What causes the dashboard lights to stay on after locking a classic Focus?
2 Answers
If the dashboard lights remain on for a short period of about 10 to 15 minutes, this is a normal phenomenon. This is because the model is equipped with a power-off delay device, and the dashboard lights will turn off after a certain period of time after the car is locked. Once the dashboard lights go out, the various components of the vehicle's electrical system enter a dormant state, and the power consumption becomes very low. If awakened during the dormant process, the system can quickly respond. The reasons for the dashboard lights staying on are as follows: 1. Power-off delay device: The power-off delay device inside the dashboard or the combination instrument itself may have issues, preventing the vehicle from entering the dormant state. 2. Active components: There may be components in the vehicle that remain active, preventing the system from entering the dormant state. In such cases, the current consumption will be very high. If the lights do not turn off or remain on for an extended period, it is necessary to drive the vehicle to a repair facility. First, check the fault codes in the vehicle's electrical system, and then conduct a leakage test on the vehicle to confirm the cause of the fault.
As a long-time owner of a classic Focus, I've noticed that the dashboard lights stay on after locking the car. The most common causes are doors not properly closed or sensor malfunctions, such as the doors, hood, or trunk not being shut tightly. Another frequent issue is the ignition key not being fully removed, which keeps the circuit powered. A stuck relay or a blown fuse in the fuse box can also be the culprit and is quick to check. Although rare, a faulty body control module could be the reason. Never ignore this issue, as it can drain the battery and prevent the car from starting. Safety first—get it checked at a professional shop immediately to avoid bigger troubles.
