Door ajar indicators?

yes and could be as simple as a loose connection or obstruction at the sensor.

Eric,

(You asked) could it be a sensor in the door?

There are NO sensors in the doors Eric. Back in the day, and a long time before BCM’s (Body Control Modules) and when workin on cars and bein a mechanic was fun and easy, there were things called door Pin Switches. General Motors switches would make or break ground, Mopar and Motorcraft switchs would make or break voltage. Nowadays all that has changed. Something like door pin switches are still being used, but the switches are built into the body lock on the door, and react accordingly to the opening and closing of the door. Again for all practical purposes simply making or breaking a circuit, via ground, voltage, and as with many delayed light entry and exit systems, making or breaking both ground and voltage circuits. In order for us to post accurate repair information for you, I’m gonna have to ask you a question.

In addition to the door indicator light stayin on, are there any other lights (courtesy or otherwise) stayin on inside the van when the left rear door ajar light is on?

Yes, the interior lights stay on as though the door is open.

Eric,

(You said) Yes, the interior lights stay on as though the door is open.

First make sure that the dimmer switch for the interior lights wasn't accidently turned and left in the on position. That would cause the interior lights to stay on. If it turns out that the dimmer switch is not on, and since the light is stayin on your gonna have to replace the body lock (aka latch) for that door. The problem is just the switch, but you gotta replace the entire latch, because the switch is built into the latch.

Okay that helps me out a great deal. I know it's not the dimmer switch because it is not on. So I guess I'll price a door latch for the left rear door and replace it. Thank you Big Block 409, your help was greatly appreciated!!

eric6869, I agree with Big Block that it most likely is the switch but still it would be a good idea to double check the door itself. Make sure it's lined up correctly on the tracks and it's moving freely. If the door is rubbing or binding, or is out of alignment that would keep it from closing all the way and if it doesn't close all the way the light would stay on. Also check the tracks for any kind of dirt or obstruction that would keep the door from closing all the way.

Old Pete, I have checked all that you have recommended and the problem still exists so I think I'll have that door latch replaced. I called the local Dodge dealer here in Knoxville,TN. and the parts mechanic said it sounded like the latch. He said bring it in and they would check it and if it could be adjusted they'd do that and if it needed to be replaced they'd do that too. So I would like to thank you all for your help on this. I really appreciate it very much and I like the site!!! THUMBS UP!!!

eric,

(You said) and if it could be adjusted they'd do that.

There is No adjustment on the latch buddy. Even if there was it wouldn't make a difference, because the problem is NOT with the latch but WITH the SWITCH that is PART of the latch. The only adjustment is with the strike on the door pillar that is opposite the latch. In other words, the strike is what the latch locks into when the door is closed. Like I said that strike has a certain amount of adjustment to it, but it's not really meant to be adjusted for the following critical reasons.

If adjusted incorrectly the latch could break and then you won't be able to open the door from the inside or outside of the van.

If adjusted inicorrectly the door could suddenly fly open while the van is moving.