Pod lights won't go out

[padc1]

Hi all
Just got back from a couple of hour drive in the tam
I put the the car in the garage and switched it off but the pod lights stayed on as well as the heater fan
I then got an error code 245
Everything seems to be working fine
Whilst fiddling around with fuses and relays (to no avail) I put the wipper control stalk to the up position and the lights went out
When I put it back to its natural position the lights come back on
Any ideas ?

Cheers

Edited by padc1 on Sunday 17th May 20:47

[jamesh764]

The rectifier diodes in the alternator can break down, causing current to "leak back" into the electrical system the wrong way. This could mean that some of the electrical items that take very little current, e.g. the pod, will receive power.

If it is easy enough to access, you could try disconnecting the wires from the alternator temporarily to see if the problem goes away.

[padc1]

jamesh764 said:

The rectifier diodes in the alternator can break down, causing current to "leak back" into the electrical system the wrong way. This could mean that some of the electrical items that take very little current, e.g. the pod, will receive power.

If it is easy enough to access, you could try disconnecting the wires from the alternator temporarily to see if the problem goes away.

Thanks I'll have a look today
If this is the problem what's the fix ?

[shep1001]

padc1 said:

Thanks I'll have a look today
If this is the problem what's the fix ?

New alternator or replace the diode pack. When mine started playing up,, you could turn the pod lights off by pressing the brake pedal with the ignition off and the key out!

[padc1]

Ok chaps I need an idiots guide on how to change the diode pack !
Where do I get it for a start ?

[jamesh764]

Based on bitter experience with an ancient Subaru alternator, I would just replace the whole alternator rather than messing around with a soldering iron trying to replace the diodes/rectifiers.

First you need to make sure it is actually the alternator that is at fault, which disconnecting it should do. Make sure you don't short anything out while doing this though.

[padc1]

A quick update
I've been out in the car and got home switched it off and all seems back to normal !
I'm under no illusions that it's fixed but at least it might make it until August when it's in for a service

While I'm here does anyone have any thoughts or advice on the the front brake discs as I need to replace these at the service as they are warped also need to change pads as they're driving me mad with the squeal
Not sure of my options any advice welcome

Cheers