#1 Porsche Specialist & Mechanic
Expert Porsche mechanics specializing in IMS bearing replacement, PDK transmission service, and air-cooled & water-cooled 911s. Factory-trained Porsche specialists delivering precision German engineering service.
Porsche CertifiedWhy Choose Our Porsche Mechanics?
When seeking a Porsche mechanic, understanding the unique engineering philosophy that defines these German sports cars is essential. Our Porsche mechanics are factory-trained specialists who comprehend flat-six engine architecture, the notorious IMS bearing issue in 996/997 models, PDK dual-clutch transmission technology, and the differences between air-cooled and water-cooled Porsches.
Our Porsche mechanic team specializes in repairs that general import shops cannot handle properly. From IMS bearing replacement on 996/997 models to RMS seal repair, PDK transmission service, and air-cooled 911 engine rebuilds, our certified Porsche mechanics have the expertise, PIWIS diagnostic equipment, and genuine Porsche parts to maintain your sports car to the highest standards.
Expert Porsche Mechanic Services
Our Porsche mechanics provide comprehensive service for all Porsche systems and generations. From IMS bearing replacement to PDK transmission service, from air-cooled valve adjustments to water-cooled turbocharger rebuilds, our Porsche mechanic team handles every aspect of Porsche maintenance. Each Porsche mechanicuses Porsche factory PIWIS diagnostic equipment to ensure accurate diagnosis and proper repair.
Porsche Mechanic Specializations
- ✓IMS Bearing: 996/997 IMS replacement, LN Engineering bearings
- ✓PDK Transmission: Dual-clutch service, mechatronic, software
- ✓Air-Cooled 911s: Engine rebuilds, valve adjustment, restoration
- ✓RMS Seal: Rear main seal replacement with transmission removal
- ✓Turbochargers: 997/991/992 Turbo service, wastegate, intercoolers
- ✓Track Preparation: Alignment, suspension setup, performance mods
Porsche Models We Service
996, 997, 991, 992, 964, 993, 930, air-cooled classics
Boxster (986, 987, 981, 718), Cayman (987, 981, 718), Cayman GT4
Cayenne (all generations), Macan, Macan Turbo
Panamera (all variants), Taycan, Taycan Cross Turismo
GT2, GT3, GT3 RS, GT4, Turbo S, GTS, Targa, all special editions
The IMS Bearing Problem
Everything Porsche owners need to know about the most notorious 996/997 issue
What is the IMS Bearing?
The Intermediate Shaft (IMS) bearing is a sealed ball bearing that supports the intermediate shaft in 996 and 997 Porsche engines. The intermediate shaft drives the camshafts through a chain system. Porsche used a sealed bearing design from 1997-2008 (996 and early 997 models) that cannot be lubricated externally, leading to premature wear and catastrophic failure.
When the IMS bearing fails, metal debris contaminates the engine oil, the bearing can seize, and in worst cases, the intermediate shaft stops rotating. This causes timing chain failure, which leads to valves hitting pistons and complete engine destruction. Repair costs after catastrophic failure often exceed $20,000-$30,000 for complete engine replacement.
Our Porsche mechanics specialize in preventive IMS bearing replacement before failure occurs, saving owners from catastrophic engine damage.
Which Models Are Affected?
High-Risk Models:
- • 996 911 (2000-2005): Carrera, Carrera S, Carrera 4, Carrera 4S, Targa
- • 996 Boxster (2000-2004): 2.7L and 3.2L engines
- • 997.1 911 (2005-2008): Carrera, Carrera S, Carrera 4, Carrera 4S
- • 987.1 Boxster/Cayman (2005-2008): All variants
Lower Risk (but still affected):
- • 996 911 (1999): Dual-row IMS bearing (more robust)
- • Early 997.2 (2009): Some still had sealed bearing
NOT Affected:
- • 996/997 Turbo, GT2, GT3 (different engine design)
- • 997.2 models 2009+ with updated bearing
- • 991/992 generation (completely redesigned)
- • Air-cooled 911s (964, 993, earlier)
IMS Bearing Failure Symptoms & Warning Signs
Early Warning Signs:
- • Metallic debris in oil during oil change
- • Slight rattling noise from engine on cold start
- • Oil consumption increase
- • Low mileage vehicles (under 60k) at higher risk
Failure Symptoms:
- • Loud grinding or knocking from engine
- • Check engine light with timing-related codes
- • Sudden loss of power
- • Engine will not start or start and stall
Our Recommendation:
Preventive replacement between 60,000-80,000 miles OR at 10-15 years regardless of mileage. Low-mileage "garage queen" Porsches are at HIGHER risk due to bearing sitting stationary and developing flat spots.
