CD Player 1999 Ford Explorer Eddie Bauer

[MelloYello87]

Hello all! First off, I'm a brand new happy owner of a 1999 Explorer Eddie Bauer V8! SO excited for the things to come with this truck. I have a little bit of a problem however, the CD Player lights don't work at all (sometimes they brighten up really quick and then go back out again) and the audio is very poor and isn't very loud at all. I've read this is a common problem with this factory deck. While looking for an aftermarket replacement, I've been told that due to the display console in the middle of the two seats (shows things like MPG, Oil pressure, etc.) that I would need an entirely new wiring harness for the system. I was just checking on here to see if that is the case and I couldn't find another thread associated with this issue. I believe the audio problems stem from the deck and not the speakers. Any help would be greatly appreciated!

 

[skpyle]

Hello MelloYello87!

I believe you have been given some incorrect information. The message center has its own separate wiring harness down in the console.

Numerous companies offer a plug-and-play harness that will allow you to install any aftermarket audio head unit into your Explorer's stock audio wiring in the dash.

For giggles, since yours is a V-8 EB, I am going to assume you have the Mach audio system with the factory subwoofer in the right rear of the cargo area. (My Explorer is a 1999 Limited with the Mach audio system.)

So, check these links for parts to install an aftermarket head unit in your EB:

Physical head unit adapter:
http://www.crutchfield.com/p_003FMK550/American-International-FMK-550-In-dash-Receiver-Kit.html?tp=3121


Adapter wiring harness:
http://www.crutchfield.com/p_120705517/Receiver-Wire-Harness.html?tp=2977


Adapter to allow you to retain the steering wheel controls:
http://www.crutchfield.com/p_541SWIRC/PAC-SWI-RC.html?tp=3405


You would just need to choose an aftermarket head unit based upon your needs.

However, if you are happy with your stock head unit, it can be fixed. A few months ago, I paid $55 plus shipping both ways to have the display power supply properly repaired in my Mach head unit.

There are options available to you.

Good Luck with your Explorer!

Seth K. Pyle

 

[MelloYello87]

Thanks for the quick response! I figured I was getting wrong info when I was looking at the wiring diagram in the Chilton manual. Just wanted to see if any others have had a similar issue. The links you provided are great! I'm looking into after market so it has BT and what not. I like the extra kit there to keep the steering wheel controls!