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IMS Bearing Replacement & IMS Specialists in Lancaster, SC

Is Your Porsche at Risk for IMS Bearing Failure?

If you own a Porsche with an M96 or M97 engine, it’s essential to understand the risks associated with the IMS bearing (Intermediate Shaft Bearing), a known weak point in several model years. From 1999 to 2006, Porsche utilized various single- and dual-row IMS bearing designs that, despite numerous revisions, never fully resolved the issue. These bearings can fail without warning, resulting in catastrophic engine damage and costly repairs.

Porsches with the newer 9A1 engine, introduced in the 2009 model year, eliminated the intermediate shaft system, driving the camshafts directly off the crankshaft. If your 911 features this newer engine, you're in the clear. However, if you're driving a 1999–2008 911, Boxster, or Cayman with the M96 or M97 engine, you could be at risk of IMS failure, and early intervention is key.

What Is IMS Bearing Failure and Why Is It Dangerous?

The Intermediate Shaft (IMS) supports the timing chains that operate the camshafts. The IMS bearing allows the shaft to rotate freely, but over time, it can degrade or disintegrate, especially when exposed to improper lubrication or contamination. A failing IMS bearing can release metal fragments into the engine, potentially leading to:

  • Complete engine seizure

  • Internal engine scoring and debris

  • Loss of oil pressure

  • Valve train and piston damage

  • Total engine failure requiring rebuild or replacement

In most cases, there are no warning signs before failure occurs, which is why preventative maintenance is critical.

Preventing IMS Bearing Failure in Porsche Engines

At Driven Motos Auto Care Clinic, we specialize in Porsche IMS bearing inspections, diagnostics, and replacements, with hundreds of successful upgrades completed for customers across Lancaster, , and surrounding areas.

We exclusively install the LN Engineering IMS Retrofit, the most trusted and proven solution in the industry. LN Engineering is the gold standard for IMS upgrades, and their patented IMS Retrofit and IMS Solution kits offer unmatched durability, serviceability, and peace of mind.

Benefits of the LN IMS Retrofit at Driven Motos Auto Care Clinic:

  • Precision-engineered bearing system designed to eliminate common failure modes

  • Uses ceramic hybrid bearings for maximum lifespan and heat resistance

  • Serviceable design allows for future inspections and replacements

  • Installed using OEM-level procedures by trained Porsche technicians

  • Backed by years of successful real-world testing and performance data

Our technicians at Driven Motos Auto Care Clinic are Reliable IMS bearing specialists with years of Porsche-specific training. We follow best practices for both street and track applications, and every job includes a full inspection of your camshaft timing system, oil filter, and debris analysis.

What Models Are at Risk for IMS Bearing Failure?

If your Porsche falls into any of the following categories, we strongly recommend an inspection or retrofit service:

  • 911 Carrera (996): Model years 1999–2004

  • 911 Carrera (997.1): 2005–2008

  • Boxster (986 & early 987): 1997–2008

  • Cayman (987.1): 2006–2008

If your Porsche has never had an IMS Retrofit performed, or you’re unsure of its service history, schedule a visit with Driven Motos Auto Care Clinic immediately to protect your engine.

Schedule IMS Bearing Service with the Porsche Specialists at Driven Motos Auto Care Clinic

We’ve helped hundreds of Porsche owners in Indian Land, SC, Kershaw, SC, Rock Hill, SC, Chester, SC, Lancaster, SC prevent disaster with proactive IMS bearing inspections and replacements. Whether you're buying a used Porsche, prepping for a track event, or maintaining your daily driver, let our experienced team at Driven Motos Auto Care Clinic in Lancaster, SC give your vehicle the care it deserves.

Why Choose Driven Motos Auto Care Clinic for IMS Bearing Replacement?

  • Factory-trained Reliable Porsche technicians

  • Exclusive use of LN Engineering IMS Retrofit kits

  • Certified facility with NAPA Store professionals

  • Excellent reviews from [reviews count] satisfied Porsche owners

  • Repairs backed by a 2/24,000 warranty

  • Trusted across and Southern SC for high-performance European car care

Book Your IMS Inspection or Retrofit Today

Don’t wait until it’s too late. Call Driven Motos Auto Care Clinic at 803-718-0651 , or schedule your appointment online at https://drivenmotos.com/ to have your Porsche professionally inspected and serviced. Protect your investment and enjoy every mile behind the wheel.

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We are a Digital Shop

The Driven Motos Auto Care Clinic technicians use the latest technology to not only tell you if there are any issues with your vehicle, but show you. If we uncover an issue the photo will be e-mailed to you for your records. At the end of every visit you will receive a detailed report regarding the general health of your vehicle. Our #1 goal is to keep you safe on the road.

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