If you are an owner of a Porsche model belonging to the 996 generation, you may be one of the unlucky victims of the IMS bearing failures that afflicted most of the models of this generation. The widespread issue affected the following models between MY1997 to MY2008, years 2000-2005 being the most susceptible for the Boxster, the Cayman, and the 911.
It is believed, fortunately, that models GT2 and GT3 dodged this bullet. So, although it is still advised that drivers of these models have their vehicles checked by a licensed technician as a preventative measure, you don’t have to worry too much about experiencing IMS failure. There hasn’t been a clear pattern of what mileage, driving habits, etc. have contributed to IMS failure in these models, as some have failed at 20,000, others as high as 130,000.
Since it has been such a tricky manufacturing issue to follow, you need to be aware of the signs to look for to keep you and your vehicle safe. If you notice one or more of the following symptoms discussed here, suspect an issue with your Porsche’s IMS bearing. You may want to take preventative action to protect your model. We strongly advise that you contact an expert mechanic as soon as possible to prevent any further damage to your Porsche.
IMS Bearings
The IMS bearing, or intermediate shaft bearing, is a small component with a big job. It is essentially a geared shaft that extends through and out of both the front and back of the engine. With its gears, the IMS uses the mechanical rotation of the engine’s crankshaft to drive on either side of the engine. This is ultimately to control the flow of the air/fuel mixture in the engine, which allows your Porsche to operate properly.
Signs of IMS Bearing Failure
Many have said that there are no warning signs of an IMS bearing failure. Unfortunately, many Porsche owners do not notice the issue until damages are nigh irreparable. Although there is some truth to this, there is a silver lining. Paying close attention to your Porsche and its performance, as well as having regular maintenance performed on your vehicle will help to clue you in to IMS bearing issues earlier than you would otherwise know. (However, you undoubtedly want an expert to confirm this for you, as you don’t want to run the risk of misdiagnosing engine problems, as it could be a mistake that costs you thousands of dollars.)
When you have routine maintenance, ask your mechanic to look for the following:
Metallic debris and black plastic in the oil filter/used oil
This comes from the IMS bearing seal and from the balls inside of the bearing, respectively.
Oil leak
Although it is unlikely that this symptom is indicative of an IMS bearing failure, it is possible that an oil leak is occurring due to the failure of the IMS flange seal. However, it is more likely to be attributed to an issue with the RMS. It’s best to have a professional diagnose and inspect this to be sure.
Driving with a Bad IMS Bearing
It is not advised that under any circumstances you continue to drive a vehicle that is suffering from issues with the IMS. As it is a part of the regulatory mechanism that controls the air/fuel ratio in your engine, problems with this component can result in serious complications with your engine that may even leave it unable to operate at all.
Driving your Porsche while it is experiencing an IMS bearing failure increases the risk of metal fragments damaging other vital engine components, adding to your repair bill. The only place you should tow your vehicle to is to DART Auto.
DART Will Repair a Bad IMS Bearing
The internet is flooded with How-Tos on automotive repair and the like, but it is never advised that you attempt to fix a bad IMS bearing, or any vital engine component, on your own or otherwise apart from professional assistance. 
As we’ve discussed, the IMS bearing functions in tandem with other vehicle components,and it is relatively easy to misdiagnose the symptoms of its failure, as they are similar to signs of problems with other vehicle components.
When you visit DART Auto, Denver’s top German auto repair shop, you can be sure that our mechanics have many years of experience specializing in European vehicles that allow them to serve your car thoroughly and quickly. Our comprehensive service utilizes the latest, cutting-edge diagnostic equipment and specialty tools for your Porsche. Call us today to schedule your IMS bearing repair or visit one of our locations today at Englewood, Littleton, Centennial, or Denver, CO for all your Porsche’s maintenance and service needs.
* Porsche Boxster image credit goes to: AM-C.
