E36 M3 Electrical Problem HELP!

[TS97M3]

Well I figured out this months problem last night when I was driving and out the corner of my eye, i noticed that my main center map light (near sun roof switch) turns on and slowly turns back off..... Not sure of what just happened, I try to get it to do it again. About 5 mins later it randomly happeneds again. Driving on regular streets with no real bumps or pot holes im trying to figure out what the hell is going on. About 5 min later i go to make a U turn when every courtesy light inside the car turns on (floor, center, backseat). At this point I go to park the car when the window starts going up and down and I cant arm the alarm.
WTF? Is my car possessed ?? has everyone had this happen?
Please let my know of any suggestions.

Cosmos 97 M3 2 door

Mileage 100,3XX

[Jeron]

The most widespread electrical problem on early E36's was wires rubbing where they entered the trunk lid, but that should not effect a 97.

The switch by the map light should turn on all the interior lights so I'd start by checking that switch. Hopefully it is bad.

[dfrost]

Just a thought - could it be a door sensor (presumable one of those switches in the door jambs)? All those symptoms sound like what would happen when a door is opened.

[TS97M3]

Thanks guys for giving me some solutions! i didnt even know where to start... im def gonna try taking a look around. However the problem hasnt happend since sat/ sunday morning. Go figures

[Jeron]

I liked the door sensor idea. Next time it happens try opening the doors and pushing the door sensor on each door a few times.

[944_S_type]

I agree with the door sensor idea. I just had to replace one of my striker switches....

Item number 6.

http://www.realoem.com/bmw/showparts.do?model=BG93&mospid=47488&btnr=41_0939&hg=41&fg=40