Possible Ignition Switch Issue - Porsche 996 Cabriolet 2000 Manual San

[hotsauce]

:renntech: I have been noticing that it takes two or three turns of the key to start the engine in my 2000 996 cabriolet. Some mornings I just have to jiggle the key a bit. Other mornings it takes a bit more effort. When the key is turned, the electronics always start reliably, but the engine sometimes fails to start. Once the car has started once, it pretty much starts reliably throughout the rest of the day.

I discussed the problem with my mechanic but he was not able to reproduce the issue, and suggested that I continue to drive the car until the problem became more acute. He also mentioned that it was probably an ignition switch related issue, rather than the starter.

Here's the question - is it likely the ignition switch? And do I need to get the ignition switch replaced now? If there is little risk of harming other components of the car, I might drive it for another month or so until the problem becomes more troublesome.

Also, just wanted to say thanks for the quick help on on the water build-up issue I was experiencing in my rear right footwell area after a heavy bout of rain in San Francisco. My mechanic was able to unclog all of the drains leading into the wheel wells for about $85. Since its not raining in San Francisco anymore, the real forcing function for getting it fixed was to wash the car so that I can lay down a fresh coat of wax.

[phillipj]

Fix it now or it will strand you. They key will get stuck in the ignition and then you are screwed. Do not take it to a dealer. This is a pretty easy DIY if you are patient and have deterity.

Go to the search field and search "Ignition switch". You will find many threads and instructions. Parts are only around $20.00.

Here is one link for instructions http://mike.focke.googlepages.com/ignitionswitchreplacement

Make sure you read the threads for the correct part number and other installation tips. I believe you either go to Audi or VW for the part. Porsche only sells the whole assembly :angry:

Good luck!!

Edited May 13, 2009 by phillipj

[jroberts38]

Fix it now or it will strand you. They key will get stuck in the ignition and then you are screwed. Do not take it to a dealer. This is a pretty easy DIY if you are patient and have deterity.

Go to the search field and search "Ignition switch". You will find many threads and instructions. Parts are only around $20.00.

Here is one link for instructions http://mike.focke.googlepages.com/ignitionswitchreplacement

Make sure you read the threads for the correct part number and other installation tips. I believe you either go to Audi or VW for the part. Porsche only sells the whole assembly :angry:

Good luck!!

I just replaced the ignition switch on my 2003, but I did the whole assy. It took me about two hours.

Good luck

jr

[hotsauce]

THanks for you help! You guys are the best.

Brian

Fix it now or it will strand you. They key will get stuck in the ignition and then you are screwed. Do not take it to a dealer. This is a pretty easy DIY if you are patient and have deterity.

Go to the search field and search "Ignition switch". You will find many threads and instructions. Parts are only around $20.00.

Here is one link for instructions http://mike.focke.googlepages.com/ignitionswitchreplacement

Make sure you read the threads for the correct part number and other installation tips. I believe you either go to Audi or VW for the part. Porsche only sells the whole assembly :angry:

Good luck!!

I just replaced the ignition switch on my 2003, but I did the whole assy. It took me about two hours.

Good luck

jr

[CabC2]

Yes, fix it yourself, there is a DYI in the DYI section on this site (http://www.renntech.org/forums/index.php?showtopic=493). I did it a couple of months ago: basically, all there is to it is unscrew 2 screws, with your head under the steering wheel. And, buying the new switch which is $12 in some sites. Same than an Audi switch. THAT IS IT!

Edited May 14, 2009 by CabC2

[hotsauce]

:o OK, so, in response to the issue of intermittent starting of the engine when turning the key, I replaced the ignition switch with Audi part # 4A0 905 849 B as per the instructions. BUT, the problem remains: in the morning, it takes two or three turns of the key to start the engine - when I turn the key, the electronics turn on, but the engine does not start or make any sounds/motions at all until after the key has been jiggled a few times. Once the engine has started, the car starts reliably throughout the rest of the day.

Any thoughts on what else I should be taking a look at? Its a 2000 Porsche 996 Cabriolet, colored mirage, in San Francisco, CA. Really appreciate your help.

Yes, fix it yourself, there is a DYI in the DYI section on this site (http://www.renntech.org/forums/index.php?showtopic=493). I did it a couple of months ago: basically, all there is to it is unscrew 2 screws, with your head under the steering wheel. And, buying the new switch which is $12 in some sites. Same than an Audi switch. THAT IS IT!

[hotsauce]

Could it be the starter going bad? I was reading an article suggesting that I start checking the fuel pump and the DME relay system. THoughts / comments appreciated.

[phillipj]

Sounds like a starter issue. Hopefully someone else will chime in here and give some advice. I'm out my expertise if it's not the ignition switch,

Good luck!

[hotsauce]

Just wanted to complete the loop on this starter / ignition problem. We ended up replacing the starter and the starter relay for a total cost of about $900 on our 2000 Porsche 996 Cabriolet in San Francisco CA. This was after we replaced the ignition switch first, in response to intermittent starting of the engine (which we probably needed to do anyways). The problem with the intermittent starting / no start has now been solved, and the engine starts reliably every time.

Also, my mechanic made some kind of change to my clutch for no charge. The tranmission springs more naturally and fluidly out of first gear and into second now than before the change was made. Even the second to third gear trasmission seems better. The place where the synchromesh catches on the clutch seems earlier than before. Anyways, it definitely makes the car more fun to drive - not that it wasn't fun before.

Thanks to everyone for responding.

Brian

:D

Sounds like a starter issue. Hopefully someone else will chime in here and give some advice. I'm out my expertise if it's not the ignition switch,

Good luck!