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Engine "slow" to turn over

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Old 11-05-2018, 08:42 PM
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wkoperwhats
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Default Engine "slow" to turn over

My '04 996TT has recently developed an odd issue. If I turn the key to the "start" position, it will take about 3-4 seconds before the starter actually starts to turn the engine over. In that time I can't hear *anything* happening. At first I thought that it was a failing clutch lockout switch (now replaced), but even with the switch bypassed with a jumper (apparently a common mod) the delay persists. I recently found that simply turning the key to the "on" position and leaving it there for a few seconds will do the trick, and then turning to "start" will fire the engine right up. Is there some sort of starter lockout until fuel pressure builds up? Doesn't seem likely, and again - I can't hear any pump running in the mean time, but I'm at a loss.

Cheers.

-bill k
Old 11-05-2018, 08:45 PM
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mffarrell
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Originally Posted by wkoperwhats
My '04 996TT has recently developed an odd issue. If I turn the key to the "start" position, it will take about 3-4 seconds before the starter actually starts to turn the engine over. In that time I can't hear *anything* happening. At first I thought that it was a failing clutch lockout switch (now replaced), but even with the switch bypassed with a jumper (apparently a common mod) the delay persists. I recently found that simply turning the key to the "on" position and leaving it there for a few seconds will do the trick, and then turning to "start" will fire the engine right up. Is there some sort of starter lockout until fuel pressure builds up? Doesn't seem likely, and again - I can't hear any pump running in the mean time, but I'm at a loss.

Cheers.

-bill k
Could be a faulty ignition switch.
Old 11-05-2018, 08:55 PM
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wkoperwhats
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I'll have to read through the repair manual (and Adrian Streather's book) to see how difficult that would be to replace. I assume that the tumblers could be moved over from the old ignition so that it wouldn't require a new key and programming. Why would the delay be so consistent?
Old 11-05-2018, 09:03 PM
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Atrox
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You aren’t replacing the tumblers just the electrical switch portion. $30 dollar part and 20 min install with a screwdriver and some contortionist skills. Very, very, very, very, common problem with these cars. Google search faulty 996 ignition switch. Most of us keep a spare in the glove box.

the MAF and the ignition switch are two parts that cause seemingly unrelated issues that common sense makes you think “how’s that possible”?
Old 11-05-2018, 09:05 PM
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Old 11-05-2018, 09:23 PM
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gus5gus
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Be aware that if you check out the DIY section, you will find the advice that the complete ignition / steering lock
mechanism should be replaced. The reason.....the ignition switch portion is prone to failure, so replacing the
complete unit gets you upgraded components that translate into longevity. But the removal / install is more
complex.

Your choice.

Tony
'02, 996TT
Old 11-05-2018, 09:36 PM
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"02996ttx50
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i agree,. simple fix. the ignition switch.
Old 11-05-2018, 10:20 PM
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Atrox
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Originally Posted by gus5gus
Be aware that if you check out the DIY section, you will find the advice that the complete ignition / steering lock
mechanism should be replaced. The reason.....the ignition switch portion is prone to failure, so replacing the
complete unit gets you upgraded components that translate into longevity. But the removal / install is more
complex.

Your choice.

Tony
'02, 996TT
electric switch issues even with upgraded components.
Old 11-06-2018, 12:30 AM
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wkoperwhats
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Awesome, thanks for the advise. Now off to Pelican to order parts. I'll report back what I learned.
Old 11-06-2018, 01:08 PM
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Rvca3112
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I’ve been having the same issue. Occasional no start at all even after 2-3 tries. Then it works. Just ordered a new ignition switch, looking forward to doing it

and LOL at keeping a spare in the glove box. Hopefully next to the spare maf sensors
Old 11-06-2018, 01:54 PM
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Atrox
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Also this will make the install much easier, this set is great. Harbor freight for the win.



Old 11-06-2018, 05:26 PM
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i replaced mine about 50k miles ago with the vw/audi switch from amazon for 12 bucks. no spare here ( jinx lol )



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