Factors Leading to Porsche IMS Bearing Failure

Porsche models are known for their extreme performance and speed, which is what makes them one of the most preferred sports car brands in the world. However, excellence in reputation does not mean they do not run into problems. One common concern for many Porsche drivers is an IMS bearing failure.

The InterMediate Shaft (IMS) plays an essential part in the engine’s function by driving the camshaft off the crankshaft. The IMS bearing provides support for the intermediate shaft. When it fails, many things could go wrong in the engine and your Porsche may be stuck in park.

Common Causes of IMS Bearing Failures in a Porsche

Understanding why your car’s IMS bearing can help you take steps to prevent the problem. Hence, here are some major causes of IMS bearing issues in a car.

1. Material Limitations

In most cases, IMS bearing failures occur due to the inability of the bearing’s material to withstand the strain of the IMS functions. A high-performing engine like your Porsche does more work to meet your performance demands. However, the harder the engine works, the more the strain on its components, including the IMS and its bearing. The eventual result can be a bearing failure when the material can no longer withstand the force from the engine.

2. Poor Maintenance

Another common reason for an IMS bearing failure in a car is the lack of maintenance. Maintenance actions such as frequent inspections, lubrication, and addressing early signs of faults can preserve the IMS bearing and prevent it from failing. Lubrication helps to reduce friction between moving parts of the IMS, thereby preventing damage to the component.

3. Wear & Age

Natural wear and age is another reason why your Porsche’s IMS bearing can fail. After prolonged use, certain parts will begin to wear out and may eventually fail. There is no system in your Porsche that can withstand the ravages of time and use. Routine maintenance is the key to catch problems of wear and tear, before they can damage components around them.

4. Engine Overheating

No car component, including the IMS and its bearing, does well in the presence of extreme conditions such as excessive heat. If your cooling system isn’t functioning at its highest level, your engine’s excessive heat could cause damage to the parts of the IMS bearing and other components.

5. Bad Driving Habits

Apart from mechanical problems, human factors can also be the cause of IMS bearing failure in a car. Poor maintenance is one and driving habits are another. If you frequently drive at higher speeds or high RPMs, this puts extra load on the engine to perform. The intermediate shaft, in turn, works harder to ensure that the engine functions adequately. Over time, the stress wears on the IMS and its bearing.

Common Signs of IMS Bearing Failures in Your Porsche

If you are wondering how to identify when your Porsche has an IMS fault, here are some tips to help you.

• The check engine light may illuminate. This warning light can come on as a warning sign of engine trouble. Since an IMS bearing failure affects the movement of the camshaft and crankshaft—both of which are essential to an engine’s function, the engine could be affected, triggering the warning.
• You may see metal shavings in your engine’s oil. If you notice metal shafts in your car’s oil during an oil check, then it is a sign that the IMS metal bearing could be broken or worn out, causing its metal parts to break off into the oil.
• Unusual engine sounds. Loud knocking sounds could also be a sign of an IMS bearing failure in your car. These sounds can be an indication that the bearing is failing, which could be hitting other engine components

The Leading Auto Repair Center in California for Porsche IMS Bearing Repair

If you notice any of the above signs in your Porsche, the next step is to bring your car to our trusted automobile specialists, so we can have a look and identify the problem. At Bavarian Performance Specialist, we deliver quality services to help drivers get the best out of their cars and SUVs. Our services include routine checks and inspections, repairs, and replacement of damaged parts. If you are in Thousand Oaks, Agoura Hills, Westlake, Malibu, Newbury Park, or any location in CA, we can help keep your Porsche in top condition!

* Porsche 911 Turbo S Car image credit goes to: Brandon Woyshnis.