Saturn Repair: 96 Saturn SL1parking/interior lights on without being switched on, interior panel, radio work

Question
I have a 96 SL1 with a unique problem. All fuses have been checked and are in good order. The condition is when the 5A chime fuse is in the slot, the interior dash and parking lights (and clock light, no time) come on without a key in the ignition or light switch  on, or vehicle running, and the radio does not work. Removing the fuse returns the lights to normal working order. Once I put the keys in the ignition and start the car, the radio lights up but does not work...however, if I switch on the parking lights the radio functions fine (but is has been reset to 1:00 and all preset stations have been erased like the battery went dead) also the lights work as they should. This is all done without a 5A fuse in the interior panel.

If I leave the fuse in the panel, the interior dash and parking lights come on, it seems that installing the fuse acts as the switch for the parking lamps. When I turn the switch to the parking lamp setting nothing new happens, and when I turn the switch once more the headlights come on as usual. Turning the keys to ACC or starting the car makes the radio work (reset as above). Turning off the car or turning off the light switch shuts off the radio, and now the parking and interior lights stay on (keys removed from ignition), I open the drivers side door, and the chimes begin as though I left the lights on. If I leave the car in this state the 5A fuse will eventually burn out.

Is this the strangest thing you have ever heard? I figure it might be a relay or the actual light switch causing the problem. I searched the internet high and low and didn't find a similar post anywhere. Any thoughts you may have will be greatly appreciated.

Regards,
Paul

Answer
Hey Paul

Yes that is unique, It sounds like something is grounding out somewhere.......what you need to do is find a schematic and see if any of those are on the same circuit.

And you may be right It could accually be the switch, or a relay. But you would be amazed, that chime is on several circuits as well...........

If you need a schematic write me back and let me know and I could fax one to you.

Let me know

ERIC