Ford door switches—a known problem
Remember the pin/plunger switches that car makers used to install in the door jamb? Well, you won’t find them in Fords—some brilliant engineer had a “better idea.” They decided to place the switches inside the door right under the latch mechanism. When the door latches, a lever deactivates the switch and the body control module turns off the interior lights. Good so far….. The problem is that the switches gum up with grease from the latch mechanism or corrosion. That’s when interior lights stay on.
Some shops have reported success by saturating the latch mechanism with a rust penetrant and opening and closing the door about 20 or 30 times. That works the penetrant into the mechanism and some of it finds its way to the lever and switch. You really don’t have much to lose by trying this method because the only alternative is to remove the door trim panel and replace the switch.
I’ve tried this on a few Ford vehicles and had success. However, it’s not a long term fix. You will have to do it about twice a year.
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© 2007 Rick Muscoplat
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I came up with a better and more permanent fix. I removed the overhead dome light bulbs. I drive a Ranger with factory tinted back glass. With the interior lights on, I couldn’t see kids playing in the street behind me when I was backing up. If you ask me, this is a manufacturing defect that warrants a safety recall. I’m surprised no one has gotten killed yet.