Expert: Peter G. Lee - 10/13/2006

Question
The factory-installed CD player in my 2000 Honda Accord EX Coupe is performing poorly. After approx. 20 minutes listening to a CD (after it heats up), the music/audio begins to sound "static-like" and "scratchy," eventually becoming impossible to hear anything but the static/scratching noise. Also, it becomes difficult to switch tracks. When I skip to the next track, the system seems to turn and turn without accessing the next track.

I'm not sure if this is a repairable issue, a cleaning issue, or if I need to look into replacement. Any help you could provide would be much appreciated! Cheers!

Answer
Hi Katie,
I think you have answered your own question really.

Dirt, damp and viabration is a killer for head units and none more so than CD players, (a changer in the trunk is a much better option and safer whilst driving too)
Use a lazer head cleaning disc and BLOW any crud that might be in the unit out, if you are up to popping the radio out and lifting the lid so much the better but if not then, don't try it and NEVER poke about inside, you WILL kill it.
If the unit is over three years old and unless it's an expensive one then getting a new one might be the best option, after all they are as cheap as chips these days and make it a head unit / changer combo.
Peter