Starter or just a bad key - 986 Forum - The Community for Porsche Boxster & Cayman Owners

Britrover · 09-23-2015, 05:15 AM

Hi,

Off late my 98 Boxster is beginning to have intermittent starting issues. Had the battery checked and it is good which leads me to the next possible culprit. On my 10+ year old Mercedes had a similar issue, and the dealer recommended changing the key which fixed the issue. Not sure if the same logic would apply to the Posrche. How do I determine if it is the key vs. the starter? Appreciate any input to get this issue sorted.

Timco · 09-23-2015, 05:49 AM

Clutch pedal sensor switch. It's a micro switch that sees the clutch is pressed in all the way prior to start.

ETA... I'll but that 328 right out from under you so you'd better buy it fast! Do want!!!

Britrover · 09-23-2015, 07:06 AM

Many thanks Sir. I am going to search on how to replace the 'Clutch pedal sensor switch'. The transmission in my motor is automatic, so not sure if that has any impact on the clutch pedal sensor switch or not.

With regards to the 328 all my effort and funds are geared towards restoring the soft top Landy Defender so go ahead and get that stunning beauty

Cheers!

Timco · 09-23-2015, 07:21 AM

There should be a sensor to know its in park. You won't have a clutch or clutch switch.

Could also be the key switch itself.

RandallNeighbour · 09-23-2015, 07:54 AM

Might be the key mechanism... they're crap and go out all the time. Usually, weird stuff starts happening like your AC not working intermittently, but if the plastic bits behind the key hole cover have fallen apart, you may not be able to start the car consistently.

particlewave · 09-23-2015, 09:25 AM

Symptoms are not clear. Won't start or won't crank?

Britrover · 09-23-2015, 11:17 AM

Apologies, should have been more clear. It does not crank. Air con, radio etc comes on when I turn the key. Also the key fob lock /unlock has never worked since I got the vehicle so just been using the manually to lock/unlock.

oldlace · 09-29-2015, 03:58 AM

Had the same problem. After continuous trying it would sometimes start. Long story, it was the ignition switch. NAPA has replacement for $9.99. Can get a VW one as well for @ $40. Anyway, it cured the problem for a while but had to replace it another time. Next option is new ignition at around $1500 by dealer.

Pelican Parts has a DIY on replacing the switch. Easy to do if you are agile or know somebody who can squeeze under dash.