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thom4782 · 03-02-2014, 02:52 PM

There's isn't a clear answer.

How do you know it's the IMS that is leaking and not the RMS?

If it is the RMS, then you should replace the IMS at the same time with an aftermarket one.

If it is the IMS, more diagnostics are in order. Check the oil filter and the oil sump for metal debris. If you find metal, then I'd recommend walking away. It the IMS is failing, it's a crap shoot whether the engine will survive a long time without a complete rebuild because metal will be scattered throughout. Many frequent oil changes after the replacement might help but you just never know.

If you do buy the car, have an IMS experienced shop do the work.

Up through MY05, clutch, IMS and RMS costs about $2500 to $3500 depending on local rates. Ten hours or so of labor plus parts.

03-02-2014, 02:52 PM	#171
thom4782 Registered User Join Date: Sep 2010 Location: Foster City CA Posts: 1,099	There's isn't a clear answer. How do you know it's the IMS that is leaking and not the RMS? If it is the RMS, then you should replace the IMS at the same time with an aftermarket one. If it is the IMS, more diagnostics are in order. Check the oil filter and the oil sump for metal debris. If you find metal, then I'd recommend walking away. It the IMS is failing, it's a crap shoot whether the engine will survive a long time without a complete rebuild because metal will be scattered throughout. Many frequent oil changes after the replacement might help but you just never know. If you do buy the car, have an IMS experienced shop do the work. Up through MY05, clutch, IMS and RMS costs about $2500 to $3500 depending on local rates. Ten hours or so of labor plus parts. Last edited by thom4782; 03-02-2014 at 02:55 PM.