2006 Subaru Outback lights don't go out

2006 SUBARU OUTBACK
67,500 MILES • 4 CYL • AWD • AUTOMATIC
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PIERSUPPORT
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  • 3 POSTS
The tail and parking lights stay on when the engine is turned off. What does this mean?
Jul 21, 2009 at 10:53 PM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
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  • ASE Certified Mechanic
Do they shut off with the switch when the engine is off and the key is in the off position?
Jul 21, 2009 at 11:59 PM
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PIERSUPPORT
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  • 3 POSTS
No. The only way to turn them off is to disconnect the battery.
Jul 22, 2009 at 1:25 AM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
  • 110,194 POSTS
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
It sounds like the switch has shorted out internally. Most likely it will need replaced.
Jul 22, 2009 at 11:40 PM
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PIERSUPPORT
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  • 3 POSTS
No, there's a switch on the steering column that I never knew existed. Just turned it off, and voila!
Jul 23, 2009 at 8:26 AM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
  • 110,194 POSTS
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
That will do it. I'm glad you found that.
Jul 23, 2009 at 12:48 PM
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DINK24941
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  • 3 POSTS
I am having this same problem. Where is this switch? Please.
Sep 10, 2009 at 7:41 PM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
  • 110,194 POSTS
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
The switch is located on the bottom section of the steering column. There is a steel rod that runs from the tumbler (key) to the switch.
Sep 10, 2009 at 9:02 PM
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DINK24941
  • MEMBER
  • 3 POSTS
Thank you very much. It worked. I just don't understand the purpose of the switch.
Sep 11, 2009 at 6:43 AM
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