Chris87

I started the car a few days ago and the ABS and PSM lights lit up for the rest of the drive, but that hasn't occurred since. However, now when I turn the car over, the dash lights flash like normal but it doesn't start, so I give it a another turn and it fires up. Once the engine does start, the trip is reset and the dash display shows the temperate, rather than the PSI I had previously set.

Volt dash gauge shows about 13, all accessories work, and the car otherwise runs well. Any ideas? Thanks.


UPDATE: problem resolved. Bad battery.

Carlo_Carrera

Sounds like the ignition electrical switch might be going bad.

fpb111

A lot of the Studabaker Presidents had problems with the ignition switch that caused similar problems. Especially the 1956. What year and model do you have?

Chris87

1958 (final model year!).




2003 996TT, ~52k miles, my daily driver.

fpb111

+1
Ignition switch failure is unfortunately a common problem on our cars. The electrical portion is frail. They are easy to change, especially if you are small and very flexible.
The prices range from ~$14 - $300. Depending if you get one from nappa, Audi, pelican parts, or Porsche.
Porsche does not offer the electrical part separately. They only sell the whole lock/switch Assy. Do a google on switch replacement for how to tips.

Chris87

Thank you both for the advice. Given the wide price range, do you have recommend one retailer/brand over another?

Carlo_Carrera

Also check the electrical ground strap at the engine. It is located just behind the right rear wheel well. You should also have the battery and charging system tested while you are at it.

cwilt

I purchased an inexpensive one from Pelican and it seems fine. Here's a link to their site explaining the replacement.

http://www.pelicanparts.com/techarti...ering_Lock.htm

fpb111

I used two of the 10.95 units on my 2003 C2 in ~1.5 years. Then I splurged and bought the $29.00 one. It was still working fine 3 years later when I sold the car. YMMV

"02996ttx50

i replaced mine w a $12.00 vw/audi replacement from amazon 5 years ago.

FRUNKenstein

Go here and get the $29 one.

http://www.warehouse33auto.com/parts...19/14/0/4516/0

Use the promo code "RENNLIST" to get another 10% off.

Warehouse33.net

In stock and ready to ship!

-Jason

jason952

Just took mine out today, ordered the 30$ OEM One. I could not remove the key and had no AC or fan blower as my symptoms. Good diy on Pedro's garage or renntech. All work is done from the footwell lying on your back. A headlight helped lots.

jason952

An update...
I got both the Audi and Napa part. The $10 one was in stock locally and I thought it could be a backup when and if it happens again.

First, it's a pain lying in the footwell headfirst. Headlight is a must. And T-Rex arms would help greatly. But pretty easy other wise and it cured my stuck key.

Thought I would share the difference in the 2 parts.

The left is the Audi part. The white plastic tumbler is much larger and the plastic is harder. The detents also feel more crisp when you turn the switch. The plastic is also more expertly molded with less injection molding marks.

Thought y'all would find it interesting. But, looks like you do get what you pay for.

Chris87

I replaced the switch with the Audi part and everything is working fine again. Thanks! Will definitely pick up another switch and keep as a spare in the glove box.