The Best Way to Deal With Ignition Lock Failure in a Porsche
by europewpadmin December 25, 2020The ignition lock can be found on the right side of your Porsche’s steering wheel. It is also the mechanism where you insert your key to start your Porsche. When it fails, you can have trouble starting your car.
The ignition lock switch does more than start your vehicle. There are different notches with different functions. One notch will unlock the wheel, while another will allow you to listen to the radio or roll down the windows without starting the car. When the ignition lock fails, all these functions can be affected.
Symptoms of Ignition Lock Failure
When the ignition lock fails, you may begin to experience some of the following symptoms. If you are experiencing any of the symptoms, have your issue diagnosed right away. Failing to do so can leave you stranded.
- Cannot start your car: When you turn your key to start your Porsche, it should start right away. When there is an issue with the ignition lock feature, your car may not start.
- Difficulty inserting your key: You should never have to force your key into the ignition lock. If the assembly has failed, you may have difficulty inserting the key.
- Cannot remove the key: When the ignition lock fails, the key can get stuck. You may not be able to remove it.
- Key will not turn: A failing ignition lock can prevent you from turning the key to start your car, leaving you stranded.
- Unable to roll windows down without starting the car: You should be able to roll your windows down without starting your car. If you insert your key and turn it two notches, you should be able to use some electrical components such as your windows and radio.
- Stalling: Stalling can happen due to a failing ignition switch. It will often happen when driving down the road, not while idling.
- Flickering dashboard lights: While not common, a failing ignition lock can cause your dashboard lights to flicker.
- Steering wheel binds: The ignition lock also protects your car from theft. Once the engine is turned off the steering wheel should lock when it is moved. If the ignition lock fails, the steering wheel can bind, preventing you from starting your car.
Causes of Ignition Lock Failure
There are several causes of ignition lock failure. The most common is everyday wear and tear. Foreign obstacles can enter the ignition lock preventing the ignition from starting. In some instances, it may also prevent you from turning the engine car off. There may be a damaged interlock solenoid. When the interlock solenoid is damaged, you will not be able to get your car out of park.
Oddly enough, a heavy set of keys can actually cause problems with your ignition. Having too many on your keychain can weigh down the ignition module and the extra weight can wear out tumblers. Over time, you will not be able to turn the ignition lock.
Another easy way to damage the ignition module is by inserting the wrong key which can damage the ignition.
Repairing the Ignition Lock in Your Porsche
Ignition lock failure issues can be frustrating. If you begin to notice any of the above issues, call us right away. 
Continuing to drive your Porsche with a failing ignition lock can leave you stranded at the worst time.
For over 25 years, our team has assisted Porsche owners with all their service needs. Our expert mechanics offer dealership quality service without the dealership prices. We are proud to have established our reputation for honesty, quality, and expertise.
Our service center is equipped with the latest tools and equipment available. We can get your issue fixed right the first time. Our mechanics are experts in what they do and continue to learn more about the latest developments and advancements in the industry. This allows them to provide you with the best possible service every time you visit us for maintenance.
Call Us Today
Here at European Auto Tech, we serve drivers in the Allen, Dallas, Flower Mound, Frisco, Highland Park, McKinney, Park Cities, Richardson, Southlake, University Park, and Plano, TX areas. You can reach us at 972-422-9941 or visit us at 3953 Central Expy.