As I understand it, there was some kind of safety group push to make sure the steps were always extended if the door was open, so that no-one would fall out with the steps staying retracted. The manufacturers re-designed their wiring, but I didn't think it was a basic feature as early as '03. Our '02 works the old way and it's a good thing if you're a regular ferry user. They pack the vehicles in very close together, side by side.
We went to Friday Harbor last summer with some overseas visitors (in the car). There was a big Class A a couple of vehicles in front of us. In the lane next to the MH's right side was an almost new Mercedes.
After the ferry left the dock, the MH occupants decided to get out and go to the passenger deck. The steps came out and gouged the Mercedes' drivers door and back door on the LH side. Those were expensive cups of coffee for the MH owners' insurance company, and a significant delay in disembarking for everyone behind them.
