Remote lock/unlock system on 996

Hi, I just purhased a 1999 Carrera 4, and love it! It's a high mileage car (about 95,000) but has been well maintained and runs well and almost everything works properly What does NOT work is the remote lock and unlock. The battery in the key is fine, and the diode lights up when the the button is pressed. But, there is no response at the car. Also, the lock/unlock button on the dash panel does not do anything. The only way I can lock or unlock it is by inserting the key in the door and turning it. Does anyone know how to go about troubleshooting this? There must be a relay somewhere that responds to the remote signal. I do not yet have a service manual. I know I can take it to a Porsche dealer, but I like to do my own servicing as much as possible. Thanks, ....Rickker

Just a correction to my previous post. The lock/unlock buttonon the dash DOES work, now that I understand how it works. I'm still learning how to do stuff like tune the radio and use the memorized seating positions, and so on. But I still have the problem with the remote not working on the door locks. A friend of mine thought this would have to be programmed by a Porsche dealer? Doesn't seem logical to me. Anybody out there have any experience or ideas on this? ...Rickker

These cars have two keys supplied when new, I see countless second/third/unknown numbers with only one key, which sometimes don't work. You should have two keys, both working. As the key head is now seven or more years old, (the circuit board tends to crack and fail) the best thing is to visit the local Porsche dealer and buy two key heads, have another key blade cut and get them both programmed. If you only have one key and loose it.... Make sure you also get the radio code and make sure any service actions or recalls have been done while there.

Thanks, Britwrench, I do have 2 original keys with the remote function, plus a third, smaller key without remote function. I also have the original radio code and other documentation from when the car was new. I will follow your advice. Previous to this, I thought perhaps, that something had failed at the receiving end of the remote system, rather than at the sending end. Thanks for your help with this. ...Rickker

I have a 99 C4, same thing happened right after I got it, the key stopped working, the dealership said keys were not covered under the certified pre-owned and that I'd have to get a new one, that they will just wear out after a while. considering the stuff the warrantee has covered, I'm not going to complain. B

Have to add, the dealer (or your local independant) should check the system with the PST2 or Piwis tester first, so any faults can be found.

All, I had the same issue with my 2001 996, but I notice that if I trigger the remote from the left rear window everything is OK. I replace the battery and everything was normal. I led does not take much to light up. I was thrown off guard thinking the same. Icemans2001

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Icemans2001, you got my hopes up, but that didn't work on my car. I installed a new battery in the remote, and tried triggering from the left rear window and just about everywhere else to no avail. I have now made an appointment at a local shop who have the diagnostic equipment to analyze this problem. Will report back, hopefully with good news. ...Rickker