00 Boxster S Cruise control
 

Newly acquired 2000 Boxster S, cruise control doesn't work. No light on the dash comes on when I press the button on the stalk. Any suggestions on where I should start?

For my 2000 S the dash light was out, replaced the light and it has worked since.

Let me get this straight. The cruise won't operate unless the light works?

check fuses and relays.

What I'm telling you is *on mine* I replaced the indicator bulb in the dash and the cruise now works without fail. Only thing I could figure is Porsche didn't want the possibility of setting the cruise control without any indication that it was activated.

That certainly seems plausible.
Is replacing the bulb a major project? Is it accessible or do I need to remove major parts?

first, removing the cluster and replacing the bulb, is not a complicated task.
however, before you go and take the cluster apart, confirm this is your problem.
turn the ignition key on, and look at your cluster (without starting the engine).
in that point all the lights in the cluster should turn on (including cruise control).
if the Cruise control is on, that's not your problem.
just in case you are not familiar with the cruise control light location:
996 dash lights

#3 - green light

Completely agree with Meir. I was not stating that this is your problem only that it was mine. It could be a fuse, relay, stalk switch, or brake/clutch switch. But for me it was just a indicator light.

Yup mine was the dash light as well... had already replaced the stalk, guess i didn't need to do that

+1 on the dash light. Be sure the bulb is properly in the socket. Mine came loose and CC was intermittent until I got it in the socket right.

I am having the same issue with my C C (2001 Boxster base)...the light comes on when i turn the key but not when i try and push the button on the stalk to activate the C C. I remember reading somewhere that it is also tied in to the brake light, which i replaced with LED (3rd brake light as well as tail lights). Can anyone confirm this or direct me what to check next. Thanks!!