Electric windows/switch pack intermittent operation

[Hammer H]

Having a problem with the electric windows/mirrors/sunroof. Stopped working so looked for the similar problems online and cleaned the window switch pack as recommended. Couldn't get it working so concluded I needed a replacement switch pack. Then a few weeks later they started working again on one occasion, then stoppled again. I thought there may be moisture causing the issue so id wait and see if the problem went away, several more weeks later, after many attempts, I tried again and after a week without being started, and they worked for two minutes and then stopped again.

Any ideas would be appreciated ? Id like to save the $300

[Hoges]

Could also be the relay and or fuses. A dud relay or fuse will stop the whole show rather than individual issues with the switch pack. Intermittent operation seems to suggest a sticking relay. I'm sorry just at the moment I don't have ready access to more info but if you do a web search on relay layout for a P38 Range Rover ... or the Electrical Troubleshooting Manual in RAVE, find the particular relay (in the fuse box next to the main battery) responsible for windows and sunroof and check its operation....
Good luck with it...let us know how you got on!

[wayneg]

As Hoges locate the relay and swap with another to test. I have a bucket full of relays and fuses if you need a replacement or spare. My money is on the switch pack. To easy to splill a drink over it and let time do its worst. Get a used one from the UK, ebay generally has loads. 2 types sunroof or no sunroof
Looks like its controlled by the BECM, see.......http://www.p38rangerover.com/becm/becm-connectors.html

[RoverHse]

I have the same problem. I spilt some coke on my other P38, which stopped the window switches working, but after a quick clean with electronic cleaner, it was back to Normal. I now have a second P38 which has the intermittent window problem. Based on previous experience I gave it a good clean. It worked when I tested it, but then became intermittent again. I generally flick all the switches until one moves then I'd be able to operate the all for a while, which supports the relay theory.

I've been meaning to swop the switch pack between the two P38's, but been too busy working on my Classic. But will go and change the relay right now as a test.

[Hammer H]

Checked the fuses all look ok. But could not conclude which or if there is a relay for it through my searches. It worked again very briefly today. So i tried everything, turned key on/off 30-40 times, moving wiring etc, Also has no power to illumination

Thanks wayneg for the offer with fuses and relays.

Thanks RoverHSE tried all switches no go. Let me know how you go with that switching of packs.

I did remove and clean thoroughly and look for faulty joints a month but no go.

[Hoges]

The fact that you are getting occasional activity indicates the problem could well be a faulty earth.
Earth point E808 appears to be the main earth point for the window switch pack. If you have RAVE, check the ETM (Electrical Manual), look up Earth points and find E0808 in the index. There's a photo of its location..It is actually located under the carpet in front of the driver's seat immediately in front of the BECM. ...The earth point consists of a couple of wires bolted to the floor

My theory is that when you get into the vehicle, the mechanical action of your feet on the carpet could be enough to cause a momentary connection. For what it's worth, disconnect the battery...both terminals and wait for 20 mins or so. Then unbolt the earth point from the floor and give it a good clean-up with a small wire brush, wet/dry emery paper or whatever. When you're finished and have retightened the earth point, put a smear of petroleum jelly over it to minimise any chance of corrosion. Reconnect the battery (positive terminal first)... see what happens...
Hope it works!:angel::wasntme:

[TheTree]

Personally I use Deotix on all connections like that to remove corrosion and prevent a repeat!

I think a dodgy earth is highly likely

Steve

[Hammer H]

Hi Gents,

I have now checked the earth and is good. At this point I will buy another switch pack and hope that's the answer. I have read where others with intermittent operation have replaced the switch pack and solved the issue. But it could be elsewhere.

If I had the time id further investigate but due to the lack of.

Will let you know how i go.

Thanks all for your help

[wayneg]

redandy3575 is parting out his car in the Markets section

[RoverHse]

I tried him early on, but the switch pack had already been taken

[wayneg]

Get onto this one quick, ask them to post to Oz and to take the switch pack from the housing to save weight

Range rover p38 window switch panel.....electric mirror and sunroof switch | eBay (http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Range-rover-p38-window-switch-panel-electric-mirror-and-sunroof-switch-/161416668165?pt=UK_CarsParts_Vehicles_CarParts_SM&hash=item25952ee405)

[Hammer H]

Gotta be quick

[Hammer H]

Windows finally fixed!

Was the switch pack, the old one did some weird things, operating sometimes for a short period after starting the car and also operating after driving the car for about an hour. ( i guess it could have been repaired, but don't know my way around circuit boards).

The second hand switch pack I purchased over ebay was without the sunroof switch, I had read on another site this could be converted to include the sunroof switch quite easily, which is true.

A possible advantage of converting a non sunroof switch pack could be, no sunroof-no water damage from being left open. And the switch pack I purchased was visibly in very good condition.

To remove the blank switch (and the sunroof switch to be used), slice off the several small plastic lugs on the back of the blank switch with a Stanley knife and replace with the sunroof switch. (the switch can be disassembled further but unnecessary) I then applied dobs of super glue to secure as plastic securing lugs cannot be reused.

[davidsonsm]

Very satisfying to do a job right. And a good find. Well done mate.