I have an '05 TL Auto Navi with 126K on the Odo. Want to keep it until at least 160-170K. I am old school so I do use ELS audio and DVD A on the car. The CD player has taken a dump on me in the last week. Question: Is it worth replacing the unit? Are there cheaper alternatives than taking it to the dealership? Is it reasonably possible to do with little stereo install experience? Thanks.

 

A few months after buying my 04 TL (auto, navi) a few years ago my CD unit died as well.

IMO, it's worth replacing it if you use CDs. Even though I installed an AUX port on my TL a little over a year ago, I still use the CD player enough to make it worth my while.

I'm not sure what the aftermarket options are--I just bought a new CD unit from another TL--but you should NEVER go to the dealership for it. They will charge you an arm and a leg, when you can find it MUCH cheaper elsewhere.

Personally, I just looked here on AZ and I found a new head unit for $150. It was used, but it was in great condition, and has yet to fail me. And for someone who doesn't have much experience working on cars, removing the old one and installing the new one was SUPER easy. All you need to do is look up the service manual pages that talk about it and it walks you through step by step.

I've done it enough times now (to add things to the car) that I don't even need the service manual pages anymore. Not only will you save money from not having someone else do it, but you also get the satisfaction of knowing you did it yourself and that you can tackle other DIYs.

 

Thats the way to go. Or you can remove yours and send to the manufacturer but there price for repair has gone up to 300+ dollars

 

I would say if you are not going to be keeping it for much longer to use an alternative. I use my CD player as well and I love the quality of the sound system so I can see where you are coming from, but I am not sure if it is worth dropping anything at all to get it fixed if you are planning on getting rid of it soon.

 

This happened to me as well. After looking at all options:
1. CD Player fix: audio shop said it would be 75-400 just to fix stock cd player
2. Aftermarket cd player: need to have a custom dash kit made- 100-200$ plus cost of cd player
3. iSimple. for $200. You can still use the factory controls, and the song will display by the clock.

 

^ You dont need a custom dash kit; just a custom faceplate

 

Thanks All. Appreciate your input. As always, a great forum.

 

With sound quality being the highest priority, I replaced mine when it went out. Brand new, $300 off of eBay.

 

^ oem?