Lighting Control Module Replaced

[Donny Carlson]

Starting this thread so that someone, someday, who has a similar problem can do a search and find a possible answer.

The lighting control module on my MM took a dump several weeks ago, cooinciding with installation of a new gauge and a rewirng of three existing gauges. My headlights would not go out, except when the ignition was shut off and after a shortened "courtesy" timer. Not even turning the switch to off would work, but turning it to parking lamps would shut off the headlights (Parking lamps on, taillights on, instrument panel on). This blew, because all the instrument were dimmed during the day, and not to mention the rear defogger stopped working as well. Additionally, the "chirp" beep when locking the doors with the remote stopped working.

The LCM is about $300 retail (Ray can get it for you a lot cheaper), and I was amazed at how many connections plug into it. But, one new LCM later, all the problems were solved. Hats off to Scott at Team, who correctly diagnosed the bad LCM like >< that.

[DEFYANT]

Wow! Thanks for the heads up!

[GreekGod]

Good Info To Know

[Hotrauder]

Starting this thread so that someone, someday, who has a similar problem can do a search and find a possible answer.

The lighting control module on my MM took a dump several weeks ago, cooinciding with installation of a new gauge and a rewirng of three existing gauges. My headlights would not go out, except when the ignition was shut off and after a shortened "courtesy" timer. Not even turning the switch to off would work, but turning it to parking lamps would shut off the headlights (Parking lamps on, taillights on, instrument panel on). This blew, because all the instrument were dimmed during the day, and not to mention the rear defogger stopped working as well. Additionally, the "chirp" beep when locking the doors with the remote stopped working.

The LCM is about $300 retail (Ray can get it for you a lot cheaper), and I was amazed at how many connections plug into it. But, one new LCM later, all the problems were solved. Hats off to Scott at Team, who correctly diagnosed the bad LCM like >< that.
thanks for the info. The electrical systems are so complex in todays vehicles that it is hard to know what is safe to tap into and even harder to understand the consequences of a screw up.

[rumble]

Donny, are you saying the guage work was or was not related to
the LCM croaking?

[Donny Carlson]

Donny, are you saying the guage work was or was not related to
the LCM croaking?
I was told it was not, and that makes sense. The only electrical work done was to tap into the 12v hot circuit and ground for the D-PIC, and to connect the pillar pod and console gauges dim wire to the parking lights circuit rather than the instrument panel circuit. This was actually recommended in the Autometer instructions. I can't see how this would have caused damage to the LCM.

I think the LCM was on its way and just happened to fail at that time. I had noticed some odd headlight operations (i.e. refusing to shut off when turned to the off position) before, but it was rare and intermiitent.

Besides, my installer had the battery disconnected during the wiring work.

[DEFYANT]

I've been running my taillight mod for several months now. No problems here. I added 4 tail, stop and turn lights to the system.

I suspect this is the same LCM they used when these cars used the unused portion of the taillights. It should be fine.

[JamieDrake]

Where can you get an LCM that cheap? My interior lights stay on, because the car thinks a door is open. The garage diagnosed it as the LCM, and told me one was going to be around $800.

[Breadfan]

Contact Ray, search for his screenname on here, which is: "The Dealer"

[3dogknight]

I have been experiencing similar issues. At random times, my headlights will just come on and start to flicker on/off. I was diving from FL to VA and I must have scared several people in front of me as they were swerving to the right to get outta my way (cool trick, huh?)!

It took me a few miles to figure out if I turn my lights to the 'ON' position, the on/off flickering stopped.

But, wait! That's not all! Shortly after I found this temporary workaround, my windshield wipers turned on! In the middle of a bright sunshiny day, I was wiping away. I had to pull off the road to deal with this one. After referring to the manual, I pulled the fuse and, viola, I'm back on the road.

