THEFT DETERRENT ALARMS INTERMITT/DISCHARGED BATTERY

VEHICLES AFFECTED: 1989-90 C

Some 1989-1990 DeVilles and Fleetwoods built before VIN 294322 may exhibit a condition of false theft alarm, discharged battery, RAP staying on after a door is opened, or courtesy lights inoperative.

These conditions may be caused by moisture in the door jamb switches. The jamb switch theft contacts can short together in high humidity or wet weather conditions because moisture in the switch may allow some current flow to ground. If the theft system is armed when the contacts short, the result will be a false theft alarm. If the theft system is not armed when the contacts short, the security telltale will flash which could result in a discharged battery. (The theft module's sensitivity to low current flow may cause these symptoms even though interior lights may not be turned on). If moisture and/or corrosion make a good ground path or an open circuit at the switch, RAP and courtesy lights will not operate correctly.

To repair the above conditions, perform the following procedure:

1. Remove and discard the door jamb switches. If the jam washers are present behind the door jamb switches, discard them also.

2. Install boot, P/N #20057139, and washer, P/N #2048212, on new door jamb switches, P/N #20545277. Refer to Figure 1.

3. Install door jamb switch assembly back into the pillar using deep well 11 mm socket.

4. Verify that the harness grommet in the pillar is seated. If the grommet is not seated it could allow water to drip onto the rear of the switch.

General Motors bulletins are intended for use by professional technicians, not a "do-it-yourselfer". They are written to inform those technicians of conditions that may occur on some vehicles, or to provide information that could assist in the proper service of a vehicle. Properly trained technicians have the equipment, tools, safety instructions and know-how to do a job properly and safely. If a condition is described, do not assume that the bulletin applies to your vehicle, or that your vehicle will have that condition. See a General Motors dealer servicing your brand of General Motors vehicle for information on whether your vehicle may benefit from the information.