2000 Chevy Cavalier

Tiny
NUDAYDAWNING
  • MEMBER
  • 2000 CHEVROLET CAVALIER
2000 Chevy Cavalier

Ok, I have a problem with my stereo that has been going on for awhile now. Basically, it is a third-party Sony unit that was installed by a guy at a Pawn Shop.

Anyway, when I crank the car up, I get the display for about 30 seconds and then the stereo turns completely off. Although it will occasionally stay on as long as the runs, but won't come back on if I turn the car off. Like it did today when my dad replaced the back tail-light. When I cranked it up to test the turn signal, the stereo turned on and stayed on until I turned the car off. But when I cranked it up again to leave, the stereo flashed the display then turned off as usual.

He thinks it might be a short or a loose wire, but is afraid to lift up the dashboard to fix it since the passenger-side airbag might accidentally go off.

Is there another way to handle this or do I need to take it to a professional?
Thursday, October 29th, 2009 AT 1:59 PM

4 Replies

Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
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Because it's an aftermarket system, I'm not too sure. However, chances are the stereo itself is a the problem and that may be why it was in a pawn shop. It could be a bad connection. Your father has a good concern about the air bag. If you disconnect the battery for at least an hour, you should be on and the air bag won't deploy.
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Tuesday, November 3rd, 2009 AT 9:01 AM
Tiny
NUDAYDAWNING
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Actually, the stereo was brand-new and bought at a Wal-Mart. I just had a Pawn Shop guy put it in.

Thanks for the info, though.
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Tuesday, November 3rd, 2009 AT 10:59 AM
Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
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I would try running a ground to the caseing. That is most lilkely the problem. I thought it was a used stereo and may have had problems.

Let me know if this helps.
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Tuesday, November 3rd, 2009 AT 1:43 PM
Tiny
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Thanks. I won't be able to do this for awhile because my dad just had shoulder surgery and won't be able to help with this right now. But I'll keep this in mind when he's feeling better. I'll let you know then.
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Wednesday, November 4th, 2009 AT 1:03 PM

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