Audio Systems: Ford Focus Stereo CD Player, removable face plate, single cd player

Question
Two of our 2003 Ford Focuses with the Blankrupt single CD player Stereo(Ford Part 3s4t-18c869-ae 815) have been giving us trouble.  When the car is started the radio comes on and goes off in approximately 3 second intervals.  None of the buttons will work on the stereo including the on/off button.  When the car is shut off, it continues to go on and off even though the key has been pulled from the ignition.  We have tried fuses, checked the wiring. The CD players are rarley, if ever used. Ford says the stereo is bad and wants $300.00 to send it in for repairs. To me it seems more like a power problem, or a switch problem.  Have you heard of this problems with Focus radios.  Any ideas?
Thanks
Mark

Answer
No.. I have not heard of this in focuses.
But I have not been impressed with the Blaupunkt(?) [German - meaning 'Blue Dot'] brand name since the late 1970's.

It is hard to determine with out seeing it in person. But it sure sounds like you need to look for a possible recessed reset button on it and depress it for at least 5 seconds. This reset button could be on the side, back or under a removable face plate on the front (if it has one, and most reputable headunits do).
If you cannot find one, or pressing it does not cure the problem, it is probably time for a new headunit.

That said, unless it has a remote amplifier(s), you can replace the headunit without cutting any factory wires with an MP3 capable CD-R/CD-RW am/fm/sattelite headunit and install kits for under 150.00 [if you install it yourself]. Tack on $50 or so to have it done professionally and be happy to have a new [with a warranty] again. :P

I would get the headunit at Circuit City or even Walmart, but take it to a real pro shop to get it installed if you choose that path.
*A zealous yet cautious novice could probably do the swap.

Let me know if I can be of further assistance in any case.

Jmael