hey everyone, i was wondering if anyone could help me with a problem i'm having with a 97 jetta. i had the ignition switch changed and now my radio has no power. i can see a cable that isn't connected and i don't know where it goes. i think it powers the radio. i'm going crazy without music any help would be greatly appreciated. thanks!

 

Is this an aftermarket radio or the factory one? Is the wire coming out of the radio or the ignition?

 

i think it's coming from the radio. it's an alpine deck. the power is plugged in on the back of the deck.

 

That wire that is loose is probably the power wire that tells the radio to turn on when you turn on the ignition. If you remove the radio I bet you'll see where it goes on the wiring harness. If you don't have the two tools to remove it I have done it many times by cutting a couple of lengths of a wire coat hanger about 10" long and bent a little handle on them to make them easier to hold and then you slide them in on the sides of the stereo to release the tabs, leave the wires in place and try to pull it out. If you cant you'll have to take the sides of the center console off. Tell me how it goes.

 

it's an aftermarket alpine deck. i've taken it out and everything is properly plugged into the deck. i don't know where that power cable goes on the ignition if it goes there = /

 

I don't want to insult your intelligence but, have you checked the fuse?

 

i already checked the fuse and it tested good and i even tried replacing it anyways. it worked before i had the ignition switch changed.

 

And I guess there is a fuse in the stereo and it's fine. I guess your just missing the connection to the ignition or fuse box. The only thing I can suggest is going to http://www.alldatdiy.com and for like $15 you can get your online service manual and use the wiring diagram to find the problem.