Well we figured out why my car was not starting. The immobilizer took a crap with only 33k miles on the clock. That seem like a BS Porsche part to me. The shop says they have replaced 3 other 996's immobilizers also. They run $300 to $400 bucks
Anyone else here have theirs go out?

 

ahhh.....

 

what the hell is an immobilizer. oh yeah i get that all the time, isn't that when you see some super hot chick, get the biggest woody while undressing her in your mind and are immobilized. just a thought.

 

On the key or ignition?

$300- $400 that sucks

 

The ignition one.

 

Actually, I just got the call. They need to replace my key heads too. Great now we are in the $700's. This sucks.... All because of a faulty electrical part. Thanks Porsche.

 

Eric K. Great reply.......................


Roy

 

Not cool Chad! Let me call my Service Manager and see what he says about that. Porsche is good for covering known things after the warrranty is up, sometimes they split the cost. Is that shop a Porsche Authroized dealer or service center?

 

Its at a Porsche race shop here in So Cal. Very cool one with GT3 Cup cars and stuff. I did not want to take it to a dealer because of their reputation down here. I doubt there is anything I can do. I will call PCNA just to file a complaint. I mean really... after 2 RMS's and now this with 33k miles... It's kinda a joke

 

Chad I don't understand why the old keys can't be programmed to match the new immobilzer, I assume they have a PST2?

 

I think that you need a code to unlock the keys, in order to reprogram them. That's why those key heads on ebay are worthless unless you have their codes.

 

Ericdee is right. Normally, you can pull the codes off of the immobilizer for your keys (24 digit number) OR keep the little barcode that came with the keys when you pick up the car new (a little tag, that looks like a part #). But if your Immobilizer takes a dump (like mine did) you cannot read the codes off of it (because it's broken). The Porsche dealer can give you the immobilizer codes but not the key head codes (*** backwards).
So my suggestion to everyone on this board is to find that little key tag that came with the keys new, OR go to the dealer and have the PS2 read your key codes (both keys! cuz they are different) You need the 24 digit code...Not the 16 digit.

This is the fourth 996 that's immobilizer took a dump. It could be just a matter of time for anyone else.

Save yourself the $250+ in keys and have them read. Keep numbers in a safe place. That is if your immobilizer takes a dump like mine. (Mine went at 33k miles)

 

Good info thanks Chad!!

 

Ebay 996 Key head link

This one has the codes so it is ok to buy.

 

A valet key head replacement does not come with the 24 digit code on the paper tag.

That ebay key head is not for a 1999.