electrical problems

[crashtested]

I'm a new NB driver, but I've worked on our '99 2.0 5 speed for three years thanks to the great folks here @ NB.org. I've fixed most of the normal quirks like the headlight harness and alarm micro switch. I'm currently getting ready to tackle the climate control fan switch (thanks Hoowwiieee for the great write-up). I recently discovered a new quirk with our NB.

When I remove the key from the ignition, the interior lights come on, but the doors don't unlock. When I lock the door with the key (no remote), only the driver side works and you can't move the windows anymore. Plus, the alarm doesn't activate. Then when I come back to the car, the lights don't come on when you open the drive's side. They only come on when the passenger's side is opened. I'm thinking there is a problem with either the driver door wiring or door switch. Any input on where to start troubleshooting would be much appreciated.

[kcfoxie]

Door switch. My 98 is doing this too, I noticed a delay between when I opened the door with the lights on and engine running and when the warning buzzer kicked on. Now, it just doesn't come on anymore. You should replace the microswitch to make that work. Now the locking and window key trick, that's the locking mechanism. I don't know what is causing that, but it's affecting me too. I have to lock/unlock/roll up/down windows from the passenger side door lock -- that still works, but the driver's side is a no-go.

[crashtested]

Thanks KCfoxie. I'll take a look @ that next.

[kcfoxie]

no problem man! We 98 owners gotta stick together ... I keep noticing that parts are listed "1998" and "1999-2005" in the books... seems the 98s are their own animal from the rest of the beetles