Car Stereos: 2003 Honda Accord Radio, oem radio, factory radio

Question
Sometimes when I hit the power button, my radio and the digital volume display does not work.  Also, sometime when this happens I hear nothing, othertimes tremendous static.  My mechanic thinks I have a bad radio and should just replace it.  Do you agree.  I've owned the car since it was new and it just started doing this 2 months ago...thanks for your advise.

Answer
Hi Terri,

I'm with your mechanic on this one; I can't think of anything that could be causing your problems except an internal defect in the radio.  

Unfortunately, the design of your factory radio doesn't make it easy to replace with an after-market head unit.  It can be done, but you'd need a fairly expensive adapter kit.  Unless you're looking for features that you can only find in the after-market, you'll probably want to find another OEM radio for a replacement.

You can purchase used OEM radios on eBay, or through used parts dealers.  However, original Honda radios are equipped with an anti-theft system that requires you to enter a code to make the radio work after it's been disconnected.  If you're buying a used radio, you'll either want to make sure it includes the correct code, or check with your Honda dealer to make sure they're willing to reset the radio's anti-theft system.  Some dealers may be unwilling to do this, or may charge for the service.  

Hope this helps!

Brian