Month: April 2024

Top Garage in Los Angeles for Porsche IMS Bearing Repair

Posted on April 21, 2024 by - Porsche Repair

Black Porsche 911 Turbo S Car

IMS bearing failure is one of the most critical problems that may occur in some Porsche vehicles. If not solved, this issue can cause a lot of harm to the engine and would require a lot of money to repair. Every Porsche owner needs to know what IMS bearing is, why it can fail, and how to avoid and deal with it.

What is IMS Bearing Failure?

The Intermediate Shaft (IMS) is a very important part of many Porsche engines, especially some of the series manufactured between 1997 and 2008. The bearing supports the intermediate shaft, which in turn, operates the camshafts. When the IMS bearing fails, it may result in complete failure of the engine. This is because the debris from the failed bearing may circulate through the engine and therefore cause severe damage. Although not all cars falling in these time ranges will develop IMS bearing failure, it is a known problem that Porsche enthusiasts should know about.

Why Could the IMS Bearing Fail?

  • Poor Lubrication: The IMS bearing must be lubricated adequately for it to operate optimally. However, the engine oil degrades with time or gets mixed with dirt and other contaminants in the vehicle. When the oil quality is low, it cannot do the work of lubricating the bearing; this results in the bearing becoming hot due to friction and eventually failing.
  • Wear and Tear: Like any other mechanical part, the IMS bearing may degrade with time and may require replacing. Everyday use of the car exerts pressure on the bearing and at some point, it will begin to wear out. It is essential to know that high mileage on your Porsche or aggressive driving can also make the wear of the bearing more rapid.

Addressing IMS Bearing Failure

  • Stop Driving the Car: If the IMS bearing is failing or has failed, driving your Porsche will only result in additional damage to the engine. Car owners should not start the car but instead have it towed to a reputable mechanic.
  • Consider an IMS Bearing Retrofit: You can replace the failing IMS bearing with a better one if the problem is detected early enough. This involves the removal of the transmission and getting to the intermediate shaft. It is a cumbersome task that should not be done by someone who is not a professional mechanic to avoid making mistakes.
  • Engine Rebuild or Replacement: If the IMS bearing has already caused considerable damage to the engine, then in most cases it will be necessary to carry out a major overhaul or the replacement of the engine. This is an expensive fix, however, it may be the only solution if the harm done is severe. A professional mechanic will be in a position to advise on the most appropriate action depending on the severity of the issue.
  • Consider Preventive Maintenance: If you own a Porsche model that is associated with IMS bearing issues, it is wise to change the bearing before it fails even if you have not experienced any problem with it. It may be done during other major engine services like a clutch replacement job. Even though Porsche vehicles are designed for performance, aggressive driving can increase the rate at which some of the parts such as the IMS bearing wear out. It is important to have a fun time behind the wheel, but at the same time, remember to take proper care of the car.

You Can Rely On Us At Carotech Automotive For Your Porsche Needs

At Carotech Automotive, we are the best place Porsche IMS Bearing Repair for all your European and Japanese auto repair in Los Angeles, CA, and nearby areas. If you are the owner of a luxury car, such as a Porsche, then it is very important to take care of and maintain it so that it can deliver the performance it is designed for. As much as owning a Porsche is a dream come true, it is not always a rosy affair because the car can develop some problems such as a faulty IMS bearing. If this happens, you can bring your car to our ASE-certified mechanics for the necessary repair services. Rest assured we will get your Porsche back to its best performance. Call us now to book an appointment at (424) 283-4303.

* Black Porsche 911 Turbo S Car image credit goes to: Brandon Woyshnis.

Expert Tips For Detecting And Preventing Volvo Tie Rod Failures In Los Angeles

Posted on April 4, 2024 by - Volvo Repair

Volvo Steering Difficulty

Volvo cars are reliable and safe to ride… no one is arguing this. But at the end of the day they are just machines and susceptible to wear and tear. Today’s blog post is about a commonly reported Volvo problem- tie rod failure. So what can cause a tie rod to act up and how may its failure impact a vehicle’s handling? These are among the topics that we have covered in this article. Let’s start with the basics.

So, What Exactly Is A Tie Rod & What Does It Do?

To put it briefly, a tie rod is an important part of a vehicle’s steering mechanism- entrusted with the task of conveying steering motion to the steering knuckle and ultimately to the wheel. In short- it is because of this component you get to steer your Volvo in your desired direction. The pair of tie rods in your Volvo also play a crucial role in absorbing road shocks and vibration.

As with any other parts of your Volvo, tie rods can wear out over time. Damaged tie rods can have an adverse impact on your vehicle’s handling and maneuverability. Read through to find out some of the early warnings of tie rod failure in Volvo cars.

Signs To Look For

Watch for the following signs if you suspect tie rod failure in your Volvo;

#1- Difficulty steering

Have you been struggling to steer your Volvo in the right direction? As we have already discussed, tie rods play a crucial role in transmitting steering motion to the knuckles so that wheels can pivot in a specific direction. If one of these tie rods get bent or sustain any other form of physical damages, your vehicle’s steering capability will be significantly reduced.

#2- Unusual noises

If your Volvo is giving off a strange noise as you drive over bumps or potholes, chances are high that your tie rods are worn and in need of repair. So if your car is emanating a clunking, rattling, and clicking noise- especially when driving on a rough terrine, have its tie rods checked by certified professionals. If they are worn, consider replacing them.

#3- Shuddering sensation

In addition to conveying steering motion to the wheels, tie rods dampen vibrations and shuddering sensations resulting from road imperfections. If there is something amiss with your Volvo’s tie rods- not only will you have to deal with different handling issues, but you might also feel shuddering sensation through the steering wheel when driving at high speeds.

#4- Uneven tire wear

Tie rods make sure that front wheels of a vehicle stay properly aligned to each other. A glitch in one of the tie rods can disrupt that alignment; which is something that might result in an array of drivability problems including uneven tire wear. So if your Volvo tires are not wearing evenly, it is important that you have your tie rods checked by certified technicians.

#5- Drifting

This is yet another problem you will notice if there is something off with your Volvo’s steering mechanism- especially with the tie rods. A glitch in the suspension system or braking system can also cause your Volvo to drift out of your intended lane. In any case- if you are struggling to keep your vehicle in your desired lane, reach out to a nearby service center to get the issue diagnosed and fixed.

Preventing Tie Rod Failure

Listed below are a few things that you can do to ensure the upkeep of your Volvo’s tie rods.

#1- Keep wheels properly aligned

Driving with misaligned wheels can take a toll on your Volvo’s tie rod reliability. So if you don’t want your tie rods to wear out prematurely, it is important that you keep its front wheels properly aligned.

#2- Drive carefully

Bad driving habits can contribute to premature tie rods wear in a vehicle. So work on improving your driving skills and be careful while driving on a rough terrain. If it occurs to you that there is something off with your vehicle’s tie rods, seek professional assistance immediately.

Repair Your Volvo’s Defective Tie Rods At Carotech Automotive

Flawed tie rods can contribute to a myriad Volvo Mechanic Holding Broken Tie Rod of handling and maneuverability issues in a vehicle. So, if you are noticing any of the above said signs and suspecting a glitch in your Volvo’s tie rods, please reach out to us at our facility in Los Angeles, CA. Technicians working at Carotech Automotive are ASE-certified and have years of experience in dealing with complicated steering system issues in Volvo cars. Call us and schedule an appointment today!