Radio Issue, please help !!!

[intriguedriver08]

I recently bought a used 2000 intrigue GL. The stock radio is starting to annoy me. It powers on, all buttons function when pressed but what I cant figure out is why dont any of the buttons have the backlighting??? When I press the on button, only the little lights to put in cd in night driving appears to come on. The time on the clock is always there by default I know. So I checked the fuses and all are good and the dimmer switch is turned all the way up. So do I need to replace my radio or is there a trick to check if the backlighting is truly working or not. Please help !!!!

[harmankardon35]

most likely the backlights in the radio have a short, they are hooked up with the rest of the dash lights that dim with the dimmer, so if those lights work than you know the issue is with the radio. If you don't have a premium bose system, I reccomend installing an aftermarket headunit. You will appreciate the extra features and improved sound quality.

[Tobey]

So does the clock dim with the dimmer switch? If so, you know the wiring up to it is good... Some of the bulbs in the radio may have burned out for some reason (they're incandescent, so it's not unheard of).

If it doesn't, it might be something external. I'd check the connector at the back.

If the bulbs are indeed burnt out, you can solder new ones in. But it might not be worth the trouble. You can easily find an exact replacement radio on ebay for around 30 bucks. Or you can take this as an opportunity to upgrade to something better, like HK suggested.

[LittleHoov]

Definitely check the wiring to the stereo, someone may have had a different stereo in it at some point and did a shoddy job haha.

Its really easy to get the radio out.

1. Open center console lid and remove two bolts just behind the cupholder.
2. Using cupholder as a sort of handle, pull straight up at that entire piece will give, its held in with clips so you may to use a little force.
3. If so equipped, remove the traction control button connector from that trim piece you just pulled off. Turn piece 90 degrees to slip it over the gear selector.
4. You just exposed the bottom of the piece that goes around the radio, grab it at the bottom and pull out, there are two clips at the bottom and two at the top that hold that piece in.
5. Should be able to see the radio now, remove the 4? Phillips head screws that hold the radio in place, should come right out.

Check to make sure all of the wires in the harness are there, and make sure all the pins on the radio are intact.