Hi,

I'm a *very* new owner of a 2002 Boxster S, whose top didn't work this afternoon--rats!!!--Memorial Day weekend! Here's my story:

I don't have a manual with the car, and it's my first Boxster. I bought it at an auction, so I don't have manuals, records, or anything. At first I couldn't get the top to operate reliably, then someone told me I had to have the handbrake on and had no problems. Now it's been sitting for about a week and again I can't operate the top. I *do* have the handbrake on, key in Position "1" (or the car running), but I'm not getting any top motor action. I'm hoping that it's something simple/dumb again, but my mechanic is gone of the weekend. Any clues? The only thing that has happened since I last had the top down was the car was detailed. Windows partially lower when the latch is released, but no power when depressing the switch.

TIA for any suggestions and have a great holiday weekend!

Stephen Porter
Los Angeles

P.S. Feel free to email me directly at stp@pobox.com

 

this is a common problem

as you mentioned, it has something to do wtih the handbrake

it may very well be up, but the car may not know it, there is a microswitch inside.

to confirm, make sure the PARK light lights up in the instrument cluster.

 

Hi Tom,

Thanks for the quick response. I checked and you are absolutely right. The "PARK" light isn't on--and it used to be. So what now? Is this an easy fix? Any chance I can tinker with it and get the top down for tomorrow?

Stephen Porter
stp@pobox.com

 

its an easy replacement, its like a $5 dollar part. im not sure if it can be done DIY, you may check renntech.org's DIY section. most dealers are happy to fix this on goodwill. its so common and easy to fix.