First post to group. Have a 97GLE, w/ 42k. I was cranking the CD on the way home from work tonight; it suddenly stopped, switched to radio, no sound. Turned system off, turned back on and now all it says is "AUx". No ability to turn off, can't take a tape, no sound, can insert a cd, but can only eject, no play. Tried pulling the fuse, all that did was knock off the presets. Still the "aux". No previous problems, but have to admit, I listen to it LOUD.

Did I toast it, and if so, would I be best off looking to go OEM or aftermarket?

 

go buy another one from the junkyard for $80

 

If there's power, there isn't a fuse problem. Bose head units in the Maximas tend to be problematic. I had mine for 6 years until it started acting funny (display would fade out now and then, to eventually disappear altogether) and would sometimes not play tapes. Sounds to me like the unit has a hardware malfunction.

It costs about $200 (including shipping) to get your Bose system fixed--there are two Internet based shops which do a pretty good job of fixing them. Is it worth it? I think not. List price for these units is about $1000. Yes, they are very good quality. But old technology. Unlike home amplifiers, car stereos do not take age well. Invest the repair cost towards a new head unit. I got a beautiful one (JVC KD-SH99) for $290 and it plays MP3s. The adapter to use the Bose speakers was $50. Installation was about 2-3 hours. You have to decide whether you want single or double DIN. If single, you'll have to contend with the gap below (I used an I-30 storage tray that worked like a charm).

Oh and forget about junkyards. No way can you get one for $80. Most salvage shops that sell the radios are offering the Bose system for about $500. I have seen people auction their Bose systems on eBay for around $300. One guy included the speakers, which is nice to have in case yours blow (considering the loud volume you mention).