Complete 996 GT3 Front Suspension Parts List

If you own a Porsche 996 GT3 and need to service or upgrade the front suspension, having a full parts list is essential. The 996 GT3 is a driver's car, and its front suspension is key to its sharp handling. This guide covers every front suspension component from the strut assembly to the tie rods, with OEM part numbers and notes on what to look for during replacement.

Front Strut Assembly

The front strut on the 996 GT3 is a MacPherson type with a separate coil spring and damper. The complete assembly includes:

Damper (Shock Absorber)

• OEM Part Number: 996.343.041.xx (left), 996.343.042.xx (right) – depending on the specific year and if equipped with PASM (Porsche Active Suspension Management). For non-PASM GT3s, use standard 996 GT3 dampers.
• Notes: Factory units are Sachs. Aftermarket options include Bilstein, Ohlins, and KW. If your GT3 has high mileage, consider replacing both dampers and the top mounts.

Coil Spring

• OEM Part Number: 996.343.531.xx (front left) and 996.343.532.xx (front right). The xx varies by ride height and spring rate.
• Notes: GT3 springs are stiffer than standard 996. Aftermarket springs (e.g., Eibach, H&R) lower the car and improve handling. Always replace springs in pairs.

Strut Mount (Top Mount)

• OEM Part Number: 996.343.113.01
• Notes: Includes a bearing that allows the strut to rotate. Worn top mounts cause clunking. For track use, consider solid or adjustable camber top mounts (e.g., from Ground Control or Tarrett).

Dust Boot and Bump Stop

• OEM Part Number: 996.343.203.00 (dust boot), 996.343.205.00 (bump stop)
• Notes: These are often sold together in a kit. Replace them whenever you remove the strut to prevent debris from damaging the damper rod.

Control Arms and Ball Joints

The 996 GT3 uses a two-piece control arm setup: the front lower control arm (wishbone) and the rearward tension strut (sometimes called the lower rear control arm).

Front Lower Control Arm (Wishbone)

• OEM Part Number: 996.341.043.03 (left), 996.341.044.03 (right)
• Notes: This arm has two ball joints at the hub end and one bushing at the chassis. The ball joints are not serviceable; you must replace the entire arm. Aftermarket options from Rennline, Elephant Racing, or Tarrett have replaceable ball joints and adjustable bushings for alignment.

Tension Strut (Rear Lower Control Arm)

• OEM Part Number: 996.341.141.02 (left), 996.341.142.02 (right)
• Notes: This arm connects the lower control arm to the chassis and provides caster adjustment. OEM bushings are rubber – they wear quickly. Upgrade to polyurethane or spherical bearings for better precision. Common aftermarket: Elephant Racing or Powerflex.

Ball Joints (on the lower control arm)

• These are integral to the OEM arm. If you buy aftermarket arms with replaceable ball joints, the joint part number will vary. For factory arms, replacement means buying the full arm.

Sway Bar (Anti-Roll Bar)

The front sway bar controls body roll. The 996 GT3 has a thicker bar than a standard 996.

• OEM Part Number: 996.343.701.xx – xx indicates the bar diameter (e.g., 22mm, 24mm). GT3 typically uses 24mm or 25mm.
• Notes: Sway bar bushings and drop links are separate. Common upgrade: adjustable aftermarket bars from H&R, Lilliput, or Tarett allow fine-tuning of roll stiffness. Replace bushings if they are cracked or soft.

Sway Bar Bushings

• OEM Part Number: 996.343.713.01 (for 22mm bar), but check your bar diameter.
• Notes: These are rubber. Polyurethane bushings from Powerflex or Whiteline reduce slop and improve response.

Sway Bar Drop Links

• OEM Part Number: 996.343.291.01 (left), 996.343.292.01 (right)
• Notes: These links connect the sway bar to the strut. They are a wear item. Aftermarket spherical links (e.g., Rennline, Elephant Racing) are more durable.

Tie Rods and Steering Components

The steering rack connects to the upright via inner and outer tie rods.

Outer Tie Rod End

• OEM Part Number: 997.347.045.02 (fits 996 GT3)
• Notes: The outer end is threaded onto the inner tie rod. Worn ends cause loose steering. Replace in pairs and get an alignment afterward.

Inner Tie Rod (Steering Rack End)

• OEM Part Number: 996.347.031.01 (left), 996.347.032.01 (right)
• Notes: These attach to the steering rack. Worn inners can cause play in the steering even if the outers are new. Often replaced as a set with the rack boots.

Steering Rack Boots

• OEM Part Number: 996.347.135.00 (left), 996.347.136.00 (right)
• Notes: Replace them when you do tie rods to keep dirt out of the rack.

Wheel Bearings and Hubs

The front wheel hub assembly includes the bearing. It’s a pressed-in unit.

• OEM Part Number: 996.331.041.02 (hub with bearing)
• Notes: Common failure point. If you hear a growling noise when turning, the bearing is likely shot. Aftermarket hubs from SKF or FAG are fine.

Axle Nuts and Hardware

• Axle Nut: 999.069.029.09 (32mm hex)
• Notes: These should be replaced whenever the hub is removed. Torque to 370 Nm (273 lb-ft). Always use new nuts.
• Strut to Upright Bolts: 996.331.281.00 (M12 x 70)
• Control Arm to Chassis Bolts: Various, but usually M14. Replace them if they are corroded.

Additional Components

Front Wheel Speed Sensor

• OEM Part Number: 996.606.174.00 (left), 996.606.175.00 (right)
• Notes: These send signals to the ABS and traction control. Replacing them is straightforward; just be careful not to damage the wiring.

Brake Caliper Mounting Bolts

• OEM Part Number: 996.351.421.00 (for GT3 6-piston calipers)
• Notes: These are stretch bolts – they must be replaced after removal.

Dust Shields (Backing Plates)

• OEM Part Number: 996.331.401.01 (left), 996.331.402.01 (right)
• Notes: Protects the rotors from debris. If they are bent or rusted, replace them.

Practical Guidance for Replacement

When ordering parts, always verify your VIN or check the specific year of your 996 GT3 because there are differences between 2000-2001 and 2002+ models (especially with PASM and brake ducts). Many parts are shared with the 996 Turbo but not all. For example, the GT3 uses different damper rates and sway bars.

Cost Considerations

• OEM parts are expensive but guarantee fitment. Aftermarket options can save money while improving performance. However, be cautious with cheap no-name parts; they may not last or fit correctly.
• Replace suspension parts in pairs (both sides) to maintain balance.
• Budget for an alignment after any suspension work.

Tools You'll Need

• Spring compressors (if replacing springs separate from dampers)
• Torque wrenches capable of high torque (300+ Nm for axle nut)
• Ball joint separator or press
• Jack stands and a sturdy jack

Final Recommendation

For most 996 GT3 owners, the priority should be replacing worn rubber bushings and dampers. Start with the tension strut bushings and the lower control arm bushings – these degrade noticeably and affect alignment retention. Then move to the struts and top mounts. Use the parts list above to order everything at once to avoid downtime. If you track the car, consider adjustable control arms and sway bars to fine-tune handling. But for street use, refreshing OEM quality parts will keep your GT3 driving like new.

Keep this parts list handy for your next suspension project. With the right components and careful installation, your 996 GT3 will reward you with precise steering and road feel.