
Driving in wet weather requires caution and
reduced speeds, particularly on roads with
standing water, as the handling characteristics of the vehicle may be impaired due to tire
aquaplaning.
Also, when crossing stretches of deeper water there is a danger that too high of a speed can
cause water to enter the engine combustion
chambers through the intake air system
and/or water may strike the cooling fan
causing cooling system damage. In order to
avoid possible en- gine or cooling system damage when driving
through deep water, the vehicle should be
driven at a walking speed in first gear.
Observe speed limits and obey road signs.
When tired, get well off the road, stop and
take a rest. Turn the engine off. Do not sit in
the vehicle with engine idling. See
WARNINGS on "Engine Exhaust".
When parked, always set the parking brake.
Move the selector lever to "P" (Automatic
transmission) or move the gearshift lever to
reverse or first gear (Manual transmission).
On hills also turn the wheels toward the curb.
When emergency repairs become necessary, move the vehicle well off the road. Turn on
emergency flasher and use other warning
devices to alert other motorists. Do not park
or operate the vehicle in areas where the hot
exhaust system may come in contact with dry grass, brush, fuel spill or other flammable
material.
Make it a habit to have the engine oil
checked with every fuel filling.
9

Ignition/Starter Switch with Steering Lock
The steering is equipped with an anti-theft
ignition lock.
Switch positions
0
The steering is blocked by the steering lock: all circuits wired through the ignition
are switched off.
The ignition key can only be withdrawn in the
"0" position. The parking lights can be
operated in this position by pushing the turn
signal indicator lever up and down (also see
"Parking lights").
1 Position for radio. Steering unlocked. If it is difficult to turn the key, gently move the
steering wheel until the key turns freely.
Note: all circuits which are disconnected in
position "3" can be switched on.
To conserve battery power, switch off other
electrical consumers while playing radio in
position "1".
2
Ignition on. All electric circuits are
operational. With the engine stationary, the
central warning light and all individual
warning lights located in both combination
instruments will light up for a bulb check.
3
The starter is operated by turning the
ignition key to the right. As soon as the
engine starts, release the key. It will spring
back to position "2". With the engine
running, the central and individual warning
lights should go out (see "Central warning
light").
To conserve battery power, the electric
circuits for headlights, rear window de-
fogger/defroster, temperature control and
wiper/washer system are temporarily interrupted during the starting process.
The starter should not be operated for more
than 10 to 15 seconds at a time. If the engine
does not start the first time or stalls at any
time, the ignition key must be returned to the
"0" position. The non-repeat lock in the switch
prevents the
starter from being operated when the engine is running and guards against
starter damage.
To remove the key and to lock the steering
wheel
, turn the key back to position "0" and
pull out. Turn the steering wheel until it locks.

WARNING
Never remove key from ignition lock or
turn key off while vehicle is moving. The
steering wheel will lock, causing loss of
control.
Instrument panel lights
Warning lights for alternator, oil pressure, and
brake system will light up for a bulb check
when the ignition is turned on. They should go out after the engine is started. The brake
warning light will go out after the parking
brake has been fully released. See
"Warning lights" for more details.
Buzzer
If you leave the key in the ignition/steering
lock, the buzzer will sound when the driver's
door is opened. This is a reminder to remove
the key.
For further details see "Starting Procedures"
on the following page.

24

Starting Procedures

WARNING
Fasten safety belts before driving.
Never start or let the engine run in an enclosed, unventilated area. Exhaust
fumes from the engine contain carbon
monoxide, which is a colorless and
odorless gas. Carbon monoxide can be
fatal if inhaled.

Never leave engine idling unattended. An unattended vehicle with a running engine
is potentially hazardous.
Do not park or operate the vehicle in areas where the hot exhaust system may
come in contact with dry grass, brush,
fuel spill or other flammable material.
Never leave engine idling. When starting engine, be ready to drive immediately.
Maintain moderate speed until engine is
warm.

