Wil, by door switch, I assume you mean the switch that is mounted on the body that is closed when the door is shut. If that switch is bad that would account for the dome light being inop. But, would it be the same for both doors? Assuming both switches can't be bad.

The windows should work until the interior lights come on (triggered by the door opening) If the lights don't come on (usually a bad door switch, or the relay is bad so that it doesn't switch when the lights come on then your windows will work all of the time.

Thanks, Steve. Mine work all of the time and my interior lights don't come on when the door opens on either side. I guess that I'll try replacing the switch?

Thats the way its supposed to be. I think they did that to allow you to shut down the car then roll up the windows w/o having to turn the ign. back on, opening the door deactivates the feature.

I agree. And if it doesn't do that, then the door switch is failed, hence the inop overhead interior lights.

So, how do we explain the ROW guys windows not working until after a door is opened, and their lights work? It appears to be a stuck relay, as Bob and Steve mentioned. Or do they have a different setup than the USA cars?

I have the opposite on my dad's '85 merc S-Class. With ignition off, windows will operate if the driver's door is open. And it is meant to be like that (written in manual). Maybe it's a German thing?

Update. I changed out the door switches with the help of parts from our host and windows now are off after doors are openned.

Thanks to Will Ferch for making the call on this one.

I checked my manual and according to the original manual the windows should work as mine do so:
The windows don't work when the ignition is switched off, and before I open the door, but with the door opened, they work.
This is prevent that childern that are left in the car get their hands trapped between the windows and roof. (says so litterally)

Henk,

So that explains it; the USA car P/W and sunroof are wired for different operation than the ROW cars. Why? We don't carry kids in the P-cars here :D .

Thanks,

Update: replaced both door switches... still no interior lights, and windows work 24/7. #4 fuse is good. I guess I'll swap the relay next. :(