robrx

My radio/CD/cassette has stopped working. At first, the passenger side speakers would cut out, but if I briefly turned the volume up, they would come back on and stay on for a while. Then, no sound at all, other than some faint static that would get louder if I turned the volume up. After following other posts on the forum, I concluded it must be the amplifier. I replaced that with a used model from Ebay, no change. Then, I replaced the radio with another used unit from Ebay, no change. Except, I noticed beyond the static, I could hear the radio or a CD playing. But it was very faint. My car has 400K kms, runs great, but if I can't have a radio it may have to go. Anyone have any ideas ? Thanks.

gazi001

May be ground connection with head unit loose or disconnected. Does it has powewr all the time like radio clock etc.

robrx

The display has continued to work normally, clock, temperature, presets, etc all working.

Where would you suggest I check the ground wiring ? The radio wiring or under the hood, or where ?

timmui

Judging from your description of the problem, I'd start at the amp for a good ground. Prior to doing this, I'd suggest you make a few ground straps (2 eyelets that crimp onto about 12" of 12-14 AWG stranded copper wire) to use in case the ground is no good.

In fact, I'd probably be inspecting the wire harness for a short or damage such as frayed insulation or abrasions.

robrx

ok, thanks I will give it a go. I did have a quick look before, but I will dig a little deeper. I think your assessment is right. It does sound like a grounding issue. Hope I can find it.

gazi001

Behind the radio there is few plugs for radio, antenna, CD player check those plugs and if it's not come up the sound check the amplifier under the rear seat. Did you test your speakers? If you need any more help let me know. Thanks.

robrx

Ok, thanks for all the tips. I'll be going in deep this weekend. I'll let you know how things go.

robrx

Well I spent a lot of hours looking at every wire I could fine. Everything looked ok. Obviously, this is something beyond my capabilities. The good news is that since I have everything ripped apart, I'm hoping that my reduce the amount I have to pay to get it fixed at the dealership. Thanks anyway for the advice.

sktn77a

iTrader: (2)

I would probably take it to a reliable auto stereo store first. Unless you're lucky and get someone experienced with the RX300 audio system at the Lexus dealership, they tend to just throw (very) expensive parts at the problem (in your case, starting with the wiring harness, given what you've swapped out so far).