Ingition switch key won't go in

[Old Phatjimmy]

I just bought a 99 boxster. The key will not go in the switch (fortunately in the driveway). the car also had the problems with the dash lights not turning off untill I locked the door, the interior lights don't work, and the key buttins dont lock or unlock the doors.

I have done some looking around and the electrical part of ignition switch seems to be the problem with the dash lights but what about the key not going in the key hole. Would this be the mechanical part?

I have the electrical part and have been under the dash ..errrr. Any good ideas on breaking the locktite seal on those little screws?

[healthservices]

Locktite? There are several very good writeups on how to change the electrical portion. As far as the mechanism, you can probably rekey it. If not remove the mechanism, take to a locksmith and they can do it for a charge.

[healthservices]

And what I mean about rekeying is, the wafers in the tumblers wear out sometimes. Requiring at least new wafers or mods to the wafers to allow the key to turn in the lock assembly. Look at your key as well, sometimes there is enough wear only on one side and flipping the key over will work or try using a less worn key.

[KRAM36]

The dash lights should turn off in a couple of minutes without locking the car. When you lock it they go off instantly, so there shouldn't be a problem there.

On the interior lights, check the switch up by the rear view mirror, it may be set in the position for the lights not to come on. The door lights should come one when the door is opened no matter where the switch is set to.

[73f]

If the key is removed with the switch in the off position it can not be reinserted. This can happen if the wrong key is used and removed. Insert a blade into the slot and return to off position. This happened to me when trying to test a home made key.