I need some help on this one guys. I've searched on 3 different L boards and still can't find the cause. Just as the title says, the lights stay on all the time, even when the truck is shut off. The only way to turn them off is by pulling the fuse or disconnecting the battery. Looks like there are a few things that can cause this. I pulled the relay, the lights still stay on. I've checked both door switches, they're functioning properly. I've replaced the GEM(generic electronic module), lights still on. BTW, the GEM is a biotch to get at. I've read that many fords have this problem and it winds up being a door switch. But in all of those cases, the door ajar light comes on. Mine never came on. I'm at a loss here. Please help. I'll take any suggestions.

Edit...Forgot to mention, I also checked the thumbwheel switch. It's functioning properly.

 

Did you try to lube the latch mechanism on the door itself. Spray some lithium or WD40 into the latch and manually move it with your finger down then open it with the door handle and repeat. I had this issue and until I did this it would drive me crazy. Good luck.

 

I hadn't tried that until a few minutes ago. I've read that many have had this problem with that being the fix, but the door ajar light on the dash came on for all of these folks. Mine never came on. Did yours? Did your problem come and go or was it constant? Anyway, I just lubed the latch for the heck of it and no change.

 

EDIT:just reread your post.....Sorry can't help.

 

Aside from taking off the door panel and visually inspecting and/or testing the switch itself, you may aswell get it to Ford. Its got to be a simple replacement and shouldn't be more than an hour of labor + parts. BTW, you did do the same for the passanger door....didn't you???

 

Yes, I did. This problem is a real ball buster, but I'll figure it out.....eventually. Thanks for the suggestions.

 

I hope I am not being a jerk, but have you made sure the dimmer **** next to the light swith is not in the on position.

 

You're definitely not being a jerk. Any suggestions are welcome. Dimmer **** is off. I wish it were that easy.

 

Does your door ajar light work when a door is open?

If so, then I agree that futzing around with the door switches is wasted time. There is only one electrical connection there.

Is the GEM module the one with the logic for keeping the lights on for a bit, them dimming them until they go out?

 

Thanks for replying Tim. Yes, the door ajar light does work when the door is open. The GEM module does have logic to keep the lights on for approx. 10 seconds. The new GEM was ordered based on my vin, so I'm pretty sure I got the right one. Also, I have an aftermarket alarm, code alarm ca670. I think the alarm may have something to do with the problem.

 

Ah, the alarm! I have heard of electrical gremlins affecting all sorts of functions. I do believe you are heading in the right direction. Keep us posted.

 

The company work truck is a 2000 and it did just like you said. The dome stayed on and I complained to the company mechanic. He said it was the door switch and sprayed some lube in there and worked it for a while. Problem went away and that was year and half ago. Truck has 150K miles. Never did see the door ajar light?

Keep working on it and let us know.
Good Luck
ezgz

 

I had a 97 that did the same thing, it wa repaired under warrenty, So i am under the understanding there was a faulty relay. It was explained to me
the door switchs go to the relay and it operates the dome and box lights.


Hope this helps.

 

Thanks for the input guys. I'm still messing with it. Having to work is such an inconvenience. Takes up too much of my time. I'm gonna call the guy I bought the alarm from when I get home from work today. He's a real nice guy and is good at walking me thru things over the phone. I'll let you know what we find.

 

I would agree that the alarm must be the culprit. You have cxhecked and ot replaced enerything else. and the fact that you can pull the relay for the lights and they stay on isn't right. There must be something else applying power to the lights and my money is on the alarm. Good luck!--DIY