I'm dealing with electric steps that suddenly stopped extending, and I'm really worried about making the problem worse by testing things incorrectly. I've already verified that I have 12VDC at the 4-pin connector, and I even tried swapping in a different control module, but still nothing happens when I open the door.
Everything points to the door magnetic switch being the issue, but I'm honestly nervous about testing electrical components - I don't want to damage anything or create a safety hazard. Is there a safe way to test the magnetic switch with a multimeter? I want to make sure I'm doing this right before I start poking around with test leads.
Since you have 12VDC at the connector and tried a different module, the door magnetic switch is likely your culprit. You can test it with a multimeter by checking for continuity when the door opens and closes.
To test the door switch, first disconnect RV power and battery. Using a multimeter set to continuity mode, test across the switch terminals while manually activating the switch with the magnet - the continuity reading will depend on your switch type - Normally Open (NO) switches show continuity when the magnet is removed, while Normally Closed (NC) switches show continuity when the magnet is present. To confirm the door switch is your issue, you can also temporarily bypass it by disconnecting the two main signal wires from the switch (typically the smallest gauge wires, not power wires) and connecting them together (this simulates a closed circuit - if steps don't work, try leaving wires disconnected as some systems expect an open circuit for door closed). If your steps work with this bypass, you've confirmed the door switch is the problem. After testing, reconnect the original switch wires and restore power to return the system to normal operation.
Since you've already ruled out power and the control module, also check:
Magnet alignment - The magnet on your door might have shifted or fallen off. Look for a small rectangular magnet that should align with the switch when the door closes. If it's missing or misaligned, the switch won't activate properly.
Wiring connections - Check that the wires to the switch aren't corroded, loose, or damaged. RV door areas see a lot of movement and weather exposure.
Switch mounting - Make sure the switch itself isn't loose or has shifted position.
Door magnetic switches are inexpensive (usually $10-20) and relatively easy to replace. However, if testing shows the switch is working correctly, you may have a wiring issue between the switch and your control module, or possibly a problem with the step motor itself. At that point, it's worth having an RV technician diagnose the system, as motor problems can be more complex and expensive to repair.
Given that your steps worked fine and then suddenly stopped, and you've already eliminated the most common causes, the door switch is your most likely culprit.
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