Signs of a Porsche Intermediate Shaft Bearing Failure

Posted on | 15 May 2017 By Anita Gaal

Porsche is one of the most highly sought-after manufacturers in luxury brands worldwide. It should come as no surprise that these vehicles are well known for their engineering, design, and expert performance. Like any vehicle, however, Porsche must be serviced regularly and properly maintained in order to function at their best. When you own a Porsche, why would you settle for any less than perfection? Also like all other vehicles, Porsches come with their own set of unique challenges. For instance, it is not uncommon for slightly older models to undergo issues with the intermediate shaft bearings. Intermediate shaft bearings are an integral part of the vehicle that is critical to its overall function.

Find a Porsche expert

For the average car owner, this term may sound dauntingly complicated. All you need to know is the basic function of the part and signs and symptoms to look for when there is a suspected issue. Staying on top of these maintenance and repair issues is what will keep the integrity of your Porsche intact for many years to come. However, just as important is finding the right mechanic to service your Porsche. In order to uphold the time and money you spent on your Porsche in the first place, it is crucial to find experts that will help you keep your Porsche running at its finest, and when it comes to shaft bearing failure, you shouldn’t trust anyone but an auto specialist to address the issue.

Fix the issue fast

If you own a Porsche Boxster or 911 years 97-05, you may want to look into what kind of shape your intermediate shaft bearing is in; these are the models that typically have higher rates of issues with this particular part. Luckily, Porsche automotive experts are trained to be aware of the common issues that are associated with various manufacturers. Do not worry—this is no indication that your Porsche is defective or worth less, it simply means that there is something to look out for. If the problem is left to advance without being addressed, it can lead to significant engine damage that will end up becoming very costly, very quickly. So it is important to look for any of the common signs and symptoms of this part becoming damaged or malfunctioning.

Routine maintenance is highly needed

First and foremost, when you stay on top of the routine maintenance for your Porsche and have it inspected regularly, there are more opportunities for issues to be found that can prevent further issues along the road, literally. Routine oil changes, believe it or not, are one way to detect an issue with the intermediate shaft bearing. Usually when there is debris found in your oil after an oil change, this is a sign that something is off—usually with the shaft bearing. This could likely involve a problem with the bearing seal or flange seal. Even though oil changes are not recommended as frequently on Porsche and other luxury cars, it should be noted that the more frequently the oil is checked, the more you increase the chance of catching a problem with the shaft bearing early. You probably have heard a million times over that oil changes are one of the number one preventive maintenance services—and when you catch a problem such as this early on, it will emphasize exactly why that is.

Final words

If you think the intermediate shaft bearing could potentially be failing on your Porsche, it is critical that it not be driven anywhere, for any reason, at any time. Your best bet is to get a loaner car and have your Porsche towed to the nearest trusted Porsche service center. Because the shaft bearing is such an integral part of the vehicle, and not as well known as say a motor mount, the symptoms tend to go overlooked and eventually cause irreparable damage to your Porsche. Anyone who owns a Porsche knows just how devastating it can be to see your car incapacitated, so take the necessary steps to continue your regular preventive maintenance with only the most qualified professionals. Luckily, Porsche has addressed the issue of the intermediate shaft bearing failure in some of their models, and may offer compensation for the part to be replaced. You should look into the specifics on this if you suspect an issue with this part.

Porsche Carerra 2002 image credit goes to: contrastaddict