2005 Porsche 911 Carrera

In a private sale, the convertible should cost around $35,000 in great shape. If the IMS bearing has been replaced, that's fine. If not, you run the risk of damaging the engine when the work is performed. First, make sure you're looking at models that have the IMS problem; it's not all of them. but a mechanic should find this when you pay him to review the car prior to purchase, which is always a must. Porsche keeps records on work done on all their cars and he'll find it. Replacement runs around four grand, which could be a negotiating tool.

This affects all M96 and some M97 engines in Porsche 911 996s and 997s. If the car has a hundred-thousand miles, the IMS bearing work has already been done, but do have this verified by Porsche's computerized records.