97 Boxster Still No Start

[zokman]

I am still wrestling with the starting problem on my 97 boxster. I have replaced the ignition switch and battery. I have bypassed the clutch interlock switch. When I turn on the ignition, all warning lights come on, radio & headlights work. Absolutely no power to the starter motor. Unless there is another fuse or relay in the starter circuit, I am starting to think replacing starter motor is the only option left. I just want to be sure i have explored every option prior to changing the starter motor. As Little Richard would say......Hep Me, Hep Me, Hep Me Pleeeeeeeeeeease!!

Zok

[casharp1]

not sure if I can be any help. but you need to check with a meter if the starter is getting the correct voltage when your trying to start the car? what is the voltage across battery? what is the voltage across the battery when you are trying the start the car? Does the starter click like it is trying to start? how did the problems start, little bit at a time or all at once?

[triumphblack]

If the '97 has an immobilizer (under the drivers seat) try checking it. My '02 wouldn't start but had dash lights radio etc. Took out the immobilizer and open it up and there was some corrosion (salt air). Cleaned it with some alcohol and it started.

[quan717]

yeah i say find the relay to the starter which is in the trunk, and check if the relay is closing.

if click when attempt to start, then check for power going to starter, how many voltage?

if relay doesnt click , check immobo.

[zokman]

casharp1,

not sure if I can be any help. but you need to check with a meter if the starter is getting the correct voltage when your trying to start the car? what is the voltage across battery? what is the voltage across the battery when you are trying the start the car? Does the starter click like it is trying to start? how did the problems start, little bit at a time or all at once?

Voltage across battery is 12.5V, voltage during starting attempt is the same, no fluctuation. The starter does not click.

The problem started when I replaced the battery, about a month ago. After the battery replacement, the car started OK 3 or 4 times, about 3 days between each starting event.

The last time I attempted to start the car the ignition turned on as normal, but when I turned the ignition switch to the start position, nothing.

I checked the battery, almost totally drained. I charged the battery and tried to start. nothing.

I replaced the ignition switch. ( this will be the 3rd time over the last 8 years) Nothing.

I replaced the battery. (Interstate battery bought at Sam's, replaced under warranty) Nothing.

I jumped the clutch interlock switch. Nothing.

I have swapped around the interchangeable relays in the relay block, but not the starter relay. This part is on order. No change

I am going to take a look at the immobilizer this morning and see if I can see any obvious problems there.

any other suggestions are welcome.

Thanks,

Zok

[juniinc]

casharp got U in the right direction,,,,

measure at the starter terminal first, if that is OK U can eliminate the starter relay / ECU.

If not, we need to go backward.

[zokman]

casharp got U in the right direction,,,,

measure at the starter terminal first, if that is OK U can eliminate the starter relay / ECU.

If not, we need to go backward.

Juniinc,

It was the f**king key chip. After batteries, jumped clutch switches and a new ignition switch, it appears my problem was a faulty key chip. I tried my spare key and the car started.

go figure.

Zok