EBrake sensor off and top wont go up?

[mcomet]

I think something happened with my emergency ebrake sensor as it is not illuminating and the top wont function...any ideas?
Comet

[woodsman]

I think there's a sensor under the arm you pull on. I saw it when I removed my center console cover. It could be a fuse too

[mcomet]

Yeah I found a old thread linked to this. Seems useful. Anyone know what fuse so I can check?

Boxster Projects | Parking Brake Sensor Switch

[shadrach74]

Originally Posted by mcomet

I think something happened with my emergency ebrake sensor as it is not illuminating and the top wont function...any ideas?
Comet

Likely the switch on the ebrake. You'll need to pull the access panel on the center console for the brake and have a look. Not a biggee, take your time. The panel is pried away at the top and then pulls up and out. This should give you access to the ebrake sensor (it's a button switch) inside the console...

[black_box]

Originally Posted by mcomet

Yeah I found a old thread linked to this. Seems useful. Anyone know what fuse so I can check?

Boxster Projects | Parking Brake Sensor Switch

I had this problem with my 986 when I first got it. There is a little white plastic encased microswitch that sets the e-brake light. It's about $6, or you can use electrical contact cleaner on it.

You can jury-rig your way around a malfunctioning one the way I did (with no tools needed) so I could just get the top to operate:

From memory, on the driver's side of the E-brake you can yank on the plastic piece that covers the mechanism. Then you should see the switch and a two prong plug stuck to it, pull the plug out, stick a piece of wire or a paperclip into it to close the circuit. Jam it in weel and it will stick. Put the plastic cover back on if you want. Voila, e-brake light stays on (but not the tail brake light) and you can operate top at your leisure. I cleaned out the switch and it's been fine since.

[mcomet]

Thanks all, I bought the proper replacement part from Pelican for $10 and replaced this morning... All good again, EBrake light works, top functions.
thanks
comet

[chris97boxster]

Just happened to me now
Haven't driven the car for 3 weeks.
Get in it and top won't go down.
Quickly jump on forums and do a search.
This is exactly my problem.
Pulled covers off driver side
U can see the white and black plug.
Pulled it out .sprayed some electric cleaner in in.
No tools needed
Done. Top works..less than 10 min 2 fix including searching this forum.
u guys r great... i am happy now
Good quick advice
Thanks