Replacing factory CD player in 2001 Toyota Celica GT?

Question

Over the weekend, the CD player in my 2001 Celica suddenly stopped working. After starting the car, I ejected the CD in the player, then tried to put in another one - and the loader did not pull the disc in. Additionally, when I push the 'CD' button on the audio console, nothing happens. I can switch between AM, FM 1/2, and Tape without issue. But when I push the 'CD' button, it's as if the console can't tell that the CD player is there.

So my question is really two-part:

1) What might be the problem? Could it be a blown fuse? I kind of doubt it, since the rest of the audio system is working fine. More likely it's something with the CD player itself. So...

2) If the player has gone bust, how hard is it to replace? The CD player, tuner, and tape player seem pretty tightly integrated; I imagine any replacement will involve putting a new all-in-one audio system in, no? For a car audio rookie, is it best to let the folks at Circuit City do the installation for you?

Thanks!

Answer 1

To replace any of the older Toyota systems, with a modern C.D. player is a bit difficult if you have no experience in auto electrics.

The Japanese use weird wiring plugs and colours and they very often use the body of the set as ground so there is no separate ground wire.

I would not attempt to change it yourself you will end up with real problems.

Your old set may have suffered damage to the C.D's mechanical, or laser systems if the car jolted badly when it stalled, but I can't see that you will have blown a fuse.