Map Lamps - no Off switch
 

I learned something new about my 2004 Mazda Tribute this weekend on our 1st family camping trip.

The Map Lamps in the roof (you know the 2 lights on the roof in the middle near the front window) do not turn OFF. I double checked the owner's manual and also called the local Mazda dealer. Both confirmed that there is no OFF switch per se.

The switches that are there allow for 2 choices:
1.Lights "ON" all the time whether or not doors are opened or closed.
2. Lights off when doors closed, ON when doors open and stay on for 15 seconds after doors are closed.

The unfortunate part about this is that if you are living out of your Tribute for a weekend camping trip, you have to open and close the doors all day long to ensure that you don't wear out the battery with the permanent "ON" position of the Map Lamps.

Recommended solution by dealer is to remove the bulbs for the weekend. I'll be sure to do that next time.

Anyone else noticed this?