Help... Automatic headlights wont shut off!

[RKelly2233]

I dont know when it started, or why it started but here we go... 03 XLT V6. I have the automatic sensor lights. When they are activated (cause its dark out obviously), they go on like normal. Great. Then- ill shut off the truck and unless I turn them off manually they stay on for 3 minutes.. I've timed it. Its a real pain in the @ss. I DO NOT have the message center (like in the eddie bauer/ limited) so I can't change the time amt (like in my aviator). Im worried this will kill my battery eventually. Sooner than later... Plus my Explorer is a ***** car- I let everyone use it and people dont know to shut it off... I was thinking about disconnecting the battery for a few hours to see if that will reset something... but id be afraid it would screw up somthing else- like the PCM or something. I've never EVER had a check engine light on. EVER. So I wouldn't want it to pop on for some reason... any suggestions? Remember- I dont have the message center and cant manually change it.

ps- I have led tail light lights if anything thinks that might have something to do with something..

 

[Bezi99]

I have the same issue with my 2004 Explorer auto lights. I don't think unplugging the battery would do anything, because I just changed my battery and it still stays on longer than usual. So if you heaar anything please let me know.

 

[jvano]

I hate to bring up an old thread but my 04 XLT just started doing this tonight, except mine stay on for 2 mi utes. I do not have the message center and am concerned about it eventually killing my battery. I'm wondering if the smart junction box is on its way out? If someone could shed some light on what could be wrong it would be greatly appreciated.

 

[cbbubby]

I had the same issue with mine but at the same time my keyless entry on the driver door quit working also. check where the big wad of wires come out of vehicle and go into the driver door through that little rubber boot. I bet you will find a ground wire and possibly one or two others have been pulled apart. if this is your problem just splice back together with a piece of wire long enough to allow movement and prevent stretching. hope this helps

 

[jvano]

Thanks for the help. I am hoping that it is only a broken wire. Funny thing is I just fixed one wire a couple months ago because my passenger side window wasn't working. I will definitely look for another broken wire. Thanks for your response! After you fixed the wire did the automatic lights operate normal again?

 

[cbbubby]

yes, when I fixed mine I had three wires pulled into. the keyless entry, window, and the one that works the auto headlights. after fixing I have not had any more problems from any of the three.

 

[Honestmase]

Could be the on & off delay switch in the rear view mirror if its located there? Hope you don't have to buy the whole rear view mirror! Check a wiring diagram for the relay. Might be in the mirror or located elsewhere?? I had the problem once but it fixed it self?

 

[Sav]

Could be the on & off delay switch in the rear view mirror if its located there? Hope you don't have to buy the whole rear view mirror! Check a wiring diagram for the relay. Might be in the mirror or located elsewhere?? I had the problem once but it fixed it self?

I know this is really old but...Thank you!!! That fixed mine. I was so confused, why just all of a sudden the lights were doing this. I know nothing about cars lol I didn't even know there was a switch on my rearview mirror haha.