Lincoln LS Stereo and Controls problem

[CCheeks]

OK I hope someone can help me with this. I have taken it to the dealer so many times I just dont feel the trip is worth it anymore without providing them with the answer myself. Here's the situation...My mother has a 2000 LS and I have a 2001, both have the Alpine stereo mine with the changer in the glove box and Moms with the in-dash setup. We have the exact same problem, The controls on the steering wheel don't function properly sometimes/most times. 1) The mute button wont work at all 2) The seek function on the side of the wheel works wrong (seek down=volume up and seek up is ok) 3) The console lights for the radio wont work but the rest of the dash lights do and 4) When you turn off the car the radio is supposed to stay on until one of the doors is opened but it powers itself off when the car is turned off. I think that is everything...And again, it only happenes sometimes but more so than not so this is an annoyance for me. Has anyone had this problem? Does it sound like an easy fix that is just being overlooked? I would appreciate any feedback anyone has. Thanks

[Steve Moran]

Down below the steering wheel is a spiral wound set of wires called a clock spring.
This spring is known after a while to lose contact from repetitious turning of the steering wheel over time. It can be changed but there is a little bit of work involved. I would suggest getting an estimate from a shop or heaven forbid the dealer. If it is in a price range for you I suggest getting it done there, for fear of setting off the air bags if you make a mistake UNLESS! You have total confidence in your self and your work. Then I will gladly walk you thru the process

[jonota]

it sounds to me like you've got misplaced wires... especially on the seek button. have you tried/found out anything else?

[pepsi2185]

you could try switching out the radio, best of luck