Non-Functioning Key Fob

[seeyoulater]

Purchased '08 Cayman last year with only one key. Three locksmiths have told me that only the dealer can make keys.
The fob began to not open door unless I pressed the button numerous times. I finally decided to replace the battery and now even the red light on the fob will not light. Does it only light after programming the key in the ignition? A Porsche service bulletin stated that the battery should be installed in reverse for ten seconds then switched back...no luck. I bent the gold tab up...no luck.
I cannot attempt to program fob as I there is no resistance left or right when I insert the key in the door lock. I had been meaning to remove the door panel in order to find out if a plastic part fell out or if I need to replace the complete door lock mechanism.
A locksmith said that he could unlock the door for $80 but I am concerned that..
-the alarm will sound
-the key will not reprogram and I will need to leave the window rolled down so that the door will not automatically lock
Never procrastinate on repairs!

[fisher22]

The locksmiths are correct when they say that only the dealer can make (supply & program) a new key. Although, that is a factor of having the equipment, software and authority. Some locksmiths are less concerned about going by the rules designed “for our security”.
Also, depending on what happened to your existing key and whether it lost its programming it’s kind of the same process as getting a new key.

Unfortunately, having a locksmith mechanically unlock the door is the easiest part of this. And I would fully expect the alarm to go off. Without a fob, that may put your next move to disconnect the car battery, and I don’t know what’s next after that. So, fixing the fob is the direct route. Not being funny here, but try another known good battery (or the one you took out) before things get crazy. The red light not coming on seems curious.

[seeyoulater]

I first tried an old pack of generic batteries then purchased Energizers and tried both from the package.

[fisher22]

Originally Posted by seeyoulater

I first tried an old pack of generic batteries then purchased Energizers and tried both from the package.

I figured you did, just mentioning.

[seeyoulater]

I appreciate any suggestions. Coming up on week four and the weather is warming. I posted on Rennlist with no success.

[seeyoulater]

Locksmith came by and managed to get the air bag under the glass but decided it was too risky to pump further as there are only about 12" from the door to the roof and does not want to chance breaking the glass. Said he would return with a narrower gauge wire opener. I may try to make a long slim jim with thin metal stock.
Stopped at local dealer and was told..
-he had never heard of a door lock giving no resistance to the key
-after getting my door unlocked, I should be able to sync my key in the ignition
-he had have never seen an aftermarket key that worked
Has anyone worked with this site...https://www.carkeyduplication.com/?make=7572&model=7638&year_id=7642&post_type=product&action=vpf-search

[seeyoulater]

Dealership...$684 + $125 to program.

Please let me know if an $300 aftermarket key will work for my car.

https://shop.porscheusa.com/scart.php

[fisher22]

Similar to having the Porsche dealer reprogram your existing key fob, if you actually need another key fob, you could also find a used authentic Porsche key from eBay or elsewhere, and see if the dealer will reprogram it.

[seeyoulater]

Are you saying that I should not purchase a new key from one of those sights and only try to find a used key on Ebay? I found used keys with ignition switch for $85. Would I need to also change out the ignition switch before it is programmed?
Thanks!

[seeyoulater]

If I need to change out the original switch with the used switch and have the used key programmed to it, would the original key be able to be programmed to the used switch. It currently will not unlock door but will start car.

[fisher22]

It sounds like you've found some good alternatives to the dealer.

Maybe I'm not caught up on if you got the door unlocked.
If you found a replacement key fob for $85 that sounds pretty cheap. I just don't have a sense if that's actually what you need.

Have you determined that your existing key is beyond repair/reprogramming? That seems the next easiest attempt.

[suntam18]

Originally Posted by seeyoulater

Dealership...$684 + $125 to program.

Please let me know if an $300 aftermarket key will work for my car.

https://shop.porscheusa.com/scart.php

I purchased a key fob from suncoast in forida or atlanta prosche dealer, cant remember, and the blank from another porsche house.. Got the fob ~159 + 23 for the blank.

Had the fob programmed at Long Beach Porsche ~175
My 03 986 is considered a classic so the shop rate was cheaper.

Did this about 6 mos ago.

[seeyoulater]

I was able to gain access to the car, start it and drive. The window rolls down and inch when I open the door and stays in that position (unless I roll it up when inside). The door also remains unlocked.
I do not know why my original key will not unlock the doors even after trying numerous new batteries. The online sites sell keys for around $300, without programing, which is about $400 less than the dealer is asking. The dealer told me that he has never seen an aftermarket key that worked so I was hoping someone has had a good experience with an aftermarket key.

Suntam..hard to believe the price difference between a Florida dealer and Colorado!

[fisher22]

Originally Posted by seeyoulater

I was able to gain access to the car, start it and drive. The window rolls down and inch when I open the door and stays in that position (unless I roll it up when inside). The door also remains unlocked.
I do not know why my original key will not unlock the doors even after trying numerous new batteries. The online sites sell keys for around $300, without programing, which is about $400 less than the dealer is asking. The dealer told me that he has never seen an aftermarket key that worked so I was hoping someone has had a good experience with an aftermarket key.

Suntam..hard to believe the price difference between a Florida dealer and Colorado!

I've used Suncoast before. I've also wondered why the pricing is noticeably lower. I thought it might be because they have a large online presence. Much easier for them to do lower pricing because of the volume.

[seeyoulater]

Thank you for giving me the confidence to purchase a fob online!

I believe that I will first repair the door lock and use my malfunctioning original key to unlock door and start car then purchase a replacement fob, use it and keep the original for a spare/backup.

[fisher22]

Interested to know how it goes.

[seeyoulater]

I finally had a chance to remove the old door lock actuator. I noticed that the white, plastic part that goes into the rectangular socket appears to be broke/missing. I remember someone online stating that he found a plastic part lying in the bottom of the door (I did not).
I spent some time trying to identify what the part was. I believe I found it at one site...https://porscheparts.checkeredflag.com/oem-parts/porsche-door-lock-operating-rod-99753762701
Door Lock Operating Rod - Porsche (997-537-627-01)
It only shows an outline drawing. Do you think that is the correct part or do I need to wait until Monday and call the local dealer?

[seeyoulater]

The original issue was no resistance when I turned the key. I purchased a used door lock actuator so not out too much $$.

[fisher22]

Wow, that would be an amazing stroke of luck if it was that $7 part!

[seeyoulater]

$70 shipping so I ordered at the local dealership. What arrived yesterday was the metal screw that is seen in the first photo. He told me that it appears that just the white plastic part is not available and need to order the Door Handle Support complete with a valet key for $780.
Located on a site for $62 but with a different part number.
Found three options on another site ranging from $62 to $480 depending on key. I will need to call to clarify.