re-occurring problem w/dash connector, melting/killing battering

[srspicer]

Hey Everyone,

2002, Grand Prix, GT. 4 dr., auto tans.

I am getting ready to replace this item for the second time in about two years. I have been smelling the order of burning candles, faint but there. The last time this happened the following occurred; I went to use the car one day and found the interior fan on and the radio playing, w/o the key in the ignition. It turned out to be the connector behind the radio and fan controls. It is a large one, looks like a flat computer cable. It had melted, causing the connection and allowing those accessories to be energized w/o the key. I am smelling that oder again and it is only a matter of time before this part goes again. Has anyone else had this problem and can it be stopped? is this a factory defect or recall situation? I'm also afraid it could start a fire!
Is this something I can replace myself? I have never had the dash apart, but not afraid to try it with some guidance.

Thanks in advance for any help!

Regards,

Scott

[HighOctaneRacing]

did you check for shorts?

[srspicer]

No, I have not done that yet. Just wanted to see if this was an issue others were having.

Thanks for the reply.

[nik12937]

I've honestly never heard of that, but like HighOctane said, it's most likely a short. When you have some spare time, take a quick peek at the wires coming out of the connector for any spots that look burnt, are kinked, or are missing insulation. It might just be a fluke and somehow a wire got pinched or damaged in some way.

Good example, I kept blowing fuses for my interior lighting and no one I spoke to could help lead me to the problem. One day when I had the headliner down to tighten my OnStar antenna, I realized the wires that run to my driver's side sunshade/vanity mirror had somehow rubbed all the way through to layers of insulation and the wire insulation itself. Every once in a while they must have moved just right to touch and would short out, blowing the fuse. I solved it with electrical tape.

[srspicer]

Thanks nik, it happens over a long period of time so I'll have to check carefully .