Radio Noise Heard in One or More Speakers (Repair Open Circuit in Amplifier Wiring)

Some customers may comment on a noise heard through a radio speaker, particularly in dead air or between tracks on a CD. The noise will often be described as an alternator whine. Others may comment that the noise sounds like radio interference. The noise will be heard mostly through the A pillar tweeter, but may be heard through other speakers as well.

This condition may be caused by an open in either circuit of the signal input twisted pair wiring between the radio and the audio amplifier. The circuit numbers for the left channel amplifier input are 511 and 1947. The circuit numbers for the right channel amplifier input are 512 and 1546. The affected left or right channel will still produce sound even though one of the circuits for that channel may be open.

Technicians should inspect for an open in either circuit of the amplifier wiring harness between the radio and the audio amplifier. Repair the circuit as necessary. If a speaker is completely inoperative, refer to the Speakers Inoperative -- One or More diagnostic procedure in SI (Document ID #813966).

For vehicles repaired under warranty, use: