Puddle Lamp Function

[markup97]

After some searching, I have come up with 'The Puddle Lamps come on when you unlock the doors or use the remote/keypad'. While this sounds pretty straight-forward, I do have a question related to their function.

Mine do not work on my 97 Base, and both bulbs are good, along with the fuse. Any ideas as to why they aren't coming on (I unlock my doors with the key versus remote/keypad). Do they not come on when physically using a key or do I have a problem elsewhere in the system?

 

[Austin]

You need the key fob for them to activate.

 

[driller]

Makes sense, not much use for puddle lamps if you can use the key in the door.

 

[billcu]

Yes, the key fob or pressing a keypad button turns on the puddle lamps.

 

[enriquei]

They turn on when you hit the unlock button once on the keyfob (as mentioned above).

 

[ONLYTONY]

If you use the key, too late, your already standing in the puddle.

 

[markup97]

So, it looks like I need to find a key fob and have it programmed to my vehicle then!

Thank you to those who replied, and now I have the direction to take the problem in!

 

[enriquei]

So, it looks like I need to find a key fob and have it programmed to my vehicle then!

Thank you to those who replied, and now I have the direction to take the problem in!

You can program it yourself. IIRC, from what I've read, it's pretty simple.

 

[markup97]

Due to the nature of my car, it presents a unique challenge. The code for keyless entry I have (on the sticker next to the air ride control switch in the trunk) is not correct for the computer in the car. My car is a half-breed, as in it is a 1997 Base with a 1994 rear clip. See my 'Members Rides' for the entire reasoning. it would probably be better for me to get a key fob and take the car in to the dealer and reprogram both at the same time.

 

[steve]

The code should also be on the driver door module, you will have to take the door panel off. The code is directly relate to the controller not the computer.

 

[markup97]

Steve,

So you are saying that no matter the year of the car, the code is held in the controller versus the cars EEC-V?

 

[steve]

as far as i know yes

 

[chris2523]

on first gens it is absolutely not in the EEC. i assume it is the same for second gens, as they have that controller in the door.

 

[markup97]

Excellent. Thank you for that information.

When I get the car up to the dealer for the Cruise recall, I will have them program the fob!

 

[tixer]

If the previous owner thought to leave the manual and associated materials in the glovebox, I believe the keypad code should be included on a little "business card" in there, as well.. It may save you taking the door apart.

Alternatively, do some searching on-line for a "brute force 5 digit PIN" cracker, and grab a couple 12 packs and a lawn chair.

 

[chris2523]

there are only, like what, 3000 codes? can't take too long. lol.

 

[markup97]

Nice! I'll just let the 'Pros' handle this one!

 

[markup97]

Key Fobs still available from Ford ($60) but no warranty that they can be properly programmed. Found a control in the yard today and yanked it (just to have a spare module). Once I get the car back together and up to the dealer for the cruise Recall, I will try my luck and see what comes of it.