[cmolina]

A little background first: 1999 Boxster (986) Base. Replaced top with a glass top. Glass broke somehow while driving. Filed insurance claim. Insurance has been a PITA to deal with so I parked the car.

Car got wet, so I'm sure you know where this goes. I have a new/used immobilizer from eBay on its way. I've been reading as much as I can... and it seems there's some programming that needs to be done.

Is it economical to just replace the immobilizer and have it towed to the dealer to reprogram? The keys I have are apparently original but neither of the remotes has ever worked (one didn't have the transmitter, the other one has a bad switch).

I'm also considering pulling a full set (immobilizer, ECU, Ignition Key switch, immobilizer, door lock)from a local parts car.

I do have some concerns.

First, what's the most cost effective way to approach this?

Second, would I lose the "low mileage" from my car when I replace the ECU from another car?

Third, Is there a "consumer" tool that can allow me to reprogram the keys and ECU so I don't have to take the car to the dealer?

Thank you for your recommendations.