Radio Problem

[007Cruiser]

I’m currently having a problem with the CD changer in my OEM radio. Pressing the CD button results in a message of “CD Error”. I’ve read that you can eject all CDs by pressing and holding the eject button but I get the same message. Anyone have any thoughts or ideas? Is this something that happens in hot weather?

I know that some folks have swapped out the radio for something more modern. What brands are recommended? I’d really like to stay stock but would make a change if necessary. Thanks for your input

[JerriLampon]

It's common for the laser that reads the CD goes out. It's fairly inexpensive to have it repaired. I rebuilt mine in 2010 and it continue to functions just fine.
Prices vary -- this is the least expensive I've found recently https://www.oemautosound.com/p-675-f...d6-repair.aspx
It's best to contact them to make sure they cover your unit.

[007Cruiser]

Thanks, Jerri. Anyone else?

[TXBlueBird]

The CD player has a long history of this kind of behavior. Search the forum for something like "cd player stuck error" and you'll see some of the past discussions. I don't think anyone has found a truly consistent resolution.

My solution has be been to use a Bluetooth to FM transmitter with my phone. This works well for me but I'm not a super audiophile nor do I like my music really loud.

You can replace the radio unit. It's a standard double-DIN size. Crutchfield's can direct you to a number of suitable choices depending on your preferences. They also provide wiring kits for installation if you want to do it yourself. If you do switch out the radio, you can retain the original unit in case you want to restore the car to stock sometime in the future. If you don't want to do it yourself, find a reliable car audio shop. A number of members have shared their experiences changing the radio. Again, a search should turn up several posts.

I hope this is helpful,
Duane

[007Cruiser]

Thanks, Duane, for your good advice.

[2Redbirds57/02]

Gene, try this. It works for me every time. When you park the car for the day leave all cd's in the player. Go out the next day and eject the cd's.

[007Cruiser]

Gene, try this. It works for me every time. When you park the car for the day leave all cd's in the player. Go out the next day and eject the cd's.

I will give it a shot. I truly believe that the awful heat we’re having is behind the problem. It’s supposed to break on Sunday so we’ll see.

[2K2BIRD]

My tip for these players is never try to eject the CDs when the unit us hot from use or high ambient temperatures. I only unload and load in the morning while everything is cool.

[FUN X 3]

My CD player is jammed, has been for months. Our garage is not air conditioned, so if I have to wait until it's cool out to eject them, I'll try in January or February.

[007Cruiser]

Will try next week week when we dip into the 80s.

[007Cruiser]

Could a weak battery play into this? On a lark I went to check and found my battery DOA.

[BillyL]

Yes!! A weak or near dead battery can cause all kinds of electrical "gremlins". As for the CD player, I believe it is best practice not to leave the cds in the unit when not in use and never, never use a cd with a raised label or sticker on the face of the cd as it will hanger up and jam the unit.

[007Cruiser]

The hot weather has left and the problem persists. Now it says “No CD” instead of “CD Error”. My new battery should be at the Ford store tomorrow. We’ll see what happens.

[BillyL]

I am betting the new battery solves the CD problem.

[007Cruiser]

We’re about to find out.