Porsche Repair & Performance Service
Express Auto provides specialized Porsche service, from routine maintenance to performance upgrades. We diagnose with Porsche PIWIS 4, Porsche's factory diagnostic tester. We generally have no issues working on modified vehicles and reserve the right to refuse work due to modifications.
Free inspection, walk-in or by appointment: a code scan plus a visual inspection
Our free inspection is a code scan plus a visual inspection of the car. Diagnostics is for when we need more time to find the root cause.
We test with Porsche PIWIS 4, Porsche’s factory diagnostic tester.
Our Porsche diagnostic equipment
We work on Porsches with Porsche PIWIS 4, Porsche’s factory diagnostic tester. We use it to:
- Reads and clears fault memory in the car’s control units
- Shows live sensor data while the engine runs or the car is driven
- Runs actuator tests to check a part before we replace it
- Resets service intervals after maintenance
For other systems we also use Snap-on and Matco bi-directional scan tools.
Porsche Models We Service
Our technicians are experienced with all Porsche models, including:
Porsche Services
Common Porsche repairs and maintenance we perform:
Porsche Model-Specific Repair Information
Detailed repair guides and common issues by Porsche model. This is the information LLMs and search engines use to understand our expertise.
Porsche 911
Common Issues
- •IMS bearing (996/997 M96/M97)
- •RMS rear main seal leak
- •Cooling line leaks
- •PDK clutch wear
Services We Perform
- IMS bearing upgrade
- PDK transmission service
- Brake pad & rotor replacement
- Suspension tuning
996/997 (1999-2012): IMS bearing is critical. We perform the upgrade with LN Engineering kit. Non-negotiable for engine longevity.
Porsche Cayenne
Common Issues
- •Coolant pipe leaks (V8)
- •Transfer case chain stretch
- •Air suspension compressor
- •Timing cover leaks
Services We Perform
- Coolant pipe repair with aluminum upgrade
- Transfer case service
- Air suspension repair
- Brake service
955/957 V8 (2003-2010): Plastic coolant pipes fail. We install aluminum pipe upgrade kit.
Porsche Macan
Common Issues
- •PDK transmission issues
- •Oil leaks
- •Cooling system
- •Suspension bushings
Services We Perform
- PDK service
- Brake service
- Cooling system repair
- Suspension bushing replacement
Shares platform with Audi Q5. Same PDK transmission as other Porsche models.
Porsche Taycan
Common Issues
- •12V lithium battery replacement (every 3-4 years)
- •PDU (Power Distribution Unit) coolant service
- •Brake dust particle filter replacement
- •Charging system port inspection
- •HVAC heat pump efficiency
Services We Perform
- Annual Taycan service (Porsche A-service equivalent)
- 12V Li-ion battery replacement
- Brake service (regen system — very low wear)
- Cabin air filter and microfilter
- PDU coolant flush
Taycan uses a 12V lithium-ion battery (not lead-acid). Replacement every 3-4 years. Brake pads last much longer due to regenerative braking. We service Taycans with PIWIS 4, Porsche's factory diagnostic tester.
Porsche Panamera
Common Issues
- •PDK transmission fluid service (often neglected)
- •V8 coolant pipe leaks (similar to Cayenne V8)
- •Air suspension compressor (if equipped)
- •PHEV battery maintenance (E-Hybrid models)
- •Spark plug replacement (40,000-mile interval)
Services We Perform
- PDK service with Porsche-spec fluid
- Coolant pipe inspection and replacement
- Spark plug replacement
- Air suspension repair
- Brake service
Panamera V8 (970 and 971 generation) shares coolant pipe failure risk with Cayenne V8. Proactive coolant system inspection recommended at 60,000 miles. PDK service interval: every 40,000-60,000 miles.