However, I now have my fuse box open and I have to pull/insert thr fuse whenever I need my wipers! Not good - I thought that's wht they invented switches! I was headed to the shop for additional troubleshooting, but did a quick search here to 'arm myself' with info. Sounds like the shop could ask as much as $800 for a $300 part!

Question: How hard is it to install the LCM if I were to locate one through other sources (my MM family!)? Is this something I need to 'suck up' and just pay the man? Does this sound like an LCM issue? Any input will be graciously accepted!

Thanks!

Greg

[GreekGod]

UNCOMMANDED WINDSHIELD WIPER OPERATIONISSUE:

Some 2003 Crown Victoria/Grand Marquis vehicles may exhibit the windshield wiper turning on intermittently without activating the wiper switch.
ACTION:

Inspect the wiper motor and connector for signs of corrosion and/or moisture. If any corrosion or moisture are found, and the wipers exhibit an intermittent uncommanded operation, replace the wiper motor and connector/pig tail. If no visible sign of moisture or corrosion is present follow normal diagnostics in Section 501-16 of the Workshop Manual.

Motor # 3W7Z-17508-AA, or 6W7Z-17508-AC, # 3W7Z-17A477-AA Connector-Pig Tail

[3dogknight]

Thanks for the info!

Looks like I may have two separate issues. I will need to investigate further.

This is why I love this site! The sharing of info and experiences here are invaluable. It's great having an extended family!

[Local Boy]

There is a post that explains how to fix your LCM...Look for a post started by Makaii...I think that is the correct screen name...

The relays go bad...they are not that hard to replace...

ALOHA

[ckadiddle]

<TABLE cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=3 width="96%" border=3><TBODY><TR><TD class=VERTCENT align=middle width="25%" bgColor=#ffffff>TSB
05-4-9

</TD><TD class=VERTCENT align=left width="65%" bgColor=#ffffff>

UNCOMMANDED WINDSHIELD WIPER OPERATION
</TD></TR><TR><TD bgColor=#0000ff colSpan=2>Publication Date: February 16, 2005 </TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>
<TABLE border=0><TBODY><TR><TD width=230>FORD:

</TD><TD>2003 Crown Victoria </TD></TR><TR><TD width=230>MERCURY:

</TD><TD>2003 Grand Marquis </TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>
ISSUE:

Some 2003 Crown Victoria/Grand Marquis vehicles may exhibit the windshield wiper turning on intermittently without activating the wiper switch.
ACTION:

Inspect the wiper motor and connector for signs of corrosion and/or moisture. If any corrosion or moisture are found, and the wipers exhibit an intermittent uncommanded operation, replace the wiper motor and connector/pig tail. If no visible sign of moisture or corrosion is present follow normal diagnostics in Section 501-16 of the Workshop Manual.

<TABLE cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=3 border=1><TBODY><TR><TH align=middle>PART NUMBER </TH><TH align=middle>PART NAME </TH></TR><TR><TD class=NOBOTTOMBORDER align=left>3W7Z-17508-AA </TD><TD class=NOBOTTOMBORDER align=left>Wiper Motor </TD></TR><TR><TD class=NOBORDER align=left>3W7Z-17A477-AA </TD><TD class=NOBORDER align=left>Connector Pig Tail</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

That's it! You've got wacky wiper syndrome in addition to other issues. Delaer replaced thos items for me and they ahve worded fine ever since. Mine came on on the way to a Marauder meet on a sunny afternoon for no reason. Wife freaked a bit, I told her not to worry cause I had already read about the problem here.

[3dogknight]

Do you remember the cost for the wiper motor/pigtail installed?

[cpprice]

Southern Lincoln Mercury just told me I had a bad LCM and wanted $792.00 to replace. I found this place online that has one for $239.00.
http://www.trademotion.com/partlocator/index.cfm?siteid=214944
Has anyone dealt with this place? They have good prices for their parts. I was just wondering if they were legit.

It turns out this is Blue Springs Ford in Blue Springs, Missouri.

