Ignition comes on with parking lights (with no key)
 

The 1987 300E that I'm currently resurrecting has a wierd issue with the ignition powering up with the parking lights turned on....seems like left side (drivers side), because when I turn on the drivers side park lights, the ignition (all instrument guages and lights come on....without the key) and fuel pumps power up.

The wiring harness grounding point near the SRS controller are all corroded, which are being replaced (wire connectors) and cleaned later today. This 300E had the engine replaced, and I will be making sure that all engine/transmission grounds are in place as well.

If anyone has had this same issue, maybe you would shine some light on this subject. Thanks.

check you fuse boxto see if the is melted between the two fuses, my 83 did that because the previous owner put a bigger fuse in the ac one and when you turned on the lights the ac went on

Checked all fuses
 

Fuses checked out..fuse box checks out also.....there is a current draw (switch and lights turned off) on the fuse labeled "C" which is a red (16amp) fuse...it covers the rear roof light, trunk light, rear door locking system, central locking system, door lights, aut. antenna, control unit seat adjustment memory, and trailer turn signal control (not on this car).

Well that's the circuit where the short is showing on my DVOM. I made a visual inspection under the dash...found some mice droppings and a chewed up wrapper of Wrigleys chewing gum...but no sign of any wires nicked or melted together.

Also, when the ignition switch is turned "on" two rear parking lights come on....only the two in the middle of each bulb holder. The search continues....I have the wiring diagrams printed out, and since my car has no wiring issues, I will be ohming wires to attempt to locate and repair the short. Wish me luck! ;)