Boxster Rear Plastic Window Cracked

A Critical Issue on Porsche Boxster 986 cars, made before 2003, is when their Boxster Rear Plastic Window becomes CRACKED.

Porsche produced the original Boxster with a plastic rear window. The limitations for the use of the rear plastic window are quite high because of “cold crack”, scratching problems, and the oxidation of the plastic (yellowing).

In 2003 Porsche upgraded the Boxster to a glass rear screen, however, Porsche changed the pattern at the same time making it impossible to upgrade the old cars with the new convertible top from Porsche.

Although it is possible to both retrofit a new convertible top with a rear glass window or even a glass rear window in place of the rear plastic window on the pre-2003 Porsche Boxster 986. We have multiple articles on this at Boxstertips.

1.0 Not recommended to lower the 986 top in real cold weather

Be very careful when opening your convertible top in cold weather. The colder the weather the more prone your plastic rear window is apt to crack.

Newer windows are very pliable but age sees the rear plastic windows get brittle and inflexible.

Never use your convertible top below 40°F or 5°C!

2.0 Boxster Chop

All owners of a 986 with a rear plastic window need to learn the “Boxster Chop”. You need to get your black belt in this critical defensive maneuver.

When you do lower the top, open the top enough to start the rear window folding then get out of the car and do a ‘chop’ with your arm/hand and make a nice even crease/fold in the window so when you open the top all the way the window doesn’t develop a compound fold/crease.

The “Boxster Chop” is recommended in all weather conditions as a defensive measure.

What is the Boxster Chop?!?

Many 986 owners opt to get a new canvas top, complete with a new glass window. If you’re looking to buy an early Boxster 986, please keep in mind this upgrade and the costs involved.

compatible with Porsche Boxster Convertible Top With Plastic Window Black Canvas Cloth(1997-2002)

1 Year Manufacturer Warranty
Canvas Cloth
Window: 50 Gauge Heavey Plastic window like the original
This top comes completely assembled and ready to install. No sewing is required

compatible with Porsche Boxster 986 1997-2002 Convertible Top With Heated Glass Window Canvas Cloth (Black)

Canvas Cloth
DOT Approved Heated Glass Window.
This top comes completely assembled and ready to install. No sewing is required.
Our tops are Brand new in the original box.

All Boxster Forum Sites will have multiple dedicated threads on this issue and offer many solutions for resolution.

Please note that Replacing the Convertible Roof is Project 70 in the 101 Projects for Your Porsche Boxster.

3.0 From Amazon

Bestseller No. 1

compatible with Porsche Boxster 986 1997-2002 Convertible Top With Heated Glass Window Canvas Cloth (Black)

Canvas Cloth
DOT Approved Heated Glass Window.
This top comes completely assembled and ready to install. No sewing is required.
Our tops are Brand new in the original box.

Bestseller No. 2

Sierra Auto Tops Convertible Top Replacement for Porsche Boxster 1997-2002, German A5 Canvas, Black

Porsche OEM original German A5 Singed cloth material with black dobby weave (cross hatch) interior lining
Entire top is cut from the same bolt of cloth for consistent color and pattern
Slightly tinted heavy gauge press-polish plastic window for superior visibility
Flush mounted deck seams like original and unique to these Boxsters
Includes a new green tinted plastic window

Bestseller No. 3

Sierra Auto Tops Convertible Top Replacement for Porsche Boxster 1997-2002, German Acoustic A5 Canvas, Black

Upgraded German A5B/DS Acoustic Cloth / Canvas for superior sound dampening
Entire top is cut from the same bolt of cloth for consistent color and pattern
New DOT rated heated glass window with embedded defroster wiring
Includes the wiring harness to connect the defroster window to electrical system
Flush mounted deck seams like original and unique to these Boxsters

Bestseller No. 4

Sierra Auto Tops Convertible Top Replacement for Porsche Boxster 1997-2002, TwillFast RPC Canvas, Black, Heated Glass Window

Haartz TwillFast RPC acoustic canvas
Provides up to 2dB (noticeable) noise reduction
Defroster, tinted glass window upgrade
No Stitching or Piping around window
5 year warranty to original owner

Bestseller No. 5

HECASA Convertible Soft Top Compatible with 1997-2002 Porsche Boxster & Boxster S 986 2-Door with Plastic Window, Black Cabrio Premium Grade Sailcloth Vinyl

