Looking for some advice. Recently bought a 2000 XK8 which has seen little use, circa 5000 miles in last 5 years. I noted on opening the door window would drop an inch or so but would return as soon as I let the handle go. (Both doors) Based on what I read it indicated the door ajar micro switch to be faulty. Replaced switch on both doors and passenger door fixed. The drivers door, the window will drop an inch but would not go back up on closing. Reset the window switch as I had done with the passenger door. However the window always stops an inch from the top and need to press again to fully close. Therefore I cannot reset the switch. The "Drivers door open" is now displayed on the dash, wasn't before. The puddle lights and the boot light no longer works. The central looking works and the interior footwell lights work. Had the lock out several times now, have manually checked with a tester the 4 micro switches are operational and they are. Any suggestions? I would buy another lock, but on e-bay they are circa £250 and I can't actually find anything wrong with mine. Comments and thoughts appreciated.

 

How old is the battery? Low or dying batteries cause all sorts of issues with these vehicles....

 

Whenever I have problems with the windows it's always due to low battery voltage.

 

+1 to Jon89 and Ozbot. First suspect is a dying battery. It may start the car but the electronics go a bit haywire. Easy enough to take the battery to a garage to get it tested. If you have to get a new one, don't be cheap and get small one and do buy a reputable brand.

 

The battery was marginal so I replaced and no change.

 

Graham, while yes this could be seen as a door switch issue, in fact I preached that once or twice in the past, but I've since learned this is most likely to be a "set the window travel" issue.

I don't think you mentioned doing that and it sounds like you are relatively new to the car, let me explain:

You in driver’s seat.
Car idling
Rood closed

Power both windows down - hold the button depressed until you hear a click (thermal breakers trip)
Power both windows up, hold for trip
Repeat

Now your car knows window position and with your new battery this problem should be gone.

Let us know, John

 

Thanks John, I had reset the windows, passenger door was fine. Today I decided to tackle again. I took the lock out again and re-examined the door ajar switch I previously replaced. I had bent the spring to the same arc as the one removed. I had continuity in the 2nd lock position, to confirm door actually closed and not on the first catch. I put more of an arc on the spring so I would have continuity at the first lock and reassembled and reset the windows. Problem solved. I have spent hours over this and albeit a simple solution I am very glad its fixed. Puddle lights also working. Did have an issue with the central locking however resolved this by adjusting the length of the rod connecting the key to the lock. Alarm system now also working. It's been a good day in Scotland.

Many thanks for everyones help.

All the best, Graham

 

Bending that new microswitch metal arm to the perfect arc is indeed crucial to a successful repair. Well done....