2003 I35- Power windows roll down when key isn't in ignition

[nthiogen]

This problem occurred randomly this weekend. Out of absolutely nowhere, I wake up Saturday morning and find that my windows are rolled down which was odd since I didn't leave them that way. I turned the car on to ACC, rolled em up, pulled the keys out, and as soon as I opened my door, they rolled back down again.

My troubleshooting basically went like this:ACC, window lock, key out, door open; problem persistedTurned over and started, key out, door open; problem persistedStarted, window lock, ", "; "Removed both battery terminals, replaced terminals, ACC, key out, door open; problem persisted.

So I looked up the issue and found this thread:zerothread/203704

After looking for this mysterious black switch for a while I gave up. I even removed the door panel completely, but it was no use. The master switch is $50 online, and I will be getting quotes from NAPA and the local dealership soon. Do I really need to replace this switch or is there something else I should look into? $50 isn't the end of the world but I'd rather not spend it if I don't need to.

Any insight would be greatly appreciated!

[loystock]

So have you tried the procedure by 'asianstyle' or 'elsando' from the link? It should worl unless there is something wrong with your window regulator or related cable.

[nthiogen]

I didn't try asianstyle's method because I couldn't find the small switch which he said must be pressed in while you do the procedure.

However, in my infinite wisdom I overlooked elsando's method. I'll give that a shot later today too. Thanks for pointing that out!

-Edit-tried both methods and the issue persists. I think I may just buy a new master switch. However, if anyone thinks they can help me further to find the reset switch I'll take a picture of my door with the panel off. Thanks!
Modified by nthiogen at 8:29 AM 1/26/2010

[Markc]

You must find the reset switch in order to rule out the "child protection" system. If it detects to much force while closing the window, (such as at the top of the door and still trying to wind up), it will go back down.

[nthiogen]

You must find the reset switch in order to rule out the "child protection" system. If it detects to much force while closing the window, (such as at the top of the door and still trying to wind up), it will go back down.

Ok. Would you be able to identify the switch if I took my door panel off and provided you with a picture of the bare door innards? I really have no idea where this switch is or what it looks like.

[Markc]

I would think so. It will be behind the plastic barrier. As long as the lighting is good and the plastic isn't in the way, we should be able to find it. It's a small black "button" type. Approx. half way down the door closer to the front of the vehicle.

[infinitidude123]

If none of these works, you could have a problem with the SECU ( smart entrance control unit). The remote keyless entry goes thru this and it appears to be some problem with that function, because if you hold the unlock button down on the keyless entry, the windows will roll down. That is something that could be checked out.

[nthiogen]

Well, I copped out and bought a used switch off Ebay. When I plugged the new switch in, it didn't light up, but the problem was solved. So I plugged my old unit back in, which lit up, and the problem seems to have fixed itself for the time being.

Weird, and luckily I've returned the switch and will be getting my money back. No idea what happened, but I'm happy enough to have everything back to normal. Thanks to everyone who chimed in!