I changed the oil yesterday and found green particles in the oil filter......

2000 S. About 16 months and 2100 miles since the last oil change. About 81,000 miles on the engine. Regular oil and filter changes.

In previous oil changes, I found a hand full of small black plastic particles in the oil filter. This time, I found a few green particles in the filter canister and filter oil. So, I cut open the filter this morning and I found a lot of small green plastic particles. I didn't find any black particles this time.

I believe that they are the tensioning chain guides and/or chain guides, all part of the vario-cam system.

Is my initial assessment accurate? Time to call my mechanic or dealer.

Are there other while-you-are-in-there items to change (vario-cam actuators)?



Edited 2 time(s). Last edit at 09/02/2025 05:12PM by Tony in Whittier. (view changes)

I spoke to and showed the particles to a local Porsche dealer mechanic foreman today. He believes that the green particles are rubber like and are most likely a seal (cam cover) or (spark plug tubes- most likely). So, no immediate emergency. He said that guides are brownish and would appear as long and stringy. I will address as soon as I am able. I will also check for any leaks at those possible locations when I am able.

Other more immediate non-Boxster issues have to be dealt with first.

I drove a different vehicle to the dealer as a precaution.