Are 996s notorious for the ignition switch to lock up causing the key to stick or impossible to re insert over time?
Need some facts plz.

 

Yes they are. There are two options, one is a simpler cheaper DIY job with an inexpensive part from the dealer and the other is a long term expensive fix. Do a search on RennTech for the DIY article and discussion.

 

I'm personally on my third ignition switch in just a total of 66k miles on my car. It'll first feel mushy when yoiu turn the key, you may have a electrical gremlin like headlights won't turn on etc, and then the key will be next to impossible to remove or if you do get it out, re-insertion is impossible. I'm told the latest fix is an Audi switch which is supposed to fix the problem.

 

Like Deckman said there is stuff on renntech about this.

I did opt to change out the entire switch assembly with the upgraded one, as opposed to just the cheaper swap of just the smaller piece.
Not too hard at all, only one 10mm bolt is a bit hard to get to.

Overall it is a 2-3 beer job. not too bad.

 

Dealer wants $177 for the part and around $425 to install

is this the upgraded part #
9963470170717643

 

The part # looks right except the last five digits. I don't know what they are for.

 

The dealer no longer sells the ignition switch separate from the lock assembly. It is still available at online vendors for around 30 bucks. Takes maybe a half hour first time you install one, quicker after that.

4A0 905 849B is the part number for just the switch portion. This is also the switch used on the audis.

 

This guy has step by step instructions including pictures of how to do the job,
http://www.gagme.com/greg/996/ignition.php Hope this helps.

 

Thanks a ton for the link -

 

FYI: I did get permission from the guy to link his page here.

 

And please let him know that I appreciate it !

 

Just picked up an ignition switch for $8.65! Thanks for the DIY link!

 

All I need is the switch for 10.00's? The dealer is telling me I need a lock out switch housing the part I was quotes was 119.00 at suncoast. I do trust them, is it that the dealer no longer sells the parts seperately? I am going to install myself looks pretty easy.

 

Tip: Since these switches go bad so often on my last change... one of many last weekend I removed also those stupid plain screw driver type set screws in the housing that hold the switch with allen head type set screws that are about 3/4" long from Ace hardware sorry but forgot the pitch but they are size 4.

 

No sooner have I read this post that I am probably going to be performing this in the not so distant future. Many thanks to those who have made the pictorial to assist.

Shaf