How to solve window / wiper issue?

[muzzy66]

Hi!

I'm just about to pick up an 89' MX5 (paid deposit last week, picking it up tomorrow). It's pretty much perfect, with only one issue.

The owner told me the one issue that popped up recently is the the power windows (and wipers) stop working intermittedly. One day they'll work, the next day the wont.

He said he was told that it is just a loose connection somewhere and just needs to be plugged back in properly.

Does anyone know what would be causing this problem? If it is in fact a lose connection, there where would I find it and how could I solve it?

Would be good to have it fixed as soon as I get the car, as the car doesn't have aircon so fixed windows may prove exhausting if a hot day comes along!

Cheers for any help, much appreciated!!

[sliq]

welcome to the forum muzzy66

for most tech problems, try www.miata.net - there's a wealth of knowledge there.. that's the first port of call i go to if i need some quick solutions

[gregord]

As the steering locks wear, usually due to the heavy load of keys suspended from them, some problems arise.
Try jiggling the key in the steering lock.

[muzza2]

i can guarentee its the barrel lock where the keys sit
i've got the same problem
you'll find the heater / air con wont work at the same time =)

[Wuey]

I agree with the others re the ignition switch/lock barrel. Disconnect the battery, remove the steering column covers - top and bottom halves, and spray some electrical contact cleaner into the barrel. Work the key, the turn indicator, high/low beam and the wiper stalks after spraying. Wait for the cleaner to evaporate, like give or take an hour or two before reconnecting the battery. That was how I fixed my problem.

[gregord]

.

I agree with the others re the ignition switch/lock barrel. Disconnect the battery, remove the steering column covers - top and bottom halves, and spray some electrical contact cleaner into the barrel. Work the key, the turn indicator, high/low beam and the wiper stalks after spraying. Wait for the cleaner to evaporate, like give or take an hour or two before reconnecting the battery. That was how I fixed my problem

I'm afraid that will not permanently solve the wear problem that results from lots of use and having lots of weight hanging from the key. It will give some temporary relief and is well worth the effort.

[Wuey]

Yeah, I minimize the number of items I have on my key ring. My high beam problem has never cropped up again by using the contact cleaner method seven years ago. My window problem cropped up once in a blue moon but a quick jiggle of the key sent the problem away. I try to avoid having to spend big bucks on a new barrel. Next time, I'm going to disassemble the whole barrel and do a thorough cleanup. Instruction is available on the Miatanet.