986 Key Fob Repair Kit - Review

[barkinfool]

Recently I ran across a youtube video which gave a DIY explanation of how to fix the key fob due to broken buttons / switches. One of my keys had an inoperable lock/unlock button for a couple of years, so it was relegated to spare key duty only. Anyways, the person who created the content has a 986 and sells a kit which includes a new battery, three switches, and some fine solder to make for a turnkey repair (bad pun). While you can source the individual components probably for less $$, it was worth it to me to buy the kit because I figured the video instructions were worth it and it made me confident to do this successfully.

Today I got the kit in the mail and repaired my key fob in about 30 minutes. It was a simple repair. I've always been a bit nervous about somehow damaging the IC board and I'm not so skilled with the solder iron, so anyone can do this with minimal effort. I'm guessing some others have the same problem as the key switches are fragile. Here's the link to the video if you're interested.

https://youtu.be/WyyzKFu3nDY

[achillies]

That looks great. I also have a question...does anyone sell the membrane part of the key (or is it not replaceable)?

[Qmulus]

You can get new housings from the dealer for $35 or so, for the factory case or $15 or so on ebay for a case from China. I have gotten both and prefer the OE cases, which fit together better and have better feel. The Chinese cases tend to be too hard. Oh, and the cases do NOT come with new Porsche crests. If you want a new one, you need to buy those separately.

With a new case, switches and a battery your keys will be as new. There is no real reason to buy a new remote in 90+% of cases in my experience. Do note that if you replace the case you need to transfer the immobilizer transponder pill and key to the new housing. This is pretty easy. Also note that you need to start with a key and remote that was programmed to your car. If you need another remote, the only way to get a new one with the tag that has the programming code.

I bought a bunch of the internal switches a while ago with the idea of putting this type of kit, but never got around to it as is the case with a lot of these types of projects...

[Deserion]

Ooh, perfect timing. My remote is having more and more trouble getting the car to respond - the key LED flashes but mostly doesn't work.