Expert: Cleggsan - 8/7/2009

Question
Hi!  I have a 2000 Jeep Grand Cherokee Limited that intermittently will have static when listening to the radio/cd.  The static is coming from the amplifier(?) under the back seat.  It comes and goes more and more frequently.  I used to be able to turn off the radio and it would go away, but that doesn't work anymore.  Any suggestions?

Answer
You can determine if it is coming from the head unit or external amplifier by doing this: Turn off the head unit so no sound will be coming from it.  Bypass the remote lead or jumper 12v to the remote connection so the amplifier comes on.  If the static continues you will know if is coming from the amplifier. If no static then switch on the head unit; if static comes then, you know the problem is in the head unit.

But, check the ground and 12v connections to make sure it is not due to an erratic or poor connection on one of the lines.  The ground connection for both head unit and amplifier must be solid metal to metal connection; rust or corrosion can cause this problem.  Jiggle the wires or wiring harness to see if it corrects the problem.

If coming from inside the head or amp it could be just about anything; you may have to take it to an install/repair shop and have them look at it.

Hope this will help.

C