If you’re a Porsche Boxster or Porsche 911 996 owner, you might be aware of the well-known IMS bearing issue that can lead to severe engine failure. Fortunately, there are IMS bearing replacement kits available, like those offered by LN Engineering, that can help prevent this problem. However, before making a decision, it’s crucial to understand the costs associated with IMS bearing replacement.
The cost of replacing the IMS bearing in Porsche Boxster and Porsche 911 996 models can vary based on factors such as the chosen kit and labor expenses. Here are some estimates for popular IMS bearing replacement kits from LN Engineering:
- IMS Retrofit: This kit costs below $1,000, covering the kit itself but not the installation labor. It replaces the original IMS bearing with a more robust ceramic bearing as part of regular maintenance.
- IMS Solution: Priced under $2,000, this kit includes the cost of the kit but not the labor for installation. It replaces the original IMS bearing with a pressure oil fed plain bearing designed for the engine’s lifetime.
Keep in mind that labor costs can differ depending on the mechanic’s location and experience. Although it contributes to the overall expense, proper installation is crucial for the engine’s longevity and reliability. Selecting a reputable and experienced mechanic is vital to avoid potential issues during the process. On average, IMS bearing replacement takes 10-14 hours, with hourly labor rates influencing the overall cost by adding $500-$3,000 or more.
It’s recommended to perform the pre-qualification procedure before IMS bearing replacement, which may take 3-4 additional hours. This involves dropping the sump and bore scoping the cylinders for bore scoring. LN Engineering provides IMS bearing replacement along with free IMS tool rental, including the rear main seal tool, which can save thousands if you choose to replace it yourself.
In some cases, certain components may require servicing or replacement in conjunction with IMS bearing replacement. For example, the Porsche’s clutch, pressure plate, flywheel, throw-out bearing, rear main seal (RMS), air-oil separator (AOS), and water pump are commonly replaced together with the intermediate shaft bearing. Additionally, M96 5-chain engines found in 97-02 Boxster and 99-01 911 models may need their Variocam wear pads replaced before IMS bearing replacement, adding labor costs as the wear pads themselves are relatively inexpensive.