Automatic Transmission - Start with selec-
tor lever in Park.
Manual Transmission - Start with gearshift
lever in Neutral.
Temperature sensors on the engine auto- matically provide the correct fuel/air mixture
required for starting.
Therefore, do not depress the accelerator
pedal while starting a cold or a warm engine.
When starting at very low outside
temperatures , fully depress the clutch pedal,
so that the starter only has to crank the
engine.
As soon as the engine starts, release the ignition key.
If the engine fails to start after 10 to 15
seconds of cranking, wait about 10
seconds before engaging starter again.
Do not let engine idle to warm it up. After
starting, drive vehicle at moderate speeds and with gradual accelerations. Avoid high rpm
and full throttle operation until the engine has
reached normal operating temperature.
Stopping engine
Turn key back to position 0.
Do not stop engine immediately after hard
or extended driving. Keep engine running
at increased idle for about two minutes to
prevent excessive heat buildup before
turning off engine.
WARNING
Before you check anything in the engine compartment, let the engine cool down.
Hot components can burn skin on
contact.

The radiator fan switches on automatically when the coolant reaches a
certain temperature and continues to run
(even with ignition off) until the coolant
temperature drops. Therefore, never
touch the fan blades as they will rotate
spontaneously when the thermoswitch
turns the fan on.

If you have an automatic garage door...
The transistorized ignition system in your
Porsche may interfere with your electronically
operated garage door. To check this: drive
your Porsche close to the garage door and
run the engine at different speeds.
If the garage door opens or closes without
your operating the garage door unit in your
car, contact the dealer who installed the
automatic garage door to have the frequency
and/or coding of the garage door signal
modified.
25

The brake warning light on the dashboard will go out after the engine is started and the
parking brake is fully released.
WARNING
Release the parking brake fully. A partially engaged brake will overheat the rear
brakes, reduce their effectiveness and
cause excessive wear.
Always set the parking brake when parking your car. Move the selector lever
to "P" (Automatic transmission) or move
the gearshift lever to reverse or first gear
(Manual transmission). On hills also turn
the wheels toward the curb.

WARNING Failure of one brake circuit will impair the
braking capability resulting in an
increased stopping distance.
If one brake circuit has failed, the other will
still operate. However, you will notice an
increased pedal travel when you step on the
brake. Should you encounter such
experience, bring your vehicle safely to a full
stop.
Avoid driving the vehicle and instead have it towed to the nearest authorized Porsche
dealer.

Brake Pedal

Parking Brake Lever
Parking brake force is mechanically trans-
ferred to the rear wheels by means of cables.
Use the parking brake only after the vehicle
has come to a full stop.
To set parking brake,
pull the lever all the way up (arrow). With the ignition on, the brake warning light will come
on.
To release the parking brake,
pull the lever slightly up as you depress the
release button, and then push the lever all
the way down.

Brakes

Functioning of brake system
Your Porsche is equipped with a power
assisted hydraulic dual circuit brake system
with disc brakes at the front and at the rear. Both circuits function independently. One
brake circuit operates the front and the other
the rear axle.
In the unlikely event of hydraulic failure of
one circuit, push the brake pedal down
firmly and hold it in that position. A
mechanical linkage activates the second
circuit, and you will be able to bring the
vehicle to a stop.
WARNING
The movement of the brake pedal must never be obstructed by a floor mat or any
other object. In case one of the two brake
circuits fails, increased pedal travel is
required to bring your vehicle to a full
stop.

Make sure that the size of your floor mat does not hamper the movements of either brake, clutch or accelerator pedals in any
way.
Secure the floor mat against sliding into positions that could interfere with the
safe operation of your vehicle.
Do not "ride the brakes" by resting your foot on the pedal when not intending to
brake. Overheating and premature wear
of the brakes will result.
26

Before descending a steep grade, reduce
speed and shift transmission into a lower
gear or driving position to control speed. Do
not ride the brakes or hold pedal down too
long or too often. This could cause the
brakes to get hot and not function properly.

Brake operation and brake warning light
Make it a habit to check the operation of your
brakes before driving. The failure of a brake
circuit is indicated by the lighting up of the
dual-circuit brake indicator lamp. See also
brake fluid warning lamp.
With correctly adjusted brakes the pedal travel to the point of brake actuation should be
13/16" to 19/16" (30 to 40 mm). Whenever the brake pedal travel is greater, have the brake
system checked.
Keep in mind that the braking distance
increases very rapidly as the speed increases. At 60 mph/100 km/h, for example, it is not twice but four times longer than at 30 mph/ 50
km/h. Tire traction is also less effective when
the roads are wet and slippery. Therefore,
keep a safe distance from the car in front of
you.

