Radio, dash, windows staying powered after taking out key
 

When I take the key out of my 2001 Boxster S, the radio stays on and everything else still has power to it.

I though I remembered the key switching popping out a bit when removing the key in order to turn it off, but now it doesn't and it feels a bit stiff.

After a few minutes of wiggling or shaking the key violently when its 95% pulled out, I can get everything to turn off properly, but it is definitely a pain.

Should I try lubricating with graphite or something else? Otherwise what part do I order and instructions on the install please?

I am hoping that I can get away with replacing only the electrical portion of the switch, as not sure I can tackle the full steering lock mechanism.

Thanks,

Ignition switch (electrical portion).

Buy a second while your at it, because your replacement one will fail too.

Fix it before you find your car with a dead battery and need to get towed home...been there.


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First off, welcome to the forum

Have you read the owners manual?
Searched the forums?

The powers stays on for a few minutes after the key is removed
In my car the windows will operate until a door is opened
The dash lights stay on for a bit
Radio turns off after the key is removed

Thanks for the welcome! I'm new to fixing things on my Porsche so never joined a forum, I'm pretty active on TDIclub with my Jetta.

I've had this car for 4 years and the radio has NEVER stayed on after I take the key out, and it doesn't go turn off after a set time, anywhere between 10 seconds and 5 minutes depending how long I have to shake the key before it finally clicks off.

The lights and such do stay on for a bit and always have, but the radio never. (Aftermarket radio put in by previous owner) 2001 Boxster S

it probably is the ignition switch
There are a bunch of posts on replacing it

If you DIY, it will save you a bunch of $$.
Look into getting the Audi/VW part as it is the same as the Porsche part, just a different part number, but has a much lower cost (search the forum for mor info)

Part is already ordered, friend of mine owns a brake and muffler joint so he was able to get it direct from Napa for me for $8.15 (yes I ordered 2)

I found a DIY on another forum but looking for something a bit more detailed, will search here now.

i didn't know napa sold the plastic part. i ordered mine from an audi parts supplier, so i guess it's possible they have the right one.

it's not too hard. just a pain. lay on your back, upside down in the car - feet on the headrest and head on the floorboard. reach up, remove the electrical connectors, then with a teeny-tiny screwdriver blindly remove a couple of screws. wiggle the switch out, replace it and try to tighten the screws without being able to see anything...

pedro has a pretty good write-up. took me about 20 minutes to do mine. best tip - get yourself a really small screwdriver with hardly any handle to it. something that could remove the screws from a pair of eyeglasses but with a handle of no more than an inch, maybe a half-inch.

Replace Ignition Switch

Thanks, I should add it may not have been Napa, but definitely one of the places that drives him parts as he needs it, Napa, Lordco, etc..

And here is the Pelican article

Pelican Technical Article: Boxster Ignition Switch Replacement - 986 / 987

Pretty much what Tony said, it's a PITA but doable. Welcome to the forum:cheers:

Be sure to compare (closely) the new part to the old to make sure you have the right one. There is a lot of possibility for confussion and getting the wrong part. My '97 had the "new"style in it, which can only occur if the entire (electrical and mechanical) assembly had previously been changed and upgraded. If it's not the right part it will drive you crazy trying to get it in... If it's the right part and you have the right tools and agility it can literally be done in 10 minutes.

If you take out the headlamp switch and that vent, you can do it all through that hole and by reaching underneath, without having to get on your back and stick your head up there. Check this thread for more details:

http://986forum.com/forums/general-discussions/46411-ignition-switch-replacement-holy-crap.html

Holy crap is right, even with all of the tips from the various threads :) But it is very doable for a regular person :)