Radio not working

Tiny
SALETA
  • MEMBER
  • 2006 CHEVROLET COLORADO
  • 4 CYL
  • 2WD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 40,000 MILES
I live in Dallas/Fort Worth metroplex. I recently purchased this truck and noticed that the radio fades (both FM and AM) on local channels. Needless to say it is absolutely worthless on out of town trips. How do I check it out? What steps do I need to take?
Monday, July 26th, 2010 AT 4:01 PM

5 Replies

Tiny
BIGJOE1986
  • MEMBER
  • 7 POSTS
The radio in these trucks is absolutely garbage.You could honestly find a better one in the dollar store.I suggest buying a new radio and your problem will be solved.It would scare you to know even half of the known issues with this radio.

Here is a video to show you how on a similar car.

https://youtu.be/1bIa3jdJWVQ

Please let us know if you need anything else to get the problem fixed.
Was this
answer
helpful?
Yes
No
-1
Wednesday, August 25th, 2010 AT 6:37 PM
Tiny
TIZMESHELL
  • MEMBER
  • 4 POSTS
Is that the same on the 2007 Colorado? I wasn't sure if it was my antenna or the stock stereo? What I am able to tune in sounds horrible.
Was this
answer
helpful?
Yes
No
Monday, October 21st, 2019 AT 7:46 PM
Tiny
KEN L
  • MASTER CERTIFIED MECHANIC
  • 42,883 POSTS
Does it sound okay through the USB? Just the radio sounds bad? Can you please shoot a quick video with your phone so we can see what's going on, that would be great. You can upload it here with your response.
Was this
answer
helpful?
Yes
No
Tuesday, October 22nd, 2019 AT 12:02 PM
Tiny
TIZMESHELL
  • MEMBER
  • 4 POSTS
It doesn't have an auxiliary jack so I'm using a converter for Bluetooth or my iPod. Which sound great. The radio has always sounded terrible. Even before adding the converter. If you still need a video I'll get one a little later today.
Was this
answer
helpful?
Yes
No
Thursday, October 24th, 2019 AT 6:10 AM
Tiny
KEN L
  • MASTER CERTIFIED MECHANIC
  • 42,883 POSTS
A video will help, but it sounds like the speakers or the head unit are bad. If I had the video I can tell which. Here is a video of the head unit being installed on a similar vehicle with diagrams below to show you how on your car:

https://youtu.be/jF_sDSS0n7I

If you want to install a used/rebuilt unit here are the programming instructions.

SERVICE PROGRAMMING SYSTEM (SPS)

For step by step programming instructions, please refer to the techline information system (TIS) terminal.

Review the information below to ensure proper programming protocol.

IMPORTANT:
- DO NOT program a control module unless you are directed by a service procedure or you are directed by a General Motors Corporation service bulletin. Programming a control module at any other time will not permanently correct a customer's concern.
- It is essential that the Tech 2 and the TIS terminal are both equipped with the latest software before performing service programming system (SPS).
- Some modules will require additional programming/setup events performed before or after programming.
- Some vehicles may require the use of a CANDI module for programming.
- Review the appropriate service information for these procedures.
- DTCs may set during programming. Clear DTCs after programming is complete.
- Clearing powertrain DTCs will set the Inspection/Maintenance (I/M) system status indicators to NO.

Ensure the following conditions are met before programming a control module:
- Vehicle system voltage
- There is not a charging system concern. All charging system concerns must be repaired before programming a control module.
- Battery voltage is greater than 12 volts but less than 16 volts. The battery must be charged before programming the control module if the battery voltage is low.
- A battery charger is NOT connected to the vehicle's battery. Incorrect system voltage or voltage fluctuations from a battery charger, may cause programming failure or control module damage.
- Turn OFF or disable any system that may put a load on the vehicle's battery, such as the following components:
- Twilight sentinel
- Interior lights
- Daytime running lights (DRL)-Applying the parking brake, on most vehicles, disables the DRL system. Refer to the Owner's data.
- Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems
- Cooling System fans, radio, etc.
- The ignition switch must be in the proper position. The Tech 2 prompts you to turn ON the ignition, with the engine OFF. DO NOT change the position of the ignition switch during the programming procedure, unless instructed to do so.
- Make certain all tool connections are secure, including the following components and circuits:
- The RS-232 communication cable port
- The connection at the data link connector (DLC)
- The voltage supply circuits
- DO NOT disturb the tool harnesses while programming. If an interruption occurs during the programming procedure, programming failure or control module damage may occur.
- DO NOT turn OFF the ignition if the programming procedure is interrupted or unsuccessful. Ensure that all control module and DLC connections are secure and the TIS terminal operating software is up to date. Attempt to reprogram the control module. If the control module cannot be programmed, replace the control module.

Check out the diagrams (below). Please let us know what you find. We are interested to see what it is.
Was this
answer
helpful?
Yes
No
Thursday, October 24th, 2019 AT 11:15 AM

Please login or register to post a reply.

Sponsored links