First, let's just make it clear that I don't know much about cars and servicing them. So, if you can help with my problem, try and keep it as laymen as possible please.

I've been having the same radio problem for a while now, and have been putting off handing over cash to the dealership to get it fixed. It started when the radio wouldn't turn on, clock or anything. Checked the fuse, wasn't that. A few days later, it came back on. It was fine for a few weeks, then it happened again. Now, it turns on, but doesn't work. The whole screen is lit up, showing all the messages and such. Can't hear anything, or play a tape. The only way to shut it off is by shutting the truck off.

That's my problem. Usually, by now, it would go back to normal, but it hasn't. So, any idea(s) as to what's wrong with it?

 

First I would check the fuse again and make sure it seats all the way into the socket tight, and there are fuses under the hood too. (check owners manual to see which one it is) If that checks out ok, try the the self-diagnostics for the stereo. These are the directions, mine is a 2002 but I think it should be the same. If you get a code write it down and post it, I will look it up.

(info from Ford shop manual)

Speaker Walk-Around Test

NOTE: To enter the speaker walk-around test or the audio unit self-diagnostic mode, the audio unit must be turned on and in radio tuner mode (AM/FM).

To enter the speaker walk-around test, simultaneously press the audio unit preset buttons 3 and 6.
The speaker walk-around test stops at each speaker and applies sound to each speaker for about one to two seconds. Each speaker is tested and displayed on the audio unit in the following sequence: RF, LF, LR, RR.
The speaker walk-around test automatically continues and tests for a speaker short and compact disc/disc jockey (CD/DJ). If a speaker short exists, SPKR SHORT will be displayed. If the vehicle is not equipped with CD/DJ or if the CD/DJ is not responding, NO DJ will be displayed.

Audio Unit Self-Diagnostic Mode
NOTE: To enter the speaker walk-around test or the audio unit self-diagnostic mode, the audio unit must be turned on and in radio tuner mode (AM/FM).
The audio unit self-diagnostic mode has five tests available:
Preset button 1 = Audio internal/external SELF TEST. This test is an on-demand self-test. If SELF FAIL is displayed, press TUNE > to scroll view the DTCs stored. Refer to the Audio Unit Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) Index. If the system is OK, SELF PASS will be displayed.

Preset button 2 = View/Clear continuous DTCs. NO DTCS is displayed if no DTCs are retrieved. If DTCS FOUND is displayed, press TUNE > to view the DTCs retrieved. Refer to the Audio Unit Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) Index. To clear all DTCs, press the EJECT button. DTCS CLEAR will be displayed.

Preset button 3 = SIGNAL TEST. This test measures the average strength at the current tuner setting.
NOTE: Always document, clear and carry out the Audio Unit On-Demand Self-Test again.

Preset button 4 = Software configuration level. This test queries each radio system controller for its software configuration level. SOFT LEVELS will be displayed upon completion of the query. Press TUNE > to scroll view the software configuration version level.

Preset button 5 = DISPLAY TEST. This test will light all the audio unit display segments for five seconds. When the test is complete, DISPLAY TEST is displayed on the bezel.

 

It wasn't the fuses, at least not the ones below the dash. And I can't run the diagnostics, because, well, nothing radio-wise works. Holding in the presets does nothing. The screen shows every display message possible, the clock is an 88:88 and all that. I'll upload a picture of it tomorrow.

 

Here's what the display says.. that's all it ever says, nothing changes unless I turn the truck off.

 

Looks like it's time for a new stereo. You should be able to get a good aftermarket CD player for under $100.