Dome light/alarm issues

[03stalker]

I have been having a problem happening off and on for the last month. My dome light will remain on for an extended period of time. All of my doors and my trunk are closed. Becuase of this, my alarm will not arm automatically or go off if a door is forced open. It will "fix" itself after it has been sitting for a while.

I checked the fuse and everything seems ok. I believe there is a relay that keeps the dome light on for 10 seconds or so, or until the key is turned into the on position, after the door is opened and closed when entering the car.

Does anyone know:
1. Is there actually a relay that does this
2. If so, where this relay is
3. If anyone has had a similar problem or may know what my problem is?

Thanks in advance

 

[Kilgore Trout]

Check the switches on the door jambs to make sure they are operating freely and properly.

 

[03stalker]

Are there switches on the door jam? the only thing i see is the latch on the actuall door, and that seems to be working fine. Is there a sensor inside the door that could be loose?

 

[RandyStinchcomb]

there is a small pin switch on the inside of the door latches, they come packed in grease, when the weather changes the grease gets hard and wont allow the pin in the switch to release. you can goto a dealer and get an improved version or remove and clean yours.

 

[03stalker]

what does this part cost roughly?

 

[Az Pete]

I just use a bit of WD-40 to clean them with and relube with a bit of spray lithium grease. No need for removal, just work in the latch opening. I do this to all the newer Fords I have owned. Never a problem.

 

[03stalker]

another thing...

can someone verify that their dome light in their 2003 mustang does infact stay on after closing the door when entering your vehicle. Or Am i crazy and this is a function that was added when i got my alarm, and the alarm needs to be replaced.

 

[Kilgore Trout]

I do not have a dome light but the lights on the rear view mirror stay on after I get in the car for about 15 seconds or until I start the car.

 

[03stalker]

dang... that rules out blamin best buy for it...

 

[03stalker]

AZ Pete, how do I get to the switch to spray it? Do i hafta take the door apart. And do you know if it is the same for a vert and a coupe?

 

[Az Pete]

I have just sprayed into the latch area and had luck. Never opened the panels up at all.