98 Windstar Power Locks Keep Cycling

[Short Circuit?]

I have a 1998 Windstar with an electrical problem. Once I hit the power unlock switch, the power door lock buttons go up and down continuously on their own. The only way I found to stop them is to hold down the drivers side power lock switch for about 5 seconds. Woke up this morning, and the vehicle (two year old battery, no previous problems) is dead. Any suggestions?

[Snowdog22]

Just had the same problem, drained my battery & I had to get a jumpstart. Afterwards the van ran fine. No idea why it happened, and it hasn't happened again -- been about 2 weeks. Very strange, maybe some sort of short-circuit, something rubbing?

[dougand3]

Low voltage/current can cause squirrely things...first thing I'd do is charge the battery fully to 12-12.5v. Also, check battery voltages....everything off should show 12-12.5v. Engine running should be 13.5-14.5v.

[Snowdog22]

Yeah, I was thinking that myself. But I think the low voltage/battery issue was caused by the door lock actuator, which may have been malfunctioning. I think that's going to be the next thing I replace. Right now the battery is reading 13.6 volts while running, a bit low but acceptable. I'll be switching to a new battery soon, certainly before winter hits. Thanks for the suggestion!

[trukker]

Do you have anything behind the back seat? We have had that a few times. Then I noticed something in the back was laying on the door lock causing it to cycle repeatedly. Hope it is that easy?

[Snowdog22]

No, there was nothing leaning against the rear hatch lock -- it was just the lock on the sliding side door that was acting up. All the other locks were fine. Thanks for the tip though!