Ignition Switch - Immobilizer
 

Have had some odd things happening on my 02 986:
Radio sometimes stayed on after taking key out/opening door, windows not dropping when closing door, fuel door not unlocking, keyfob not locking/unlocking doors, had to put key in ignition when I got in the car and turn key, or alarm would go off, etc.
Thought it was the immobilizer (I know its not the correct term, but I forgot the real one) so I went to check it for corrosion. Looked absolutely fine, no problems.
Put all back, went to start car... nothing

Lights came on, frunk popped open, no crank... WTF?

Tried to initialize key, windows dropped, OK, getting somewhere.. tried again, frunk popped open, nothing.
Put the top up, locked, unlocked, turned key, frunk popped open, no crank.

After a couple of tries like this, closed frunk, went to try again... alarm went off, frunk did NOT open, can't open... can't get alarm to go off (open close door, lock, unlock, key in ignition, nothing) can't get alarm to go off, can't open frunk to disconnect battery.

Had to pull inner wheelwell liner on pass side, find emergency release. Disconnected battery, finally the alarm is off.

My shop can't fit me in until June 6. What to do/try?

I was also thinking it may have to do w/a bad ignition switch, so I do have a replacement. I was going to have the shop put it in for me, but given the timeline, I was thinking of going contortionist and doing it myself just to see if that may take care of it.

Any opinions? Should I try replacing the ignition switch, or am I just wasting my time by swapping it out?

Thx ...

There are a couple of methods to replace the ignition switch. From underneath... or the side. From what I've read... I'd go the side.

What you describe... it sounds like the ignition switch. I'd replace the switch before the expense of having a shop look at it. If it isn't the switch then take it into the shop.

Best wishes. :cheers:

IT'S ALIVE!
Thank you for the "push"..
I guess I still have a little bit of contortionist in me!!
Swapped out switch, reconnected battery and BAM!!!
She's running again!!!
I am a very very happy guy!!!

Thanks again!!