Radio/Audio system not working ("audio off" error)

Discussion in 'Gen 2 Prius Main Forum' started by Help07Prius, Jun 8, 2025 at 10:20 PM.

  1. Help07Prius

    Help07Prius Junior Member

    Joined:
    Jan 29, 2024
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    Location:
    USA
    Vehicle:
    2007 Prius
    Model:
    Base
    Vehicle: 2007 Toyota Prius (standard trim)

    Problem
    The entire audio/entertainment system won’t power on. On the MFD’s Audio screen, I only get an “Audio Off” message.

    Background & Research
    • I couldn’t find many reports online, but one Reddit thread noted a Prius radio died after the 12 V battery went flat. Someone in the comments fixed it by pulling fuse #17 in the engine compartment, then reinstalling it to power-cycle the system.
    Initial Troubleshooting
    1. Replaced engine-bay fuse #17 (15 A).
      • Radio returned immediately.
    2. Next day: audio dead again.
      • Pulled and reinserted fuse #17—radio powered on, but only until the following day.
    3. Battery history: the 12 V battery has gone flat multiple times from long periods sitting.
    Update 1
    • Replaced three fuses that feed the audio/MFD/clock circuits (all tested good for continuity despite the old blades showing oxidation and heat discoloration):
      1. Engine compartment #17 DOME, 15 A

      2. Passenger-compartment #17 PANEL, 7.5 A

      3. Passenger-compartment #24 ACC, 7.5 A
    • After replacing, I cycled the engine and door locks twice (to mimic leaving and returning)—the radio stayed on. I’ll report back if it still works tomorrow.
    Related Fuses
    Engine Compartment 17 DOME 15 A Audio system, interior lights, smart-entry/start, gauges, turn signals, luggage light, clock
    Passenger Compartment 17 PANEL 7.5 A Multi-information display, clock, audio system, instrument lights
    Passenger Compartment 24 ACC 7.5 A Audio system, multi-information display, clock

    Question: Given the symptom returns after a day and the battery has discharged several times, what’s the most likely cause?

    Similar issues reported here:
    1.
    2. Radio / CD stopped working | PriusChat
     

    Attached Files:

    #1 Help07Prius, Jun 8, 2025 at 10:20 PM
    Last edited: Jun 8, 2025 at 11:44 PM