Q: The door ajar light won't turn off

asked by on May 23, 2016

The door ajar light keeps turning on while I am driving. It does turn off eventually. I have tested all the solenoid valves on each door by cycling them open/closed, but I cannot get the light to turn off in the first place to test where the problem is. Any tips on where to look?

Electric Problems Inspection $94.99 - $114.99 Get a Quote

Hello. On most vehicles, this is caused by the door switch in the latch assembly failing, or by the wiring from the door jamb wearing and breaking from years of use. All of the door panels will need to be removed, and each circuit and switch should be tested to know for sure which one it is.

If you need to have this done, consider YourMechanic, as a certified mechanic can come to your home or office to diagnose your door light issue and perform the necessary repairs.

The statements expressed above are only for informational purposes and should be independently verified. Please see our terms of service for more details

Get an instant quote for your car

Our certified mechanics come to you ・Backed by 12-month, 12,000-mile guarantee・Fair and transparent pricing


Experienced Mechanic?

Earn up to $70/hr

What others are asking

Problem with transmission linkage
The linkage for the gear selector is located inside the steering column. Over time, continuous usage of any mechanical part will cause wear and tear, and eventually failed components. An inspection of your transmission (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/not-able-to-change-gears-inspection) should be carried out by...
Stuck in Park
The gear shifter is held in park as a safety feature. If the brake pedal isn't fully depressed, the lock will not disengage and allow the hear shifter to move. On most gear shifters there are small holes that lead...
Lacquer thinner for catalytic convertible threshold
I use lacquer thinner that they sell in auto paint stores. It’s the thinner that they use to thin oil paint and oil lacquer paint before they spray it on to the car. It does work quite well. You mix...
Engine rumbles and vibrates while idling
You might want to try watching my video "How to Fix a Car That Idles Poorly (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eQpPcdvSBks)." You just take the plastic plenum that goes from the air filter to the intake and get some throttle body cleaner. Spray the...
Newly installed brakes are grinding
It sounds like you may have a brake pad that's in backwards or a clip that is out of position. The best thing to do is to drive slow and have someone walk next to the vehicle and listen to...
Am I safe to drive with squealing coming from the engine?
The squealing noise you've described does sound like the accessory drive belt is slipping. Something is still not correct with the belt or tensioner. It needs to be inspected by an experienced mechanic. Ensure that they check pulley alignment and...
How to replace thermostat in a 2000 rodeo
Usually the upper radiator hose connects to the thermostat housing. You will want to drain the cooling system first. Then, disconnect the upper radiator hose from the engine side. After that, you will want to remove the bolts from the...
Car starts fine in the morning then after I stop it won't start back up an backfires real bad
Hi there: On a carburetor powered V-6 it is very likely that your choke or idle adjustment screw on the carb is dirty and simply needs to be cleaned. If you've never done this before on your vehicle, it might...
Harmonic balancer bolt removal which way to turn it 2001 Porsche
Hello - removal of the harmonic balancer bolt is counter-clockwise. Be sure to use a flywheel block or pin to prevent counter-clockwise engine rotation, which could cause engine damage. Good luck!

Related articles

Top 10 Tips to Be a Better Driver at Night
Nighttime Nighttime driving is inherently risky, even with modern automotive headlights. There are many threats that you might not see, from other drivers to deer and other animals in the road. Whether you’re driving in town or out in the...
Symptoms of a Bad or Failing Door Striker Plate
If your car door rattles, feels loose, moves up and down when shut, or is difficult to close, you may need to replace the door striker plate.
How Long Does a Hatch Lock Cylinder Last?
Keeping Keeping a vehicle safe is usually one of the top priorities that a vehicle owner will have. There are a number of mechanisms on a car that help to keep the contents inside of the car safe. On the...