On my 1998 convertible the ignition stays on when the key is turned off. I disconnected the plugs to the ignition and it still is on but does not start or are most of the electrics working when turned on. Removed the barrel and I'll working as it should. Looked at another feed were the inertia switch was an issue. Mine has not tripped so looks ok. When you take the relay out on the drivers side the lights go out. Tried swapping the relay but no change. New battery fitted and hard reset tried. Can't see any faults and no codes come up. Really frustrated been trying for a week now with no resolve. Any help would be appreciated.

 

Which relay did you remove? The one on the end of the fascia?

 

I removed the relay from the off side fuse box which when removed cuts the power to the dash..

 

I suggest you download the electric diagram for your car and look at the Ground distribution. The ignition switch sends ground to many things and places throughout the car and it will be difficult to guess where the problem is. It can be a short to ground somewhere or it can be one of several relays that is defective

 

^^ +1
So the relay in the driver side fascia fusebox.

Something is pulling ignition switched ground ii down. Unfortunately, that leads to quite a few locations, so isolating the culprit will be a chore unless you strike lucky. Disconnect the inertia switch if you can as that will narrow your search.

See fig. 2.1 in the 98 Electrical Guide, which you can download from member Gus' site of many things:
http://www.jagrepair.com/images/Auto.../jagxk1998.pdf

Has any work been done recently?

 

Is it possibly related to a sticking key "gate" in the ignition keyhole?

I've heard of plenty of batteries draining from this, but i can't see how the entire ignition circuit would turn on - just brainstorming.

What do I mean by gate? There's a pin like gate in the ignition keyhole. Key in pushes pin up, tells car key in ignition. If it sticks, car thinks key in 100% of time.

John

 

Cheers I will go through the wiring to see if anything is going to ground. Checked the ignition wiring all ok so far so will have a look under the bonnet today. Fingers crossed I will find the short.

 

Thanks John sprayed WD40 on the switch but looks ok

Thanks Iain

 

If its just the red alternator light that stays on with ignition off its faulty diodes in the alternator . common fault.
If the whole lot stays on then go with the advice given.