An independent Porsche mechanic for Estepona has to treat each generation as its own car, because a 996 and a 992 have very little in common. We see Porsches regularly at SRM Performance and know where to look on each one.
On the 996 and early 997 911s, and the 986 and 987 Boxster and Cayman with the M96 or M97 engine, the intermediate shaft (IMS) bearing is the long-running worry, along with bore scoring and rear main seal leaks. On V8 Cayenne 957s, the plastic coolant pipes under the intake are a known failure. And on Cayennes and Panameras with air suspension, the air springs and compressor eventually play up, especially in coastal heat.
For performance, a twin-turbo Macan S or Cayenne S takes a remap well, and a 911 or Cayman benefits from a custom stainless exhaust with a valve. Always to your spec and always after a proper diagnosis, because cutting corners on a Porsche gets expensive quickly.
≈ 38 min
by car
≈ 42 km
Driving route to the workshop
Your Porsche, from Estepona
About 45 km west. The AP-7 to Guadiaro is a pleasant, quiet stretch; from there take the A-7 to San Roque and La Línea. If your Porsche is showing a temperature or suspension warning, message us before you set off.
Common Porsche jobs
IMS bearing
Inspection and replacement on M96 and M97 engines in the 996, 997, Boxster and Cayman.
Cayenne coolant pipes
Replacing the plastic pipes under the intake on V8 Cayennes.
Air suspension
Air springs, compressor and valves on Cayenne, Macan and Panamera models with air.
Valved exhausts
Custom stainless exhausts for the 911, Boxster and Cayman, and repairs to the factory exhaust valves.
Servicing
Oil, plugs, brakes and fluids at the right intervals, with a check for oil and coolant leaks.
Models we see
- Porsche 911 (996)
- Porsche 911 (997)
- Porsche 911 (991)
- Porsche Boxster (987)
- Porsche Cayman (981)
- Porsche Cayenne (957)
- Porsche Cayenne (958)
- Porsche Macan
Frequently asked questions
How do I know if my 996 is at risk of IMS failure?
It depends on the year, the bearing type and the car's history. There are signs in the oil and filter worth checking. We'll go through it with the car in front of us.
Do you work on high-end Porsches and supercars?
Yes. Alongside the everyday 911, Boxster, Cayman, Cayenne and Macan, we work on high-end Porsches and supercars.
Can a Macan be remapped?
Turbocharged petrol versions such as the Macan S and GTS usually respond well. We check the car first and tell you what's realistic.
My Cayenne is losing coolant. What could it be?
On 957-generation V8s, the plastic coolant pipes under the intake are a known failure. It could also be the water pump or a hose. We'll diagnose it.