[cpprice]

The website says Ford Parts Center. Is the LCM easy to replace yourself? I hate working under the dash, but I want to try that first.

[Richy04]

If anyone had the following parts, I am interested in them for diagnosis and repair and posting the repair info here and will return them if needed. I will also do the heated seat switches for free for the members here if you cant do them yourself.

1. Heated seat switches, if I can get enough of these, I can offer a swap deal for members who need them fixed with zero down time. Once again FREE providing you send the old one to me for repair for the next member.

2. LCM's, mostly stuck relay problems, I work on lots of electronics and have accounts with Mouser,Newark and other suppliers and can offer the repairs based on the cost of parts only and shipping.

3. Head units, looking to solve the loss of signal so if you have one you are willing to allow me to troubleshoot, we just may solve that issue as well.

4. Any other component that electronically fails, maybe we can get a swap consortium going here to keep these things "on the cheap" and available to members.

regards Richy

[ctrlraven]

I had problems with the wipers first, few weeks later (last week) my lights came in broad daylight only in Auto position by themselves.

Replaced the wiper motor and got some control of the wipers back now, replaced the MF switch and still made no difference. Last thing to try is the LCM.

As cpprice asked is it hard to replace the LCM by yourself? I deal with vehicle wiring/electronics for work everyday so as long as I can get to it I could probably do it myself.

Stimulus check needs to hurry up and come so I can order a new one.

Richy04, if I replace mine and it fixes the problem I could send you my old one if you want to use it for research.

[captain]

SECTION 419-10: Multifunction Electronic Control Modules
2003 Crown Victoria/Grand Marquis/Marauder Workshop Manual

REMOVAL AND INSTALLATION
Module —Lighting Control (LCM)

Removal and Installation

Disconnect the battery ground cable. For additional information, refer to Section 414-01 (file:///C:/TSO/tsocache/IBM-BEA88CBE9E1_1200/S3A~us~en~leftside=S3ASE10L.ht m&rightside=S3ASE10R.htm&market=us&lang=en~gen~2col.htm).
Remove the LH instrument panel lower insulator.
Remove the pin-type retainers.
Disconnect the courtesy lamp.file:///C:/TSO/tsocache/IBM-BEA88CBE9E1_1200/S3A~us~en~file=A0026634.gif~ge n~ref.gif
If equipped with adjustable pedals, remove the accelerator pedal, and shaft. For additional information, refer to Section 310-02 (file:///C:/TSO/tsocache/IBM-BEA88CBE9E1_1200/S3A~us~en~leftside=S3ASA20L.ht m&rightside=S3ASA20R.htm&market=us&lang=en~gen~2col.htm).
Position the LCM aside.
Remove the screws.
Release the locking tab.file:///C:/TSO/tsocache/IBM-BEA88CBE9E1_1200/S3A~us~en~file=A0026635.gif~ge n~ref.gif
Disconnect the electrical connectors and remove the LCM.file:///C:/TSO/tsocache/IBM-BEA88CBE9E1_1200/S3A~us~en~file=A0026636.gif~ge n~ref.gif
To install, reverse the removal procedure.
Check for correct operation.

[captain]

The pictures always get dumped when I "post"
Some one tell me how to keep the pictures intact.

[Richy04]

Ok ctrlRaven, I am also looking for dead EATC's, these things can be fixed so we should get a stockpile of repaired parts for members to have available.

[ctrlraven]

I thought my EATC was bad, I replaced the O-rings and still had the same problem (on FLOOR and on DEFROST air comes out the Floor and Defroster vents just as it would on FLOOR/DEFROST function).

I'll let you know when I pull my old LCM out.

Captain thanks for the notes, I would had never figured out the pedal would have had to be removed. I think for the pictures you would need to actually upload them on photobucket.com or imageshack.us for us to see because we can't link to your computer where the files our stored so their only cached on your computer.

