Door Open Light

[adamwarner]

When i purchased my 2000 explorer xlt the door ajar light was always on. Something seems to be wrong with the rear right door sensor or somthing, because all the interior lights stay on once a door is opend then closed. Unless the back right door is opened then nothing happends, leading me to believe this is the problem door. I would really like to fix this problem, but if the sensor replacement etc. is going to be costly or time consuming is there anyway to just override the sensor for a particular door? Because i have to manually turn off the interior lights/puddle lights everytime i shut off my explorer or they stay on and run down my battery

 

[hworksinc]

Replace the latch...

The "sensor" (just a switch really) is located in the door latch mechanism. I had the same thing happen on my Ex, accompanied with the rear passenger door not wanting to unlock. I replaced the latch mechanism with a used one from the local scrap yard. It's a bit of a pain, but there are a few threads here with info on opening up the door and replacing the latch.

If this is the only problem (eg no mechanical problems), you may be able to get the courtesy light switch working again by squirting some lube in the latch and working the latch back and forth a few times. Oh - and don't forget to check for a loose wire in the door... the obvious is always the easiest to miss...

Check out this thread for latch replacement:
http://www.explorerforum.com/forums/showthread.php?t=170619&highlight=replace+door+latch

 

[Tbars4]

...and here is a link for lubing the switch...
http://www.explorerforum.com/forums/showthread.php?t=190221

 

[98xploder]

i used electrical cleaner in my door when it did this, i soaked the latch mechanism, then slammed the door and opened it about 10 times, finally, when i really put force into slamming it, the switch in the latch came unstuck, and my light went out. easy fix.