1995 BMW 740 Stereo Speakers Crackling

1995 BMW 740
162,000 MILES • V8 • 2WD • AUTOMATIC
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WHACKMAN2000
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  • 1 POST
Sometimes my stereo works fine. Other times it doesn't work at all. On ocassion, it'll work but the left rear speaker will pop and crackle. Also...not sure if its related...but when sound does come out fine, if I change the volume either up or down, it'll quielty crackle a little just like a variable volume knob of the old days. Any idea where to troubleshoot?
Mar 21, 2009 at 2:52 PM
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CARADIODOC
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
  • 34,321 POSTS
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
First of all, switch the two rear speakers side to side, then wait to see if the same speaker crackles on the right side, or if the one you put on the left crackles now. If the crackling is still coming from the left rear, it's not the speaker. If the crackling comes from the right rear now, it's that speaker.

When you pull them out, look on the back of them to see if there's an amplifier bolted next to the magnet. If there is, it may be repairable. You might also notice if you tip the speaker over into different positions while it's playing, the popping might clear up or get much worse. That's also proof the speaker is the problem.

Sometimes changing the volume changes the vibrations in the amplifier causing the static you're hearing. This is real common on older high-end Chrysler systems from the 1980s and '90s. These speakers can cost over $130.00 new. Repairs are $45.00 and are usually permanent.

caradiodoc
Mar 21, 2009 at 10:22 PM
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DR LOOT
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
  • 2,311 POSTS
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
I had the same problem with my 98 740I, I fixed it by removing the radio tuner from the dash, and cleaning out the volume knob with some electronic cleaner, you can only buy that form a electronic distributor it's what the professionals use to clean electronics.
Mar 22, 2009 at 10:12 AM
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DOCHAGERTY
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
  • 9,606 POSTS
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
It is probably the unit in the dash causing this issue. The speakers should be inspected as well, the previous posting was correct.
Mar 22, 2009 at 10:13 AM
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