torquetones

I'm considering a very clean 2008 Boxster S that I found with 60k miles. Very clean and owned by a real enthusiast who took very good care of it. I am a bit concerned about the IMS bearing issue but I've been told they are rare with this year and after a certain number of miles on the car. I was also told you can install an IMS detection device that monitors for any hint of metal flakes and turns on a warning light. If this is true, you could detect any warning prior to the IMS failure. Then I read that the IMS is not serviceable for the 2008 model and totally was totally removed in 2009. Sure is a lot to learn when considering a Porsche! I'm still trying to sort it all out. If the IMS failure is a real concern, I'm not much of a gambler and not sure I'm willing to gamble $20k that it won't happen to me. There seems to be a lot of discussion on the internet on this topic and a lot of what seems mis-information and confusion. A local Porsche detail pointed me to a write-up on this topic here: https://www.oregonpca.org/resources/...he-full-story/

Can anyone help clarify this for me? Is this something to be concerned about if you're not a gambler and not willing to risk a relatively large investment in a car like this?

mikefocke

If you are not a gambler, why are you considering any car out of warranty? Every car and every part has some risk.

One opinion is here and they do have just a bit of experience with the IMS issue.

elgy

A 2008 is a 987 not a 986 Boxster... this is the 986 forum. Try posting on the 987 forum they should have more info on the IMS for that generation of Boxster.

NuttyProfessor

The 987 like the 997 received the more robust larger single row bearing which has proven to have a much lower failure rate than the predecessor. However, the bearing can still fail over time and is more costly to replace since the engine must be disassembled to swap out the old OEM bearing. I wouldn't take the advice that it's "not serviceable". If you like the car, then buy it! But keep in mind this is not a Corolla, it's a Porsche and will be expensive to own, but worth every penny.

mikefocke

And there are used engines for a lot less than $20k installed. Note that at a clutch change, you can remove the seal from this third gen bearing to increase the natural flow of oil mist through the bearing.

Brian in Tucson

Getting back to the question in the title, Is Vegas more risky than an IMS? I've lived in Reno and been to Vegas several times. Absolutely no risk! I NEVER WIN! My 01 Porsche engine is a factory rebuilt engine--got the heavier (I guess) IMS bearing. If you're worried about the IMS failing, I'd get it fixed. These cars are for driving, adding worry to the equation ruins the experience.

Living in a corporate gambling city is no risk if you learn to resist all the flashing lights and loud noise. And there's so much other, fun stuff to do. Like going to shows in Vegas, eating in great restaurants, and water sports or skiing in Reno (some of the best skiing in N. America is within 50 miles.) And riding the mountains on motorcycles!

NuttyProfessor

Amen! I'd add that Vegas is a lot more riskier than any Porsche. Porsches will give you the same amount of excitement without being robbed and left with SIDs.

mikefocke

I'm one of the lucky ones. Lifetime, I am way ahead in the casinos. Lifetime, 2 Boxsters, one double row, one single: zero failures.

In Vegas, more people lose than win. Even is the double row owners category, more win than lose.

Geof3

Looneybin

paulofto

the 9A1 DFI came out in MY2009

mikefocke

Sometimes the 911 line got changes before the 986/987/981 lines.