Q: Stereo turns off and lights flicker when I turn up the volume on the stereo.

asked by on February 23, 2017

Everytime I try to put the volume up on my stereo it turns off. Sometimes it turns off on its own without reason. When I try to put the volume up the speakers sound staticky even though the volume is pretty low. And my lights flicker inside and out as well.

Hi there. If you have a factory radio, then the volume knob switch is shorting out with the radio controls causing the radio to shut off and flicker the lights. If you have an aftermarket radio, then there could be an issue with the face plate causing the radio to shut off and flicker the lights. I recommend seeking out a professional, such as one from Your Mechanic, to help you troubleshoot your radio before deciding to replace it.

The statements expressed above are only for informational purposes and should be independently verified. Please see our terms of service for more details

Get an instant quote for your car

Our certified mechanics come to you ・Backed by 12-month, 12,000-mile guarantee・Fair and transparent pricing


Experienced Mechanic?

Earn up to $70/hr

What others are asking

Problem with fuel system.
Fuel systems are very complex. They include dozens of components such as the pump, filter, lines, regulator, rails and injectors. If you suspect a problem with your fuel system, the best advice is to bring your vehicle to a trained...
Steering wheel vibrates
If your steering wheel is vibrating when driving, that could be one of many problems, that may or may not be related to the need for engine mounts. Worn engine mounts will cause vibration, however, worn steering and suspension components,...
Van makes a thud sound when making a right turn at low speeds
Hello. The most common cause of this issue is worn out rack and pinion bushings. The bushings hold it in place and keep it from moving when you are turning. Over time, these will wear out or will get oil...
rattling noise when turning on a.c. then later stops making noise
Hello there, many faults will cause a rattling noise when the AC is turned on in your 1997 Lexus ES300. The most common would be the belt tensioner, idler pulley, AC clutch, AC compressor, or the belt itself. When the...
Poor acceleration and rough idling at times.
This may be related to a dirty or failing idle air control valve, or throttle position sensor. The idle air control valve is a unit that reads the air intake as it is mixed with fuel, prior to being injected...
Driver side window started making a loud grinding sound when rolled down! Wondering what it could be? Motor? Switch?
Hello there. It is possible that your window has become loose and is not entirely on the 'track' that raises and lowers the window. This is typically what causes the grinding noise. It's also possible the window motor is damaged...
can you drive your car with a hole in your catalytic converter
Hi there. It's not recommended to drive a vehicle with a hole in the exhaust system, especially the catalytic converter. In most cases, a hole in the exhaust can cause harmful exhaust gases to leak, which can be harmful to...
What is the thumping noise when I accelerate and turn?
What you are describing sounds like a failing CV joint (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/axle-cv-shaft-assembly-replacement). A CV (Constant Velocity) joint is a shaft that connects the transmission to the wheels, essentially transferring the power from the drive train directly to the wheels. The CV...

Related articles

The Best Used Cars to Buy if You Live Close to the Ocean
If If you live close to the ocean, your vehicle is going to be far more vulnerable to rust than if you lived further inland. And the fact is, when it comes to resisting rust, not all vehicles are created...
Symptoms of a Bad or Failing Headlight Bulb
If the headlights are dim, flickering on and off, or will not come on at all, you may need to replace the headlight bulbs.
How to Listen to CDs in a Car Without a CD Player
While While the primary purpose of driving your car is to get from Point A to Point B, you might as well enjoy the process, especially if you have a lengthy commute. One way to enhance the experience is with...