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Key can not be inserted in ignition SW

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Old Aug 17, 2023 | 01:38 PM
  #1  
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bhunter
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From: Richmond VA
Angry Key can not be inserted in ignition SW

Hello from sunny Richmond Va

I really hope someone has a solution to my ignition Key problem
For the past 3 years the car has been rock solid with no issues and drove perfectly yesterday.

Today I have a "Key" problem with my car.
... nether of my key's can be inserted into the switch.

The keys can be inserted about 3/8 inch into the ignition switch. 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. The steering wheel remained “FIRMLY” locked
and the PDK is locked. I tried lubricating the IG switch and key .. no change.


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 are working.

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

2009 Carrera S, 49,000 mi Convertible

Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated

Bill

Richmond Va
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Old Aug 17, 2023 | 05:16 PM
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Sounds like it's time for a new ignition switch.
They are notorious for wearing out/problematic.

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Old Aug 18, 2023 | 02:51 AM
  #3  
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bhunter
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From: Richmond VA
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Thanks .....I'm afraid you are right but I am checking with a couple local Porsche service shops for their recommendations.
One shop mentioned that they are scheduling service appointments out to November (3 months!!!).
The fact that the car is inoperable and must be transported on a flat bed just to get it to the shop really complicates this issue

The lesson is ...... address the key issue before it actually breaks.

Thanks for your comment and I'll send an update


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Old Aug 19, 2023 | 01:24 AM
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You can likely get a switch off Amazon overnight. Try that first, esp with the tranny locked in park.
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Old Aug 19, 2023 | 02:59 AM
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Just to be sure, try relieving any tension on the steering wheel which might be preventing the ignition lock from disengaging. To do that turn the steering wheel side to side while attempting to insert the key.
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Old Aug 19, 2023 | 09:16 AM
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The ignition switch is easy to change. I think there is a DIY in here for thst and on YouTube. It’s a 15 minute job. No coding needed either. Mine went bad and I could not turn the car off, even with the key out.
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Old Aug 19, 2023 | 06:10 PM
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It is only a 30 min job to change the switch. Around $250.
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Old Mar 15, 2024 | 11:41 AM
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Default Key does not go in ignition 2005 997.1

Just happened to me today. Key will not go in ignition. (2005 997 Coupe) Tried moving steering wheel, sprayed WD-40.. Does this part fix the problem?
https://www.pelicanparts.com/More_In...00&ByPassCat=Y
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Old Mar 15, 2024 | 11:56 AM
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Originally Posted by deptotpr
Just happened to me today. Key will not go in ignition. (2005 997 Coupe) Tried moving steering wheel, sprayed WD-40.. Does this part fix the problem?
https://www.pelicanparts.com/More_In...00&ByPassCat=Y
Very likely
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Old Mar 15, 2024 | 01:15 PM
  #10  
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You'll find it cheaper elsewhere, around $250 for OEM.

As a note, have you tried pressing the emergency key release to see if that frees the locking pin preventing key entry? That's a mechanical way of releasing the solenoid that is locked, might be worth a try to at least move the car. It's located on the lock bezel, under a small plastic cover. A paperclip (or the tool on back of fuse box lid) can be used to press the recessed release button.
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Old Mar 15, 2024 | 01:57 PM
  #11  
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From: Richmond VA
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My problem was different. Key would go in and would turn but nothing.

End result .... had car towed to deal and they replaced the ignition box ... $1,000 !

They replaced ignition key module, its about the size of a pack of cigarettes
The service rep called and said " good news it was only 975.

I asked if it was $9.75 or $975.00. He just chuckled

The background on my situation.
I had TWO ignition l keys on my Key ring. The 911 and my GMC 2500 truck.
I accidently inserted the truck key in the 911. They key went in part way OK but then could not pull it out.
I fought with it for a bit, but eventually it came out. The 911 operated fine with the correct key.

I did it a 2nd time and this time it was really stuck, after several minutes it eventually released.
Soon after the 911 ignition broke.
Now I have two separate key rings
Good luck

Experience maybe the best teacher but boy the tuition is really high.
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Old Mar 24, 2024 | 03:12 AM
  #12  
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Fool me once, shame on you.
Fool me twice… a fool can’t get fooled again!

Last edited by B911L; Mar 24, 2024 at 03:35 AM.
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