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

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

did you check for shorts?

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

Thanks for the reply.

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.

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