Cheapest scan tool?- Alarm and TC issues,

[cb77]

Hi all,
I have a couple problems I'm working through on my boxster, I have a 98 2.5:

1) central locking, the key fob never worked so I just used the key in the door, now nothing works. I get a double beep if I try to manually lock and the passenger door doesn't lock with it, switch on dashboard is dead, I assume it is going to be the unit under the seat but I'd like to scan it first just to see.

2) Start the car in the morning and you have the TC and abs lights on, If I drive it up to temperature and restart they will go off and both work perfectly, some days it needs a 5 minute drive for them to go off, some it needs a 30 minute. But they never come on or off while driving, I could get them off and drive all day and it is fine. If I then leave it a couple hours and go back to it they will be back on. Checked sensors using multimeter, was told throttle body could be a problem, cleaned all that out, same with MAF. Sort of stumped now.

So I'm asking if anyone has any ideas on either of these problems and what the cheapest or easiest way just to get some codes out of it is.
Also if it is the box under the seat for the alarm how does replacing it go? Do I need to buy a new one and have it programmed, are used ones not programmable. (May be a silly question but I know a guy breaking one so thought could be cheaper that way)

Thanks

[elav]

The key fob not working could be a number of things. When you press the buttons, do you see a red light come on? A double beep when you try to lock the car means that there is a fault. Seeing as you said your passenger side door doesn't lock - I would start there. Do you hear the passenger door try and lock? Could be a faulty latch mechanism in the passenger door.

As far as cheapest code reader, I would see if a local auto parts store will loan a reader to you. There are people on eBay that also rent Durametric cables for a reasonable amount. I'm sure there are a number of cheaper options, but people have also had good luck with the iCarSoft readers for Porsche.

[blue62]

Most auto parts stores will read the codes for you for free.

[PLP]

rent a Professional Durametric.
eBay, 10 days, 60 bucks.

[LoneWolfGal]

I bought this iCarsoft OBD scanner configured specifically for Porsche for $95, a fraction of the cost of a Durametric. It does everything I need.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07F3918N7/

[78F350]

The ABS module is very sensitive to low voltage. Have your battery load tested and check for corrosion at both ends of the battery cables.

[dukeferris]

I agree with 78F350 in that it could easily be a battery voltage issue. I just sold an Acura RSX Type S, and It would have lots of tiny issues like that whenever the voltage was down by even a little. New battery and ground cables made a huge difference.

I installed a battery cutoff on my 2001 Box S when I bought it, and disconnect the battery any time it's going to be parked for more than a day.

Finally, I also have the iCarsoft V2.0 and have been happy with it. Haven't needed the Durametric yet.