Our IMS Bearing Replacement Process
- 1.Complete Inspection: Remove transmission, clutch, flywheel to access IMS bearing
- 2.Bearing Removal: Extract original sealed bearing using specialized tools
- 3.Upgrade Installation: Install LN Engineering Pro or Ceramic bearing (serviceable design)
- 4.Related Components: Inspect RMS seal, clutch, flywheel, replace as needed
- 5.Reassembly: Install new components, torque to spec, test drive
Typical Cost:
$3,500-$5,000 (includes labor, LN Engineering bearing, RMS seal, fluids)
Compare to dealer: $6,000-$8,000 for same service
Bearing Options & Recommendations
LN Engineering IMS Solution (Recommended)
Serviceable bearing design that can be lubricated externally. Uses higher-quality materials than OEM. Available in Standard and Pro versions.
Cost: $400-$700 (bearing only)
LN Engineering Ceramic Hybrid
Ceramic balls provide longer life and better heat resistance. Best option for high-performance or track use.
Cost: $900-$1,200 (bearing only)
OEM Porsche Bearing
Updated OEM bearing with better sealing. Still not serviceable. Our Porsche mechanics typically recommend LN Engineering instead for better long-term reliability.
Cost: $600-$900 (bearing only)
PDK Transmission Service & Repair
PDK Technology
Porsche Doppelkupplung (PDK) is a dual-clutch automated manual transmission that provides lightning-fast shifts without interrupting power delivery. Two separate clutches handle odd and even gears, with the next gear pre-selected and ready to engage. Shift times are measured in milliseconds.
Common Models: 997.2, 991, 992, Boxster/Cayman 981/718, Panamera, Cayenne, Macan
Service Interval: PDK fluid every 40,000 miles, clutch inspection every 60,000
Common Issues: Clutch wear from launch control, mechatronic failures, accumulator leaks
PDK Service We Provide
- ✓Fluid Service: PDK fluid replacement with Porsche-approved fluid
- ✓Clutch Replacement: Dual-clutch pack replacement for worn clutches
- ✓Mechatronic Service: Hydraulic control unit repair and programming
- ✓Software Updates: PDK software calibration and updates
- ✓Diagnostics: PIWIS diagnostic scanning for PDK fault codes
Air-Cooled vs Water-Cooled Porsche Service
Air-Cooled 911 Service
Air-cooled Porsches (964, 993, and earlier) require specialized knowledge of engine cooling via airflow, valve adjustment procedures, carburetor tuning (early models), and oil system upgrades. Our Porsche mechanics have extensive experience maintaining and restoring air-cooled classics.
Common Services: Valve adjustment every 15k miles, oil cooler upgrades, chain tensioner updates, carburetor rebuilds (pre-1974)
Engine Rebuilds: Complete teardown, inspection, machining, reassembly with upgraded components
Why Specialists Matter: Improper valve clearances or oil system configuration can cause catastrophic damage
Water-Cooled Porsche Service
Water-cooled Porsches (996, 997, 991, 992, Boxster, Cayman) introduced liquid cooling systems, variable valve timing, direct injection, and turbocharging. Our Porsche mechanics service cooling systems, address IMS bearing issues, maintain PDK transmissions, and handle turbocharged models.
Common Services: Coolant system repairs, thermostat replacement, water pump service, IMS bearing preventive replacement
Turbo Models: Turbocharger service, intercooler upgrades, wastegate actuators, boost control
Why Specialists Matter: Complex electronics, PDK transmissions, and IMS bearing require Porsche-specific expertise
Common Porsche Problems Our Mechanics Fix
IMS Bearing Failure
996/997 catastrophic bearing failure causing complete engine destruction. Our Porsche mechanics perform preventive IMS replacement with LN Engineering bearings.
RMS Oil Leaks
Rear main seal leaks causing oil drips on garage floor. Our Porsche mechanics replace RMS seals during transmission removal for IMS bearing or clutch work.
PDK Clutch Wear
Dual-clutch pack wear from launch control or aggressive driving. Our Porsche mechanics replace PDK clutches and recalibrate transmission software.
Coolant System Leaks
Water-cooled Porsche coolant pipe leaks, radiator failures, thermostat housing leaks. Our Porsche mechanics prevent engine overheating damage.
Air-Oil Separator
AOS failures causing excessive smoke, oil consumption, rough idle. Our Porsche mechanics replace AOS and check entire PCV system.
Ignition Coil Failures
Misfires from failed coils causing rough idle, check engine lights. Our Porsche mechanics diagnose and replace coils, spark plugs.
Suspension Wear
Control arms, bushings, ball joints wear affecting precise Porsche handling. Our Porsche mechanics rebuild suspension to factory specifications.