Brake Booster The brake booster assists braking only
when the engine is running. When the car is moving while the engine is not running, or if
the brake booster is defective, more pressure
on the brake pedal is required to bring the car
to a halt.
Moisture or road salt on brakes affects
braking
WARNING
Driving through water may reduce tire
traction. Moisture on brakes from road
water, car wash, or coating of road salt
may affect braking efficiency. Cautiously
apply brakes to test them after being
exposed to such conditions. When the
vehicle is driven on salted roads for
extended periods, the brakes should be
hosed down thoroughly about every 2
weeks. An automatic car-wash facility
cannot do this job properly. Brakes will dry after a few cautious brake applications.
Brake wear
Our automobiles have excellent brakes, but
they are still subject to wear, depending on
how the brakes are used. Have the brake
system inspected at the intervals
recommended in your Warranty &
Maintenance booklet.

New brake pads or linings Brake pads or
linings may not have the highest possible
braking efficiency when new. Therefore allow
for longer braking distance during the initial
100 to 150 miles or 150 to 250 kilometers of
normal city driving; longer if fewer stops are
realized.
Clutch Pedal
Due to the hydraulic operation of the clutch,
pedal play should be 0.1" or 2.5 mm.
To check the play, depress the clutch pedal.
Excessive play or tightness indicate a
malfunction of the clutch. Both conditions can
lead to severe damage. Contact your Po
rsche dealer promptly to have the cause located and corrected. Always depress the clutch pedal fully when changing gears. Do not hold the car on a
steep hill with the clutch pedal partially
depressed. This will cause premature wear or
damage.

27

ABS Brake System (Antilock brake system)
The ABS system represents a major
contribution to the enhancement of active
safety in your vehicle. This system prevents
the wheels from locking in a panic stop on
almost all road surfaces.
With ABS system in your vehicle, the
following areas are enhanced:
Full steerability , vehicle remains steerable
under all braking forces.
Good directional control , no swerving
caused by locking of wheels under braking
conditions.
Excellent stopping distance , stopping
distances are usually reduced because
controlled braking is maximized.
Prevention of wheel lock up , no brake-
induced sliding and thus no localized tire wear from emergency braking.
The crucial advantage of ABS system over a
conventional brake system is in the area of
maintaining directional control and
maneuverability of the car in emergency
situations, including panic braking in turns.
WARNING:
In spite of the improved handling afforded
by the ABS system, it still remains the
responsibility of the driver to adapt the
driving style to the prevailing road and
weather conditions, as well as, obeying
traffic laws. In no case, should the higher
degree of safety offered by ABS be
regarded as a

justification for taking greater risks. Other vehicles not equipped with the ABS
system may not be able to maintain
control, especially on wet or poor road
surfaces and thus may be more likely to
impact you in the rear. To minimize that r
isk, use your ABS system to increase your ability to maneuver to avoid dangerous
situations and not merely to try to stop in
the shortest distance possible.
Driving with the ABS System
A wheel speed sensor is fitted to each of the four wheels. If wheel slippage of either of the
front wheels or the rear wheels is sensed
during braking, the brake pressure is adjusted
automatically until the wheel no longer slips.
The brake pressure is regulated for each front
wheel individually and for both rear wheels together.
On a road surface which is slippery on only
one side, the rear wheel which is braking on
the slippery surface determines the brake
pressure which will be applied equally to both
rear wheels. This ensures that directional
stability is maintained. However, if braking
force approaches the wheel locking-up point
for all wheels (panic braking) the ABS system
will intervene in a way comparable with rapid rhythmic braking. The proper operation of ABS is perceived by the driver as a pulsating brake pedal in conjunction with audible noise
and perhaps some vibration. The driver is
thereby warned to reduce vehicle speed
appropriate for the prevailing road conditions.