Product Adaptation: This soft top replacement is compatible with 1997-2002 Porsche Boxster & Boxster S 986 Convertible 2 Door. Upgrade your vehicle with our convertible tops replacement.
Superior Build: Our soft tops are made of high-quality sailcloth vinyl to provide durability and resilience in all weather conditions. Clear plastic windows add a touch of sophistication, providing visibility and protection from inclement weather, making your driving experience more enjoyable.
Improves Versatility: A soft top is a versatile solution that provides shelter and an open-air driving experience, whether you're braving inclement weather or cruising in the sun. Upgrade your vehicle's functionality with a roof that matches your lifestyle, blending utility with style.
Visual Upgrade: Transform the look of your vehicle with our classic black soft roof. The sleek color adds a touch of sophistication that complements the rugged nature of your vehicle. The convertible top blends well with your vehicle's exterior design and makes a statement on the road.
Package Contents: You will receive 1 x replacement soft top. Instructions are not included. This soft top is designed to install over your existing factory soft top frame or hardware, simply remove the old one and replace it with our soft top.

Bestseller No. 6

A-Premium Black Convertible Soft Top Compatible with Porsche Boxster 2005-2012, Convertible Only, Replace# 98756101500A10, 98756190302A10

[Vehicle Fitment]: Compatible with Porsche Boxster 2005-2012 Convertible (Black, with Glass Window)
[Specification]: ① Reference Number: 98756101500A10, 98756190302A10; ② Color: Black; ③ Window Material: Glass; ④ Installation Hardware Included: No; ⑤ Package Quantity: 1x Convertible Soft Top; ⑥ Packaging Type: Box
[First Quality]: Made of Superior quality waterproof fabric, it can not only easily resist external rain, but also wind and sun; Windows feature OEM quality laminated plastic for high visibility.
[Perfect Stitching Technology]: The top deck is made up of deck seams on both sides. All seams are heat sealed and reinforced with double pins. This bonding method adds strength so that it does not leak or separate during use, ensuring an excellent experience.
[Buy with Confidence]: A-Premium offers a one-year unlimited-mileage guarantee on our meticulously crafted Convertible Soft Top. We offer a wide variety of automotive accessory categories, ensuring that you can hit the road with peace of mind.

Bestseller No. 7

Sierra Auto Tops Convertible Top Replacement for Porsche Boxster 1997-2002, TwillFast II Canvas, Black

First quality Twillfast II cloth with a dobby weave lining
Precision cut with Gerber automated computer guided cutting equipment
DOT approved plastic window same as factory original
Includes new steel side hold down cables already securely installed on this top
Factory-style retainer attachments are sewn-in for an easy & accurate installation

Bestseller No. 8

Sierra Auto Tops Convertible Top Replacement for Porsche Boxster 1997-2002, Acoustic A5 Canvas, Black

Upgraded German A5B/DS Acoustic Cloth / Canvas for superior sound dampening
Entire top is cut from the same bolt of cloth for consistent color and pattern
Slightly tinted heavy gauge press-polish plastic window for superior visibility
Includes the wiring harness to connect the defroster window to electrical system
Flush mounted deck seams like original and unique to these Boxsters

Bestseller No. 9

A-Premium Blue Convertible Soft Top Compatible with Porsche Boxster 1997-2002, Convertible, with Plastic Window

[Vehicle Fitment]: A-Premium Convertible top is compatible with Porsche Boxster 1997-2002 Convertible---Blue, with Plastic Window
[First Quality Cabrio Vinyl]: This 1 piece soft top design is an economical alternative for your vehicle, retaining the same quality as the original. Made of premium waterproof fabric, it can easily withstand external rain and prevent rainwater leakage, while providing wind and sun resistance.
[Superior Visibility]: The window uses the OEM quality press polish plastic for superior visibility; Strong bonding, no more window seperation; Made of transparent PVC material, high temperature resistance, wear resistance, easy to scrub
[Reference Number]: The A-Premium Convertible Soft Top's reference number: PR-2291-442-2994, PR22914422994. Before placing an order, verify that the part is compatible with your vehicle using the compatibility system.
[Buy with Confidence]: A-Premium offers a one-year unlimited-mileage guarantee on our meticulously crafted Convertible Soft Top. We offer a wide variety of automotive accessory categories, ensuring that you can hit the road with peace of mind.

4.0 From the Internet:

Top 5 Recommended Boxster Web Forums (Excellent Resource for repairs and advice)

6SpeedOnline – Rear window ripped, now what?

PedrosBoard – Rear window replacement question for 986

Neil from Road And Race

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