A dead radio and malfunctioning climate control system can be frustrating in a Chrysler 200. This article explores a real-life troubleshooting scenario for a 2015 Chrysler 200 with these issues, offering potential solutions and insights for owners experiencing similar problems. We’ll delve into the diagnostic steps taken, from checking fuses and battery voltage to inspecting the radio itself.
Common Chrysler 200 Radio Problems
The Chrysler 200, while generally reliable, has been known to experience some electrical issues, particularly with the radio and climate control system. Common problems include:
- Completely dead radio: No power, no sound, no display.
- Malfunctioning climate control: Stuck in defrost mode, unresponsive buttons.
- Lack of indicator lights: Button lights and display illumination not working.
- Flashing odometer: This can indicate a broader electrical issue.
These problems can stem from various sources, including:
- Blown fuses: A simple but crucial check.
- Low battery voltage: A weak battery can cause erratic electrical behavior.
- Faulty radio unit: Internal problems within the radio itself.
- Wiring harness issues: Damaged or corroded wiring can disrupt communication between components. This was a known issue for some Chrysler 200 models and subject to a recall.
- Body Control Module (BCM) problems: The BCM controls many electrical functions and its failure can lead to widespread issues.
Troubleshooting a Dead Radio: A Case Study
A 2015 Chrysler 200 owner experienced a complete radio failure coupled with a climate control system stuck in defrost mode. The odometer was also flashing intermittently. Here’s a breakdown of the troubleshooting process:
Initial Steps:
- Fuse Check: All fuses related to the radio and climate control were checked and found to be good.
- Visual Inspection of the Radio: The radio was removed and disassembled, revealing no obvious signs of damage or burnt components.
- Voltage Check: The voltage at the radio connector measured 12.1 volts, lower than the expected 13.5 volts for a fully charged battery.
Battery Charging and Further Diagnosis:
- Overnight Charging: The battery was disconnected and charged overnight using a battery charger/maintainer. It reached a full charge of 13.46 volts.
- Reinstallation and Continued Issues: After reinstalling the fully charged battery, the radio and climate control issues persisted. The odometer, however, stopped flashing.
- Voltage Re-check: With the engine running, the battery voltage measured a stable 13 volts.
- Anti-Skid Button Test: Pressing the anti-skid button activated the system (confirmed by the dash icon), but the button’s indicator light did not illuminate. This suggested a possible issue with the button illumination circuit, but not necessarily the core functionality of the anti-skid system.
Potential Solutions and Next Steps
While a replacement radio was ordered, it’s suspected that the issue might be more complex than a simple radio failure. Possible culprits include:
- Wiring Harness: Given the known recall for wiring harnesses in some Chrysler 200 models, this is a prime suspect. A thorough inspection of the wiring harness for damage, corrosion, or loose connections is crucial.
- Body Control Module (BCM): A malfunctioning BCM can cause a range of electrical problems, including those experienced by this Chrysler 200 owner. Diagnosis of the BCM often requires specialized equipment and expertise.
Conclusion
Troubleshooting electrical issues in a Chrysler 200 can be challenging. While a dead radio might seem like a straightforward problem, it can often be a symptom of a larger underlying issue. Systematic troubleshooting, starting with the basics like fuses and battery voltage, is crucial. If the problem persists, consulting a qualified automotive electrician or Chrysler dealership is recommended, especially considering the potential for wiring harness or BCM issues.
