Convertable Top

[viperroom]

I've got a '98 Boxter and the top stopped functioning. It went from working perfectly to just dead. I've checked the fuses and put a meter on the in dash switch and they are working fine. I don't think it is a motor problem because there is absolute silence when the switch is deployed. I've made sure all the other contacts are functioning re: emergency brake switch and switch at the top center of the windshield. I have a suspicion that it may be a relay but I'm not sure where it is. Does anyone know?

[insite]

a few things to check:

first, you said that the e-brake circuit is functioning. make SURE that the dash light comes on when you pull the e-brake.

second, when you undo the latch to the top, do the windows roll down a few inches, or do they stay all the way up?

third, since you have a '98, your switch at the top of the windshield actually is TWO switches. one of them rolls down the windows when you unlatch the top. the other completes the circuit to allow the top to deploy.

fourth, it could be the vehicle speed sensor circuit (makes sure the car is stationary before operating the top). see this page http://www.iq.dynip.com/~gary/hacks/cabrio/cabrio.html for pictures of the relay and for which pin recieves the speed sensor signal.

if all of those things are fine, remove and test the motor.

[deliriousga]

(continuing from insite's post, before you get to the motor)

Fifth...check the relay for the top. Either swap with someone you know who has a Boxster or see if a local P-car specialist has a test one and will let you use it for a few minutes and a few bucks.

It's usually something simple with a switch or relay before the motor goes.