electrical problems - 986 Forum - The Community for Porsche Boxster & Cayman Owners

j.fro · 09-20-2008, 06:42 AM

Today was going to be a beautiful day for a top down ride...but the top won't go down. I've checked the parking brake switch, it's not that. When I flip the latch open, the top indicator light on the dash doesn't light. As a matter of fact, it doesn't light when I'm starting the car. However, occasionally just driving along, it will momentarily blink on, stay lit, then blink off. As well, the front trunk light is not working ( the bulb is good). Everything else seems to work fine. I will add that recently my battery died and I replaced it with a Braille 2015 all-season battery (15# model).
Any thoughts or similar experiences???

Lil bastard · 09-20-2008, 08:43 AM

Sounds like the micro-switch in the windshield header is sticking, common issue. Try to loosen it by sticking your finger, or a pencil or such in it until it loosens.

j.fro · 09-20-2008, 03:28 PM

I tried the windshield header switch...no luck. I can hear it clicking as I move it around. I went so far as to spray some electrical contact cleaner in there, but still no difference. I also disconnected both battery terminals, scuffed up the contacts there, and reattached them after adding some dielectric grease. Still, I can't go topless.

Lil bastard · 09-20-2008, 08:00 PM

There are two more microswitches in the assembly and these too have been reported to stick, though not as frequently.

The 1st is located at the driver side 'B' pillar and is easily checked. The 2nd is located at the motor itself located on-center on the rear wall of the top compartment - you'd need to put the top in the Service position to access it. This can be done manually if you check your owners manual.

Of course, there is also a fuse (B6) and the top control relay (the only double-sized relay) in the Driver kick panel above the fusebox. Check the fuse, and remove/replace the relay to make sue it is properly seated and not corroded.