Interior lights that stay off, flicker or stay on are a small but annoying R107 problem. Stuck-on lights can also drain the battery. Most faults come down to a switch, a bulb, a fuse or a ground.
Door jamb switches
The interior lights are triggered by switches in the door jambs. When a door opens, the switch grounds the circuit and the lights come on. Over time the switches corrode or stick.
- Lights do not come on: a corroded or stuck switch.
- Lights stay on: a switch that does not open when the door closes.
Remove the switch, clean the contacts and the ground, or replace it. Switches are inexpensive.
Dome light
The dome or interior light in the cabin has its own switch with on, off and door positions. Check the bulb and the switch position first. Check that the light’s ground is good.
Footwell lights
Some cars have footwell or courtesy lights under the dash. They share the circuit with the interior lights. Check the bulbs and the connectors.
Trunk light
The trunk light is controlled by a switch on the trunk latch or lid. A misadjusted switch can leave the light on with the lid closed and drain the battery. Check by looking through a gap or using a phone camera inside the trunk. See battery drain.
Fuse
The interior lights are on a fuse that may be shared with the clock and other circuits. Check the fuse and clean its contacts. See electrical troubleshooting.
Bulbs
Use the correct bulb types. LED replacements can be brighter and use less current, but check fitment and polarity.
Glovebox light
The glovebox light is controlled by a switch at the glovebox door. A stuck switch can drain the battery.
Quick answers
- Why do my interior lights stay on? A door jamb switch or the dome light switch.
- Can interior lights drain the battery? Yes, if they stay on.
- Why is only one light out? Usually its bulb.
- Why do all lights fail at once? Usually the fuse.
- Can a bad door switch prevent the lights from working? Yes.
- Where are the door jamb switches? In the door openings, usually near the hinge pillar.
- Will LED bulbs fit? Many do; check size and polarity.
