There are 2 discussions crossing here...we should just keep this on the puddle lights issue and move the "service is bad" rant to some of the other 1,000 or so posts already on here. I do agree the service is bad ... but this isnt a service issue -- its a design flaw issue.
I'll bet there is some intelligence in the puddle lamp circuit - its probably measuring the amp draw and will shut off the circuit via electrically controlled fuse if the circuit draws too much current (ie, light bulb or wire shorted to ground). I imagine that limit is much higher than the aftermarket puddle lamp would ever draw under normal circumstances. It also seems to shut off the circuit if the light is unplugged or circuit is interrupted (ie, light bulb burns out or wire/connector wiggles loose). Im just thinking out loud here so let me know your thoughts ...
That just seems like a really bad idea to me. To open or close the doors, there MUST be functioning electric puddle lamps that dont draw too much or too little current. And, the electric window regulator and all its 1,000 parts must also be functioning correctly. Otherwise its difficult if not impossible to ingress or egress the vehicle. Thats effin crazy ! You do know light bulbs and window regulators die at some point on 100% of every vehicle ever made, right ? And so whats the effect of that failure mode ?
Regarding comment made above if its possible to actually open the door without the window electrically lowering slightly ... are you sure thats possible without alot of force/breaking the window ? I know there is a mechanical release on the arm rest but all that would do is unlatch the lock. The top of the window would still be engaged a good distance into that metal upper roof frame. I bet it would require alot of force to actually open a door when the window didnt drop down... i hope someone isnt drowning or burning while they are having to fight the door to open
this sounds like an incredible liability issue they have designed into something as simple as a car window.