Electrical Problem - Need some Insight - Ya its a VW

Here is the issue:

1990 VW Cabriolet - Stereo suddenly stopped working after we had it detailed (but I don't think that is the issue)

• Pulled the aftermarket stereo (Pioneer if it matters).
• Bought a JVC, but it doesn't work either (did this after confirming the 12V was there but that was the constant 12V - see below)
• I have the constant 12V for the clock etc.
• I only get 4.28V on the switched 12V circuit
• I expected to either get 12V or 0V, not something in between

What say the assembled guruism of GRM?

P.S. yes I have a multimeter and can half assed find my way around wiring, but I really don't want to have to pull the dash apart on this one.

sounds like a short.

Sorry if that isnt helpful.

Rob R.

What happens if you hook up the constant 12V to the switched AND constant 12v leads? Does teh radio work all of teh time that way?

The fuse box on an A1 cabby is in an unfortunate location that is susceptible to water damage. The windshield seal can trap water which creates a little rust hole that will funnel water onto the fuse panel. If you detailed the car you probably washed it and it is possible it leaked causing this problem. If you pull the plugs on the back of the panel you will probably see either green fuzzy corrosion on the pins or charred melted bits like this

Repair or replace as necessary.....or just run another switched 12V line to the stereo.

wvumtnbkr wrote: What happens if you hook up the constant 12V to the switched AND constant 12v leads? Does teh radio work all of teh time that way?

It should and I considered doing that to get it functioning. It is the wife's car and she really wants it back the right way. This thing is a cream puff. Only one other owner, never winter driven, garaged and it only had 45k miles on it when we bought it 2 years ago.

Thanks everyone for their input. It sounds like I am heading to the fuse box.

The other items on the same fuse - cigarette lighter and interior lights all work fine. Does this change anything?

ditchdigger wrote: The fuse box on an A1 cabby is in an unfortunate location that is susceptible to water damage. The windshield seal can trap water which creates a little rust hole that will funnel water onto the fuse panel. If you detailed the car you probably washed it and it is possible it leaked causing this problem. If you pull the plugs on the back of the panel you will probably see either green fuzzy corrosion on the pins or charred melted bits like this Repair or replace as necessary.....or just run another switched 12V line to the stereo.