[cpprice]

Thanks a million for the info, Captain. That was just what I needed to go ahead and do it myself. It would have taken me all day to figure out the pedal removal. The picures would help too if you can get them to post. If not you can try e-mailing them (or a link) to me, Charles Price, at cpprice@aol.com. I will be glad to send my old LCM to Richy also. All I need to do now is call Ray and get the part. Yea!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[vegasmarauder]

You can change the LCM without removing the pedal assemblies.

Remove the black plastic piece that holds the courtesy light under the dash. There are 2 screws that hold the LCM to the bracket. The LCM is just above and in front the diagnostic Data Link for those who want to know. You can reach up and press the wiring harness connector clips and pull the connectors to the front of the car. Then release the plastic latch on the underside of he LCM.

Move the LCM forward and turn it up and sideways and it will clear everything. It is tight, but it will clear. I have changed about 5 of these this way, all on 2003 MM and CV's.

It seems 03's lose the headlight relay and make the headlights cycle on/off when it gets hot outside or the heater is on full blast (at least out here in the desert). Good luck.

[Bradley G]

funny, I've had all of theses commonalities DONE TOO!; wipers, heater switches,LCM,RADIO, REGULATORS , DOOR LOCK ACTUATORS.Great idea Richey04, If I was able to keep the warrantied defective parts, I would send them to you.

[ctrlraven]

You can change the LCM without removing the pedal assemblies.

Remove the black plastic piece that holds the courtesy light under the dash. There are 2 screws that hold the LCM to the bracket. The LCM is just above and in front the diagnostic Data Link for those who want to know. You can reach up and press the wiring harness connector clips and pull the connectors to the front of the car. Then release the plastic latch on the underside of he LCM.

Move the LCM forward and turn it up and sideways and it will clear everything. It is tight, but it will clear. I have changed about 5 of these this way, all on 2003 MM and CV's.

It seems 03's lose the headlight relay and make the headlights cycle on/off when it gets hot outside or the heater is on full blast (at least out here in the desert). Good luck.

Thanks for the tip! I would of probably tried to get it out without removing the pedal anyways lol.

[vegasmarauder]

No Problem. I just pulled one of an '03 Marquis today in a U-pull wrecking yard to have as a spare. 2 screws out, press the center plastic retainer. Pull it forward and up, then drop the rear down and unplug the connectors. Took all of 10 minutes.

[cpprice]

Do you still want the LCM and where do you want me to send it?


If anyone had the following parts, I am interested in them for diagnosis and repair and posting the repair info here and will return them if needed. I will also do the heated seat switches for free for the members here if you cant do them yourself.

1. Heated seat switches, if I can get enough of these, I can offer a swap deal for members who need them fixed with zero down time. Once again FREE providing you send the old one to me for repair for the next member.

2. LCM's, mostly stuck relay problems, I work on lots of electronics and have accounts with Mouser,Newark and other suppliers and can offer the repairs based on the cost of parts only and shipping.

3. Head units, looking to solve the loss of signal so if you have one you are willing to allow me to troubleshoot, we just may solve that issue as well.

4. Any other component that electronically fails, maybe we can get a swap consortium going here to keep these things "on the cheap" and available to members.

regards Richy

[johnnywaters]

What is the LCM Part Number?

[GreekGod]

What is the LCM Part Number?

No number given:

Lighting control module, all models 03-04 List:$444.33 Net:$239.94
RE:

http://www.trademotion.com/partlocator/index.cfm?siteid=214944&year=2003

______________________________ ______________________________ _

[cpprice]

The part I purchased had a diffrent part number than the one that I removed. It had me worried, but the replacement works fine. I've had it in for a couple of weeks now and everything still works. The one I took out of 2003 Marauder

built 12/2002 was: 3W7T-13C788-AH

The new one was: 4W7Z-13C788-BB

[Marauder3t0]

I have a 03 marauder and my light control box I think is going bad my headlights jump on and off if u shake the box they will come on dose anyone no the problem ?

