2000 4R... stock radio. I can see the display during daylight, but when I switch exterior lights on, whatever illuminates in the radio is "out"... I am guessing this is not serviceable except for opening up the radio and possibly best left for radio shop tech? Anyone have experience with this issue? Just trying to figure if this will be a quick fix with a change of a bulb or whether this will require more than that!?
stock radio, lights out.
- Thread starter Brian1973
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RAD4Runner
Senior Member
Since when?
Probably yes.
When lights are turned on, an input on the radio wiring tells it to dim the radio illumination. Seems like the radio "dim" setting is off or broken. There might be a setting for it. If no setting probably better left to the radio techs. However, parts & labor cost would probably be more than what a more modern head unit with bluetooth and aux input costs ($60).
Try disconnecting that input that tells it to dim and see what happens. Need the radio wiring schematic for that.
4x4runner2002
New member
It's prob just the bulb in the radio is out. Mine were out in my digital ac control unit and it took it apart till I found them and confirmed with my multimeter that it was the bulbs and got new ones.
At this point you could try to fix the radio or upgrade for much less hassle.
JRZEE2000TR4LTD
Senior Member
No bulbs in there. Bunch of tiny LEDs. if they're all out the driver for the LEDs is bad. Not worth fixing.
nchacon1984
New member
Im on the same boat with my 98, but probably best to just swap it with a more modern radio like mentioned before.
JRZEE2000TR4LTD
Senior Member
Yep, My 2000 had the same issue, Took the stereo apart and saw all the tiny SMD LEDs.
Buckaroo
Member
If you go to the Crutchfield site, you can search for all the head units that will fit. They make it easy and provide everything you need - directions, wiring harnesses & facia plates/dash pockets...also have great tech service if you have any questions during the install. In Dec 2013, I purchased an Alpine CDE-143BT with everything required for $129.99. Hooked up directly to existing speakers & antenna.
Buckaroo
Buckaroo
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Airmapper
New member
Route I went as well, one of the first things I did to my 4runner after I bought it. I knew I would be spending a fair amount of time driving in it going to work and back, so I wanted to at least have a good way to play music.
I'm much happier with a modern single DIN unit, it interfaces with my phone so I can stream over BT and have hands free calling. Plus it opens up a bin under the radio for something else, I'm looking at putting a ham radio in there, but it's handy just as an empty cubby.
My only issue is all modern head units look so damn cheesy....
