How can I fix my stereo?

it's a ford escort wagon Lx I need to know what wires are the power the ignition power and ground?
Jesse, May 2004


done
Hi,

The simple answer would be to go to the nearest Ford dealership and ask a mechanic.

But if that isn't possible, and you can get a decent multimeter, you can determine the wires yourself:

(1) For power, find where the cigarrette lighter is located. The wires to that device will be 12 volts dc, even if the car is off.

(2) For ignition, find something that only works when the ignition is turned to "ACC" (this is the 1st key position). Examples would be power windows or power locks. The multimeter reading will be 12 volts when the key is turned to or past "ACC", and 0 volts when the key is turned off.

(3) Ground wires are usually colored black.

I hope this helps.

Jim Lee- technician, Graham's TV Service (W. Columbia, SC), May 2004
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