2006 Jeep Liberty radio off when cold temperature outside

[anemo27]

Ok, here's one for you.. My new 2006 Liberty (1700 miles) has an issue (twice so far) where the radio (std RBK model) doesn't turn on or show clock when the vehicle is started if the temperature drops outside (below 50F or at least that's the only common factor so far). I tried waiting for it to warm up inside and start but that won't work. The only thing that turns it back on is to shut the heater fan switch off and back on again. This seems to 'fix' the problem. Does anyone know if it has to do with shutting off the vehicle without turning off the radio and/or fan switch first? I used to hear that this is what should always be done with any car radio but there is nothing in the owners manual about it. Or could it just be a coincidental short in the switch? I have never had this issue in all my years of driving various other vehicles. The vehicle will go in for it's 3000 miles checkup shortly but I am hoping for some insight before then.

[fredjacksonsan]

Odd....I've heard about radios not working in the cold before, it has to do with the connections shrinking a little as the temperature drops. I thought that's your problem, until you said it can be fixed by turning the fan switch off then back on - now I'm inclined to think that it's a wiring issue.

Either way, you're still under warranty so make sure they get it fixed, and don't fall for the "we couldn't recreate the problem"..... show them the problem, even if you have to get there early one morning.

[fredjacksonsan]

Apologies for the late response, I don't get to the Liberty section very often, but will try to do so now

[anemo27]

Fredjacksonsan,
Thanks for the comeback. I have had the radio replaced by my dealer. I asked if he had ever heard of this before and he said no, but when he looked into it he found that Jeep had actually written a letter about the problem. He did not show it to me so I can't tell you the whys of it. He said apparently it is a more common issue than he thought. They ordered a radio and promptly changed it in a few hours. I have not had the problem again and it's been very cold here (20's-40'sF).

[fredjacksonsan]

Cool, glad it's fixed; I guess electronics can be susceptible to cold temps if not manufactured correctly.

[sevenslotgrill]

I am glad that they got it fixed for you. I had never heard of a radio not working in the cold sometimes. Have fun with your new jeep.