98 Radio lighting problem.

[tresero]

NOTE - It was suggested that I cross post this here as a possibly electrical problem.


I have a 98 limited and the lights on the radio unit (in dash cd/tape etc with controls on steering wheel and changer in console.) have gone out 2 times since May 2001. The last time the repair shop fixed it was $80 and he replaced 5 resistors in the dc-dc circuit.
Everything works I just can't see *&% on the dash.

Before I fix/buy a replacement, I wonder if anyone else has this problem. I am afraid to see what a new unit from Ford costs, but don't think any aftermarket unit will let me keep the on wheel controls and changer compatiblilty.

Any ideas?

 

[aldive]

It is a very common problem on these stereo units. They are simply not worth fixing; go aftermarket.

Good luck....

 

[mountaineerman]

Here's where you can get a new one Dead Link Removed

 

[aldive]

Fotr the $475 for a replacement unit, you can get a lot in an aftermarket unit.

 

[Heath]

You can retain the use of the stering wheel controls... But its a pain in the a$$... A good install shop could do it... Or if you're mechanically inclined you can find stadx2 on the board here... He did his on his own... This man can work miracles with these trucks...

 

[tresero]

Thanks to everyone. I decided to buy the factory replacement from radiosandmore.com.
After talking with them, I found out they upgraded some components and it is such an easy replacement it wasn't worth putting in an aftermarket.

 

[aldive]

Please keep us informed about this unit.

Also please post after the install and let us know if it is truly plug and play.

Good luck and thanbk you in advance.....

 

[KennyR]

I'm having the same problem with my radio, the light is out, Ford wants 150 to replace a bulb. I'm trying to find out how hard it is to replace a bulb in the circurit. Any advice? Good luck on the new radio
Thanks
Kenny

 

[aldive]

The problem as I understand it is not with bulbs but with a circuit board. My theory is that it is simply a poor design.

Good luck....

 

[ok89]

Yes there is a thread already about this Dead Link Removed
That thread has the most probable answer to the problem.

 

[Mark's EB]

Yep, mine too. Bought the X last year at this time, and the radio display went out. The dealer replaced it, and here it is 1 year later, and the display comes on and off at will.
My .02.

Mark

 

[dagsnregi]

so has anyone tried resoldering the connections yet. If so, let us know how it turned out.

 

[tresero]

I got the radio from radiosandmore.com and after one misfire (on the limited I had the subwoofer option) the radio went in in about 5 seconds.
It truly is plug and play. I highly recommend getting a replacement to anyone wanting the stock unit. Don't forget to get the DIN extraction tool if you can't find it at WalMart. I didn't have them but went to Circuit City and the car stereo guy pulled it out for me in about 10 seconds.