I hardly use my AC (02 C2 coupe). I always shut it off before I shut down the motor so the car starts with it off. Today, I started the car after it had been already been driven a bit, turned on the AC, and the AC would not start blowing. I bumped the force all the way up and nothing happened except the level indicator would go down to nothing and then inch up to indicate max, stay there for a few seconds and then go back down, then up, then down, and still no air. I turned the AC off and opened the windows. Anyone ever have this happen?

 

Happened to me a few times... was the ignition-switch.

 

Ignition switch??? Mine has been acting up too lately. Sometimes difficult to get the key in or out and disengage the steering lock. Does that sound familiar? How much to fix?
Thanks!!

 

Check ebay, you can find the part that you for less than $30.00. My mechanic charged me $35.00 for the install, but you could do it yourself. I think you need a special tool, but a very small screwdriver will do. Check Renntech.org, very helpfull information there. If you go to the dealer out of warranty this will be a $400.00 + job.

 

Are you sure it's not just the A/C regulator/motor? My A/C went out twice on my previous car and it was because of the damn motor. It was under warranty, so it didn't cost me anything, but I'm surprised to hear that this can also be caused by an ignition switch....

 

I would think that the two are related. The AC stopped blowing at the same time I was having trouble with my ignition switch.

If I buy the new switch, do I get a new key with it? Or, have the old key changed to the new switch by a locksmith?

 

What brakes is an "electronic" switch. Go to ebay and search for "996 ignition switch". You will see what it is. You just have to replace this part. My understanding is that Porsche does not sell this part any more and you have to buy the hole thing wich is "mucho dinero", The same part is used by VW and Audi, so you can also get it at one of their dealers.

 

Thank you!! I found the part on E-bay and bought it for $25.00. It is a VW/Audi part. I'm sure this is the problem with the A/C. Both acted up at the same time. Thanks again...

 

It just happend to me a few weeks ago also. That is why I love this forums...

 

WOW - me too just hours ago!!!

I couldn't get ignition to turn last week - had to flatbed to dealer where they torqued the wheel lock free. Today key would not come out after a short drive...no air, no wipers (in the rain), no headlights (parking lights did work, windows, and stereo). I just had alternator replaced so just figured the dealer mucked it up the job and dropped 'er off with them this afternoon! I hope I have a $25 fix too!

 

Funny - my alternator went last month. $1100.00!! Now we have the same problem with the key??? Hmmmmmmmmmm.........

 

The Renntech.org thread on this topic helped alot - I sourced a replacement ignition switch 4A0-905-849-B from a local VW/Audi dealer today (Pcar dealer had one left, but was reserved for another customer!!!). They showed me the switch that came out and it looks like the plastic had fatigued with time and snapped a tiny gear inside.

 

While it's at dealer, I'm getting my new pimp pedals installed - will send pics if anyone int'd.