1999 Boxter Door Lock. Please Help

[dangaskill]

My door look spins freely to the left and right and will not engage the normal resistance for lock or unlock.

This was not a gradual failure.

What happened and how do I fix it?

Is it electrical? Seems mechanical, but I have a hunch it is electrical. Switch or fuse perhaps?

Thanks to all, in advance.

Dan

[Dmitry at Pelican Parts]

Hi Dan - welcome to the forum! Take a look at the link below to one of our site's DIY tech articles. Hope it helps you out. Let us know if you have any other questions or if we can assist with any future part needs.

Door Lock Mechanism / Door Handle

[dangaskill]

Thanks. I've seen the articles.

Does anyone have first hand knowledge of what may have occurred.

Door lock operated per normal one hour prior. Turning the key left (unlock) or right (lock) was normal.

One hour later, key turned freely to the left and right. This was not normal and would not engage lock or un lock.

This was not a gradual breakdown, so I'm ruling out mechanical failure.

Someone has to have more intel than the obvious read the manual suggestion.

No disrespect intended.

[philipjadler]

I have First HAND [and I mean hands on] knowledge.

I just finished the repair of the exact same problem with my 1999 Boxster.
Sorry to say it's mechanical.
YES you do have to disconnect the battery so the air bag doesn't fire.
YES you do have to take the driver's door panel off.
YES you do have disconnect multiple electrical connections.
YES you do have to remove the airbag.
YES you do have to remove the door speaker unit.
YES you do have to remove the door handle retainer, and thus the door handle.

The door handle retainer, has the lock cylinder assembly. THIS IS WHERE YOUR PROBLEM IS!
It is a small little part within the assembly that the teeth broke off of. A lot of work to get to this.
The bad news is you have to take the door apart [and put it all back] to get to it.
The GOOD news that instead of paying + or - $200 for a new unit and re-keying your car, you can buy a bag of parts for $6.95 from Amazon and fix the problem. If you have the time. Or if your rich you can have Porsche replace it. Hell, if your really rich just trade in the car for a 911.

Her is what you need:
RegulatorFix Door Lock Repair Kit - Front (left or right) for VW Golf IV Jetta

The parts can be found at this link:
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B017T96XPK/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o02_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

GOOD LUCK!

[dangaskill]

Thanks a bunch Phillip. I'm thankful for your insight and willingness to help.