1992 Lexus LS400 CD problem

I'm having trouble with my stereo in 1992 Lexus LS400 with Nakamichi system.  It all started when my CD changer stopped working few days ago. Radio displayed "Err" and not play any CD at all. (Radio and tape works fine)

I did try reset button, but nothing.
I checked the CDs for scratches or maybe inserted upside down....nothing.
I took the changer out from the car and took it apart to clean the pickup lens....nothing.
I looked at Lexus repair manual, but it doesn't explain anything about error code on radio.

And today, CD changer completely lost its power (no 12V coming in). There are 2 main power wires coming in to the changer. One is constant 12V, and other should show 12V when ignition is turned on AND radio turned on also. (according to Lexus service manual, it shouldn't show 12V unless radio is on)

However, this wire shows 12V even when stereo is still OFF (ignition is on)  And, constant 12V shows nothing.(It was showing constant 12V yesterday!)  I did check connectors behind the deck and they shows same voltage as it did  at the changer.

Until yesterday, I thought my changer needs to be replaced, but now, it seems like my main deck needs to be replaced/repaired. I know the deck is over 10years old, so it maybe about the time to replace it. I don't mind replacing the deck, but wanted to make sure what is exactly wrong with it. Either the deck, or changer....or something else...?????

Sorry for long post, but I really need help on this. Thanks for your support!

lexus has pa paid trade out program   u give them $400-$600 and they give u a "brand new" remanufactured radio

Are you sure??? I called local Lexus dealer to inquire about the radio and they never told me anything about that. Instead, they told me that brand new Nakamichi head unit will run me little over $6000!!!

Where can I call/contact to find out about this?

Please let me know. Thanks

Where I work (Lexus Dealer) I always swap out radios. We just install a remanufactured radio.

Are there any error numbers or does it just display "ERR"?

When the changer had power, it showed "ERR" message at the deck. However, as I mentioned, there is no power going to change now. So even when I press "CD" button on the deck, nothing happens.

I'll check in my service manuals and see what might be the prob. You did check all the fuses, right?

itmdtr: Thanks for your help. I checked a fuse.....there was only one fuse I could find under the dash.

There is no power to the changer now. Constant 12V which should be coming out from the deck to the changer don't show any voltage.

and Accesory 12V which also coming from deck to the changer should show 12V when deck is on, but instead it shows constant 12V........so I think my deck is messed up!

What do you think?  My deck works fine except for CD changer control. Radio, tape works fine.

Thanks for your help!

It sounds like the head unit to me. You can get a reman radio for that car.

Did you try any other Lexus dealers in your area?

itmdtr: Thanks again for your help. In my area, there's only one Lexus dealer. Talking about monopoly!

However, I did found a place that will repair stock deck. They'll bench test the deck and give me an estimate on repair cost.

Do you happen to know the cost of remanufactured head unit if I send in my deck as a core? Depending on the price, I might get it repaired or buy reman headunit.

Thanks!

I'll ask the parts manager tomorrow. If it's not busy I'll use the computer at work to post the price he gives me.

By the way, where are you? Because there are Lexus dealers all over the place where I am.

Well, here's the prices:

Reman radio with your old one: $650.00

Reman radio with no core: $2200.00

I would look into getting that shop to repair it. Just make sure they include some kind of warranty so you wont have to pay every time something breaks.

We've had our reman radios come back with various problems.

Hope this helps.

itmdtr: Thanks for your help!  I decided to send in my deck to have it inspected and repaired (depends on how much it'll cost) if its reasonable, I'll just go ahead and have it repaired.

I should find out whats wrong with it in few days. I'll keep you posted.

Thanks!