Ugh. Again, brief history. Didn't run for 10 years, I got it 8 months ago. Chasing electrical issues for four months. Previous owner died but his wife said radio worked. The parts that came with the car had 4 bose speaker amps so.... Was there a problem and he replaced the amps or..... is there a problem and he got new ones to put in. Anyway. I turned the radio on and hit scan. Radio cycled through stations and didn't pick up any. Noticed antenna didn't extend. Removed radio and antenna, used contact cleaner on all connectors, reinstalled. Radio still didn't pick up any stations but antenna did extend but only six inches. Replaced power antenna relay but still only raised 6 inches. Not only did the radio not pick up any stations, the tape deck didn't work. I put a cassette aux adapter in and it kept clicking as if to flip sides. static like sound came from the speakers every time and didn't change at all with cleaning the contacts, antenna partially extended or not, or when I put cassette in. The radio never picked up a station. I have 4 speaker amps sitting here with no idea if good or bad. Seems like radio needs repair / replacement and possible other componant failure. Not important to me to keep original system if problematic. Feel like replacing the entire system especially after looking at the cost to repair existing radio. Saw or previous post about changing to Kenwood or jvc. My first question is: am I missing something? Second: any advice if I do change the entire system. Thanks

Mine Sat 14 years I've had it 6 weeks Perfect sound till today Right front speaker dead Hope you get good info on switching out Because just to access requires disassembly off door. Ahhhhb!

Check out this website. It has a lot of good info on repairing Bose systems for DIY'ers. Also removal and install instructions.

Long story, short...pull the Bose and the amps, wire in a good Sony or Pioneer head unit (Bluetooth!) with new wiring to the speakers. Don't attempt to splice into or use the old speaker wire. Crutchfield has good prices on stereos/speakers, and will sell you wiring adapters at a reduced price. If installation is beyond your means, ask around for a good stereo shop...as in don't go to Best Buy. Spend your money wisely he first time.

The ribbon cable in your antenna is probably shot, why the antenna won't extend fully. You can buy replacement parts for that, or again ask a stereo shop.

Not exactly your vehicle (this is my '96), but this is what's possible. Plan wisely. BTW, doesn't everyone have a pic of their car on their stereo?

Stereo Pic

(life-sized image modified to link-aapple)


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I just did what you advised my 1988 which I purchased in Oct 2016 had a non working stereo.I took a look behind the radio and knew it was beyond my electrical talent. Went to local car audio shop purchased a pioneer with cd and blue tooth for 150 and they installed for 350 which included new front speakers and new amp. It took them about 3 hours to install I was there for the last 1.5 hours.  I have done business with them since the 60's a good reputable shop. The sound is good plus I can use my cds and my phone is tied in. The radio was cheep the cost was the install.  Take care and good luck on your project.

Yup! (Well ok... just took these)