1998 Volkswagen Cabriolet Repair Question
Asked on April 16, 2012
98 VW CABRIO - Replaced the radio; speakers stopped working
I replaced the factory installed radio with a beautiful AIWA CD/USB radio. The radio installed seamlessly, the harness fit perfectly into the VW's snap lock connections. I even pre-purchased the antenna converter. The unit powered up and immediately began searching out radio stations for pre-sets (18 available spots). I was about to select my first pre-set and all of a sudden quiet. The radio is on, I can switch or select stations, the "power or sound bars" are jumping up and down but no sound. I check all the fuses and relays, still nothing. I check the radio fuse it's fine, i check all the wires and wire connections all fine. Next day I take the radio back to Best Buy they jack it in and bang, sound out the ying yang. They check the harness, no problems. I bring everything home re-connect and still no sound. WTF!! any clues? thanks.
Answer
Replied on April 16, 2012
have you tested yours speakers?

Answered by
fixitmr
24 questions askedReplied on April 16, 2012
Yes, they work.
Replied on April 16, 2012
does old radio work speakers if you try it again?

Answered by
fixitmr
24 questions asked
Replied on April 16, 2012
yes
Replied on April 16, 2012
are speakers original equipment?

Answered by
fixitmr
24 questions askedReplied on April 16, 2012
yes, the only item changed was the radio. As I said, the speakers worked initially with the new unit.
Replied on April 16, 2012
does your radio manual have a trouble shoot section? any chance mute is enabled like poor reception?

Answered by
fixitmr
24 questions askedReplied on April 16, 2012
Yes I have a manual. I'll check the mute function again when I get home this evening. Pretty sure that's not it though. I confirm tomorrow. Thanks.
Replied on April 16, 2012
"I was about to select my first pre-set and all of a sudden quiet."
Are we to assume there was some sound at first, then it quit? If there was never any sound, the car probably has an external amplifier that needs a turn-on signal. All aftermarket radios have a wire for that. It is usually blue and may be labeled "power antenna" or "remote".

Answered by
caradiodoc (expert)
17,277 answers provided