Porsche Boxster and 911 IMS Bearing Problem Years (2024)

It is crucial to understand that the IMS bearing plays a vital role in Porsche Boxster and Porsche 911 996 models and it is essential to be aware of the problematic years. By replacing the intermediate shaft bearing as part of regularly scheduled maintenance, expensive engine repairs or replacement can be avoided.

In this blog we're covering:

Porsche 911 IMS Bearing Problem Years
Porsche Boxster IMS Bearing Problem Years
Which Porsche IMS bearings are the most problematic?
What can be done to avoid failures in IMS bearing problem years?
In what year did Porsche fix the IMS bearing problem?
When does the IMS bearing need to be replaced?

Porsche IMS Bearing Problem Years

If you own a Porsche Boxster or Porsche 911 996 model, you may be familiar with the notorious IMS bearing issue. The IMS (intermediate shaft) bearing is a small but crucial component in the engine of these cars. Unfortunately, certain years of these models are more prone to IMS bearing failures, with failure rates as high as eight percent under warranty as highlighted by the Eisen Class Action lawsuit filed against Porsche. Outside of warranty, failure rates are believed to be significantly higher.

The Porsche IMS bearing problem years are from 1997 to 2005, with the M96 or M97 engine in these models being particularly susceptible. The single-row bearing used from model year 2000 through 2005 is of the greatest concern. However, any IMS bearing can and will fail if not replaced as part of regular maintenance.

A failed IMS bearing can lead to catastrophic engine damage and costly repairs, making it essential to be aware of the issue and take necessary precautions. To avoid IMS bearing issues, it's recommended to have the IMS bearing replaced with an upgraded bearing like the IMS Retrofit kit or IMS Solution, the only permanent fix for the IMS bearing problem. Doing so can prevent expensive engine damage and extend the life of your engine.

If you own a Porsche Boxster or Porsche 911 996, it's crucial to know the problem years and take necessary steps to prevent IMS bearing failures. Be proactive and protect your investment by replacing your IMS bearing with an upgraded solution. Don't wait until it's too late - keep your car running smoothly and avoid costly engine repairs. Remember, prevention is always better than cure!

What are the Porsche 911 IMS Bearing Problem Years?

Depending what model year, Porsche used different IMS bearings, with some years being more problematic than others:

1999 Porsche 911 996.1 - Dual Row IMS Bearing
2000 Porsche 911 996.1 - Dual Row or Single Row IMS Bearing
2001 Porsche 911 996.1 - Dual Row or Single Row IMS Bearing
2002 Porsche 911 996.2 - Single Row IMS Bearing
2003 Porsche 911 996.2 - Single Row IMS Bearing
2004 Porsche 911 996.2 - Single Row IMS Bearing
2005 Porsche 911 996.2 - Single Row IMS Bearing
2005 Porsche 911 997.1 - Single Row IMS Bearing (some late 2005 builds may have the larger, non-serviceable IMS bearing)
2006 Porsche 911 997.1 - Larger, Non-Serviceable Single Row IMS Bearing
2007 Porsche 911 997.1 - Larger, Non-Serviceable Single Row IMS Bearing
2008 Porsche 911 997.1 - Larger, Non-Serviceable Single Row IMS Bearing

The most problematic years for the IMS bearing problem are 2000 through 2005 where the factory single row bearing was used. The single-row IMS bearing used in Porsche Boxster and Porsche 911 996 models from 2000-2005 reportedly had high failure rates of up to 10% under warranty, while the dual-row bearing had a lower rate. However, failure rates outside of warranty are suspected to be even higher. When the IMS bearing fails, it results in a loss of camshaft timing that can cause severe damage to the engine, including bent valves and debris. Replacing the intermediate shaft and addressing any collateral damage requires a complete engine disassembly. Therefore, all IMS bearings must be changed as part of preventative maintenance, similar to a timing belt in modern engines. Cars that sit idle, are driven infrequently, or travel short distances are most susceptible to failure. In newer Porsche 911 models with larger, non-serviceable 06-08 IMS bearing, the grease seal should be removed to extend the life of the original bearing as replacing the bearing requires complete engine disassembly which is costly and impractical.

What are the Porsche Boxster IMS Bearing Problem Years?

Like with the Porsche 911, the Boxster IMS bearing problem years vary from year to year depending on which IMS bearing was used by Porsche:

1997 Porsche Boxster 986 - Dual Row IMS Bearing
1998 Porsche Boxster 986 - Dual Row IMS Bearing
1999 Porsche Boxster 986 - Dual Row IMS Bearing
2000 Porsche Boxster 986 - Dual Row or Single Row IMS Bearing
2001 Porsche Boxster 986 - Dual Row or Single Row IMS Bearing
2002 Porsche Boxster 986 - Single Row IMS Bearing
2003 Porsche Boxster 986 - Single Row IMS Bearing
2004 Porsche Boxster 986 - Single Row IMS Bearing
2005 Porsche Boxster 987 - Single Row IMS Bearing (some late 2005 builds may have the larger, non-serviceable IMS bearing)
2006 Porsche Boxster 987 - Larger, Non-Serviceable Single Row IMS Bearing
2007 Porsche Boxster 987 - Larger, Non-Serviceable Single Row IMS Bearing
2008 Porsche Boxster 987 - Larger, Non-Serviceable Single Row IMS Bearing

For the Boxster, the IMS bearing problem years where a failure of the original intermediate shaft bearing is most likely are model years 2000 through 2005. However like with the 911, all models with a serviceable IMS bearing should have the bearing replaced to prevent catastrophic ims bearing failures. Like with the Porsche 911, Boxster models with the larger, non-serviceable single row IMS bearing should also have the grease seal removed. All Porsche Cayman models from 2006 through 2008 will also have the larger, non-serviceable single row IMS bearing.