If your ABS system should ever malfunction,
the ABS system is automatically switched off,
but the normal brake system, without ABS,
would remain fully operational. Such a malfunction would be indicated by the illumination of the central warning light, as well as the "ANTILOCK" light on the right hand
side of the instrument cluster.
If the ABS system becomes inoperative,
take your vehicle to your authorized dealer immediately.
Note
The control unit of the ABS brake system is
set for standard tire sizes. If non-standard
tires are fitted, the control unit may
misinterpret the speed of the vehicle, because of the variant data it receives from the sensors on the axles.
If the difference in rolling radius exceeds
approx. 17%, the control unit deactivates the
ABS system and the ABS warning lamp lights up.
28


1 Set accelerate
2 Reset
3 Cancel

Automatic Speed Control
The automatic speed control allows you to
maintain a constant cruising speed of 25 mph
(40 km/h) or higher, without actuating the
accelerator pedal. Any manual operation,
such as accelerating, gearshifting or braking
can be done independent of the automatic
speed control. The spring loaded control lever
operating the automatic speed control is
located just below the wiper/ washer lever.
While driving with the automatic speed
control set at speeds above 25 mph (40
km/ h), do not bring shift lever into the
Neutral position as excessive engine rpm
will result.
To operate the automatic speed control Accelerate to the desired cruising speed, push lever toward instrument cluster (arrow 1) and
release. This sets the cruising speed and
stores it in a memory.
After a second or two, automatic speed control will take over and you can remove
your foot from the accelerator pedal. The set
cruising speed will be maintained
automatically.
WARNING
Do not use the cruise control when it may
be unsafe to keep the car at a constant
speed. For example, a constant speed may not be safe in heavy traffic, or on winding
or slippery roads. With the cruise control
system engaged, the engine speed will not
return to idle when removing the foot from
the accelerator pedal.
Please observe all local and national speed limits.

Passing: If you want to drive faster for a brief
moment, for example when passing another
vehicle, actuate the accelerator. When you
take your foot off the accelerator pedal, the
preset speed will automatically be resumed.
Gearshifting: When shifting gears, the
automatic speed control is only disengag
ed as long as the clutch pedal is depressed. The
preset speed will be resumed as soon as you
take your foot off the clutch pedal.
Braking and stopping: Whenever you apply
the brake or come to a stop, the automatic
speed control is disengaged. Move the lever
down (arrow 2), and the preset speed will be
resumed.

Switching system off: To switch off the
automatic speed control, move the lever
toward you (arrow 3). To resume the preset
speed, move the lever down (arrow 2).
To change the preset cruising speed
Increase preset speed:
Accelerate by depressing the accelerator pedal. When the desired speed is reached push lever toward instrument cluster (arrow 1) and take your foot off the accelerator pedal.
Now the new cruising speed is set and stored
in the memory. As an alternative, you can hold the lever in the front position (arrow 1), without depressing the accelerator pedal. The car will
accelerate on its own. When the desired
speed is reached, release the lever.
Decrease preset speed:
Apply the brake, which will disengage the automatic speed control. When the vehicle
has slowed down to the desired speed, push
lever toward instrument cluster (arrow 1) to
set the new cruising speed.
As an alternative, disengage the automatic
speed control by moving the lever toward you
(arrow 3). When the vehicle has slowed down
to the desired speed, push lever toward
instrument cluster (arrow 1) to register the
new cruising speed in the memory.
Note: When driving up a hill, if the engine
power is insufficient in a particular gear, the
speed control will be disengaged
automatically. Shift to a lower gear to avoid
stalling the engine.

29

Left Instrument Cluster
The left instrument cluster includes the
coolant temperature and fuel gauges as well
as warning lights for coolant temperature, fuel
reserve, brake-
lining wear, safety belt, parking light and parking brake. The two arrows at the
top are turn signal indicators for vehicles with
trailer coupling.
Coolant temperature

Indicator
Needle in lower field - engine is cold
Avoid high speeds and high engine rpm. During cold engine operation, engine
response and power levels will vary from that
of a warm engine. Due caution and notice of
these engine characteristics will ensure safe
operation of the vehicle.
Needle in center field - normal

Under normal driving conditions, needle
should remain in center field. The needle may
reach the upper field, especially at high
engine loads, but should return to "normal"
when engine load is reduced.

Needle in upper field - warning
If needle enters the upper field the engine is
overheating the warning light comes on.
Reduce speed and engine rpm. The needle
should return to the center field and the
indicator light goes out.
If the needle does not return to the center
field, and the indicator light does not go out,
the radiator fan may not be working to
provide sufficient engine cooling. Pull off the
road and turn off the engine. The fan should
still be running for a while. Failure to do so
may result in severe damage to the engine.
WARNING
Before you check anything in the engine compartment, let the engine cool down.
Hot components can burn skin on
contact. The radiator fan switches on automatically when the coolant reaches a
certain temperature and continues to run
(even with ignition off), until the coolant
temperature drops. Therefore, never

touch the fan blades as they will rotate spontaneously when the termoswitch
turns the fan on.
Be careful if you have to remove the cap from a hot coolant fluid reservoir. Protect
your hands, arms and face against
scalding. Use a thick rag and open the
cap carefully one turn to allow excess
pressure to escape before removing the
cap.

