Parking lights

Hi,

Do you know if they are on at all times, or does this only happen when the key is turned off? I ask because if the key is in the on position, there will be no indicator.

Next, I don't feel it is the switch unless the lights are on regardless of the key position. Somehow, we are getting power when it isn't needed. So, let's try to narrow it down.

If you look below, I attached the wiring schematics for the exterior lighting. The first thing I'm questioning is the park lamp relay. If you look at the schematics, it shows the location to be in the power distribution box. What I need you to do is this. Remove that relay and confirm the lights went off. Next, if there is another relay with the same part number, switch them to see if it makes a difference. If there isn't one there, here is a link that explains how to test a relay:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-check-an-electrical-relay-and-wiring-control-circuit

Let me know what you find or if you have other questions.

Take care,

Joe

See pics below. Pic 3 shows the relay location. (under-hood in the power distribution box)

Hi,

Since the relay is too tight to be removed, I wonder if there is a build-up of corrosion. That could cause issues.

Regardless, let me know if things change or if there is anything I can do to help.

Take care and feel free to come back anytime in the future.

Joe

So, if you push in on the ignition switch, you can cause the lights to turn on? Do me a favor. Let me know the engine size so I can check the correct ignition switch. If it is happening by pushing in on the switch, it sounds like there is a short to power in the steering column when the key is off.

Let me know.

Joe

Hi,

I looked through schematics and the ignition switch itself doesn't have anything to do with the parking lights. Also, the switch is the same regardless of the engine.

Based on the info I was able to find, there must be a short at some point. When you said pushing in on the switch could sometimes cause it, I'm wondering if you are placing pressure on the harnesses inside the column.

If you look at the bottom of the steering column, there will be a wiring harness. Have a helper watch as you wiggle those wires around to see if they come on. If you want to gain better access to the wiring, the column cover can be removed. I attached the directions below for removing it. Since you are not actually replacing the cover, you should be able to simply remove the bolts behind the park brake release and not disconnect the cable. That will get it lowered but not removed.

If the lights come on or even flicker, that could be the issue. It could also be related to a failing switch. Hang in there. We'll figure it out together.

One last thing. I'm not sure if this model year will require reprogramming if the ignition switch is replaced. I don't believe it does, nothing is listed in the manual to indicate it, but anything is possible. Remember, the ignition switch is just that, a switch. It is not the key cylinder lock/tumbler.

Try this and let me know the results.

Take care,

Joe

See pics below: Note: The last pic shows three additional screws that can be removed to take the lower section off the column as well.

Hi,

I think I recall something related to the dash lights. Since the lights are now on at all times, it could be the switch itself shorted internally.

If you look at the pic below, I included the headlamp switch. Note there are two light green wires, one has a red tracer and the other has an orange tracer. With the lights in the off position, check to see if there is power on either of those wires. If there is, then most likely the switch is shorted internally.

Let me know what you find.

Joe

Hi,

If removing and testing the wiring at the switch caused it to become intermittent, that is where I would check for damaged pins in the connector. You mentioned the wiring has voltage to them with the light switch off. That shouldn't be. If I'm reading the schematic correctly, the wires should have power when the lights are on and not off.

Is it possible for you to get a switch and try it? If so, make sure to be careful with the packaging so it can be returned if that isn't the problem.

Let me know.

Joe

Hi,

That is what I would check next, something is powering things when it shouldn't be, so there has to be a short to power at some point.

Let me know what you find.

Joe

Hi,

I just went through the schematics again. I cannot find a light green wire with a white tracer. You indicated that is off the light switch, correct?

Now, since the dinger stops when you use a tester, I need you to try something. It sounds like the ground may be the issue. There should be a black wire from the switch. Simply splice into the black wire and run a jumper to a known good ground and see if that changes things.

Let me know.

Joe