Illuminated Door Sills
Last edited by scottmp123; Jun 29, 2011 at 11:05 PM.
1) You need to realize that the dome light (front) and rear dome lights only illuminate with the door open if it's dark outside and the overhead switches are in the correct position (read your owner's manual).
2) If your associated dome lamps, associated courtesy lamps (below the door), AND illuminated door sill are not illuminating when it's dark out, then your door latch microswitch is malfunctioning. This switch is clipped inside your door latch, and chances are a little PB blaster will rectify the situation. If not, it's a $35 part on any wholesale website. Replacing the switch involves removing the door panel and being patient.
3) If the associated dome lamp and courtesy lamp ARE working but your illuminated door sill is not working (common), then the problem is your door sill inverter, part number 463 820 15 26. It's currently $157 on most wholesale websites. I've replaced 3 of these this year alone on my 11 year old G55.
Now that you've diagnosed the problem, here's how to fix it:
1) If your door latch microswitch is inoperative, then try removing the upper screw that holds the door latch in place (the one physically screwed to the door itself) and spray some electrical cleaner and PB blaster into the latch mechanism using the red straw that comes with the cleaner. This has never failed to clear a gummed up microswitch for me, and it's part of my standard annual maintenance. I've never personally needed to remove a door panel to fix this switch.
2) If your door sill inverter is not working, then you'll need part number 463 820 15 26. The front inverters take about 5 minutes to replace because they're located behind the carpet/plastic sheet in the associated front foot kick panel. These inverters are wrapped in beige foam to reduce rattling. This repair is very, very easy. The rear door sill inverters are located underneath the front seatbelt reel inside the B pillar. This pillar pops off easily and provides enough access to replace the switch without any serious disassembly. I've always removed the front seatbelt retaining bolt on the B pillar to get more access. The rears take me about 15 minutes to replace.
Pretty much any shade-tree mechanic could replace all of these inverters and microswitches inside of 2 hours. I hope this helps.
Last edited by bryanrex; Feb 23, 2016 at 09:56 PM.



