Porsche 911 996 and Boxster 986 Headlight Switch Replacement

I've been having some problem with the headlights on my 2002 Porsche 911. The operation of the headlights was intermittent; sometimes one light would work, sometime no lights would come on at all. By using the high beams or fiddling with the switch, I could usually finally get both to stay lit. This flaky operation is common to these cars and even though you'll suspect a faulty headlight/lamp, it turns out the problem is with the switch. This is the replacement switch that I ordered for my car - www.amazon.com... Check to make sure whatever part you order is compatible with your car.

[@jimlong527]

Welcome to the world of Porsche, it’s all good normally just little common issues.

[@JF-4444]

I just replaced the light switch on my 2003 this morning following your directions. It all went pretty easily except I had to hunt for a long thin t20 to get the one screw out of the headlight switch well. Thanks for the great video.

[@PIFDIY]

Glad it helped!

[@KidneyShanker]

I did this today thanks to you. My switch had a lug nut to take our before taking out the last plastic ring. That was the only difference. I have a 1999 Boxster with everything in German in it. Nothing broke and it all came out easy. Same way putting it back. Thank you again for helping the novice public .

[@PIFDIY]

Great, thanks for the head's up for Boxster owners!

[@johngalt5411]

You are a good teacher, thank you for taking the time and work to put this video together, you helped me save hundreds!!

[@PIFDIY]

Glad it helped!

[@lunabouch]

Looks like I need to replace my light switch after seeing the same issues as your car. Very helpful and much appreciated.

[@mjfeeney4]

Excellent instructions, replaced the switch on my 2004 996 today and the lights now work. On my 2004, the light switch cover came off after removing the 24mm nut, so I did not have to unclip the switch light assembly ( disk). Very easy to replace with these instructions.

[@PIFDIY]

Thanks for sharing your experience with your 2004!

[@themonger42]

thank you so much for uploading and sharing!

[@TAMAGOPORSCHE]

数ある動画の中で1番わかりやすい手順を公開している素晴らしいマニュアル動画です ありがとうございます😊いつか挑戦してみます！

[@michaelsiegerYMM]

Absolutely great video, well explained process. Just completed the same replacement using you tutorial. Cheers

[@pierrenovak4971]

Really enjoyed your video. Very helpful! I just purchased a 2005 996 C2 Cab and plan on doing all the eventual work myself. So far I have added a new PCCM+, new steering wheel, hacked home link 2 garage door opener, new hood and trunk struts, gas door actuator and hood actuator. I am really enjoying the car but realize that even if it is a low mileage vehicle, age is taking it’s toll. Good thing I actually enjoy doing the work, all part of the fun.

[@PIFDIY]

Yeah, it feels like there is always something you can do to these cars. Even with everything sorted, there's still a "to do" list...

[@DavidByeLA]

Worked for me … headlights went out on 2003 996. Fixed now!! 😁

[@grahamstevens958]

My 2003 Boxster lights would not turn on after 12 months after purchase. The switch was expensive so I found out how to remove the switch as I thought being an older car it probably had grease that had dried inside the switch. Used a R55 type cleaning fluid, taking the switch to its different positions numerous times adding the fluid. Sprayed a penetrating fluid in and wiped off excess. It's worked ever since, for 5 years.

[@Gracievision]

That was really helpful, thank you. I can't do the job myself but at least I know what my mechanic will be doing to fix it.

[@davidleeroth805]

Don't pull the cover from the top or from the right side. Just pull from the bottom.

[@tonychan4526]

Very diligent work!

[@expresenator]

thank you very much, managed to replace my switch expeditiously

[@PIFDIY]

Great, glad it helped!

[@nilsw.3024]

Good day can you tell mor the pinout of the cables colors for the numbers? Thanks

[@Rancidcactus]

Mine has the low beams not turning on every time issue. The dealer wants $460 to fix the switch. 😂 Not today Porsche, not today!

[@dagolopezsr2004]

Dim light on the switch stays on all the time, is necessary to replace the switch? Tnx

[@christame994]

Full beam only works when flashing and not in ON position (pushing stalk forward) would this fix this?

[@PIFDIY]

Hard to say. A flaky headlight switch can give lots of symptoms.

[@IAnonymous3]

Anyone else have an issue with their dial not clicking into place ? My know is just pulling straight off other than that is was pretty easy. Older 996 models have a nut you have to remove for the bezel. Not the clips you just press down on….