so my radio display is missing 2 rows. i was wondering, if i pull the fuse out or unplug the radio, would that reset the screen? or are the missing pixels, for lack of a better term, permanent?

http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5022/...59900ff8_b.jpg

also, my friend who used to work for lexus said i may have to enter a code for the radio, should i unplug it. would that apply for my car?? (03 a4 1.8t)

 

You can try unplugging it and pulling out the fuse, blowing on the connectors (works better with a compressor than by mouth) and putting some electrical grease on them before you stick them back together. The electrical grease improves the connectivity and conductivity of the wires.

If none of that works, then it's possible that you just have a row of dead pixels...
Here's a link that was given to my by "vgorous": OEM / Performance Parts for Audi, BMW, Mercedes Benz, Mini, Porsche & Volkswagen - ECS Tuning where you can get radios for good prices in comparison to the dealership.

If your '03 A4 1.8T has an OEM (standard) radio in it, then yes, you'll need a code. This is usually on a tag that is in the glove box compartment or put somewhere seperately for obvious reasons. If you can't find the four digit code, contact your dealership.



-Nick

 

thanks for the info. i checked the radio manual and owners manual for code, but no luck, but while reading i found out some models have a feature where you dont need to enter the code providing the radio is in its own car.... and a couple of weeks ago i disconnected the battery for something else, and the radio worked... so i guess my radio is synced with my car. hopefully the fuse will fix the pixel issue. not a big deal, im not gonna buy a new radio for this, but it would be nice if i fix it. thanks!