If the fan is not working, the fuse for the fan
may be burned out, or the relay may be
defective. See "Fuses and Relays".
After the engine has cooled down, check the coolant level (see "Cooling System"). If the
coolant level is low, top it up with water.
Check for possible leaks.
If the coolant level is normal, proceed to the
nearest workshop. Avoid idle speed and stop-
and-go driving. But with an inoperative fan,
the coolant will heat up again. When the
needle enters the upper field, stop again and
let the engine cool down before you continue
driving.
Coolant system malfunctions should be
remedied by the nearest Porsche dealer, as
severe engine damage may occur.

36


Fuel Gauge and FuelReserve Indicator
When the ignition is turned on, the amount of
fuel in the tank is indicated by the fuel gauge
in the right part of the dial.
If the needle enters the area in the bottom and the fuel reserve indicator lights up, there is
only a reserve of about. 2.1 U.S. gal/8 liters
left in the tank. Time to refuel at the next gas
station.
Brake Pad
Warning Light
The brake pad warning light comes on when the ignition is turned on and goes out after the engine has started.
If the light stays on when the engine is
running or comes on while driving, the brake
pads are worn, excessively.
Do not continue to operate the vehicle but
have your Porsche dealer check and
replace the brake pads.

Safety Belt
Warning Light
When the ignition is turned on the light will
come on for about 6 seconds to remind driver
and passenger to buckle up. See "Safety
Belts" for more details.


Parking Brake Light
The parking brake light will light up when the
ignition is turned on and the parking brake is
set.
The light goes out when the parking brake is fully released.
Parking Light
The parking light indicator at the bottom in the
left instrument cluster lights up when the
parking lights are switched on.

Turn Signal
Indicator Light
The turn signal indicator light, which is located below the central warning light, will flash at the same frequency as the turn signals. If a turn
signal fails, the control light flashes at about
twice the normal frequency. Have your dealer
check and repair it for you.
High Beam Indicator
Light

The high-beam indicator light, which is located at the top between the tachometer and the
right instrument cluster, will light up when you
switch on the high beams or when you flash
signal. The indicator goes out when you
switch to low beam.

Central Warning Light
The central warning light comes on after
turning on the ignition. This light monitors all
functions displayed by the instruments. If one
of these functions fails, the central warning
light and the pertinent indicator light come on
until the malfunction has been corrected. The
vehicle should immediately be taken to the
nearest authorized workshop.

37

Right Instrument Cluster
The right instrument cluster combines the oil
pressure gauge with the oil pressure warning
light, the voltmeter with the alternator warning
light as well as the brake fluid warning light.

Oil Pressure Gauge
Engine oil pressure is shown in bars. At 5.000 rpm, with the engine at normal operating temperature (approx. 90°C / 194°F), the pressure should be approx. 4 bar. A slight
drop in oil pressure is normal under certain
operating conditions such as prolonged
highway driving in hot weather.
At idle speed, with the engine oil hot, the oil pressure can sink to 0.5 bar - this does not
indicate any loss of engine performance.
However, if the oil pressure drops suddenly
while you are driving, or if the warning light comes on, pull off the road,
stop the engine
and wait for it to cool down. Check the
engine oil level. If the oil level is normal,
contact the nearest dealer.

