GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Tools Required

J 39916-A CD and Cassette Diagnostic Kit

    • Clean the tape player every 50 hours in order to prevent damage to the tape head. However, clean the tape player every 15 hours for the best performance.
    • Clean the following components on the tape player:
       - The head
       - The capstan
    • Leave the tape player in the vehicle. The components can be reached through the tape door.
    • CLN (clean) will appear on the display as a reminder after 50 hours of tape play.
    • A reduction in sound quality and damage to the cassette tapes is possible until the tape player is cleaned.
    • Ensure the quality of the tape:
       - Store cassette tapes in their plastic cases away from direct sunlight and extreme heat.
       - Cassettes may wear over time and the sound will degrade.
       - Play different cassettes in order to determine if the tape is faulty.

Cleaning Procedure


Object Number: 258812  Size: MH

Use the J 39916-A in order to clean the tape player. Refer to the directions in the J 39916-A .

This is a wet-type cleaning system. This system uses a cleaning cassette with pads which scrub the tape head while the hubs of the cleaner cassette turns.

The radio may display an error and eject the cartridge when you are using the J 39916-A .

Insert the cleaning cassette at least three times in order to thoroughly clean the tape player.

A non-scrubbing action, wet-type cleaner with a fabric belt may also be used. This cleaner will not cause an error. However, the tape player will not be cleaned as thoroughly.

Hold the EJECT button for five seconds in order to reset the CLN indicator. The radio will display three dashes when the clean feature has been reset.