Expert: Ben Menard - 10/7/2010

Question
Hi. My 96 Taurus power windows all work perfectly, but only with the drivers side master switch.The lockout switch is not on. When you press any of the other door window switches when putting down a window down with the master switch, it will stop the window from moving. Tried replacing the master switch with a used one from the wreckers, no change. Tried cleaning and aligning the points on the lockout switch on both switches, no change. The wrecker switch could easily be bad as well. Just wondering if there are any other things I could check before spending $90.00 on a brand new switch. The windows work great from the master switch, but act like the lockout switch is permanently on. Possibly a common  problem? Any advice is welcome.

Thanks.

Mike

Answer
Hello Mike,

This is not a common problem so I don't have a quick answer.  I also don't think it is safe to assume that the salvaged switch is faulty.  So, I think it would be a mistake to buy the new switch since you can't return it if it doesn't solve your problem.

If you have power out of the master switch on the red /lt blue wire (lockout wire) you need to check to if you have power coming into the three single switches on this same red / lt blue wire.  If not, this wire is probably broken between the driver door and the body.

If you don't have power coming out of the master switch on the red / lt blue (lockout wire) that is probably the source of your problem.

Send me a follow up question if I can help in any other way.

Ben  ... the power window guy