What can cause the window switches not to work?

[rdougan]

I've tried researching and debugging this issue on my Boxster for months now. I must have read about 1000 topics, but nothing has 100% the same issue as I am having.

To put it simply:
My windows work, as in, they go up and down when you open the door handles, but that is it. The centre console switches don't work, and the they don't drop when I lower the convertible roof.

More detail:
The drivers door window drops and immediately raises again when I open the outer or the inner door handle. If I hold either handle open, the door continues to stay dropped (1in), until the handle goes back to the original raised state.

The passenger window drops when I open the door, and stays dropped 1in. When I close it, it returns to the normal height. I think this is correct?

The window switches in the centre console do not work at all. I bought a new one to test if it was either switch, but it still doesn't work. When inspecting the old switches, there was a lot of sticky goo under the console. I presume a previous owner spilt something all over the centre console..

The windows do not drop when I open the roof. From research, this seems to be the microswitch where the latch attaches to the windscreen. I don't think this would stop the window switches from working, though.

I'd also like to add that my alarm does not work, at all. I've no idea why. The horn beeps twice when I try to lock it, so I presume it is because it thinks something is open..

Things that I think could be causing it:

• Microswitch on the outer door handle
• Microswitch on the inner door handle
• Microswitch in the door lock mechanism

However, from research, these all only seem to link to the window staying lowered when the door is open. I've seen nothing about power window switches not working.

So, does anyone know WTF is going on?

I've read a lot about the window regulator causing issues, but could it be an issue considering the windows still "work" (you know, drop sometimes)?

It is also very strange that neither switch works...

Is there anything I can do to test if power is getting to the motor, or something? Maybe using a multi-meter? I have the Bentley Manual, but I am struggling to understand the electrical diagrams.

I hope someone on here can help me with this! I don't want to give in and bring it to a shop/dealer!

Thanks!