illuminated entry/autolock features

My dad just experienced a problem with the illuminated entry (dome light auto on/off)/ autolock (door locks auto activation when car in gear) features. These problems both occurred simultaneously and I believe that they are related, but I'm not an expert so I need your help. This vehicle is a '99 crown vic with 183k on it....well maintained. The door locks do not operate when placing the car in gear, but they do operate normally with the keyless entry and power lock control switches. I found a procedure in the owner's manual for activating/deactivating the autolock feature, followed that procedure, and found the autolock feature to be responding to the procedure correctly, but still not operating when placing the car in gear. As far as the illuminated entry dome light is concerned, it will not turn off by itself, and you cannot turn it off with the switch on the dash. It will turn off after about 30 minutes, but I beleive that to be the battery saver feature taking over, as the owner's manual states. It also states that the illuminated entry dome light will not turn off automatically if it has been turned on maually, or if the doors are not completely closed. I do not see a door ajar light on the instrument panel, but I also do not know if the vehicle has that feature as it is my dad's car and I'm not familiar with it. It seems to me that there might be something wrong with a door switch, but I do not see one. Your help will be greatly appreciated. Thank you!

It is possible that a door latch switch is your problem. The switches are located inside the door on the latch itself. You can liberally spray lubricating oil into and all over the latches and open and close each door a few times to see if the dome light will go out as designed. This will let you know which switch is bad. It will be a temporary fix, but spraying regularly will help the switch not to stick as often. Usually will be the most used door. Good luck.

Thank you for the great information. If I have to replace a switch, can I get just a switch, or will I have to replace the entire latch?

You can buyt just the switch. It is not very expensive, but can be a bear to replace. If you are patient, it will go in. If it needs replaced, post back and someone will post instructions.

I called a local Ford dealer to see what a door ajar switch, as they refer to it, would cost and to check on availability. They told me that the switch is not available separately, but that I need to replace the entire latch assembly for approximately $56. Are they trying to sell me more than I need, or is the switch that you're talking about a common generic electrical switch that I can replace on the latch mechanism? I would definitely be interested in seeing the replacement procedure. Thank you a again for your time and consideration!

The switch is sold separately. We replace them constantly. Call local parts house that sells motorcraft. Should be easy to get. Number 3 is the switch in the diagram.

SECTION 501-14A: Handles, Locks, Latches and Mechanisms 1999 Crown Victoria/Grand Marquis Workshop Manual
REMOVAL AND INSTALLATION Procedure revision date: 06/26/1998

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Switch—Door Ajar
Removal and Installation

NOTE: Front door latch shown, rear door latch similar.

Remove the door latch. For additional information, refer to Latch—Front Door or Latch—Rear Door in this section.
Remove the door ajar switch.
Remove the screw.
Remove the door lock switch ground.
Remove the door ajar switch.

http://i153.photobucket.com/albums/s214/way2old1/cvdoorswitch.gif

To install, reverse the removal procedure.


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