XK8 Radio Illumination Problem
 

I have recently replaced the bulbs in my A/C unit.
I realize I can not replace bulbs to illuminate the stereo ?
The radio works fine, it just does not 'light up' which makes it very difficult in the evening.

Any advice please ?!

I had always assumed - maybe wrongly? - that the radio used the same weird little bulbs as the climate control display. Why do you say they cannot be replaced?

You're really going to hate this.

If the XK8 radio is the same as the earlier X300, the bulbs will be soldered to the circuit board. Jaguar's solution to a failed bulb is an exchange radio!

When I've had the radio out of my XK8, there is definitely no bulbholder on the casing.

Graham

Seems odd that ALL backlighting in the radio would go at the same time. Perhaps a power lead into the harness/connector is responsible for the lighting of the radio.

There are usually local businesses that do small electrical repair, and it may be beneficial to visit one of them, bring your electrical schematic for the radio, and see if they want to take it apart to perhaps find the source of the non-existent backlighting.

Either that, or find a used radio on ebay or car-part.com for $100 or less.

Will do guys, thanks. I will take it to a repair shop and if it is not fixable than I will buy another.

Also, Can I use a later model XK8 radio (02 or 03) in my 97 ??

If you look at some of the units on ebay, you'll see the radios vary from the early models being Harmon Kardon vs the later Alpine. I am not sure if 'basic' versus 'premium' systems of the Harmon Kardon units are different. Just buy like for like, and you should be just fine.

Ok thanks !

Hi.

As mentioned in earlier posts there are different radios (head units) fitted to these cars. I have one of the earlier ones in my 97, looking more like an XJ 308 unit. I would pull out the radio and check the connectors on the back before buying one for a newer model, as the connectors may differ. The head unit is the same for standard and premium systems, switchable on the bottom of the unit. You will of course need an amp and extra speakers to upgrade, and maybe some extra wires.

The backlighting is inside the radio. You have to open it all up and do some nitpicking soldering to renew the bulbs.

To the best of my knowledge.

Good to know, I would most likely replace with the original if I can not get my current radio fixed.

If all the lights are out it's unlikely that the bulbs are out in the unit. sounds like a loose connection I have the same problem, but mine goes on and off every once in a while. I plan on addressing this this spring.

Hi.
RCSign.
I have the same problem as you. All the lights suddenly went out. I agree, probably a bad connection. Do you know if the lights have a separate ground, as the radio works ok.
By the way, what type of car is in the background in your signature photo?