Audio Systems: VW OEM CD Changer, dash unit, solder connection

Question
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Followup To
Question -
I think the generic model number for the VW 6-disc CD Changer is IJ5035111.  Anyway, it is the newer style with the rectangular 12-pin not the round plug.

The right channel tends to want to work only sometimes.  The left always works, both front and rear, but the right only sometimes.  Earlier, it would start not working and then "pop" on after a one or two songs on a CD.  It has been a few months since it first started and now it seems their is little if any chance any sound will come from the right side.

It has shown that nothing can triger the right side to work, it doesn't appear affected by temperature, vibration, cleaning, changing CD's.  Any thoughts?
Answer -
jeff,
It's possible that the audio processor for the CD audio has failed or possibly a defective solder connection is causing NO audio for the right channel. The popping noise could also be due to a very leaky capacitor that has now completely failed? The only sure way to find out where the problem is located is to do some step by step troubleshooting of the CD audio process section.

TOM,
T&D ELECTRONICS
tdeser@zoominternet.net

Based on your answer I'm not clear if the CD changer is in question or the in-dash unit?  Or both, Or either.  I think I can find another VW and swap out the CD changer to see if mine is the issue or if mine works in another car?

The local dealership will sell me a remanufactured one (CD changer that is) for about $175 with trade in of the defective one.  Is is safe to assume that repair is likely to be similar in cost to replace?

Thanks, so much.  Advice is so valuable, thanks again.
PS.  their is not pop, just a poor way of me describing that the right side just suddenly starts as if from nowhere.  There is no static or popping per se.

Answer
Jeff,
It sounds like a defective connection is the cause of the sound coming and going all at once. If your CD changer is mounted in the trunk, you may want to try playing a CD and when the sound acts up lightly tap on the CD changer case to listen if the sound comes and goes. If this is the case you can remove the outside cover of the CD changer and take a close up look with a magnifier to see if you can locate any defective connections on the circuit board/s.

TOM,
T&D ELECTRONICS
tdeser@zoominternet.net