tiptronic

[minny]

Of course its horses for courses but I wouldn't drive anything else. Most would say they are reliable and rarely give problems. In my humble opinion, they are so easy to drive when you take it easy and they are fairly responsive when you give it welly. The shifts on the post '01 Mercedes boxes are slightly quicker and smoother. A previous Tip thread on 2 forums certainly showed the majority agree with the above.

 

[Richard_Hamilton]

Tiptronics are generally very reliable. The pre-facelift cars were fitted with a ZF transmission, and the facelift and Turbos had a Mercedes unit. Other than service items like filters, Porsche supply very few parts for these, but there are automatic transmission specialist who can rebuilt them in the event of problems. The Merc boxes can suffer from leaks, but it is relatively rare. It is a very clever system, and not just a manually-controlled auto box. When in Auto mode it has programs which react to your driving style, and shift at different speeds. It uses the ABS sensors to judge if the car is turning, so won't change gear half way through a bend. It won't change up approaching a bend if you release the throttle quickly before braking. It will also downshift when braking. As for operation and use, it is often debated on the forum. I like the system (enough to be on my 3rd) as it suits my use for the car perfectly. Before my 993 I had never owned an automatic, and never thought I would. If it was a weekend toy, then I would probably go for a manual though. The Tip is very easy to drive in traffic, but can still be fun on the open road. I drive mine in Manual mode most of the time. If past experience is anything to go by, I'll now sit back and wait for the debate to start all over again...... [] []

 

[redbaz]

Considering a tiptronic model because of a disability, would appreciate any advice on this model.

 

[PORKA]

I purchased a 996 C4S 8 weeks ago with tiptronic having had manual Porsches for the last 17 years. It was not what I was looking for initially, however as I move into my twilight years Im quite happy with it. It took a bit of getting used to I must admit, having driven automatics for some years some time ago, I am begining to enjoy the experience again both in auto mode and manual with the buttons on the steering wheel. Richards quite right in what he says about both traffic and open road driving[]

 

[tscaptain]

ORIGINAL: w852dh1 Just wish my 996 had the same flappy paddle set up!!!

For a small (well, maybe not so small) investment flappy paddles can be yours![] http://www.porscheshop.co.uk/acatalog/air_bag_steering_wheels_porsche_raid.html

 

[tscaptain]

I'm sure Porscheshop would fit it for you at a reasonable price - worth a call anyway?. Not something I would DIY with air bags, tip connections and all![&:]