Picture this – you’re cruising along the motorway, belting out your favourite tunes, when suddenly your radio cuts out. Silence. You fiddle with the buttons and dials, but no luck. Your radio is dead. So what could be causing this frustrating problem?
Symptoms and causes
There are a few common reasons why your car radio might stop working:
- Blown fuse: One of the most common causes is a blown fuse. Radios draw power from your car’s electrical system, and a power surge can cause the fuse to blow.
- Wiring issues: Over time, the wires connecting your radio to your car’s electrical system can become loose, frayed, or corroded. This can disrupt the power supply to your radio.
- Antenna problems: If your radio is having trouble picking up stations, the antenna may be to blame. A damaged or broken antenna can’t receive radio signals properly.
- Faulty head unit: In some cases, the radio itself (also called the head unit) may be faulty. This could be due to physical damage, overheating, or wear and tear over time.
What is involved in the repair?
The specific repair needed will depend on the underlying cause of the problem. Here’s what might be involved:
- Replacing a blown fuse is a relatively simple fix that can often be done at home. You’ll need to locate your car’s fuse box, identify the correct fuse, and swap it out for a new one with the same amperage.
- Fixing wiring issues is more complex and is best left to a professional. The mechanic will need to trace the wires, identify any damage, and repair or replace the affected wires.
- Replacing a damaged antenna is usually straightforward. The mechanic will remove the old antenna and install a new one.
- If the head unit itself is faulty, it may need to be removed and replaced. This is a more involved job that requires dismantling part of your car’s dashboard.
What is the rough cost of these repairs in New Zealand?
The cost of repairing a car radio in New Zealand can vary depending on the specific issue and the make and model of your vehicle. As a rough guide:
- Replacing a fuse might cost around $10-20 if you do it yourself, or $50-100 if done by a mechanic.
- Rewiring jobs can range from $100 for a simple fix, up to $300 or more if extensive work is needed.
- A new antenna typically costs between $20-100, plus around $50-100 for installation.
- Replacing a head unit can cost anywhere from $200 for a basic model, up to $1000 or more for a high-end unit with advanced features. Installation may cost an additional $100-200.
Why My Auto Shop is the best place to get your car fixed
At My Auto Shop, we understand how frustrating it is when your car radio stops working. That’s why our team of experienced mechanics is here to help. We’ll diagnose the problem quickly and give you an upfront, transparent quote before starting any work.
But the best part? We come to you. That’s right, our mobile mechanics will service or repair your car at your home or workplace. No more wasted time dropping your car off at the shop or arranging a ride home.
Plus, with our strong focus on customer service, you can trust that you and your car are in good hands. Just check out our stellar Google ratings!
So if your radio has stopped working, don’t stress. Give My Auto Shop a call and let us get you back to singing along to your favourite tunes in no time.