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Own a 2000 Boxster S with 55,000 miles.
Began having problems inserting and removing the key. Blower for heater/air conditioner stopped operating. Electric windows would not go up all the way on one occasion. The digital portion of the odometer began blacking out.
The issue with removing the key eventually got to the point where I pulled the plastic piece/end away from the metal part of the key, which remained stuck in the ignition. That happened twice. The only way to remove the metal portion of the key and shut off the vehicle was with a set of pliers.
Ordered the ignition switch from Peilcan and replaced it this morning. The part was approximately $12.00 with shipping.
It's a relatively easy do-it-yourself fix.
Firstly, you have to remove the duct work directly underneath the dash. It's easy as it squeezes together like an accordion and just pops off.
Once that is complete, the most difficult act is positioning yourself in such a manner whereby you can access the miniscule set screws that hold in the electrical portion of the switch.
You will need a flat head screwdriver the size of which you would use to adjust the screws on a pair of eyeglasses. My switch was original, so I had to scrape away wax or plastic or paint from the two screw heads.
Unplug the wire set/plug assembly from the switch.
DO NOT remove the set screws, simply loosen them enough so that you can pull out the switch. This is the most difficult part of the process since the screws are so tiny and somewhat difficult to access. I'm six feet tall and have wide shoulders, so it took some doing to get in a position on my back whereby I could get anything done. I had to use my left hand to loosen the screws. You will need a light. I used a headlamp which worked great as it keeps your hands free.
The switch will slide right out. I then unhooked the negative terminal on the battery.
I took the new switch and plugged it into the wire set/plug assembly. I would recommend doing that before you slide the new switch back into place as it plugs together a little hard. I couldn't imagine trying to do it any other way. Slide the new switch back into place and tighten the two set screws.
Replace the duct work.
Shut your doors and trunk if you have them open.
Hook up the negative battery terminal you previously unhooked. Shut the hood.
Insert the key and start 'er up. She should be good to go with no problems.
The new switch cured all of the little issues described above. The key also can now be inserted and removed with ease.
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