986 Dead Wipers, Dim Headlights

[nc986]

I have a 2002 Boxster with electrical demons. Today, the electrical demons killed my wipers (no functions run by my wiper control arm work) and made my headlights shine very dim. It also seems difficult to turn the key in the ignition, like there is some kind of magnetic or friction resistance. All of these issues manifested over night - everything worked OK yesterday. Any suggestions?

Other issues caused by the electrical demons:

- Bought the car first week of February, drove it 40 mi., parked in the garage, would not start the next day. Tow truck able to jump it.

- Two weeks later, washed the car, dried it, would not start. Dropped in a new battery.

- One week later, key fob died.

- One weeks later, washed the car, 48 hours later it died on the highway! Dealer put in a new alternator. They restarted the car, and the driver side window died. New regulator and motor.

- One week later and here I am with no wipers, dim headlights, and a 500mi road trip for work starting tomorrow.

Having combed this forum, I checked the drains and looked for water on the floor inside the car. I checked the appropriate fuses. I looked at the motor, the battery, all of the wires near the wiper motor. Nothing obviously wrong.

Please help.

[Rodger]

That really sounds like a bad ignition switch. It's actually really easy to DIY, as seen here:

http://www.industryfigure.com/berkeley/Por...itionswitch.htm

[porschinator]

That really sounds like a bad ignition switch. It's actually really easy to DIY, as seen here:

http://www.industryfigure.com/berkeley/Por...itionswitch.htm

EXACTLY! You will be amazed what the Ignition Switch issues can cause. Everything from Radio to headlights, even rear spoiler probs are caused by faulty ignition switch (911s).

[nc986]

Thanks! I jiggled the steering wheel, crossed my fingers, and got the key into the ignition. When it started, I got my wipers and headlights back, and the key turned smoothly. A couple of stop/starts later, I noticed the key seemed to 'over turn' and had to click back for me to have full functionality. The drag on the key came and went. I'd say your prognosis is right on.

I'm going to replace the ignition switch ASAP. Unfortunately, that won't be for a couple of days. I'll keep you all posted.

Thanks again!

[nc986]

I replaced the ignition switch today and that solved the problems! Thank you very much for the advice. A note about the small set screws: I borrowed a small screwdriver from work, but even that on was too large. I ended up using one of the magnetic hex drive screwdriver tips that came with my multi-function screwdriver. I had to turn it with my fingers (too tight under there for the screwdrvier), but once I figured that out I was gold.

Thanks again!

- Chris