Replacing the ignition switch

[LoneWolfGal]

When last I checked in, I was facing pulling the vent again and reinstalling the speed nut that had fallen out onto the floor mat. Still haven't done it yet, but there's a good reason for my procrastination. I was fiddling with the lights and found that I had only low beams, apparently the result of jockeying the vent around. I started to check the connection to the light switch, but then I said to myself, "You might get the switch working again, but why take a chance? As long as the vent is out anyway it would be a good idea to also replace the light switch." I always heed my advice.

I figured the light switch would cost about the same as the ignition switch ($15). I was wrong. Utterly, drastically wrong. Porsche wants $241 for the real McCoy. That's Porsche for you. Fortunately, Amazon carries an exact replica of the OEM version for $79.50, one-third the cost of OEM. It'll be here Wednesday. In the meantime I also ordered a set of Torx screwdrivers, magnetized. They'll be much more convenient than the kludge of Torx bits and extensions I've been using that don't fit into certain places, such as in the tunnel for the Torx screw under the knob for the lights.

.So I'm treading water until Wednesday.

[LoneWolfGal]

The $79.50 special from Amazon. Looks just like the $241 job from Porsche.

[Rob175]

I always try to save a few bucks whenever possible. BUT, having said that I'd bit the bullet and install the Porsche branded part due to the difficulty and time it takes to install the part. Not to say any part could be defective right out of the box but I'd hate to take a chance that I might be UN-installing then re-installing. The $161 dollar difference is "negligible" ....but it's not my money, so easy for me to say.

[dghii]

Originally Posted by Rob175

I always try to save a few bucks whenever possible. BUT, having said that I'd bit the bullet and install the Porsche branded part due to the difficulty and time it takes to install the part. Not to say any part could be defective right out of the box but I'd hate to take a chance that I might be UN-installing then re-installing. The $161 dollar difference is "negligible" ....but it's not my money, so easy for me to say.

Well the headlight switch is easy to replace and the cheaper part will most likely be fine. I replaced one with a used on from low mileage car a few years ago and it and it worked great.

[newBgeek]

The first time I replaced this switch I struggled for a couple hours before I found the right tool (a jeweller screwdriver is not the right tool). The second time I had to replace this switch, it literally took 10 minutes and was SOOOOO.... easy. All you need is the correct tool. No need to remove the seat or be a super contortionist. One screw is plainly visible and the second you find by feel, but with this "special" tool, it's easy to find.



I bet you already have this tool.

[JFP in PA]

[JFP in PA]

Or a quarter inch box wrench

[KevinH1990]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ameMlSYYE04

Replacing the old crest doesn't look too difficult. The only tricky part concerns fastening the speed nuts that hold the crest in place. I have found that my fingers, small parts and tight spaces are not a good combination.

[LoneWolfGal]

Originally Posted by KevinH1990

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ameMlSYYE04

Replacing the old crest doesn't look too difficult. The only tricky part concerns fastening the speed nuts that hold the crest in place. I have found that my fingers, small parts and tight spaces are not a good combination.

Not too worried about the difficulty of replacing the crest. Compared to replacing the ignition switch, which involved breaking loose obstinate set screws I couldn't see, it's a walk in the park. I AM concerned about the cost. An OEM crest from Porsche costs $173. Amazon has one for only $20, but the workmanship looks crude. Anyway, thanks for the YouTube link, Kevin. It might come in handy if I find a crest for a price that won't blow my hair back.

In the meantime I'm going to look for a magic potion (rubbing compound?) that will get rid of the cloudiness in the stripes.