Sage-Tips

Does the 1999 Porsche 911 have IMS issues?

But for all that, there is a dark spot in the Porsche 911’s history. It’s the 996 (1999-2004) 911, and the problem is the Porsche IMS bearing.

What year Porsches have IMS problems?

If you own or are considering buying a 911 Porsche model/year prior to 2009, you need to know about the issues with the IMS bearings in the 996 and 997 generations. It is well known that these cars had a problem in the intermediate shaft (IMS) that drove the engines’ camshafts, resulting in engine failure.

Are 911 996 A Good Investment?

The 996 offers the best value for money, provides good performance, gives the younger generation a chance to enter the 911 market, and it’s a sports car that can be used everyday. Calling the 996 the best 911 won’t go down well with many Porsche purists, but for some car enthusiasts this is exactly the way they see it.

Is the Porsche 996 a classic?

Most Porsche drivers are traditionalists. Just as in 1964 when many loyal 356 drivers found the first 911 a difficult departure from what they knew, the water-cooled Porsche 996 in 1997 was met with shock – but it’s now sought after as a classic Porsche.

Is a 1999 Porsche 911 reliable?

Very reliable, plenty of power, great handling the 1999 911 doesn’t have the IMS bearing failure that the newer models had from 2000 to 2006 because Porsche changed over using a single smaller IMS bearing that sometimes failed, the 1999 has a dual row (two bearing set).

Will the Porsche 996 become a classic?

What is the best year for Porsche 911?

If you want to use the 911 as an investment the three best options are the 911 (1964-1989), 930 (1975-1989), and 993 (1995-1998). Now, if you’re buying a 911 on a budget there’s really only one that comes to mind, the 996 (1999-2004).

Is the Porsche 996 a good first Porsche?

It was mass-produced, had a water-cooled engine, shared parts with the Boxster, and had an engine defect that was serious but overblown. And yet it’s a fast, capable car that delivers almost everything you would expect from Porsche. It’s also cheap for a used 911. If you’re looking to get into a pre-owned 911, the 996 is your best opportunity.

Does the Porsche 996 have an IMS problem?

Not all of the 996 cars will have the IMS problem, and it can be rectified for a few grand if you’re concerned, but it’s on the mind of every buyer out there. IMS problems aside, the 996 is absolutely stuffed with fragile, fast-wearing and expensive components, many of which can’t be reached without dropping the engine.

Why did the Porsche 911 M96 engine fail?

The M96 range of Porsche engines fitted to the 911 up to 2005, had a catastrophic engine failure associated with the intermediate shaft bearing or IMS. At the end of the intermediate shaft connecting both ends of the timing chain mechanisms, a low cost, self-lubricated ball bearing style bearing was installed – think of it like a wheel bearing.

Is it cost effective to maintain a used 911 Carrera 996?

There is also a good deal of experience and expertise in independent Porsche repair shops to help make the maintenance of your used 911 Carrera 996 cost effective. You’re buying a Porsche, so don’t compare running costs to a small domestic hatchback!