IMS / VIN number

[leocanto]

The more I hear about this “IMS” failure issue the more I don’t understand. I mean I understand what the problem is but I don’t understand if it is something that happens on 996, 997 model 2005 , all Porsches, etc…

I spoke to a mechanic once and he asked me if I have a 996, I said “ no 997”…his answer was don’t worry this is a 996 issue.

Then I read on a forum that it actually affects all Porsches but on different scale, the newer the lower chances of braking…

Now, yesterday I found a forum that says that if you have a 997 2006 model you are good…I guess one question here is how can I find out looking at my VIN (WP0AA29986S7….) if I have to worry about it?

Mine is a 2006…that is as far as I can tell. Also any good places where I can find what exactly in my car from the VIN? (not even sure if this is possible)

Is this IMS issue just a big “propaganda” and we are all making a bigger deal than what really is or should we all worry about it?

Thank you.

[JFP in PA]

The more I hear about this "IMS" failure issue the more I don't understand. I mean I understand what the problem is but I don't understand if it is something that happens on 996, 997 model 2005 , all Porsches, etc…

I spoke to a mechanic once and he asked me if I have a 996, I said " no 997"…his answer was don't worry this is a 996 issue.

Then I read on a forum that it actually affects all Porsches but on different scale, the newer the lower chances of braking…

Now, yesterday I found a forum that says that if you have a 997 2006 model you are good…I guess one question here is how can I find out looking at my VIN (WP0AA29986S7….) if I have to worry about it?

Mine is a 2006…that is as far as I can tell. Also any good places where I can find what exactly in my car from the VIN? (not even sure if this is possible)

Is this IMS issue just a big "propaganda" and we are all making a bigger deal than what really is or should we all worry about it?

Thank you.

The IMS issue is anything but "propaganda"………… All M96 engine versions, right up to the last ones made, are at some level of risk of the IMS failing; no exceptions. If your engine carries an intermediate shaft, the rear bearing can (and do) fail. The pre 2006 units can be easily retrofitted with the LN upgrade, the later units have a bearing that is larger than the case opening, and requires total disassembly of the engine to retrofit.

As for using the VIN to determine which IMS version is in the car, that has proven to not always be accurate; the only proven method of determining which IMS is in a given car is to pull the gear box and look at it………