Hi folks. I'm a new member and seeking some help. I'm looking at a 2008 Cayman automatic and wanted to know if the IMS problem had been resolved by then. As well, are there other problems to look out for. I will take it to a mechanic for review but wanted to get nouns from knowledgable memos here.

I'm just a little confused as to what year the IMS problems were finally resolved.

Thanks in advance.

 

My advice is to do what you think is right. There are no reasons not to buy "a" 2008 Cayman. Look at the one you are considering and have it inspected if you think it needs it and then decide. I believe that one of the worst things about forums is that they perpetuate issues that are very very rare and make them seem commonplace. The IMS, if yours goes bad, is a serious problem but for the other 98 percent (or ? because nobody knows) there is no reason to be concerned. Those who drive without perusing the internet, drive with glee and don't concern themselves with forum discussed issues. Unfortunately, the internet not only helps inform people of a lot of wonderful things, but it also makes people worry needlessly about issues that will statistically probably never effect them.

 

Regardless of rate of occurrence, I'd also like to know which year it was eliminated (if at all).

What some owners don't understand is prospective buyers want to avoid any potential issues if possible. It only makes you a more educated buyer. Hope somebody who knows the answer chimes in. Take care.

 

Thanks elp_jc:

 

2009+ on the DFI-engined cars only. Porsche eliminated the intermediate shaft with that engine.

 

I'd suggest a 2009 or newer model if possible. Not only do you get the engine upgrade (DFI in the S), but more importantly you get the PDK transmission. It is an order of magnitude better than the tiptronic in the 2008. All the electronic do-dads are also better, or at least not as outdated.

 

the 2006-08 Cayman is a great car and the IMS issue is bigger on the internet then it is in reality. I own a 06 CS and been around many man many Porsche's through the years (I am in the business) and have never seen a failure. I am not blind to the fact that is has happened but would not buy a car because of that. If you are really worried and get a CPO'd or quality warrantee to back your purchase. Every car has something that can be an issue and that his the beauty of mechanical devices. Buy the car and enjoy the car, just be sure to give it the proper service!!

 

FWIW, it's been said Porsche started using stronger bolts in 2007/2008 models to further improve IMS. So, if you are dead set against IMS, 2009 & up.
As for tiptronic... yes, it's not PDK, but tiptronic is not a bad transmission. The 997.1 tiprontic turbo actually is faster to 60 than a manual one. In real world, few will ever notice the difference.

 

I bought my 2007 Cayman S 13K in October I totally love the car but I don't know what to do, I'm really worried with all I've read about the IMS issue should I sell the car now with low mileage and get most of the money back, but really like the car, I was planning on keeping the car for ever. I had this posted on another forum for advise. Thanks Milehigh and bullet you made me feel better