Fob works but key will not start car
 

I just got a 2001 Boxster S with two key fobs and one valet key. One key fob works perfectly. The other had a case that had a separated case. I bought a new case on ebay and transferred the key and electronics to the new case. Now, the electronic functions work perfectly (lock/unlock, trunks) but when I try and start the car all the dash lights come on but the starter does not engage.

Any ideas?

Sounds like an immobilizer issue. Not an expert myself on this - try the search function for immobilizer and see.

Aside from the ...
 

... remote's circuit board you also need to transfer the immo pill. It's a small glass capsule which is in the key fob.
Happy Boxstering
Pedro

and if I can't find the pill then what? I checked the other fob and I see exactly what you are talking about. But i can't find my old parts. I did the cover exchange a few weeks back.

Thanks for the insight!

Without the transponder pill, it won't work. There's no replacing it. You didn't throw it away, did you? :o

UPDATE: I found the old case and there was the pill! Pulled its hold-down out with the pill inside it and dropped these parts into the new case all is well.

THANKS SO MUCH!

Found the old case/pill and it works like it should. Thank you all!

So these cars won't start without that pill correct? I only have 1 key fob for the car that doesn't unlock the doors with the button. I need to have another key made, so what are my options?

Without another transponder, you have no options.

You could keep an emergency key for unlocking only.

Will the rest of the car work without the pill?

It will not start without the transponder.

So the transponder is the pill? I guess I'll have to spend another $300. plus for another key or just have one key and hope for the best.

Prompts another query - similar, but opposite, problem: '03 Box, 2 keys, one is fine all around, but second fob does not work. Key starts the car, but fob won't lock/unlock. Battery change makes no difference. Any possibilities? Thanks.


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OOPS. Turns out there are some suggestions (finally found via 'Search") which I haven't tried yet, being from the "ask questions in forum first, then search" school. Please disregard - I'll re-post when I've either found something that works or reached a dead end. Sorry for the clutter.