TIP/ignition woes

[986geezer]

Recently, from time to time, my select lever will not seat forward into Park position and the console gives a little shift and a crun :help: ching sound is heard. The key will not release from the lock. After working the lever back and forth a few times you can feel the lever seat into park and the key can be removed. I removed the ashtray and piece that holds it along with the window buttons to look for change or anything else that might cause a binding however I found nothing. I have not yet removed the whole console to check further. Is there a thread on how to do this? Does a failing ignition switch contribute to this problem? I am afraid to drive it for fear of getting caught out and having the poor thing towed to the dealer. I do have an appointment for Mon. morning at the dealership but I really need to drive the car this Sat. Do you think I could take the chance on being able to seat the lever and remove the key or is this problem just going to get worse and stop functioning? I have asked this question on two of the forums so I am casting a broad net for an answer so excuse me if you read me on another list.

AKL

[keenkeener]

If it is one of the 97-00 boxsters - I think they have had problems w/ the adjustment in the key-lock-cable. This would definately keep the key from coming out of the ignition.... But im not sure if it would keep the car from being shifted into park...

[ebk5368]

I have an 01 tip and I seem to recall there was a service bullitin to adjust the shifter cable.

[keenkeener]

One way to find out is to disconnect from the lock assembly under the dash and try it that way. The cable is intended to just keep the car from going in to drive without the key.