Add a CB Radio and my 2003 won't start?

[CPOTomG]

Using the "Accessory" 12 V plug found on the passenger side under the dash I installed a CD radio. Several times my car wouldn't start and upon removal of the key from the Ignition switch the steering column wouldn't lock.
My dealer says the CB radio was draining some capacitors and causing the car not to start.
Why would GM provide the Accessory 12 V plug if it would cause this problem?

 

[Tom Kearns]

Sounds to me like your battery is going sour. If the voltage goes down, it will cause the steering column lock to act up, as it did on my 98 Pace Car. A CB radio should NOT cause a problem, especially when using the 12 volt acessory port. Make sure it is wired correctly, (Plus, Ground, and Ignition sence). Tom

 

[CPOTomG]

Thanks Tom

The 12 V Plug is switched via the ignition so it is only a two wire hook-up. Even a retired Navy Chief Electronics Technician (and now a Sr. Systems Engineer with Lockheed, and a masters degree) like my self didn't have too much difficulty (other than squeezing my fat body in place to get a hold of the plug.

 

[Piet]

The 12 V Plug is switched via the ignition so it is only a two wire hook-up. Even a retired Navy Chief Electronics Technician (and now a Sr. Systems Engineer with Lockheed, and a masters degree) like my self didn't have too much difficulty (other than squeezing my fat body in place to get a hold of the plug.

So I take it that you've tried the finger in the socket trick then? :L

 

[bossvette]

Welcome to CAC

My dealer says the CB radio was draining some capacitors and causing the car not to start.

Doesnt seem right to me, I am not an electronics whiz; but what capaciters?I have a CB in my 76 without any problems. I do know that if you do not have proper voltage the computers and most electronic ignition systems will not work and the true voltage is more like 14 then 12 if you check it with a volt meter.

 

[CPOTomG]

Eh?!

So I take it that you've tried the finger in the socket trick then? :L

\
Not quite,
My fat fingers won't go.
Maybe I should have had bottle of Moosehead to aid in my endeavors.
The Dealer claims the capacitors on one of the modules are being drained.
I doubt this because I really don't think the CB drain in the receive mode is quite enought to cause such a calamity.
My Radar Detector doesn't cause a similar fault and I've occassionally left it plugged in to the cigar lighter overnight with no problem starting in the morning.
Perhaps I should just wire in the CB via one of the 12 volt plugs that are not via the ignition. Eh?
This problem was occurring randomly and the car would usually start in about twenty minutes.
Do Dah Do Dah!
Have a fine Canadian Day, From one that was born just north of Canada!