[RR|Suki]

I have a 03 marauder and my light control box I think is going bad my headlights jump on and off if u shake the box they will come on dose anyone no the problem ?

search LCM, there is a thread on how to repair it

[RF Overlord]

Everything you need to know about repairing the LCM is here (http://www.crownvic.net/ubbthreads/ubbthreads.php?ubb=showflat&Number=1159835&page=4#Post1159835).

You can either replace the factory relay with an external heavier-duty one or just replace it with the same. They're available at Mouser Electronics (http://www.mouser.com/Search/Refine.aspx?N=254125+429475904 0+1323043&Keyword=eq1-11111s&FS=True) for $3.38.

[MarcPro]

Contact Ray, search for his screenname on here, which is: "The Dealer"

Hi guy's..I need to speak to Ray since i have the same LCM problem..I searched for his screename but didn't find.....Ray..are you reading this..or can someone point me in the right direction?
LCM thing reallys sucks eh? I"ve been driving around w/ my flashers on the ON position untill i hear the "click" and see that i have all lights on...then i let go and rest for 2 minutes ...then it's flasher's on again for trhe rest of the night's drive...
Don't even get me started about the tires!
2003 Marauder with 140,000 miles on it! ( hard ass NYC miles ) ; )

[RF Overlord]

Ray's screen name is "TheDealer"...all one word. (no quotes)

[DOOM]

RF Overlord have you ever heard of an LCM that could NOT be repaired?
This is a very good thread and seems like a very simple and inexpensive fix.
Im just curious if anyone here has had one that could not be fixed.

[SC Cheesehead]

RF Overlord have you ever heard of an LCM that could NOT be repaired?
This is a very good thread and seems like a very simple and inexpensive fix.
Im just curious if anyone here has had one that could not be fixed.

Jake,

There was a guy posted up a while back had an issue where he'd pulled the connector off the circuit board, that would have been a pretty substantial fix. Otherwise, I think everybody else has only had problems with the relays.

+1 on the simple and inexpensive fix, unless you're a fat guy. Then you've got to pull the driver's seat to get sufficient clearance to access the darn LCM under the dash. Ask me how I know this...;)

[Mach]

Hey I have a 2003 and the LCM is busted, how much do you charge? I was refered by Reinheart Marauder. I live in Dallas, Tx. so if you can send me an address that you want me to send it too.



If anyone had the following parts, I am interested in them for diagnosis and repair and posting the repair info here and will return them if needed. I will also do the heated seat switches for free for the members here if you cant do them yourself.

1. Heated seat switches, if I can get enough of these, I can offer a swap deal for members who need them fixed with zero down time. Once again FREE providing you send the old one to me for repair for the next member.

2. LCM's, mostly stuck relay problems, I work on lots of electronics and have accounts with Mouser,Newark and other suppliers and can offer the repairs based on the cost of parts only and shipping.

3. Head units, looking to solve the loss of signal so if you have one you are willing to allow me to troubleshoot, we just may solve that issue as well.

4. Any other component that electronically fails, maybe we can get a swap consortium going here to keep these things "on the cheap" and available to members.

regards Richy

[SC Cheesehead]

Hey I have a 2003 and the LCM is busted, how much do you charge? I was refered by Reinheart Marauder. I live in Dallas, Tx. so if you can send me an address that you want me to send it too.

fastblackmerc does a great job on fixing these, replaces the crappy OEM relay that fails with a HD unit.

Send him a PM, he can give you all the details.

[Mamba]

I meed LCM repair how do i pm fastblackmerc?

[fastblackmerc]

I meed LCM repair how do i pm fastblackmerc?

Click on "fastblackmerc" in upper left corner, select send private message (PM) to fastblackmerc

[Ozark Marauder]

While reading through this, I was wondering when this thread would get to "fastblackmerc, three pages...:dunno:......... :D

OZ

[bugsyc]

I was having electrical problems recently..No auto lights,no tail lights,no corner lights..The mechanic is a good guy and kept saying LCM but,let me check out the whole wiring system first...After removing instrument cluster,guages,radio and headlights,tail lights,corner lights,He found a short in the tail light harness...I must say that the famous FBM did diagnose a short when I first spoke about blowing fuses..FBM knows of what he speaks..Lucky to have him as a resource..

