2012 dodge journey radio has no sound

Dodge Journey Radio Stopped Working: Causes + How to Fix

Has the radio in your Dodge Journey stopped working?  If so, there are three common causes for this issue .  They are a blown fuse, loose or corroded wiring, and a problem with the radio itself.

If your radio comes on but isn’t working, this article will cover that too: Please jump to the section that’s applicable to your vehicle.

Table of Contents:

Radio Won’t Work At All Causes

The radio is on but no sound, common questions.

The most common reason for a radio to stop working in a car is a blown fuse.

This section covers a Dodge Journey’s radio would show no signs of life. If your radio is lighting up, but no sound is coming from the speakers, head down to the next section.

Cause 1: Blown Fuse

Always start with the simplest and easiest potential cause first, which is the radio fuse. You’ll need to check the fuse box to see if the radio fuse is blown.

How to Test a Fuse

Step 1 : You’ll need to your Dodge Journey’s fuse box location .  On most makes and models, it’s to the left of the driver’s seat (when you are behind the steering wheel).

Step 2 : Once you access your vehicle’s fuse box, you’ll need to locate the radio fuse . You should see a schematic printed on the door.

Step 3 : Test the fuse .  There are two ways to do this. First, you can visually inspect your Journey’s radio fuse.  There’s a wire between the two prongs.  If the connecting filament is damaged, power can’t reach the head unit, and the fuse needs to be replaced. 

A better way to verify a fuse is functioning is to use a test light . This can be accomplished without even pulling a fuse.  Here’s how:

Start by finding a good ground source on your Journey to ground the test light to. You can usually find one inside the door jam that will reach the fuse box.

Next, turn the key to the accessory position, and touch the test light tip to both prongs. 

If it only lights up for one prong, the fuse has failed, and you’ll need to replace it. If both sides light up, the fuse is fine.

Cause 2: Wiring Issue

If your Journey’s radio fuse checks out, it’s time to determine if there’s a problem with the wiring harness going to the radio system.

Verify that your vehicle’s radio has a solid ground connection.  Use a multimeter to verify the voltage level is accurate.  Any issue with the wiring harness will prevent power from getting to the radio system and cause the fuse to blow again.

Cause 3: The Radio Itself

If there’s power going to your Journey’s radio, and you’ve verified that the ground connection is good and it has power, the only way to get your car working is to repair or replace it.

Cause 1: Broken Antenna

When the tuner is on, there will be static. The CD player or Aux input should still work fine .

A broken antenna is one of the most common issues that cause your Journey’s radio to stop working.  Antennas are reliable,  but they can weaken and eventually break entirely over time, mainly if you frequently utilize drive-through car washes.

If you suspect this might be the problem, check to see if your vehicle’s antenna is in good working condition (is it bolted on?). If it isn’t, then you should replace it.

Cause 2: Anti-Theft Mode

If your vehicle’s stereo is coming on and says to “input radio code, ” you’ll need to find.  Most vehicles come with a card where the number is recorded or written inside the glove box on a sticker. Sometimes it’s printed on the back of the owner’s manual.

Some manufacturers will let you look it up online if you need the code.  If that doesn’t work, you can take it to the dealer and have them pull it. Here are all the ways you can look up your Journey’s radio code.

Cause 3: CD Player or Aux Button Has Been Touched

If your Journey has a CD player or aux button and it was recently touched, then your radio may be stuck in that mode. 

You can test this by attempting to connect another device, such as an iPod, to the car’s audio system. If it works, then there is likely an issue with the radio itself.

In this case, you should take your Journey to a professional for repair or replacement.

Does the radio stop working when you crash?

No, your Dodge Journey’s radio should not stop working when you are in a car accident. If it does, then there may be an issue with the wiring or the radio itself (wiring short, blown fuse, no power, and ground connection).

You can check to see if any of the fuses in your vehicle have blown, and if they haven’t, then you should look for loose or corroded wiring in your electrical system.

One of my Dodge Journey’s speakers isn’t working.

The speaker could be blown.  But, you’d likely hear a static sound from the speaker.  It’s more likely to be caused by a damaged speaker wire.

If one of your Journey’s door speakers isn’t working, the most common location of the short will be where the harness enters the door (since it moves).

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Dodge Journey: How to Reset Stereo System

Many car owners/drivers use the radio or stereo system while they drive. Sometimes the stereo system has problems and needs to be reset. Below are directions for resetting the stereo system on a Dodge Journey.

Note:  Doing this will erase any saved radio stations or paired phones. You will need to reset the stations and pair phones again when starting the car.

If neither of these options fixes the issue, please take your car to a certified mechanic or dealership.

2011 – 2020 Models

• Open the passenger side door. The fuse box is under the dash near the door.
• Press the  tab  and pull down.
• Check fuse F128.
• If the fuses are burnt,  replace  them with new ones.
• Open the  hood  of the vehicle.
• Disconnect the  negative battery cable  from the terminal with a socket wrench. Make sure the cable is not touching the battery or terminal.
• Disconnect the  positive terminal . Do not let it touch the terminal.
• Let the car sit for 3-5 minutes .
• Reconnect the cables  to the battery again.

