Radio backlight issues

**SDGTP99** · 02-27-2017

So I'm having a bit of an problem with the backlighting in my stereo. I soldered in some new bulbs then before putting everything back together I plugged the stereo in to make sure the new bulbs worked ok. They did but, by my own mistake while the stereo was plugged in the circuit board with the backlighting bulbs touched the bare metal on the radio casing and something started to smell like burning plastic. Big oops. All the radio buttons still work but now only the clock lights up. And adding to my frustration I thought I'd get another radio from salvage & if I switch the faceplate from my radio onto the salvage radio everything will light up. I'd be ok with using the salvage radio if I knew the CD player actually functioned & I knew someone who could unlock it. Any thoughts comments or suggestions welcome.

**SaukRapids** · 02-27-2017

Originally Posted by SDGTP99

If I switch the faceplate from my radio onto the salvage radio everything will light up.

I don't think so because something probably burned out on the board. Do you have a picture of the lights that aren't working? If they're the bulbs with covers, pull the covers off and check the filaments. Those are incandescent bulbs. I guess maybe they could be powered together in a series or something, idk.

**SDGTP99** · 02-28-2017

Here's what I meant;

My radio & faceplate. Notice only the clock it lit.

Salvage radio with my faceplate. Most of the buttons are lit. Wth?

**FordMan77** · 02-28-2017

Try this to unlock it--> http://www.grandprixforums.net/threa...1-stock-stereo

I just called the 800 number and followed the procedure and it does still ask for the code given by the radio. Might be worth a try. Not sure on the lower buttons not lighting up though.

**soundu** · 04-14-2017

Originally Posted by FordMan77

Try this to unlock it--> http://www.grandprixforums.net/threa...1-stock-stereo

I just called the 800 number and followed the procedure and it does still ask for the code given by the radio. Might be worth a try. Not sure on the lower buttons not lighting up though.

The radio is VIN locked. If you have the proper replacement you can set he cars VIN to the radio with a scanner at the GM dealer. Or you can Google eeprom leg lift bypass to get some use out of it

B