Oil Pressure
Warning Light
The oil pressure warning light comes on when the ignition is turned on. It should go out when the engine is started and has reached the
correct oil pressure.
If the oil pressure warning light
does not light up when turning the ignition on, or if it does
not go out after starting the engine, contact
your Porsche dealer immediately.
If the oil pressure warning light comes on
while you are driving, pull off the road and stop the engine .
Check the oil level to make sure you have
enough oil. If oil level is correct and the oil pressure warning light is still on, do not driv
e
the vehicle as severe engine damage may
result. Contact your nearest Porsche dealer
for assistance.
An occasional brief flickering of the oil pressure warning light at idle speed and
normal engine temperature is no cause for
concern if the light goes out upon
acceleration.
The oil pressure warning light is not an
indicator for low engine oil level. To check the
oil level, always use the dipstick.
Make it a habit to have the oil level checked
with every fuel filling.
Voltmeter
The voltmeter shows the overall condition of
the charging system. The needle should
normally stay in the 12-
14 volt range when the engine is running. A temporary drop below 12
volts when starting the engine is normal.
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Alternator Warning Light
The alternator warning light comes on when
the ignition is turned on. It should go out after
the engine is started.
If the alternator warning light does not light
up when turning the ignition on, or if it does
not go out
after starting the engine, there is a malfunction in the electrical system. If this is
the case, contact your Porsche dealer.
WARNING
If the alternator warning light comes on
while you are driving, pull off the road and
stop the engine.
Check whether the Polyrib-belt is slipping or
broken. The Polyrib-belt not only drives the
alternator for battery charging, but also the air
conditioner compressor.
If the light just flickers lightly, the Polyrib bel t
may be loose and is slipping.
The belt should be tightened or replaced
before you continue driving.


Brake Fluid Warning
Light
The brake warning light monitors the hydraulic dual-circuit brake system. It lights up when the ignition is turned on and should go out after
the engine has been started.
If the brake warning light fails to light up when
the ignition is turned on, or if it fails to go out
after the engine is started, there may be a
malfunction in the electrical system. Let your
Porsche dealer locate and correct the
condition promptly.
Should the light come on while driving, the
brake fluid level in the reservoir could be too
low, or one of the dual brake circuits may
have failed. In either case, the brakes will
function but a much longer distance and a far
greater pedal pressure are required to bring
the car to a halt. See "Brakes" for more
details.
Carefully pull off the road and stop. Have
your car towed to the nearest dealer for
repair. Continued operation of a car with
defective brakes is dangerous.
Antilock
The warning light goes on in the event of a
malfunction in the ABS system. The system is
switched off; the normal brake system
remains fully operational. If the light comes
on, take your vehicle to your authorized dealer for service immediately.
Air Bag
See "Air Bag System" for details.

39

Break-in Hints for the first 1.000 miles /
1.600 kilometers
There are no specific break-in rules for your
Porsche. However, by observing a few
precautions you can help extend the service
life and performance of your engine.
During the first 1.000 miles / 1.600 km, all
working components of the engine adjust to
each other to a certain degree. Therefore:
Avoid full throttle starts and abrupt stops. Change speeds frequently. Vary the throttle
load.
Do not exceed maximum engine speed of
5.000 rpm (revolutions per minute).
Do not run a cold engine at high rpm or in
Neutral.
Do not let the engine labor, especially when
driving uphill. Shift to the next proper gear in
time (use the most favorable rpm range).
There may be a slight stiffness in the steering, gearshifting or other controls during the break-
in period, which will gradually disappear.
Never lug the engine in high gear at low
speeds. This rule applies all the time, not
just during the break-in period.

Breaking in brake pads
Brake pads do not possess maximum braking
efficiency when the car is new. Therefore
more pedal force is necessary during the first
100 to 150 miles (150 to 250 km). This also
applies to replacement brake pads.

New tires
New tires do not possess maximum traction.
They tend to
be slippery. Break in new tires by driving at moderate speeds during the first 60
to 120 miles (100 to 200 km), and longer
braking distances must be anticipated.
Engine Oil Consumption
During the break-in period oil consumption
may be higher than normal.
As always, the rate of oil consumption depends on the quality and viscosity of oil, the speed at which the engine is operated, the climate, road conditions as well as the amount of dilution and oxidation of the lubricant.
Check engine oil level, add if necessary. Make it a habit to have engine oil checked with
every fuel filling.


47

Engine Exhaust WARNING
Engine exhaust is dangerous if inhaled.
Never start or let the engine run in a closed garage. Never sit in your car for
prolonged periods with the engine on and
the car not moving.
Although exhaust fumes from the engine have many components which you can smell, they also contain carbon monoxide, which is a colorless and odorless gas.
Carbon monoxide can be fatal if inhaled.
If you smell gas fumes in the vehicle, drive with the windows open but keep the
hatchback closed. Have the cause
immediately located and corrected.
Because of inherent hazards, we do not recommend transporting objects larger
than those fitting safely into the luggage
compartment. Keep the hatchback closed
while driving to prevent poisonous
exhaust gas from being drawn into the
vehicle.
Never carry additional fuel containers in your vehicle. Such containers, full or
partially empty, may leak, cause an
explosion, or result in fire in case of a
collision.


