Chappie

I am a new Rennlist member. I currently own a 1998 BMW M3, but am looking at a 2007 Cayman S, 6-speed, 60k miles in what seems to be in very good condition (I have only seen pics). My main concern is that the IMS has not been replaced. Should that be a "show stopper'? Approximately what would be the cost to perform the IMS kit installation.
This is my first post, so please be gentle.........................

HoBoJoe

Not a show stopper, as long as the car is driven regularly and has regular oil changes the IMS should last a long time. 2007 has an updated IMS when compared to the 2006 and earlier cars, so it is one of the most robust. In order to replace the IMS on a 2007 you need to split the engine case, it is not cost effective to complete this for preventative maintenance.

Chappie

HoBoJoe,

Thanks for the feedback.

certz

These motors do not like a lot of heat or over-revs. Do you know if the car was used for any track work and are you planning to use it on the track? If the car was used for a daily or Sunday drives you will likely never have an issue - not that you should not have it looked at though. If it saw some track work, still not a show stopper, but I would have it inspected a little more closely - oil sample, over-rev counts, etc. I personally always do a PPI but I know some people do not. Also, at 60K, if it has not already been done it is due for a water pump.

DaveCarrera4

+1, good synopsis, there are ways to make the .1 motor more suitable for the track, but it will cost several thousand, DOF, sump extender, etc.

HoBoJoe

Did you pull the trigger yet?!

nowakm99

I'd recommend going for a 987.2 (2009+) for the peace of mind if IMS is going to keep you up at night.

tenaciousD

Get a PPI.
IMS issues on Caymans are not common. The overall condition and maintenance history of the car is far more important.

TonyLL

IMS replacement is not common for Caymans. I owned mine for a little over three years from 53k - 71k miles and the only thing it needed outside of routine service was an AOS. Definitely do a PPI before purchase, and if that comes back clean, you're good to go!