The Jeep Renegade sound system unavailable problem can present itself in many ways. Sometimes, it can come on and off intermittently, and when the warning light is on, the radio doesn’t work. Other times, the stereo may work, but the blind side alert tones stop.
The worst part of this problem is that the owner’s manual says nothing about it. So, what causes it? Can you fix the problem yourself, or must you visit a dealer? Check the answers out below.
The causes of the Jeep Renegade “sound system unavailable” include outdated software and dirt build-up on the sound system’s connectors. An update to the Satellite Radio signal could also trigger the issue, in which case the problem would be temporary.
It’s easy to troubleshoot the sound system unavailable issue on your Jeep Renegade. However, you want to know where to start. Therefore, let’s take you through the mentioned causes in detail:
Update to the Satellite Radio Signal
Sometimes you can experience a condition where your radio freezes and restarts repeatedly. This condition doesn’t have to be a problem with your sound system. It could result from an ongoing update to the Satellite Radio signal that the radio can’t handle.
The good news is that this issue is usually temporary. Your Uconnect system will restore and function normally as soon as the update is complete. So, if it has happened to you for the first time, don’t panic. It’s easy to fix.
How To Fix
Just give your system time and see whether the problem will disappear. Most of the time, resetting the radio will help fix this problem. Disconnect all the devices and then turn off your vehicle. Now start the car and reconnect the Bluetooth devices with the sound system, which will probably work usually.
Outdated Software
Your audio system may behave erratically due to a software anomaly. For instance, the radio may work fine in that you can receive phone calls but not read text messages. Other times, the system will turn on and off intermittently and display the sound system unavailable message each time. In other words, a software error problem can present itself in many ways.
How To Fix
It would help if you had a software update for the radio. Try to find an update for your Renegade on this site. Meanwhile, you can remove your phone from Bluetooth pairing on the system. Delete the Android App on your phone, re-pair the phone, and reinstall the app to clear the sound system unavailable message on display.
Connectivity Issue
According to a representative from Uconnect, the sound system unavailable is common. They have received numerous calls regarding the issue. The problem is not just affecting the Renegades but many Uconnect systems.
So, they found out that it was Bluetooth connectivity to the Uconnect system that triggered the mishap. They are working on a firmware update to resolve it and will publish an article about it soon.
Cellular-equipped systems will get the update Over-The-Air (OTA). The others will receive it through dealerships. Meanwhile, there’s a way to fix the issue temporarily.
How To Fix
Avoid connecting your phone through Bluetooth to the Uconnect radio. You can remove the phone from the Bluetooth menu in your radio or turn the Bluetooth on your device off so it doesn’t reconnect.
Dirt/Rust Build-up on the Connectors
Over time, your sound system’s connector might catch dirt or white rust. When that happens, connectivity will be compromised, and the system will run erratically or stop working altogether. Sometimes the connectors may be wrongly seated, triggering the problem. Luckily, it’s easy to resolve this problem.
How To Fix
Unplug the connections to the system and then plug the back. If that doesn’t fix the issue, remove the system’s door panel to reach the speaker. Disconnect the speaker and clean the white layer of dust in the connector. Next, reassemble the system and check if the problem has disappeared and the audio quality has improved.
Defective Audio System
Although it’s rare, you shouldn’t rule out the possibility of the system being the one to blame. When the stereo fails, you may notice a few tell-tale signs you’ll observe. That is, in addition to the “Audio System Unavailable” message on display and whatever issues that follow it.
For example, the USB/AUX connection would stop or work intermittently. Sometimes, the system will behave like a software update problem but clashes completely after an update. In such a case, your system has probably failed.
How To Fix
Replace the system. But, before you hurriedly buy a new stereo, it would be best to consult a dealer for an accurate diagnosis. Sometimes the problem could be a combination of speakers and the wiring harness.
FAQs
How Do You Reset the Audio System on Your Jeep?
To reset the audio system on your Jeep, park the vehicle and turn on the ignition to the “Run” position. Press the volume and tuner knobs simultaneously and hold for about 20 seconds. Once you do that correctly, the display will go dark, flash your car’s brand and restart.
Is My Jeep Renegade Audio System a Wear-and-Tear Item?
Unfortunately, your Jeep’s Renegade audio system is a wear-and-tear item. Over time, the stereo system and speakers will wear out and require replacement. Most car speakers have a lifespan of between 4 and 8 years. The exact life of a car audio system depends on how the owner takes care of their car.
Conclusion
It’s easy to troubleshoot the Jeep Renegade sound system unavailable issue after reading our post above. As discussed, the problem may be temporary and disappear once the update on the Radio Satellite signal completes.
If that doesn’t work, use the other troubleshooting methods and restore your system to function normally. But if the DIY fixing also bears no fruits, you may find the assistance of a dealer helpful. The specialist will accurately diagnose the cause and fix the problem accordingly.
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