What are the ignition switch problems seen
 

We have a 2000 Boxster and the ignition switch is giving us problems.

Problem 1. Once you start the car, the key will not return to the correct position when you let go of the key. You must gently turn the key back toward the left just a bit . If you do not do this the air conditioning fan will not come on. I think that the starter stays engaged as well. There is a few other signs that the key is stuck .

Problem 2. Some times when you put the key in the ignition it will not allow you to turn the key left or right. You have to continue to remove and then reinsert the key several times before it gives in. Someone told me that the key has a chip in it and if the ignition switch could not Identify the key to be the correct one ,that it would not allow the key to be turned. He suggested a new key. That sounds pretty far out there, but who knows!

I found some post about bad ignition switches out there, But is my problem the electrical part or the mechanical part (Key area)?

Can some one please give me some input on the problems that are known and make suggestions on my issue.

Thanks
Rick

http://www.renntech.org/forums/index.php?showtopic=493&st=0&#entry1941

http://www.renntech.org/forums/index.php?showtopic=1313

Those links pretty much cover it. It is the electrical part of the switch. Like a $30 part. Not too tough to replace either.

Thanks for the input.

I picked up a switch from VW dealer and I'm planning on installing it next weekend.

Thanks again for the help
Rick

This thread finally made me get off my tail and replace my own switch. It is pretty straight forward and fixed a couple of problems:

Muddy feel in the ign switch positions
Heater fan ect not turning on unless you back off the key a little
slow starting when cold (wierd, but really cranks over now)

Probably some other things that I didn't notice this little part fixed. This elect switch was used on Porsches and Audi's so it should be a common part.