Reverse Switch
 

After noticing that my rear parking sensors stopped working, I also realised that the backup lights do not turn on when reversing. All fuses are ok so it must be the reverse sensor/switch. Is this the switch located at the rear end of the transmission near the tail pipes? Model is a 2004 boxster s.

The switch (or sensor) is located on top of the transmission, more or less in the center of it.
Check out figure 3 in this article:
http://www.pelicanparts.com/techarticles/Boxster_Tech/45-TRANS-Clutch_Hydraulics/45-TRANS-Clutch_Hydraulics.htm
The arrow points to the switch coonector. The switch itself is located on the other side of the cable.

I think you can get to it without removing the trans (from under the car, on the passenger side). You might need to remove the diagonal plat and supporting bars.

Thanks. So i guess i would need part 012919823f.

I have a socket connection on the transmission at the top on the end of it (near the dual exhaust outlets). What is that for?

not sure about that, since i don't have it in my car.
but could it be for the PSM?

No idea it's not on any diagram I viewed. Maybe someone knows? It's a 2 pin connector plugged to a socket on the top right side of transmission and the wire goes towards the front. Would really like to know what that is for.

i'm gonna have another look at it tonight see if i have something like it.
can you post a picture?

Got to it only today
 

I guess the picture I posted before, is a 5 speed trans.
In my transmission the sensor is located at the rear of the trans, close to the muffler.
Just like you described.
Much more easy to reach then the 5 speed.

Refering to http://www.porsche.com/all/media/pdf/originalparts/en/E_986_KATALOG.pdf

Is it part number 996 606 133 00 or part number 012 919 823 F ? I am confused and so is my dealership, this is the first time that they heard that a backup light switch went bad so they are not sure which one is it.

I believe the 996 part number fits the S model's 6 speed transmission. It is located at the end of the housing. The other number I think is for the base model's 5 speed transmission. You can see the catalog switches to the S transmission parts diagrams beginning on page 73.

thom is correct.
you will need to order part 996 606 133 00

Thanks Guys part ordered... 46 euro after 20% discount from porsche club Malta. I recall reading somewhere that i would need a 19mm to remove. Correct?

i can check it for you tonight. got the trans on my garage floor.

Thanks for your help guys. I removed the switch and cleaned it. Put it back in and it worked fine !!!! It was in fact 19mm. If I can't cancel the one I ordered I will keep it for later in case it gives problems again.

When I removed it there was a sudden release of gas. It lasted a few seconds ????? Car was cool did not drive it all of last week.

It was only a 10 minute job. Thanks again for your help guys you saved me 100 euro or so :)g

ooops.
i checked the size for you, but forgot to post it.
glad to hear you solved the issue.
about the pressure release. on top of the gear box there is a small braether valve.
make sure its clean.
i will take a pic tonight, and will try to remember to post it this time :D

didn't forget this time. ;)

http://986forum.com/forums/uploads01...1355275373.jpg

Thanks Meir, forgot to thank you last time!