Chevrolet Silverado: Why Won't My Clock Turn Off?

Troubleshoot the clock radio in your Chevrolet Silverado 1500 using these simple tips.

By Charlie Gaston - June 3, 2015

This article applies to the Chevrolet Silverado 1500 (1999-present).

The Chevrolet Silverado 1500 is an impressive truck with incredible horsepower, a competitive miles per gallon (MPG) rating and a superior 4-speed automatic transmission. Equipped with a number of notable interior features, including four high-performance speakers, a mast antenna, and an AM/FM stereo with an integrated automatic clock, the Silverado 1500 is a consumer favorite. If the clock in your Silverado 1500 won't turn off, there are a number of issues that could be causing the problem – and not all require the help of a licensed professional. We'll walk you through the steps you'll need to take to resolve this common problem and offer handy advice for getting the best service around.

Materials Needed

  • 10-amp fuse
  • Fuse grabber or tweezers

Step 1 – Check the fuse panel

You might be missing a fuse.

The first step is to check your fuse panel to ensure there is a 10-amp fuse in the radio fuse bay.

  • This is as simple as popping the hood of your truck and checking the fuse panel (see your fuse panel diagram for the exact location of the fuse).
  • Check that a fuse is present.
  • Remove the fuse using your fuse grabbers or tweezers.
  • Check that the fuse is not blown.
  • A blown fuse will have a broken strip in the center.
  • It's also recommended that you remove your battery for approximately 15 minutes, and then re-install.
Figure 1. Fuse panel diagram.

Pro Tip

A faulty fuse could be the source of your problem; however, this is only the first step if the problem is not immediately resolved.

Step 2 – Have the door switches inspected

They might be faulty.

It's extremely difficult to replace the door switches in a Chevrolet Silverado without possibly causing damage to your switch housing assembly. Therefore, it's recommended that you have a licensed professional inspect your truck and replace any faulty door switches that may be present.

  • Avoid fiddling with your driver's side or passenger's side door switches on your own.
  • Set up an appointment at your local Chevrolet dealership or garage for faster service.
  • Explain that your clock won't turn off and your door switches could be the culprit.
Figure 2. Silverado 1500 door switches.

Pro Tip

Attempting this repair on your own could result in permanent damage to your vehicle.

Step 3 – Have a licensed professional check the remote wire

It might be faulty.

Your remote wire tells your deck to turn on and off.

  • The blue wire with the green stripe is the remote wire.
  • The yellow wire is your power source.
  • Unless you are a licensed professional, it's highly recommended that you visit your local Chevrolet dealership for this repair.
  • Do not attempt this repair if your truck is equipped with OnStar.
  • Expect to pay around $40 to $50 for this repair.

Pro Tip

Attempting this repair on your own could result in damage to your truck's entire electrical system.

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