Scary electrical problem-HELP

[1bad88]

Hello to group.
The subject of my concern is a 1999 Aurora 120,000 miles.
My major concern is a fire.

Details: I have developed an intermittent "crinkling" sound in dash behind drivers side dash.
This is the best I can describe it.
When engine is running all lights will flicker when it happens [ there is NO specific length of time between occurrences ]
Here is the scary part...
When car is NOT running with no key in ignition it STILL does it.
I have never done anything behind the dash nor been in there.
I do not want to drive for fear of a electrical fire.
I am asking for ANY ideas from group.

THANKS
Jim

[tigger]

Since you mention that the lights are impacted at each occurrence, the LCM (Lamp Control Module) jumps to mind. But that's just a guess.

Here's a thread on accessing/repairing the LCM if you want to give it a shot; LCM

And FWIW, the "crinkling" sound IS electrical arcing, may want to disconnect the battery when the vehicle is unattended...

GL

[1bad88]

THANK YOU very much .. I will look into this.
Jim

[RCA1186]

You are having a multifunction switch issue. Just a guess, but yes the clicking you hear is from the LCM but I would almost bet the issue is originating from the switch. See these threads if you don't see anything wrong with the LCM. Fwiw, you can unplug the connector from the LCM and at least be able to park it without draining the battery. You would also be able to drive with it unplugged during the day, brake lights and signals would still be functional.



Mulifunction switch (flashing lights)
Multifunction Dissection - not for the queasy

[1bad88]

Took out the LCM [ NO sign of burned or shorted contacts / cleaned it with electronic cleaner ]
>>> When I was trying to remove it, it BUZZED several times with Ignition OFF..

I will now try the other suggestion.. THANKS
Jim

P.S. Can I bypass the LCM

[tigger]

Aug 6, 2019 8:46:14 GMT -6 1bad88 said:

P.S. Can I bypass the LCM

If you mean "have head/tail/marker lights without a LCM", I'd say... probably. But I don't have a wiring schematic and you would lose other functionality.

Try the compressed air thing Rob suggested first, I think he's on to something.