Turbo Failures
997/991/992 Turbo wastegate issues, oil seal leaks, compressor wheel damage. Our Porsche mechanics rebuild and replace turbochargers.
Complete Porsche Mechanic Services
Engine & IMS
- • IMS Bearing Replacement
- • RMS Seal Repair
- • Engine Rebuild (air & water-cooled)
- • Valve Adjustment
- • Oil System Upgrades
- • AOS Replacement
- • Coolant System Service
- • Turbocharger Service
Transmission
- • PDK Service & Repair
- • PDK Clutch Replacement
- • Tiptronic Service
- • Manual Clutch Replacement
- • Dual-Mass Flywheel
- • Shifter Cable Adjustment
- • Transmission Fluid Service
- • Mechatronic Programming
Suspension & Brakes
- • PASM Suspension Service
- • Control Arm Replacement
- • Ball Joint Replacement
- • Wheel Alignment
- • Brake Pad & Rotor Service
- • PCCB Ceramic Brakes
- • Brake Fluid Flush
- • Track Alignment Setup
Performance & Mods
- • ECU Tuning
- • Exhaust System Upgrades
- • Turbo Upgrades
- • Suspension Modifications
- • Brake Upgrades
- • Track Preparation
- • Data Logging Analysis
- • Corner Balancing
Why Choose Our Porsche Mechanics Over the Dealer?
30-40% Less Cost
Our Porsche mechanic rates are significantly lower than Porsche dealership prices. Same factory-level expertise, genuine Porsche parts, and PIWIS diagnostics - without the dealership markup.
Dealer IMS Bearing: $6,000-$8,000
Our Price: $3,500-$5,000
Direct Mechanic Access
Work directly with your Porsche mechanic. No service advisors or middlemen. Your Porsche mechanic communicates directly about IMS bearing, PDK, RMS, and all repairs.
Direct mechanic phone contact
Transparent pricing & explanations
Same technician every visit
Faster Turnaround
Most Porsche mechanic services completed within 1-3 days. No waiting weeks for dealer appointments or parts. Flexible scheduling for track prep and performance work.
Same-day oil service
Next-day brake work
Priority for track customers
Porsche Mechanic Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Porsche mechanic cost?
Porsche mechanic rates range from $175 for oil service to $3,500-$5,000 for IMS bearing replacement. Our Porsche mechanics charge 30-40% less than dealerships while maintaining factory-level quality with genuine Porsche parts and PIWIS diagnostic equipment.
What Porsche models do your mechanics service?
Our Porsche mechanics service all models including 911 (996-992), Boxster, Cayman, Cayenne, Macan, Panamera, Taycan, and air-cooled 911s. We specialize in IMS bearing replacement, PDK transmission service, and flat-six engine rebuilds across all Porsche generations.
Can your Porsche mechanic do IMS bearing replacement?
Yes. Our Porsche mechanics are IMS bearing specialists for 996 and 997 models. We perform complete IMS bearing replacement with LN Engineering Pro or Ceramic bearings, inspect all related components including RMS seal and clutch, and provide detailed failure analysis and prevention recommendations.
Do you work on air-cooled Porsches?
Absolutely. Our Porsche mechanics have extensive experience with air-cooled 911s including 964, 993, 930, and earlier models. We perform engine rebuilds, valve adjustments, carburetor service, oil system upgrades, and complete restorations on air-cooled classics.
How long does Porsche service take?
Most Porsche mechanic services are completed within 1-3 days. Oil service takes 1 hour, brake service 2-3 hours, IMS bearing replacement 2-3 days, PDK clutch replacement 3-4 days. Complex engine rebuilds may take 1-2 weeks depending on parts availability and rebuild scope.
Can your mechanic service PDK transmission?
Yes. Our Porsche mechanics are PDK transmission specialists. We service PDK fluid changes, clutch pack replacement, mechatronic unit repair, hydraulic accumulator replacement, and software updates. We handle all PDK transmission maintenance and repairs with PIWIS diagnostic equipment.
Will using an independent Porsche mechanic void my warranty?
No. Federal law (Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act) protects your right to use an independent Porsche mechanic without voiding warranty. Our Porsche mechanics document all services to factory specifications, use OEM parts, and maintain proper service records that satisfy Porsche warranty requirements.
Do you work on turbocharged Porsches?
Yes. Our Porsche mechanics specialize in turbocharged models including 997 Turbo, 991 Turbo, 992 Turbo, Cayenne Turbo, and Macan Turbo. We service turbochargers, intercoolers, wastegate actuators, boost control systems, and perform turbo upgrades and tuning.
Why We're Your Best Porsche Mechanic Choice
Factory-Trained Specialists
Our Porsche mechanics receive continuous training on flat-six engines, PDK transmissions, PASM suspension, and IMS bearing replacement. We're not general import mechanics - we're Porsche specialists.