What can be done to avoid failures in IMS bearing problem years?

As mentioned above, all Porsche Boxster and 911 models from 1997 through 2005 can be considered problem years for the IMS bearing. However, vehicles from 2000 through 2005 fitted with the serviceable single row IMS bearing is the most prone to failure, so any vehicle still fitted with the original bearing should have the IMS bearing replaced immediately. Unlike the earlier dual row bearing which generate ferrous debris that looks like glitter well before the bearing fails completely, the single row bearing does not give any warning prior to failure - that is why it is so important to chance this bearing out. Remember, once the IMS bearing fails, replacement is no longer an option.

Learn more aboutHow to Identify and Fix the Porsche IMS Bearing Problem and How to Determine When and if your Porsche IMS Bearing Needs to be Replaced.

Replacement options include the IMS Retrofit and IMS Solution, the latter replacing the problematic ball bearing with an oil pressure fed plain bearing which is the only permanent solution. All other ball or roller bearing replacements, including the IMS Retrofit, have service intervals and require future replacement based on time and/or mileage requirements. Learn more about When Replace the Porsche IMS Bearing.

In What Year Did Porsche Fix the IMS Bearing Problem?

Porsche's first attempt to address the Porsche IMS bearing issue brought about the change to the larger, non-serviceable intermediate shaft bearing. Porsche chose a 6305 single row ball bearing which provided similar load capacity to the original dual row bearing, however the larger diameter provided increased bearing speeds which are beneficial to the longevity of the bearing. The drawback to this is that the diameter of the bearing is larger than the hole in the case, so the bearing cannot be removed without complete engine disassebly. Porsche also chose to retain a grease seal like previous IMS bearings which prevents the engine oil from properly lubricating and cooling the bearing, which is submerged in engine oil during normal operation. Although significantly better than ims bearing used in model year 2000 through 2005 Porsche Boxster and 911 engines, the IMS bearing is still a problem with the 2006 through 2008 model years.

Beginning with the 2009 model year, Porsche redesigned the engine for the Boxster, Cayman, and 911 to eliminate the IMS shaft completely. The camshafts are now directly driven off the crankshaft in the MA1 (9A1) engine.

It is worth noting that the aircooled Porsche Mezger engine which was later adapted for use in the Porsche 911 GT3, Turbo, and GT2 successfully retained its intermediate shaft through the end of production which utilized oil pressure fed plain bearings.

As an expert with in-depth knowledge of Porsche engines, particularly the IMS (Intermediate Shaft) bearing issue in Porsche Boxster and Porsche 911 996 models, I can provide comprehensive information to address the concepts mentioned in the article.

1. Porsche IMS Bearing and its Importance:

The IMS bearing, or intermediate shaft bearing, is a critical component in the engine of Porsche Boxster and Porsche 911 996 models.
It is essential for maintaining proper camshaft timing and preventing catastrophic engine damage.

2. Problematic Years for Porsche IMS Bearing:

The problematic years for the IMS bearing issue are identified as 1997 to 2005, with a focus on the M96 or M97 engines used in these models.
The single-row IMS bearing used from 2000 through 2005 is particularly susceptible to high failure rates, with up to 10% failure under warranty.

3. Different IMS Bearings for Porsche 911:

Various Porsche 911 models used different IMS bearings depending on the model year:
- Dual Row IMS Bearing (1999-2001)
- Single Row IMS Bearing (2002-2005)
- Larger, Non-Serviceable Single Row IMS Bearing (2005-2008)

4. Porsche Boxster IMS Bearing Variations:

Similar to the Porsche 911, Porsche Boxster models used different IMS bearings based on the model year.
Notable variations include dual-row IMS bearings in the early years and larger, non-serviceable single-row IMS bearings in later models (2005-2008).

5. IMS Bearing Failure and Consequences:

IMS bearing failure can lead to catastrophic engine damage, including bent valves and debris.
The failure rates are higher in vehicles that sit idle, are driven infrequently, or travel short distances.

6. Preventative Measures for IMS Bearing Issues:

To avoid IMS bearing problems, it is recommended to replace the IMS bearing as part of regular maintenance.
Upgraded solutions like the IMS Retrofit kit or IMS Solution are suggested to prevent expensive engine damage.

7. Fixing the IMS Bearing Problem:

The IMS Solution involves replacing the problematic ball bearing with an oil pressure-fed plain bearing, considered the only permanent solution.
Other replacements, such as the IMS Retrofit, have service intervals and require future replacements.

8. Evolution of Porsche's Approach:

Porsche's initial attempt to address the IMS bearing issue involved transitioning to larger, non-serviceable intermediate shaft bearings.
The change, starting in 2006, aimed to improve bearing longevity but retained some drawbacks, such as the inability to remove the bearing without complete engine disassembly.

9. Timeline of IMS Bearing Problem Resolution:

Porsche's significant redesign occurred in the 2009 model year, eliminating the IMS shaft completely in the MA1 (9A1) engine.
The camshafts are now directly driven off the crankshaft, eliminating the need for the troublesome IMS bearing.

In conclusion, understanding the Porsche IMS bearing problem, its historical context, and the available solutions is crucial for Porsche Boxster and Porsche 911 996 owners to prevent costly engine repairs and ensure the longevity of their vehicles.