IMS Bearing Replacement Costs: What to Budget and How to Choose Between IMS Retrofit and IMS Solution
If you own a 1997–2008 Porsche Boxster, Cayman, or 911 with an M96/M97 engine, planning for ims bearing replacement costs is smart preventative maintenance. A proactive IMS service typically runs $1,500–$3,000 installed (parts + labor), which is far less than the cost of an engine rebuild after a failure.
Related resources: IMS Bearing Replacement Costs Guide (LN Engineering) | IMS Retrofit | IMS Solution
IMS Bearing Replacement Costs (Typical Ranges)
Most owners see totals in this range, depending on model, transmission, shop rate, and bundled services:
| Service Package | What’s Included | Typical Installed Cost |
|---|---|---|
| IMS Retrofit only | IMS Retrofit kit (ceramic hybrid ball bearing), labor to access and replace | $1,500–$2,300 |
| IMS Retrofit + clutch + RMS | Add clutch components and rear main seal while transmission is out | $1,900–$3,000+ |
| IMS Solution (oil-fed plain bearing) | Permanent, oil-fed plain-bearing kit; similar labor time, higher parts cost | $2,200–$3,500+ (varies by model and add-ons) |
Note: Tiptronic/automatic models can add labor; regional shop rates and parts selection also affect totals.
What Affects IMS Bearing Replacement Costs?
- Labor time & transmission type – Manual cars typically require transmission removal; some Tiptronic cars may need the engine/trans removed as a unit.
- Parts choice –
- IMS Retrofit (ceramic hybrid ball bearing) generally has the lower parts cost but includes a service interval (often 6 years / 75,000 miles).
- IMS Solution (oil-fed plain bearing) has a higher initial parts cost, but is engineered as a permanent fix with no planned service interval.
- Bundled “while you’re in there” items – Common add-ons: clutch, RMS, air-oil separator, water pump, dual-mass flywheel (DMF), fluids/filters.
- Pre-qualification & inspection – Verifies the engine is a good candidate; findings can change scope and cost before work begins.
- Tools & logistics – Access to the right fixtures and rental tools keeps labor predictable.
Choosing Between IMS Retrofit and IMS Solution
IMS Retrofit (Service-Interval Approach)
- What it is: A ceramic-hybrid ball-bearing upgrade designed to be oil-lubricated in service.
- Why owners choose it: Lower up-front parts cost; an effective upgrade when paired with a clutch service.
- Service interval: Commonly 6 years / 75,000 miles (confirm for your specific kit).
- Learn more: IMS Retrofit
IMS Solution (Permanent, Oil-Fed Plain Bearing)
- What it is: An oil-fed plain bearing that rides on a pressurized oil film (like crank bearings), eliminating rolling elements.
- Why owners choose it: No planned service interval; engineered for the life of the engine—ideal for long-term ownership.
- Warranty: Limited warranty terms vary by application; review details at the official site.
- Learn more: IMS Solution
Best Time to Schedule IMS Service
The most cost-effective time for ims bearing replacement is during a clutch or RMS job. With the transmission already out, you avoid duplicate labor and can bundle other preventative items.
Cost-Saving Tips
- Bundle smart: Combine IMS with clutch and RMS while the transmission is out.
- Confirm your current setup: If the car already has an IMS upgrade, check the install date/mileage and applicable service interval.
- Pre-qualify: A quick inspection prevents installing a new bearing into a compromised engine.
FAQ: IMS Bearing Replacement Costs
What’s the main cost difference between IMS Retrofit and IMS Solution?
Parts cost is the big swing. IMS Retrofit kits are typically lower priced up front but have a service interval. The IMS Solution kit costs more initially but is designed as a permanent oil-fed fix with no planned interval. Labor time is broadly similar because access steps overlap.
Why do some quotes exceed $3,000?
Higher regional shop rates, extra labor for Tiptronic models, and bundling of clutch/RMS/DMF, etc., can push totals above the usual window—but bundling often saves money over the long term by avoiding duplicate labor.
Do I really need pre-qualification?
Yes. Pre-qualification confirms your engine is a candidate for the work and helps avoid installing new parts into an engine that’s already experiencing damage.
Is waiting OK if my car shows no symptoms?
A clean filter and quiet engine aren’t guarantees. Planning a proactive IMS service—ideally aligned with clutch or RMS work—helps avoid unpredictable and costly failures.
Bottom Line
Budget $1,500–$3,000 for most ims bearing replacement costs on affected Porsche models. Choose IMS Retrofit for lower up-front parts cost with a planned service interval, or step up to the IMS Solution for a permanent, oil-fed approach with no planned interval. Either strategy is far cheaper—and far less stressful—than a post-failure engine rebuild.
More info: LN Engineering | IMS Retrofit | IMS Solution
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