M.M. FM Radio intermittent problems

[JamesTLester]

I just purchased a 2003 Marauder two days ago. $8,000 and 109xxx miles.

Anyway, the radio has been acting funny. I will start the car and radio, and 5 to 10 minutes later the station will randomly static out, with the [ST] light coming on and off. After 2-20 minutes of that, and sometimes a restart it will correct itself. It occurs five to ten minutes after powering on even if I don't start the engine, instead running the radio off ACC power.

At first I thought it was the wiring to the antennae, but it did not matter whether in the city or country, ascending or descending a hill, or whether I was turning left or right. The rear glass IS tinted, if that could have anything to do with it.

I now think it is an internal heat issue with the radio itself, but I am not sure if it will mean replacing the radio or replacing a wire.

If I will have to replace the radio, instead be replacing it with an aftermarket ipod-compatible model, will the buttons on the steering wheel still function?

If you know the answer or have had this problem before, your input is GREATLY appreciated. :)

Again, have you had this problem before? Does it mean replacing the radio? If so, will an aftermarket radio function with the steering wheel buttons? Will a radio replace fix the problem?

Thanks!

[justbob]

This is quite common and yes the radio is shot. Good news is, if you want an upgrade with a stock look the Audiophile and the mach 300 are a plug and play for these cars. They have six disc indash and a slight bit more power. http://www.mercurymarauder.net/forums/showthread.php?t=55866&highlight=audiophile
Or you can get a wide variety of aftermarket, that with adaptors, yes your controls will still work.

[guspech750]

This is quite common and yes the radio is shot. Good news is, if you want an upgrade with a stock look the Audiophile and the mach 300 are a plug and play for these cars. They have six disc indash and a slight bit more power. http://www.mercurymarauder.net/forums/showthread.php?t=55866&highlight=audiophile
Or you can get a wide variety of aftermarket, that with adaptors, yes your controls will still work.
What Bob said and also iPod and MP3 interface adapters that plug into the rear of the radios.

http://www.pie.net/

My iPod in my iPhone even works through the interface too. Just found that out today.

[RF Overlord]

This is apparently a common problem with these radios. We had the issue with the one in Phoebe, but luckily she came with a spare. :D

If you decide to have the factory radio repaired, a number of members have had good luck with this (http://www.videoservicestop.com/radiorepairs/ford.htm) place. We're dropping off the broken one from Phoebe on our way to the STAP tour next week.