Operating Your Porsche in other Countries Government regulations in the United States
and Canada require that automobiles meet
specific emission regulations and safety
standards.
Therefore cars built for the U.S. and Canada
differ from vehicles sold in other countries.
If you plan to take your Porsche outside the
continental limits of the United States or
Canada, there is the possibility that
unleaded fuel may not be available;
unleaded fuel may have a considerably lower octane rating. Excessive engine knock and
serious damage to both engine and catalytic
converter could result;
service may be inadequate due to lack of
proper service facilities, tools or diagnostic
equipment;
replacement parts may not be available or
very difficult to get.
Porsche cannot be responsible for the
mechanical damage that could result
because of inadequate fuel, service or
parts availability.
If you bought your car abroad and want to
bring it back home, be sure to find out about
shipping and forwarding requirements, as well as current import and customs regulations.

48

Controls for Automatic Transmission
The selector lever has 6 positions:

Park
Rev erse

Neutral
Driv e
Low
Low




... If the selector lever is unintentionally mo ved
into Neutral (N) while driving, take your foot off
the accelerator pedal and wait until the engine
speed has dropped to idle before selecting a driving position.
Never shift into Reverse (R) or Park (P) when
the car is in motion.
... Never get out of the driver's seat when the
engine is running and the selector lever is not in the "P" position. Move the selector lever to
"P" and apply parking brake.
... Always make sure the selector lever is in the
"P" position when checking under the hood.
Otherwise, any increase in engine speed may
set the vehicle in motion, even with the
parking brake applied.
... A driving position must never be used for
holding the vehicle at rest uphill. Always use
your foot brakes when stopped on inclines.
Driving the Automatic Transmission
The Automatic Transmission has 3 forward
gears and one reverse. In driving positions D
and 2 the Automatic Transmission changes
gears automatically while driving.
Position D
is the driving position normally used for city and highway driving. It ranges from zero to top
speed, and all three gears shift automatically
depending on driving speed.

Start in Park
The selector lever has a push button in the
handle. The push button must be
depressed when selecting the following
positions:
From P to R
R to P depress push button
N to R in handle
2 to 1
The selector lever can be moved freely
between the other positions.
The respective position is illuminated in the tachometer as long as the ignition key is in
the ignition lock.
Remember the following basic rules:

... Apply the parking brake or foot brake before
selecting a driving position. When the selector
lever is in a driving position, the car may creep
even at idle speed. Therefore, do not release
the parking brake or foot brake until you are
ready to move.
... Do not accelerate while selecting a driving
position. Wait for positive engagement. At this
time the engine must run at idle speed so that
no undue stress will be placed on the automatic
clutches in the transmission.
53

Position 2
is to be used for mountain driving or slow
driving, when towing a trailer and also when
you want to make use of the engine's braking
effect. In "2", only the first and second gears
will engage automatically. Therefore, only shift down into position "2" when the speed is below 63 mph or 100 km/h. It is not necessary to let up on the accelerator.
Position 1
is needed on rare occasions. It should only be
used up to 25 mph or 40 km/h. In "1" the
transmission will stay in first gear and not shift
into the second or third gear.
Only shift down into "1" when driving speed is below 25
mph or 40 km/h.
The reverse position R
Reverse should be selected only when the car has come to a full stop and the engine is
running at idle speed.
The back-up lights come on automatically
when you engage Reverse (with ignition on). Starting the engine
is only possible when the selector lever is in
Neutral or Park (N or P) . As long as one of
the driving positions is engaged a safety
switch prevents the engine from being started.

