Ignition switch electrical

[tonythetiger]

Originally Posted by elgyqc

An ignition that is stiff to turn may not be the electrical switch. An easy test is to remove the electrical switch and see if that eliminates the stiffness. That was not the case for my 2000 5-speed. Turning the key was difficult, then about a week ago it would not turn even to the first position... removed the electrical switch... same problem. I finally had to remove the whole steering lock mechanism and found that the bolt (bolt as in a dead-bolt) that slides into the steering shaft to lock it was stuck in the advanced position. Once the mechanism was out I oiled the bolt and everything now works. Meanwhile I had bought a used mechanism that I installed. My other Boxster is showing the same stiffness so I am going to remove the ignition key barrel and spray oil in that I hope will make its way down to the bolt and loosen it up.
I plan to do a thread on this experience for future generations because learned a lot.

Am I the only one that thinks oil in the ignition switch is a bad idea? I have always lubricated locks and such with graphite. Graphite lubricant doesn't attract dust and dirt, which will damage the locking mechanism. Also, i would be curious what oil does to the plastic parts of this mechanism over time.