Weird Electrical issue

[joeclark]

OK I just bought this 98 Explorer XLT and it had several small issues most of which when i fix one it brings up another.

First the dome lights would not come on when i opened the driver's door but would with the other 4 doors so i found that the door switch is in the door. Pulled the panel and found that the switch was unplugged. i re plugged the switch and the chiming started, at first i thought i left the keys in the ignition but they were not there. i put the door back together and in the process rolled the window down and noticed i could roll all of the windows down. and yes the radio works too. (it is an aftermarket and i just figured the PO wired it direct, now not so sure)

i tried checking the little tab thing near the ignition lock cylinder but it still chimes even when it is removed.

I also tried disconnecting the plug to the ignition switch thinking it was stuck with the accessory mode. but when unplugging it still continues to chime.

this is where i am at a loss. the fact that the radio stays on does not bother me i don't have an issue with remembering to turn it off, but the chiming every time the door is opened (unless the key is in the run position) is really annoying. that and the fact that you can roll the windows down while the car is off. i am pretty sure these are the battery drain issues that the PO warned me about.

 

[koda2000]

I'm thinking the switch in the driver's door you plugged in again is bad. It must think the door is open even when closed. It's held in place with a single screw. Remove it and test it. It's a simple switch, but that doesn't explain the chime with the key out. Does the dome light now work from the driver's door?

Might be a GEM thing (General Electronic Module).

 

[joeclark]

Yes the lights work like they are supposed to, also the door ajar light works on the day like it is supposed to add well.

I'd there any way to test the gem?

 

[joeclark]

Would the GEM also control the windows being powered s will add the radio?

 

[koda2000]

Would the GEM also control the windows being powered s will add the radio?

I believe it would. It controls all kinds of things. If the dome lights and the door ajar light work with the switch connected the switch is ok. I know of no way to test the GEM. Maybe someone else will offer more advice on this subject. I usually don't like throwing parts a problem to see if it fixes it, but sometimes it's worth a try when it comes to complex electrical problems. I'd try getting a used GEM from the salvage yard or eBay. If it doesn't solve the problem, you can always resell it. I think there's a pretty good chance that's the problem.