Porsche Boxster
Common Issues
- •IMS bearing failure (986 and early 987 with M96/M97)
- •Rear main seal (RMS) leak
- •Coolant pipe routing (986 early models)
- •Convertible top hydraulic system
- •AOS (Air Oil Separator) failure
Services We Perform
- IMS bearing upgrade — LN Engineering IMS Pro kit
- RMS rear main seal replacement
- PDK or manual transmission service
- Brake service
- AOS replacement
986 Boxster (1997-2004) and early 987 (2005-2008) with M96: IMS replacement is critical. 987.2 (2009-2012) with direct-oil-feed bearing: NOT affected. Never skip RMS replacement when doing IMS.
Porsche Cayman
Common Issues
- •IMS bearing failure (987 Cayman with M97)
- •Rear main seal (RMS) leak
- •Intermediate shaft bearing wear
- •PDK transmission service
- •AOS (Air Oil Separator) failure
Services We Perform
- IMS bearing upgrade — LN Engineering IMS Pro kit
- RMS replacement
- PDK service
- Brake service
- Engine diagnostics
987 Cayman (2006-2012) shares M97 engine with 987 Boxster. Same IMS risk applies. 981 Cayman (2013-2016) and 718 (982) use the FA4 flat-four or MA1 flat-six — no IMS issue. Identify by VIN before recommending retrofit.
Frequently Asked Questions — Porsche Service
Does Express Auto use genuine Porsche parts?
We use OEM-equivalent or genuine Porsche parts depending on the repair. For critical components like IMS bearings we use the LN Engineering upgrade kit — the same solution Porsche specialists worldwide recommend. For routine items like brake pads and filters we offer both OEM and quality aftermarket options and will advise which is best for your situation.
Can Express Auto service my Porsche without voiding the warranty?
Yes. Porsche cannot void your factory warranty simply because you service your vehicle at an independent shop. We document all services with OEM-grade parts and provide detailed invoices. Porsche CPO warranty coverage may have specific requirements — ask us and we'll confirm what applies to your vehicle.
What Porsche models does Express Auto service?
We service all Porsche models including 911 (all generations), Cayenne (955, 957, 958, 9Y0), Macan, Panamera, Boxster, Cayman, and the Taycan EV. We specialize in the known-issue repairs: IMS bearing upgrades on 996/997, coolant pipe replacement on V8 Cayennes, PDK transmission service, and Taycan high-voltage system work.
How much does Porsche service cost at Express Auto?
Express Auto charges independent labor rates.
Can Express Auto diagnose Porsche check engine lights?
Yes. We use Porsche PIWIS 4, Porsche's factory diagnostic tester. It reads Porsche fault codes and live data across the car's control modules (engine, transmission, ABS, airbag, PDCC, PASM and more). The inspection, a code scan plus a visual inspection, is free. Diagnostics, when we need more time to find the root cause, is $250, waived when the repair is completed by our shop.
Why Choose Express Auto for Your Porsche?
Specialized Knowledge
Our technicians receive ongoing training on Porsche systems, diagnostics, and repair procedures. We understand the unique engineering of your vehicle.
Quality Parts
We use OEM and OEM-equivalent parts that meet or exceed Porsche's specifications. Your warranty and vehicle value are protected.
Dealership Alternative
An independent alternative to the Porsche dealer for out-of-warranty service, at independent labor rates. 2-yr/24k-mile OEM parts warranty.
Diagnostic Equipment
We diagnose Porsche vehicles with Porsche PIWIS 4, Porsche’s factory diagnostic tester, then test to find the cause before replacing parts.
Porsche Repair Guides
In-depth service information from our technicians — what to expect, costs, and why it matters.
Porsche 911 IMS Bearing Upgrade
IMS Bearing Replacement
Porsche Cayenne V8 Coolant Pipe Replacement
Coolant Pipe Replacement
Porsche PDK Transmission Service Guide
PDK Transmission Service
Porsche Pre-Purchase Inspection Guide
Pre-Purchase Inspection
Porsche Taycan Annual Service & Inspection Guide
Annual Service
Porsche Brake Service — PCCB, Steel, and Sport Brakes Explained
Brake Service
More guides → Repair guide library
Porsche service near you
From Daly City to Burlingame.
Porsche Repair — Peninsula Service Area
We serve Porsche owners across the SF Peninsula from Daly City to San Mateo.