Your Porsche’s Intermediate Shaft (IMS) bearing is responsible for supporting the IMS shaft, and it runs to your Porsche’s engine. The IMS bearing also helps successfully drive off the vehicle’s camshafts from the crankshaft. Although the IMS bearing has been associated with causing premature failure of Porsche engines without prior warning, it is responsible for reducing the chain’s speed and durability.
In 2006, Porsche redesigned the IMS bearing. However, the new IMS bearing design does not support repair. Hence you may have to replace it entirely.
It is critical to maintain your IMS bearing regularly to prevent premature failure. A failed IMS bearing may cause a devastating engine failure. Since overhauling your Porsche’s engine is very expensive, it is advisable to look out for tell-tale signs of a failing IMS bearing.
We’ve highlighted some of the symptoms of IMS bearing failure in your Porsche and discussed the likely causes of IMS bearing failure below.
Signs of a Failing IMS Bearing in a Porsche
Check out these signs that may indicate a failing IMS bearing:
Unusual Sound
One of the most obvious signs of a failing IMS bearing in your Porsche is when you hear a rattling, knocking, or banging noise when starting the engine or when you want to accelerate. A completely failed IMS bearing may produce a popping noise.
It is advisable to turn off the engine when you notice these sounds, since a failed IMS bearing may damage your Porsche engine. Once the engine is turned off, you should call a professional and certified automotive technician to help diagnose the issue and provide an effective solution.
Oil Leaks
German vehicles, including Porsche, are known for precision engineering and require accurate repairs for optimal performance, making their repairs a bit expensive. Hence, you should pay close attention to the vehicle. You should look out for oil leaks close to the rear of your Porsche engine. Oil leaks may indicate a failing IMS bearing and should be adequately investigated by a reputable automotive technician.
Presence of Metallic Debris in your Oil
A regular oil change is highly recommended for every vehicle, including your Porsche. You need to pay close attention to the condition of the oil you changed. You can tell the presence of metallic debris if you find shiny substances inside the oil. Your technician can also find deposits of shiny metallic debris inside the oil filter. If this happens to be the case, it is a sign that your Porsche IMS bearing may be failing. You shouldn’t wait for it to completely fail before seeking professional assistance from an automotive technician who has experience handling luxury cars like the Porsche.
Causes of IMS Bearing Failure in a Porsche
We have highlighted some signs of a failing IMS bearing in a Porsche. However, your Porsche IMS bearing does not go bad without some causative factors. Here are two common causes of IMS bearing failure:
- Lack of Lubrication: Insufficient lubrication is one of the primary causes of IMS bearing failure in a Porsche. It may cause overheating and affect the IMS bearing, causing it to fail over time. It is advisable to ensure that your Porsche’s engine is well lubricated to prevent overheating and damage to the IMS bearing.
- High thermal and Physical Load: A high load may put pressure on the IMS bearing and cause it to fracture. A fractured IMS ball bearing may produce a jagged depression and may cause it to fail.
- Wear and Tear: Although wear may not be a primary cause of IMS bearing failure, wear can occur due to overheating. It may cause severe corrosion and damage to the IMS bearing. The corroded parts may be identified as tiny metallic specks in the oil filter or inside the oil.
Hagan’s Motor Pool to the Rescue
Are you experiencing the symptoms of a failing IMS 
bearing in your Porsche? Contact Hagan’s Motor Pool today to get your Porsche in Perfect shape. We provide professional automotive repair services for Porsche, Mercedes, BMW, Audi, Volkswagen, Land Rover, and Mini. We are located in Alton, NH, and provide quality repair services for Barrington, Dover, Rochester, and Berwick drivers. Please call or visit us for your next service appointment!
* Porsche 911 Car image credit goes to: kenmo.