QuestionMy rear speakers work only when the car is hot. For example if it has sat out in the sun all day. When it's cool in the evening or whatever, they do not work. I have tried a different head unit and it exhibits the same problem. I have not yet checked continuity from the head unit to the speakers since I don't have a diagram.
This is an all factory (pontiac) stereo and I am getting ready to upgrade my speakers all around, but don't want to waste money on the rears if I can't get them going.
Thanks for any ideas you might have - Howie
AnswerSPEAKER WIRE ID and speaker test:
Climb in the trunk/rear area and look at what color wires are going to each rear speaker and write these colors down for reference when testing (up front at the head unit).
The easiest way will be to use a 9v battery to 'pop' the speakers (only long enough to see whether they go IN or OUT of their frames) to see which lead is positive.
Attach some wires to the battery of different lengths so it will not drain when not in use.
Now.. get into a position where you (or an assistant) can see either the back of [or the front of] the speaker being tested.
*Tap the extended battery leads to the speaker (for 1/4 sec or less) and watch the speaker.
During this test, a functioning speaker should move one way, then return to its idle position.
If the speaker cone jumped OUT of the frame (towards interior of vehicle)the POSITIVE lead on the battery is indeed hooked to the positive for the speaker. Viola!
If the speaker moved IN towards the interior, the NEGATIVE battery wire is indeed hooked to the positive side of the speaker.
You can unhook the wires at the spekers and test them with the battery as well to see if they will operate.
It is simple, if you follow the instructions :)
*When installing new speakers, always run new speaker wire to them so that the speakerwire is a non issue.
