Many faulty in-car digital radios can be repaired. However, it’s worth considering whether a new radio with a full warranty and up-to-date features may be better in the long run.
Before investigating a repair of a faulty in-car stereo you should see if you are entitled to a repair or replacement. Citizens Advice has a useful section on consumer rights on their website.
If you have the receipt or warranty card which came with the radio (or the car if the radio was already fitted) it may have details of any extended warranty and how to go about organising a repair or replacement.
However, if the radio is out of warranty you can contact the manufacturer to enquire about a repair. Car radio manufacturer Alpine has an official repair and service centre in the UK with CD head unit repairs starting from £49.99 + VAT. Pure has a helpdesk to contact with repair enquiries, as does Sony.
Some manufacturers recommend independent repair centres. For repairs outside of warranty JVC lists authorised repair centres on their website, as does Pioneer.
Most repair centres, if not local to you, will require you to remove the radio from your car and send it by post or courier. The owners manual will have details on how to do this safely.
If the radio is several years old and you expect to pay more than £50 for a repair you could consider whether it’s better to buy a new radio. Models from brands like Sony, Pioneer and Kenwood are now available for less than £100.
Newer models often come with support for DAB+, Bluetooth, hands-free calling, USB sockets and will play file formats like FLAC. You’ll also be able to benefit from a 1 year warranty, rather than a shorter guarantee on repairs of an older radio.
As an independent website we don’t repair or service radios.