2009 – 2010 Models

• Open the hood. The fuse box is on the left side of the engine compartment.
• Press the  clips  on either side of the lid and lift up.
• Check fuse M12.

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2012 Dodge Ram Radio Problems: How To Fix Them?

When it comes to the full-size pickup truck segment, the 2012 Dodge Ram has always been a top choice thanks to its combination of powerful performance and spacious cabin.

Unfortunately, aside from common problems like the P0308 Dodge Ram 1500 , the 2012 Dodge Ram radio problems are also a pain, especially for those who need quality music to accompany them on their road trips.

If you encounter the same case, read on! This article will list all stereo issues, symptoms, and solutions so you can get your radio up and running.

Common 2012 Dodge Ram Radio Problems & How To Fix

Some radio problems include the 2012 Ram radio not working , having no sound, shutting off on its own, AM/FM mode not playing, alternator whine, the stock stereo not finding ignition power or accessory wire, or the headlights flashing when you volume up the music.

Let’s go through all six, one by one!

Radio Has No Sound

The root cause of a 2012 Dodge Ram radio no sound is a problematic component. Faulty cables, amplifiers, or rear speakers can be the culprit.

I’d first recommend checking the rear speakers’ cable and wiring harness (located near the rear doors) to see if it’s properly connected.

This cable is prone to damage and corrosion; when it is broken, it won’t connect with the head unit.

If the wiring has no problem, the next potential causes are the rear speakers (especially if you are using aftermarket speakers) and amplifiers.

I usually test each of these components by removing them from the setup. In case the speaker or amp doesn’t make a sound, you might need to repair or replace them.

The Radio Shuts Off On Its Own

Another issue I experienced was the factory stereo shutting off by itself. As reported by other car owners, it is also one of the most common 2013 Dodge Ram radio problems .

Also known as sound cut, the problem occurs in old-fashioned radio when the amp becomes overheated, or a speaker wire gets loose. There are two things you can do to solve this:

• Check the antenna wire to make sure that it is securely connected.
• Check the amplifier. If it is overheating, turn off the amp and let it cool off for a while before using it again.

The amplifier on a Dodge Ram may overheat and shut down for many reasons, including low impedance and poor grounding.

A professional mechanic can help you troubleshoot the real issue and replace the amp if necessary.

A faulty repair can worsen the issue and affect other components; in the worst case, it might even lead to a starting problem .

AM/FM Mode Not Playing

Sometimes, the pickup factory radio works with the CD player but not AM/FM mode. When facing this trouble, the antenna issue is to blame.

Since your Dodge Ram is not a new car model, its metal antenna might suffer from corrosion, which makes it unable to connect with the radio unit properly.

Depending on the antenna’s condition, you can fix or replace it.

The cost of an antenna replacement ranges from $100 to $150. To ensure longevity, you should invest in a high-quality antenna made from top-notch materials.

Alternator Whine

A whining noise from the radio station is among the 2016 Dodge Ram radio problems , but it also happens with the 2012 Dodge Ram.

You can recognize an alternator noise through the changes in pitch or volume, especially when the engine’s revolution per minute changes.

Fortunately, dealing with this problem is quite simple. In most cases, I will fix it by:

• Installing a noise filter between the battery and the vehicle’s alternator, or
• Installing an amp inline power noise suppressor near the head unit.

The Stereo Stations Can’t Find Ignition Power/Accessory Wire

When the radio unit can’t find ignition power or accessory wire, there is a high chance your wires have been switched.

Check them and see if you attach the wires wrongly. Remember that the red wire should be connected to the ignition’s ACC , while the yellow wire should be attached to the battery.

If the wiring is not the culprit, you might be dealing with a faulty ignition. Over time, the ignition wears and tears, causing it to malfunction.

The only solution, in this case, is to replace the ignition cylinder.

Headlights Flash When Music Is Volumed Up

Finally, if you wonder why the Dodge Ram’s headlights or dash lights keep flashing when you crank up your music, the answer is simple: Power.

Your amp is draining a lot of power from the vehicle, and the charging system struggles to keep up. This often occurs after you change your old, malfunctioning amplifier for a new, powerful one.

There are two ways to deal with these radio issues:

• Lower the volume : This is not the best solution, especially if you like listening to loud music while driving. However, it is the easiest and quickest solution.
• Upgrade your alternator : A bigger one can provide enough power for your new amp. Still, consult a technician to ensure that your 2012 Dodge Ram can handle a more powerful alternator.

How Do You Reset The 2012 Dodge Ram Radio?

To perform a 2012 Dodge Ram radio reset , press and hold the up button and down button simultaneously for a few seconds, then select the “radio reset” option on the stereo stations.

Keep in mind that resetting doesn’t always solve the radio issues.

