Interior lights don't turn on every time

[balkanac]

As the title says, when i open the driver's door the interior lights dont turn on every time. This is a problem since the fuel pump will not prime the system when the lights dont go on, the car wouldn't start straight away and i end up looking like an idiot
So the switch in the door must be faulty but i have no idea how to get to it since its in the lock mechanism.

Has anyone had this issue before? i dont really wanna butcher the door if there is an easier way to get to it

[mikk]

have fun

this job isn't as simple as it should be.

[Back Door Shenanigans.]

As the title says, when i open the driver's door the interior lights dont turn on every time. This is a problem since the fuel pump will not prime the system when the lights dont go on, the car wouldn't start straight away and i end up looking like an idiot
So the switch in the door must be faulty but i have no idea how to get to it since its in the lock mechanism.

Has anyone had this issue before? i dont really wanna butcher the door if there is an easier way to get to it

Yep, And i fixed it ha-ha. I can show you since I've done it sooooo many times before. Its most likely the 4th micro switch which detects if the doors open or not. Should cost about $15 to fix

[gringo_54_oval]

My bora does the same thing. Theres a small trick try it. Half close the door and pull on the handle to sort of pull the door open but it wont open because of the 2nd stage lock wont allow it to open and youl see the interior light go on.

[Dyldo]

Yep, And i fixed it ha-ha. I can show you since I've done it sooooo many times before. Its most likely the 4th micro switch which detects if the doors open or not. Should cost about $15 to fix

what is this 4th micro switch you speak of?

[dylan8]

im having a problem similar. dyi thread?

[Back Door Shenanigans.]

Here you guys go,

VWVortex.com - DIY - Replacing the front door window regulator clips and/or door lock module
VWVortex.com - MKIV door locks explained - why you're having problems!!!

If you still don't understand or having problems i am more than happy to help and trust me its probably a hell of alot easier than taking that door module out about 10 times (not even over exaggerating)

PS: Tip of advice, Do not undo the door lock screw too far, It will forever be a pain in the ass!

[dubbed]

Just to clarify BDS, I know the bad solder connections affect the door locks jumping up and down, but do they also result in the lights not turning on?

[balkanac]

Thanks for the links mate, there's something to do over the weekend

[dylan8]

ahh. Looks like a process and a half! How long did it take you guys?

[Back Door Shenanigans.]

Just to clarify BDS, I know the bad solder connections affect the door locks jumping up and down, but do they also result in the lights not turning on?

Well not in my case, Those solder joints on mine had resin all over it and weren't the problem. The real problem with the lights not turning on and the fuel pump not priming is to do with the 4th micro switch. Thats the one that tells if the drivers side door is open or closed. What had happened to mine is the plunger had been worn away and came out and therefore the button wasn't working. Solved it by buying a similar switch and using the parts from that to fix it. Its all good now heh.

Picture of the 4th microswitch

http://www.agthompsonfamily.com/vw/WindowRegulator57.jpg

Thanks for the links mate, there's something to do over the weekend

And another weekend when you don't fix it this weekend

ahh. Looks like a process and a half! How long did it take you guys?

Takes about an hour to take the door apart (got down to half an hour because i did it that many times). Couple of hours to fix the switch (was in between stuff and letting the glue dry). Then another hour to put it back together.

Some tips for you guys:
* Make sure you have a triple square size 8. In a real pinch a hex drive will work but will strip the bolts. I had to replace mine as i did that.
* DON'T loosen the door lock (Outside lock part) too much, That ring will fall off and be a pain in the ass!
* Good set of torx drives on hand will help specially for taking the window out.
* Try not to remove as much as you can in the actual door lock module as it can stuff up if not put together properly then you get to take the door apart again.
* Also try not to take the wiring out of the door wiring holders. Bit of a pain to get back nice (depends on how anal you are)

Thats all i can remember at the moment.

[dylan8]

cheers bds