1988 Dodge Dakota Unwarrented battery discharge

FALANGJOHN

MEMBER
1988 DODGE DAKOTA
6 CYL
4WD
AUTOMATIC
178,000 MILES

I have a new battery. It has already discharged after one week's time. The alternator has been tested. A light remains on under the dashboard in the vicinity of the glove compartment. I believe that the switch to turn this light off doesn't do its job. Until I can find someone who knows how to fix that, which fuse is it that I can remove to stop the trickle discharge? I have the same problem with one of the door switches. The overhead light stays on and I have been forced to remove the bulb. I very much enjoy having light a vailable when I need it but do not wish to sacrifice another battery for that priviledge. I can not find my owner's manual so I have no diagram for the fuse block.

3 Replies

MIKE H R

MECHANIC
3,094 POSTS

The vehicle uses a negative ground for compodents. Check the door switches. There could be a wire that is loose and grounding out causing for the interior light to stay on. The number 14 fuse controls the dome light electric mirrors and radio memory. My first thought is a door switch going bad or shorting out. If unable to see pictures down load tehm and resize so you can read them better

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Wednesday, September 23rd, 2009 AT 10:50 AM

FALANGJOHN

MEMBER
2 POSTS

I get it about the door switches. Thanks. Now, what about the light under the right side of the dash? Is there some sort of switch connected to that glove compartment light? If so, what fuse controls that?

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Wednesday, September 23rd, 2009 AT 1:43 PM

MIKE H R

MECHANIC
3,094 POSTS

Sorry for not getting back to you sooner, have not been on computer for a personal reason. The glove department fuse is the same one for the clock and courtesy lights. The wire is hot all the time. You can remove the bulb or disconnect the wire. Enclosing a wiring diagram of interior lights . This way you will be able to check any other wiring you need to.