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If you own a Porsche, you have probably heard the term “IMS Bearing Failure.” IMS stands for Intermediate Shaft (Bearing) which supports the intermediate shaft on the flywheel side of the motor. They work to drive the camshafts indirectly off the crankshaft and by using this intermediate shaft, it reduces the speeds of the chains and prolongs their life. The IMS bearing has become a standard build for Porsche’s horizontally-opposed flat 6 engine.
Not all models with IMS Bearings are prone to failure. For instance, the water-cooled Turbo, GT2 and GT3 models have the same internal setup as the earlier air-cooled engines and their bearings will rarely fail, or at least not in a way that would result in catastrophic engine failure. At worst, the engine will develop a slight knocking.
However, if you own one of the following, you should probably be on the lookout for an excellent European auto mechanic like the ones at Euro Plus Automotive.
Most cases of IMS bearing failure in Porsche occur due to multiple causes that focus in on the eventual breakdown of the bearing. Normal wear and tear is part of this, but it is not the most common cause. One of the most significant reasons for bearing failure in the IMS is when a high load combines with a lack of lubrication, which causes overheating. The overheated metal in the bearing causes friction and fracturing, leaving pits behind in its wake. These pits accelerate the cycle of wear and tear exponentially, causing premature IMS bearing failure.
In the worst of cases, a failed IMS bearing will throw your cam timing off, which will then cause contact between the valve and piston. If this happens, you will have to purchase another core. Otherwise, you will pay a continually increasing core charge from Porsche beyond the cost of the replacement engine.
If you have experienced an IMS bearing failure, there is no turning back. Repairing it requires complete engine disassembly and replacing the intermediate shaft. It often needs a complete rebuild or engine replacement as well. Do not ignore your IMS bearings.
Prevention, early detection, and replacement of your IMS bearing before failure are your best options to save you the cost of engine failure. A service technician skilled in European vehicles can help you detect and replace your IMS bearing before it is too late.
There is only one measure to take to prolong the life of your IMS bearings. If you have a model 2006-2008 engine, the grease seals can be removed from the factory IMS Bearings to improve their lubrication and cooling. The only other option is to tear down the engine and install upgraded IMS bearings. If you have an older model (1997-2005), the IMS bearing is accessible without tearing down the engine.
It is important to note that any IMS upgrade you do to your engine must be preventive maintenance. Once your engine fails, replacing the IMS will no longer work. You have to rebuild or replace the entire engine. Otherwise, the new IMS bearing will become contaminated, causing further damage to your engine.
Look for these three warning signs to indicate IMS bearing failure:
* Porsche Emblem image credit goes to: tomeng.
Today’s drivers are demanding easier, more convenient options in their cars without sacrificing in vehicle performance, and manufacturers are listening. Recent developments in automotive technology have seriously changed the available options to luxury car drivers, including Audi. One of the more recent automotive advancements is the development of the Tiptronic transmission. Although the name is trademarked by Porsche, a Tiptronic transmission is available in many road-going vehicles these days—it’s just called something else. In this article we’ll go over what a Tiptronic transmission is, the benefits of this type of transmission, and what you can do to maintain it in your Audi.
In the past, most traditional, standard cars came equipped with either an automatic or manual transmission. Both types of transmissions had their benefits and drawbacks, and drivers equally favored both at one time. However, times have changed, and with that come new advancements in technology and automotive design.
A Tiptronic transmission has all the essential features of an automatic transmission, but with one huge difference—you are able to shift gears manually yourself when you choose to. Depending on what type of car you drive and the manufacturer’s design, you’ll use either the traditional gear lever or gear shifting paddles located near the steering wheel to shift up or down a gear.
There are several main differences between a Tiptronic and a standard manual or automatic transmission. The obvious point is the option to shift from a quasi-manual to a quasi-automatic at the driver’s leisure and choice. All manufacturers’ versions of this system work slightly differently, but ultimately the idea is still the same—enhance the driver’s control over the vehicle and the overall driving experience. Tiptronic transmissions offer the following benefits to drivers:
The most vital element and benefit of a Tiptronic transmission is the safeguards that are in place that protect the driver and the car from error. This is a basic programming and design feature implemented to ensure the integrity of the car despite the driver’s habits. For instance, when the car is being controlled manually and the driver doesn’t shift gears properly, the technology will take back over and shift gears as needed.
For all the reasons just mentioned, Audi drivers and other luxury car owners are drawn to Tiptronic transmissions. As the new and exciting option available to drivers, it has become rapidly popular in recent years. Manufacturers cater to their customers’ desires to be able to have the leisure and reassurance of an automatic transmission but with all the power, fun, and engagement that a manual transmission offers. Furthermore, since the technology and software is sound and efficient, Tiptronic systems don’t affect the car’s fuel efficiency or gas mileage significantly—another huge plus for drivers of today.
Though they are the wave of now and the future, Tiptronic transmissions require care and maintenance just like every other transmission. Here are a few things to keep in mind to best care for your Audi’s transmission going forward:
Here at Euro Plus Automotive, we are trained, educated, and experienced to cater to the needs of various Tiptronic-like systems. For Audi drivers in Canoga Park, Woodland Hills, the greater San Fernando Valley, and all of Los Angeles County, CA, we offer specialized automotive care for Tiptronic transmissions, as no two are exactly alike. After nearly 3 decades of service to our community, our passion for European imports still holds true today, and we treat every client as if they were a part of our own family. If you’d like to learn more about your Tiptronic transmission, or would like to set up a maintenance schedule with us, please contact one of our helpful professionals today.
* Audi A3 e-tron image credit goes to: SteveLagreca.
Euro Plus Automotive specializes in maintenance, services, & repairs with certified technicians and cutting-edge tools & equipment for European vehicles including Audi, BMW, Mercedes, & more as well as Japanese cars like Honda, Nissan, Toyota, & more.
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