Audio Systems: 300M stereo display flashing, bench test, electronic failure


Question
I have a 2002 Chrysler 300M w/factory AM/FM 5-Disc changer. A month ago the music stopped. I lost all audio. I hear nothing. When I turn on the stereo, the display blinks/flashes. I can change the station and/or the band. The display shows the change but there is still no sound and the information on display just blinks. At first, I could turn it on and all would be fine for 20-30 minutes then all would go quiet and the display would flash once again. Now, that is all it does. HELP!  

Answer
If it is not an electronic failure it can be revived with a hard reset. This is done by removing power from the whole audio system for a full 30 minutes.  Best way is to just lift the + cable on the battery of the car.

If the reset does not help it means there are failures within the system.  You will need a repair tech to look at it or troubleshoot it by yourself.

If you want to fix it yourself you must have a background in electronics.

First is to bench test the unit; this is done by pulling it out of the car and hooking it up to the battery with long leads; then attach a stand-alone speaker so you can get it fired up.  This will tell you if the unit is working properly or not and if the problem is in the car (wiring or power connections or ignition troubles).

If the unit is defective it must be opened up and diagnosed and repaired OR replaced with a new aftermarket unit.

If the problem is inside the vehicle it must be determined where the problem lay.  Examination of the 12v lines from battery and ignition tested and inspect for shorts on any of the speaker lines.  This requires a vom and knowledge of how to use it to test the speaker wiring, etc.

Does this help? Let me know if you need further guidance.

Cleggsan