996 C4 advice please

[NGB13]

Today I placed a deposit on a 2001 996, which I collect next week - (I am probably a fool as it was the first one I looked at and the first 911 I have even sat in).

I know this is the best place to get advice and would be greatful if any members could help with the following -

1) When I switched the ignition on there was a faint ticking noise very similar to the noise that is made when your indicators or hazards are on, only slightly quieter. It was only on for 25 seconds. I don't think it was the fuel pump - any ideas what this is and whether it is normal?

2) Is the OPC warranty my best bet or is there a good aftermarket warranty at a better price? (I used to have a ZM Coupe and recall a very good after market warranty that members of this site got at a very competitive rate).

3) Probably a bit late now but before I hand over the balance are there any crucial points to check on the 996 C4's?

Thanks in advance!

[BliarOut]

2) You're in Cheshire.... I would give Hartech's maintenance plan a very thorough look. By all accounts it's more inclusive than the OPC offering and also includes all your servicing etc.

[sherman klump]

BliarOut said:

2) You're in Cheshire.... I would give Hartech's maintenance plan a very thorough look. By all accounts it's more inclusive than the OPC offering and also includes all your servicing etc.

Forget it.
You cant beat the OPC warranty on a car of that age.
Hartech thing isnt really a warranty.
From what i have read,you have to pay for the parts and they pay for the labour.
Cant see the point of that for £720 a year.

[bcnrml]

sherman klump said:

BliarOut said:

2) You're in Cheshire.... I would give Hartech's maintenance plan a very thorough look. By all accounts it's more inclusive than the OPC offering and also includes all your servicing etc.

Forget it.
You cant beat the OPC warranty on a car of that age.
Hartech thing isnt really a warranty.
From what i have read,you have to pay for the parts and they pay for the labour.
Cant see the point of that for £720 a year.

I agree with BliarOut. I'm sure Vesuvius996 will be along soon to share his views.

Probably best that you have a good read of the Hartech and OPC waranty offerings, coupled with a thorough search on this site, comparing the views of PHers on Hartech and OPC experiences, then make up your own mind.

[baptistsan]

Get the car inspected by someone like Peter Morgan, or get an OPC 111 point check done first. That way you should have a better idea what the car is like.

[NGB13]

Thanks for the warranty advice I will look into both options.

Any ideas on that ticking noise? I'm wondering if its something to do with the alarm?

[sportsandclassic]

maybe a sticking heater flap motor ?

not sure without looking at it..

If you need it inspecting then let me know as i can have a look over the vehicle for you and im in mobberley.

Mike

sports and classic

[Neilpeel59]

I did the same as you about a year ago. Went into well known Reading Indy, looked around and said "I'll have that one" without knowing anything about Porsches (I didn't even know the difference between 993 and 996!) I got a 2001 996 and I have loved every minute in it. Mine has been faultless :-)
I can now bore everyone senseless about the marque
Welcome to the fray!

[ballcock]

NGB13 said:

1) When I switched the ignition on there was a faint ticking noise very similar to the noise that is made when your indicators or hazards are on, only slightly quieter. It was only on for 25 seconds. I don't think it was the fuel pump - any ideas what this is and whether it is normal?

Sounds like the valves cliking away til they get a bit of oil .. It's a bit like an old type writer 'tapadatapada' sort of sound (I'm not good at impressions!!) . Anyway this sound obviously comes from the engine (if you're hearing it from a different area of the car disregard my post...) , and is perfectly normal , usually clearing as the oil lifts in about 30 seconds..