Ignition Switch Won't Accept Key
 

I have a 2012 Carrera S with PDK. When I attempted to start my car, the electronic key would not slide into the ignition switch on the dashboard. Neither my primary or spare key would work. I tried jiggling the PDK shift lever (currently in "PARK") and turning the steering wheel (steering column is not locked so wheel turns both left and right) but nothing seemed to clear the issue. Key is communicating with car - locks and unlocks doors and sets alarm normally. I tried disconnecting the battery then re-connecting but nothing changed. Since car is locked in "PARK" I cannot roll it out of garage to get on flatbed tow truck. Is it possible that the switch is worn and that replacing the ignition switch will solve the problem? Would that require reprogramming of the keys?

UPDATE: This issue has been resolved. I determined that the key was removed from the ignition switch without the switch being turned all the way to the left - "OFF" position. After some gentle jiggling of the mechanism, I was able to turn the switch completely to the left. Now the key can be inserted and removed normally.

Your owner’s manual describes the procedure to manually unlock “Park” so you can roll it out of garage for a tow truck.

I'd bet donuts to dollars you need a new battery in your 2012. Has it ever beeb replaced?

JMS911, this thread will help you. Regardless, if your battery is original, it's due. Good luck, and welcome to Rennlist:

https://rennlist.com/forums/showthre...errerid=130056

if it has original battery, thats the problem like lexvan said

Yes - it was replaced by my indy mechanic on 18 March 2020 so it's been in service less than 8 months. I have a charger on it now - indications are that the battery is a bit low so that might be the issue.

If you get the car started, have the battery checked right away. If it’s failing, then have them warranty it.

This happened to me the key came out the ignition before the car was turned off now I can’t turn the key. Did you have to do anything special to get it back to the left. I tried a bunch of jiggling and it didn’t work



QUOTE=jms911;17011550]I have a 2012 Carrera S with PDK. When I attempted to start my car, the electronic key would not slide into the ignition switch on the dashboard. Neither my primary or spare key would work. I tried jiggling the PDK shift lever (currently in "PARK") and turning the steering wheel (steering column is not locked so wheel turns both left and right) but nothing seemed to clear the issue. Key is communicating with car - locks and unlocks doors and sets alarm normally. I tried disconnecting the battery then re-connecting but nothing changed. Since car is locked in "PARK" I cannot roll it out of garage to get on flatbed tow truck. Is it possible that the switch is worn and that replacing the ignition switch will solve the problem? Would that require reprogramming of the keys?

UPDATE: This issue has been resolved. I determined that the key was removed from the ignition switch without the switch being turned all the way to the left - "OFF" position. After some gentle jiggling of the mechanism, I was able to turn the switch completely to the left. Now the key can be inserted and removed normally.[/QUOTE]

Ignition Key can't be inserted
 

Hello from Richmond Va

I have a similar but different issue ... nether of my key's can be inserted just about 3/8 inch into the ignition switch and the steering wheel remained “FIRMLY” locked in place.

The partially inserted key can turn the switch to the right and left but doesn't engage the starter nor release the locked steering wheel.


Observations & misc...
The battery is charged and the window drops when the door is opened
the display shows Mileage, speed, time and the radio lights up and operates, remote door locks

What doesn’t operate…
Windows, top, mirrors & horn



2009 Carrera S, 49,000 mi Convertible

Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated
Thanks

Bill



Richmond Va

@bhunter
You may want to post your question in the 997 forum.
https://rennlist.com/forums/997-forum-113/

I never take my key out of the car.....just the fob.