electrical problems??

[nickW]

i have a few electrical problems and im not sure if they are linked,

the interior lights are very dim and only work with headlights on,
the clock only works with the healights on and it resets its self every time you turn the lights on or open and shut a door,
the rear wiper doesn't work

nick

[TimM]

It try fuses for the first two, and I've recently discovered from another post on here, that the rear wiper only works with the drivers door shut, so if your having problems with the interior lights, that might be linked too  :?

The interior light and clock share the same fused circuit under the trim below your steering wheel.

[nickW]

i will try the fuses but wouln't the interior lights and clock not work atall if the fuse had gone, also i thought i remember some saying that the wiper was on the same circuit

[TimM]

I think the wiper has a seperate circuit, but it may not be getting the right signals if there is a problem with the interior lights (it might think the door is open).

The clock has several power feeds, it needs to keep power all hte time (so it doesn't stop) and it comes on brighter when you turn on the ignition, and probably dims a little when the lights are on - so I wouldn't be suprised if it's lost one source and is picking up power occasionally from one of the others  :?

For the sake of a quick check in the fuse box - I't might be a quick cure (or maybe not)

[Damonski]

I  would say check all your earth straps around the engine bay are in good condition.

Sounds like a dodgy earth and other components are being used to complete the circuit i.e. headlights when they are on.

[nickW]

ok then, where abouts are the earth straps in the engine bay

[Richie_EB4]

There is normaly only one...........it comes off your battery then bolts to the chassis and then to the engine...........you sometimes get one near the starter motor..........

There is also a few small local earth's from wiper motor and fuse box etc.......so have a good look at all the wires that are bolted to the chassis/bodywork

[nickW]

ok cheers

[imspanners]

If yours is a 200 series, read the Indicator Stalk help post.
The 200's have fusible links in the main battery wiring loom. These corrode and cause loss of power to interior fusebox. Initially the fault will manifest itslf as a low voltage to the components, as the link corrodes more, the voltage carrying capability gets less.