A very common problem forPorschemodels is anIMS bearing failure. YourIMS bearing (or InterMediate Shaft bearing)supports yourintermediate shaft, which extends through theengine. The actual intermediate shaft is not usually the problem in Porsches. The IMS bearing is behind the notorious engine problems that plague thisclassic car brand.
It is possible that your Porsche’s IMS bearing can fail due to normal wear and tear. However, most of the time, this feature fails due tomechanical error. Porsche models 986, 987, 996, and 997 are more prone to IMS bearing failure due to theirolder design.
Repeatedoverheatingcaused by lack oflubricationcripples the bearing, which then evolves into IMS bearing failure. The only true way to prevent this is tohave your car regularly serviced by expert mechanics and to have anoil changeevery2years.
Some people may argue that there is no true way to prevent IMS bearing failure, but anytechnician who specializes in Porscheswill be able to notice any small details that could hint to this system failing. They will advise you and make adjustments duringinspectionsto prevent an entire failure.
SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS OF IMS BEARING
PROBLEMS
There are a few warning signs that your IMS bearing may be failing. The most obvious one would beknocking or grinding soundscoming from yourmotor. If you are experiencing this, your Porsche may be in IMS bearing failure.
Other signs includeoil leaksor oils with metallic shards in theoil filter, signs that something has broken off inside of your car. If your car is suddenly struggling to carry heavy loads, it may be due to the IMS bearing causing expansion damage to the rest of the engine.
PREVENTION AND MAINTENANCE
Unfortunately, there is not always a warning before your IMS bearing gives out. The best preventative measures you can take are to take your car to get serviced and have aprofessional oil changewith an inspection.
Anexperton Porsches will find indications that your IMS bearing is starting to deteriorate long before symptoms develop that are noticeable to a driver. This is why you shouldkeep up with your regular servicing.
All 986, 987, 996, and 997 model Porches are at risk for IMS bearing failure, and the only thing you can truly do to stay on top of it is to make sure that your car is getting serviced and inspected. Even better, have your IMS replaced with the newer version that is less likely to cause you any problems.
BAVARIAN AUTO: YOUR PORSCHE EXPERTS
Ignoring possible IMS Bearing will only make the problem worse. If completely ignored, this could progressively worsen until the entire engine needs to be replaced. If caught early, only the IMS bearing can be replaced, which may seem like an inconvenience, but is definitely better than allowing more damage to occur.
Unless you are acar technicianthat istrained in Porsche models, you should never try to fix your IMS bearing by yourself. You also should not be driving your car if you suspect that your IMS system is failing, as this could be incredibly dangerous and lead to an even more expensive repair being necessary.
If you are worried that your IMS bearing might be failing or you want to upgrade your IMS bearing to a newer, less problematic bearing,Bavarian Autois here to help advise you of the best path and make repairs and replacements at your request. Ourteam of expert mechanicsare specially trained to handle any problems in your car’s make and model.
We proudly serveOoltewah,Hixson, andChattanooga, TNand the surrounding communities. We would love to have the opportunity to show you why we are the best in the area. You can have faith that we will handle your car with utmost care. Our technicians understand Porsches better than the competition.
We will spot any signs that your IMS bearing may be moving towards failure. So trust your instincts and chooseBavarian Autoto ensure your car is in our safe hands. We look forward to servicing your Porsche and vehicles to keep them running smoothly and safely on the roads.