Emergency starting
Your Porsche with Automatic Transmission
cannot be started by pushing or towing.
Should the engine fail to start see "Emergency starting with jumper cables" or consult your
nearest authorized Porsche dealer.
DO NOT START OR TOW the car without
ATF in the transmission, as this will result
in serious damage to transmission and
torque converter.
Putting the car in gear
With the parking brake or foot brake set, shift
into the position you wish to use, usually
position D. To accelerate, release the brake
and depress the gas pedal.
WARNING
Do not release the brake before you are
prepared to move, because power is
transmitted to the wheels as soon as a
driving position is engaged.
Selecting a driving position while driving
is easy. Simply release the accelerator pedal
and move the selector lever from the position
you are in into the position you want. Then
step on the accelerator again.
WARNING
Do not shift to a lower driving position
until vehicle speed has dropped below the
specified limits. Engine speed will sudden-

ly increase and may cause engine damage and loss of vehicle control.
Stopping
When stopping temporarily, at traffic lights for
example, it is not necessary to move the
selector lever to Neutral. Simply apply the
brakes. To start again release the brake and
accelerate.
Parking
When parking your car, apply the parking
brake first, and then move the selector lever to position P. To do this, depress the button and
push the lever through R to P. The
transmission is then mechanically locked.
Park may only be engaged when the car is
stationary.
Do not remove the key from the ignition
steering lock until you have parked the car, because removal of the key locks the
steering wheel.
Shift out of the Park position, before releasing
the parking brake.
When the car is parked on a steep hill, shifting
out of Park may be a little harder. This is due
to the weight the car exerts on the
transmission.

54

Neutral
Shift to this position for standing with brakes
applied.
Never use Neutral for coasting downhill.
You may lose control over the car because of reduced braking and cause serious damage to the transmission when a driving range has to be selected. CAUTION: While driving with the automatic speed control set (at speeds above 25 mph or 40 km/h), do not bring shift lever into
the Neutral position as excessive engine
rpm and severe engine damage may result.
Maneuvering
When alternating between forward (D) and
reverse (R) (for instance, while maneuvering
the car into a tight parking space), only shift
into Reverse or Drive
when the car has come to a full stop and the engine is running at idle
speed.
Stuck in snow, mud or sand
When alternating between Drive and
Reverse in an effort to free the vehicle,
depress the accelerator pedal lightly while the
transmission is in gear, and release the
accelerator pedal while shifting. Do not race
the engine and avoid spinning the wheels.
Do not repeat "rocking" back and forth
with wheels spinning at high engine speed
and heavy throttle, as serious damage may be caused to the automatic transmission
and other critical parts.
If you cannot free the vehicle after a few
"rocking" attempts, call for help or a tow truck.
Accelerator Pedal

For good fuel economy we recommend
smooth and even acceleration. Very fast, racy
driving, alternating between full throttle and
hard braking, raises the fuel consumption
considerably. Also, tires and brake linings
wear faster. It is more economical to drive smoothly and at a fairly constant speed.
Accelerator "Kickdown"
When depressing the accelerator pedal you
will find resistance near the full throttle position. By applying greater pressure the
pedal can be pushed beyond this point to the
kick-down position. The transmission will now
shift automatically into the next lower gear to
give you maximum acceleration, and only shift up again after the engine has reached
maximum speed in that particular gear.
WARNING
Be careful when using the kickdown on
slippery roads. Rapid acceleration may
cause skidding.
Please observe the following when applying
the accelerator kickdown:
With the selector lever in D, you can apply the kickdown to make the transmission shift down into second gear when driving below 88 mph
or 140 km/h and down to first gear when
driving below 47 mph or 75 km/h.
With the selector lever in "2", you can apply
the kickdown to make the transmission shift
down into first gear when driving below 47
mph or 75 km/h.
As soon as you release the pedal from the kickdown position the next higher gear is
automatically engaged.
Please observe all local and national speed limits.

55





Hatchback
(If vehicle is equipped with an anti-theft alarm
see "Anti-theft alarm".)
Release switch
To unlock the hatchback, operate the control
switch on the left side underneath the
dashboard.
If the hatchback does not open of its own
accord, it must be raised by hand.
Never operate the switch while the vehicle
is in motion. Lock

The hatchback can also be opened with the
ignition/door lock key. Turn key
counterclockwise and lift hatchback up.
To close, push hatchback down firmly until
both locks snap shut. Pull up on hatchback to
make sure it is securely locked.
Keep the hatchback locked at all times to
prevent unauthorized access to the
vehicle.
Be careful when removing large objects
through th
e rear. Sharp edged objects may damage the defogger wires in the rear
window.
WARNING
Because of inherent hazards, we do not
recommend transporting objects larger
than those fitting safely into the luggage
compartment. Keep the hatchback closed
while dr
iving to prevent poisonous exhaust gas from being drawn into the vehicle.

56