Well...I've got quite a few lights on my radio out...including now the ones on the screen, so I can't see the track or station...thats HIGHLY annoying. I realize that there is a very detailed explanation on how to repair it...but the fact is, I lack both the time AND skill to tackle this.

Initially, I was just going to purchase a new radio from Ed Morad (since hes about 20 minutes from here)..but then I realized the TheftLock VIN garbage and that I would have to take it to a dealership to have it reprogrammed. Anyone know the cost of that reprogramming?

If the cost of the new radio + programming is too high, I'd like to PAY someone who has done this before to repair my radio lights. I'd pay for shipping both ways, plus whatever compensation you would require. I also need some new steering wheel buttons, but I don't think there will be a problem using the ones from Ed.

You may want to phone a few dealers in your area. Cost varies significantly for a VIN relearn. Some dealers have done this as a courtesy in the past. I've heard of some that charge approx. $20.00 and then there are a few who will make you book an appointment and charge you the minimum 1 hour rate. Once you have this information, it will help you decide what you want to do.

Keep in mind that anytime you purchase a used radio, the lights may not be much better. Auto wreckers will usually give some form of warranty against defects, but even at that you could end up with the same problem all over again. I would certainly help you out, but my problem is being in Canada. The cost for shipping to and from will be much more than I'm sure you want to spend. Someone else may offer to help a little closer to where you live.

You can replace the bulbs yourself.
You can buy every thing needed for around $35.00 at Radio Shack.

http://www.bonnevilleclub.com/forum/...highlight=bulb

Yes, I realize that. The post you referenced only specifically dealt with replacing the display light. Not only does mine have a burnt out display light, it also has about 6-8 different buttons burnt out (i.e. the Tune button). I don't have a clue how to solder, and I've just recently started a new job, not to mention I have a MASSIVE amount of other things going on...this isn't something I want to tackle myself at this point. I'd much rather NOT risk FUBARing my radio by trying to jerry rig it myself.

Thanks for the advice DDalder - you're definitely the man on BC for this kind of thing. I imagine it would cost a bit to ship it to Canada. Unfortunately, I think you're right - I probably would have the same issues eventually with a radio from a wrecker. The ideal situation would be to use my radio and have new LEDs soldered in.

Anyone around Cleveland, OH know how to do this? Hell..even PA. Thanks guys!

I'm going to check with my crazy soldering friend about this. Does anyone have a list of all the cars that have the same radio? If so, I could go fiddle with one at a junkyard and see how to take it apart so that if my friend and I do end up picking this up, we know how to mess with it and which bulbs to get.

If you're unable to locate help in the near future, I am planning a trip to PA in early May. I may also be heading to Cleveland on a business related trip sooner (although I have no idea when for sure). If I get down that way before this is repaired I'm happy to help you out.

Great - thanks alot, I just might take you up on that if it comes to that Thanks.

you know, i have removed and re-installed the stock head unit and other aftermarket ones in my 97 SE a few times, and never had to reprogram anything..

His 2001 radio has an Orange and Purple instead of an Orange and Yellow power wires.

Just another way for GM to get you back to the dealership for service.

Sorry guys, you've completely lost me. Not sure how these relate to this post. I'm assuming you're making some sort of reference to a 1999 or earlier deck. The 2K+ units are entirely different in operation with the vehicle and TheftLock. Repairing the display backlighting is also different.

Harofreak00 posted a thread about servicing the 2K+ backlighting here:

http://www.bonnevilleclub.com/forum/...ic.php?t=50300