If your Dodge Ram radio works intermittently or doesn’t work at all, it is best to investigate the related components like the antenna, wires, or speakers and solve the issue from the root.

Is There Any Recall With The 2012 Dodge Ram?

Yes. Chrysler recalled some 2012 Dodge Ram trucks manufactured between January 5, 2012, and January 6, 2012.

The affected cars had spare tires that didn’t match the specification mentioned on the manufacturer’s placard.

What Is The Best Dodge Cars & Trucks To Purchase?

Some of the best Dodge cars & trucks to purchase are the 2023 Ram Classic, Dodge Ram 2500 Power Wagon, and Dodge Ram 1500 eTorque.

The Bottom Line

Dealing with the 2012 Dodge Ram radio problems can be a hassle, but with this guide, you are now familiar with the common issues!

Sometimes, all it takes is to fix the wiring, and you are good to go. Other situations might require an alternator replacement, though.

Whether it is a simple fix or a more complex one, I’d recommend taking your vehicle to the auto repair shop if you are unsure what to do.

A professional mechanic can quickly pinpoint the electrical issues for you and get your radio working in no time.

2 thoughts on “2012 Dodge Ram Radio Problems: How To Fix Them?”

Having trouble with a “draw” on a 2012 Sport. I have installed 2 radios and have problems with a battery draw with each.

I’d highly recommend double-checking the wiring, especially the ignition and constant power wires. On the other hand, ensure that the ground connection is solid.

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Radio has power, but no sound coming out...

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WHile driving today, I was listening to my iPhone with the AUX port on the front of the radio. Within a second or two, there was no audio coming through the car. I have verified that the iPhone still plays audio through both it's built in speakers, and through the earphone jack. The car however, is not playing any audio through the speakers. Radio, CD, AUX, all have no audio or sound playing. The radio powers on, changes frequency, and accepts CD's. All aspects of the radio seem to be working, outside playing audio. I'm going to check all the fuses on the box, but if the radio has power, shouldn't the speakers?  

dhh3 said: If you have the Infinity system, it has a separate amp from the radio, and therefore, a separate fuse. If you do not have the Infinity system, the use of the AUX port could have shorted the internal amp. Click to expand...

dhh3 said: The Infinity system has the sub on the right rear, as well as separate tweeters on each rear door. Click to expand...

dhh3 said: OK. Your radio has a built in amp. When you turn it on, and rotate the Off/On, nothing happens? What happens when you push the right button, to adjust bass, treble, balance, fade, etc? Click to expand...

Having been a car electronics tech for 5 years I would say pull your radio out and unplug it. Wait about 20 seconds then plug it back in. Sometimes radios go into "safe mode" and this will reset it. If that doesn't work then it's your internal amp in the radio.  

rmorgan said: Having been a car electronics tech for 5 years I would say pull your radio out and unplug it. Wait about 20 seconds then plug it back in. Sometimes radios go into "safe mode" and this will reset it. If that doesn't work then it's your internal amp in the radio. Click to expand...

No media center... but to throw a wrench in all theories, the radio worked normally on the drive home. Though I only tried using the radio, I didn't want to press my luck, as I'm not very happy in traffic listening to road noise. The AUX cable wasn't plugged in, and I really didn't do too much more then adjust the volume and change frequency. Total drive was about 25-30 min, but it stayed on the whole time where this morning it lasted 5 minutes (the aux cable was still in). Wondering if I haven't just damaged the AUX port somehow, and that's now causing the issue... any thoughts on if that's even possible.  

The cable or the port could have a short. This would cause the symptoms you are describing. If you have a different cable, give it a try.  

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• Audio, Infotainment Navigation, MyGig, UConnect, etc.

CD Player Not Working

By JeremyJ April 7, 2021 in Audio, Infotainment Navigation, MyGig, UConnect, etc.

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In my 2018 Crossroad, I have the 8.4 Uconnect stereo system without navigation. There is a CD slot below the heater controls. I tried to insert a CD yesterday, but it just immediately spits it out and refuses to read it. The CD works fine in other players. Anyone have this happen before? Is there a fix? 

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have you tried a different CD to see if it would stay in and play???? also is it a home made CD? could just be that CD for some reason or it could be if the radio rejects all CDs then it is out of adjustment and needs to be worked on, if so contact a audio repair place 

It's not a recorded disc that I made. It's a standard CD that I purchased years ago. It works fine in other players. I'll try another disc today, but I really think it's the player itself. 

Still under warranty?

Nope. Just a powertrain warranty. 

use to work at Chrysler plant that made some of the radios if other cds wont work as well than the ejection and loading cd unit is either broken or out of adjustment, so you will need to go to an audio repair shop and see if they can help you

14WhiteRTRallye

8.4 plays dvds too.

I know this does not help your issue but why not simply put a bunch and I mean hundreds of your favorites on a thumb drive formatted first to fat32 and play them as MP3  audio songs ?  I do not think I have ever used our DJ CD player. 

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