Porsche IMS Bearing Replacement in High Wycombe
The IMS bearing is the best-known weak point of the M96 and M97 engines in the 996, early 997, Boxster and Cayman. We replace IMS bearings at our workshop in High Wycombe, usually alongside the clutch, so the work that gets you there is only done once.
Which Porsches have an IMS bearing?
- 986 Boxster (1997 to 2004 model years)
- 996 Carrera, including the Carrera 4S and Targa (1998 to 2005 model years)
- 987.1 Boxster and Cayman (2005 to 2008)
- 997.1 Carrera (2005 to 2008)
The 996 and 997 Turbo, GT2 and GT3 use a different engine, and the 997.2, 987.2 and later cars have no intermediate shaft at all.
When to replace it
The most sensible time is the next clutch change, because the gearbox, clutch and flywheel all have to come off to reach the bearing. It’s also worth doing if you’ve just bought a car with no record of it, or if the engine has the single-row bearing with the weakest reputation. Our article on when to replace the IMS bearing explains the decision in detail.
What the job involves
With the gearbox, clutch and flywheel removed, the engine’s timing is locked, the old bearing comes out and an upgraded bearing goes in. While everything is apart, it makes sense to renew the rear main seal and check the flywheel. Several upgraded bearings are on the market; Lawrence will explain the options for your engine and only fits ones he trusts.
2006 to 2008 engines
Most engines from these years have a larger bearing that can’t be replaced through the gearbox opening without major engine work. For those, the right approach is regular oil changes, a check of the oil filter for debris and attention to any new noise, with the bearing dealt with if the engine is ever rebuilt.
Common questions
Should the IMS bearing be replaced with the clutch?
Usually, yes. Both jobs need the gearbox off, so doing them together saves paying for the same dismantling twice.
Does the 997.2 have an IMS bearing?
No. The 997.2 and 987.2, from 2009, use the 9A1 engine, which has no intermediate shaft and so no IMS bearing.
What are the warning signs of IMS bearing wear?
Often there are very few. Metal particles in the oil filter are the earliest sign, followed by new noises from the back of the engine or camshaft timing faults. Any of these need looking at straight away.
Opening Times
We’re here throughout the week to help with all your Porsche servicing, maintenance, and inspection needs.
- Mon-Fri: 7:30 am to 5:30 pm.
- Saturday: 8:30 am to 12:30 pm
- Sunday: Closed
Book an IMS bearing replacement
Call us with the car’s model, year and mileage, and whether the clutch is due. Lawrence will tell you which bearing your engine is likely to have and what we’d recommend.
