mystery switch... 1987 "E"
 

My son recently purchased a 1987 "E". I've owned six Benzes and currently have three.

His car has something I've never seen and it is driving me nuts!

Two switches in the door frame. The top one controls the lights, like every car. And the bottom one shuts the radio off when the door is closed...door open...radio works...

Anyone seen this one?

Thanks in advance.

that is the security system switch. I dont think that the early cars had a convinience module like the later w124 had.

In those cars the security is spliced to the convenience module and allows you to use the radio and also windows if the door is just unlocked and opened. Allowing use without the ignition.

Might be a time to do some digging wiring diagrams to see what it is in that model.

Sounds like that could be fun. Have a certain kind of cd loaded and cranked, then wait nearby for someone to try the door :)

Think it's normal with two switches. Mine 1987 w124 has the same. And as said above with the door open I can control windows, seat position and steering wheel (but not the sunroof). My guess is that the radio installation has tapped into a wrong cable.

The extra switch is present on many MBs....usually it allows power to certain accessories when the door is open....like the seat/steering adjustments so you can do it before you get in the car.