Porsche PIWIS Diagnostics
Our Porsche mechanic shop uses official Porsche PIWIS diagnostic systems and specialized tools for IMS bearing replacement, PDK service, and all repairs. Accurate diagnosis means proper repair the first time.
127+ Five-Star Reviews
With 127+ five-star reviews, Porsche enthusiasts trust our mechanics for IMS bearing replacement, PDK service, and all Porsche maintenance. We deliver exceptional results every time.
Ready to Experience Expert Porsche Mechanic Service?
Join Porsche enthusiasts who trust our IMS bearing specialists for preventive IMS replacement, PDK transmission service, and air-cooled 911 expertise. From track preparation to engine rebuilds - we deliver Porsche excellence without the dealership price tag.
Corsa Auto operates a premier Porsche mechanic facility providing factory-level service for all Porsche models and generations. Our Porsche mechanics specialize in the infamous IMS bearing replacement for 996 and 997 models, PDK dual-clutch transmission service, air-cooled 911 engine rebuilds, and RMS seal repair. When seeking a Porsche mechanic near me, discriminating Porsche enthusiasts choose Corsa Auto for our combination of specialized IMS bearing expertise, PIWIS diagnostic equipment, and transparent pricing.
Our Porsche mechanic team undergoes continuous training on flat-six engine architecture, IMS bearing replacement procedures using LN Engineering components, PDK transmission mechatronic systems, and the differences between air-cooled and water-cooled Porsche maintenance. Every Porsche mechanic at our facility understands that IMS bearing failure in 996/997 models isn't just an oil leak - it's a catastrophic failure that destroys entire engines if not addressed preventively. This specialized knowledge sets our Porsche mechanicsapart from general European car shops that lack Porsche-specific IMS bearing experience.
As a trusted Porsche specialist, we handle everything from routine oil service to complex IMS bearing replacement, PDK clutch pack replacement, air-cooled 911 engine rebuilds, and turbocharger service on 997/991/992 Turbo models. Our Porsche mechanic rates are 30-40% less than Porsche dealership pricing while delivering identical factory-level service quality. When you bring your 911, Boxster, Cayman, or any Porsche to our Porsche mechanic shop, you receive expert IMS bearing diagnosis, transparent pricing on PDK service, and proper repair using genuine Porsche and LN Engineering components - without dealership markup.
The Porsche mechanic market requires specialized knowledge that general import shops lack. Our Porsche mechanics work on all models including 996, 997, 991, 992, Boxster, Cayman, Cayenne, Macan, Panamera, Taycan, and air-cooled classics. Whether you need preventive IMS bearing replacement ($3,500-$5,000 vs $6,000-$8,000+ at dealers), PDK transmission service, RMS seal repair, or air-cooled 911 valve adjustment, our Porsche mechanic specialists provide exceptional service. We understand that Porsche ownership is about precision German engineering and driving dynamics - our mechanics preserve these qualities through proper maintenance.
Our certified Porsche mechanic specialists take particular pride in IMS bearing replacement expertise. Between 1997-2008, Porsche used sealed IMS bearings in 996 and early 997 models that fail catastrophically between 60,000-80,000 miles (or sooner on low-mileage garage queens). When the IMS bearing fails, metal debris contaminates engine oil, the intermediate shaft stops rotating, timing chains fail, and valves hit pistons causing complete engine destruction costing $20,000-$30,000+. Our Porsche mechanics perform preventive IMS bearing replacement using LN Engineering Pro or Ceramic bearings, inspect all related components including RMS seal and clutch, and provide detailed failure analysis to prevent catastrophic engine damage.
PDK (Porsche Doppelkupplung) dual-clutch transmission service is another specialty of our Porsche mechanic team. Found in 997.2, 991, 992, Boxster/Cayman 981/718, Panamera, Cayenne, and Macan models, PDK transmissions provide lightning-fast shifts through two separate clutches handling odd and even gears. Our Porsche mechanics service PDK fluid changes every 40,000 miles, replace worn dual-clutch packs, repair mechatronic hydraulic control units, and perform software updates using PIWIS diagnostic equipment. While dealerships often quote $8,000-$12,000 for PDK clutch replacement, our Porsche mechanics complete the same service for $5,000-$7,000 using genuine Porsche components.
Call our Porsche mechanic shop at 407-296-4466 to schedule your IMS bearing inspection, PDK service, or any Porsche maintenance. Experience why discriminating Porsche owners choose our Porsche mechanics over dealerships. Trust our factory-trained Porsche specialist team for all your service needs, from preventive IMS bearing replacement to air-cooled 911 engine rebuilds, PDK transmission service, and track preparation. We deliver Porsche precision without Porsche dealership pricing.