I installed new PIAA driving lights on my car today, which went really well! After I finished the install, my headunit wouldn't respond! I have a Kenwood KDC-5019, which has the D-mask system on it. The unit won't even turn over, so I can see the face. I checked the in-line fuse, and it was ok. It is late, and the brain is fried. Hoping someone might have some suggestions by the time I wake up tomorrow. Thanks in advance.

 

I have had this happen before. Since you installed lights (electrical) its definetely a problem with your electrical current. Do yourself a favor, replace the inline fuse. Sometimes they look ok, but they are fried. I have had this happen to me twice. If not, well work from there.

 

I'll do that this afternoon, and let you know what happens!
Thanks!

 

also, some have found that there are other fuses that effect the headunit that aren't labled as such. try checking other fuses -- if i recall correctly, check the accessory fuse.

 

PJK3, you may be on to something there. I had 2 projects for school due today, and didn't get to check out the problem. (Kinda nice hearing the engine run though!) When we did the fogs, I think we linked into the empty accesory fuse! Would this be causing the problem?

Thanks for the thoughts and suggestions.

 

that very possibly could be related to your problem. instead of linking into the fuse, try using one of the 3 extra power slots that are available...

this picture should give you a rough idea of where those 'slots' are...

i pulled the pic from this article on S2000.org.

the three slots are (in order) on with: key on, constant power, and lights on. you'll probably want to wire into the key on slot.

here's a bigger pic from this thread that shows it a bit better.

the red arrow is pointing to the 'key on' slot. these accept a standard female spade connector.

 

The problem with this is, I was on the engine side, when the fuse connection was made. But I am pretty sure it is hooked up like shown in the second pic. Based on the first pic, what fuses do I need to check this afternoon?

Thanks for all of you help PJK3! You've been very helpful!!!

 

ack, i'm not sure which fuses to check (as i'm nowhere near my S).... the diagram on the left footwell panel should list and locate all the fuses. look for radio and accessory (i'm trying to remember if they were labeled anything else... ). check both of those and anything else that looks suspect... if that doesn't land you a solution, i'll get under my dash when i get home and look.

 

RBC3, that is the one we wired it into. I'm wondering if you remove that plug what will happen now. I'm curious if the stereo would function again normally after removing the new connection. Not sure if we blew a fuse necessarily but maybe just a voltage falling short somewhere causing the stereo to fail. We can use a fuse checker or ohm meter to check your fuses without removing them all if you want. I can help you this afternoon if you like too.

 

give us an update if possible... this is an interesting one....