[rauderxxx]

can someone send me pics on how to change the lcm so i can knw what to look for first time doing work on this car bout tied of it more problems then a lil bit

[rauderxxx]

mybad you can send pics to rauder1@hotmail.com

[SC Cheesehead]

http://www.crownvic.net/ubbthreads/ubbthreads.php?ubb=showflat&Number=1437302

Just pull the LCM and send it to fastblackmerc, he can get you fixed up with a permanent (and guaranteed) repair.

[Marauderjack]

Boy is this an old thread......has anyone heard from Donny lately??:confused:

[bugsyc]

http://www.ebay.com/itm/270768700687?ssPageName=STRK:M EWAX:IT&_trksid=p3984.m1438.l2649..... http://www.ebay.com/itm/ORIGINAL-FORD-LIGHTING-CONTROL-MODULE-LCM-2003-2004-CROWN-VICTORIA-GRAND-MARQUIS-/280999433837?pt=Motors_Car_Tru ck_Parts_Accessories&hash=item416cdf166d&vxp=mtr

[bugsyc]

http://www.ebay.com/itm/2003-2004-Crown-Victoria-LIGHTING-CONTROL-MODULE-LCM-03-04-LIFETIME-WARRANTY-/230759752529?pt=Motors_Car_Tru ck_Parts_Accessories&hash=item35ba5a6351&vxp=mtr

[fastblackmerc]

http://www.ebay.com/itm/270768700687?ssPageName=STRK:M EWAX:IT&_trksid=p3984.m1438.l2649..... http://www.ebay.com/itm/ORIGINAL-FORD-LIGHTING-CONTROL-MODULE-LCM-2003-2004-CROWN-VICTORIA-GRAND-MARQUIS-/280999433837?pt=Motors_Car_Tru ck_Parts_Accessories&hash=item416cdf166d&vxp=mtr


http://www.ebay.com/itm/2003-2004-Crown-Victoria-LIGHTING-CONTROL-MODULE-LCM-03-04-LIFETIME-WARRANTY-/230759752529?pt=Motors_Car_Tru ck_Parts_Accessories&hash=item35ba5a6351&vxp=mtr

The only problem with those is they replace the undersized OEM relay with the same undersized relay. Will it work yes.... will it work long... no.

I like the one that says "if you leave bad feedback the warranty is void".....

[SC Cheesehead]

The only problem with those is they replace the undersized OEM relay with the same undersized relay. Will it work yes.... will it work long... no.

I like the one that says "if you leave bad feedback the warranty is void".....

:eek: Oh yeah, I'd wanna do business with this guy for sure... :rolleyes:

[bugsyc]

I was watching a utube video about the LCM.It seems that Ford has done over 20 different revisions to it...The brand new one is supposed to be the final version...I didn't get the part number but,it started with a 5.......5W7T-13C788 AB

[SC Cheesehead]

I was watching a utube video about the LCM.It seems that Ford has done over 20 different revisions to it...The brand new one is supposed to be the final version...I didn't get the part number but,it started with a 5.......5W7T-13C788 AB

Just because Ford has done revisions on LCMs over the years doesn't necessarily the newest ones will be compatible with your car.

If a relay problem is all you're experiencing, FBM can get you fixed up with virtually no future issues.

[fastblackmerc]

I was watching a utube video about the LCM.It seems that Ford has done over 20 different revisions to it...The brand new one is supposed to be the final version...I didn't get the part number but,it started with a 5.......5W7T-13C788 AB

Although there are different LCM revisions the same crappy relay controls the headlights. I have a list of the revisions form Ford, none mention a change in the relay.