The IMS (intermediate shaft) bearing is a geared shaft that runs through and extends out from the front and rear of the engine. The function of the intermediate shaft is to use the mechanical rotation of the engine’s crankshaft to indirectly drive the camshafts on either side of the engine. This bearing may be small but is very important to the performance of a Porsche engine. Get ahead of the problem and schedule an appointment with The Factory if you suspect IMS bearing failure.