Thule Step on AS Stanton

The step work perfectly normally when operated by the push button switch just inside the habitation door.
When about to drive off the control unit seems to think the step is extended even though it is retracted and tries to retract it and sounds the alarm.  Sometimes the attempted retraction and alarm only lasts for 5 to 10 seconds but on other occasions the attempted retraction stops and the alarm continues to sound until I turn the engine off.  I have also had the situation where, when starting the engine the controller extends the step and then sounds the alarm.  I have to then switch the engine off and manually retract the step.
I have spoken to Autosleepers who only suggested that I contact Sargent's as it was most likely a control unit problem.  On speaking the Sargent's Technical support section they suggested a number of things to try but were not able to solve the problem and ended up saying that they didn't know what the problem was and they were not able to assist any further.
Has anyone had any similar problem or any suggestions as to what the problem is or how I might solve the problem.
Help Please.

Hi Ralph and welcome to this most friendly and informative forum. We had a problem develop with our step that if already in the stowed position via the habitation switch, when turning on ignition, the motor would still operate with a judder as if the cogs/gearing were crunching. However, it did turn out to be a faulty motor which the dealer replaced under warranty. My initial thought was the control panel needed some sort of correction/adjustment but turned out to be mechanical. In your case it appears that A/S were quick to push you onto Sargent who have exhausted all options so could the problem be mechanical after all? Hope it is soon resolved. Regards.

Thanks 'Paramedic',  I had my suspicions that it was likely to me mechanical but had a local Thule dealer take a quick look at it and he thought that everything appeared to be working correctly, although he didn't take anything apart to check things physically.  I have now booked it in with him to investigate and perhaps replace the motor.
Thanks for your advice.

Hi Ralph, forgot to mention, what later turned out to be a faulty motor, the step always deployed and retracted correctly when using key fob to lock/unlock the van as well as operating the habitation switch. At this point in time, does yours by these methods? Regards

Hi Paramedic,
We purchased our Stanton second hand at 2 years old and the step has seldom deployed or retracted when using the key fob.  I believe this option can be turned off.