tiptronic shift lever locking

[Chris Adams]

The car is a 1998 996 Carrera C2 tiptronic, engine replaced by last owner. Had it for 9 months, and the smile hasn't left my face.

Until....its first problem

If I start the car with the tiptronic lever in the P or N position, I can't then move it to D or R - the locking button can't be depressed.

The only way I can operate the car is by keying the ignition switch to the second (45 degree from start) position, depressing the locking button, and keeping it depressed while I start the engine and engage D or R. Changes between D and R are ok, but if the car stops and N or P is engaged, the locking button resists depression.

First discussion with Porsche service has suggested the ignition cable may be faulty (there was apparently a recall on this) but if replacement doesn't work they're suggesting a long (and expensive) investigation.

Wondered if anyone please has solved this problem already, and can offer insights which could speed the repair.

Thanks in advance for any help!

[Loren]

Do you mean ignition switch? There was no recall on the switch just a Service Bulletin. They just go bad and Porsche has now changed the design so if you need a switch they now have to replace the lock also. You can still find the old switch at some Audi or VW dealers - 4A0 905 849 B.

[Chris Adams]

Do you mean ignition switch? There was no recall on the switch just a Service Bulletin. They just go bad and Porsche has now changed the design so if you need a switch they now have to replace the lock also. You can still find the old switch at some Audi or VW dealers - 4A0 905 849 B.

Hi Loren - thanks for this speedy response

My local Porsche centre talked about the cable which connects the ignition switch to the various bits of the car.

I'll post more info later this week after I've seen them again.