I just installed a new stereo (the VRCD400SDU) in my 2000 Honda Accord. Everything works fine with the stereo, but now whenever I turn my headlights on, all the dash lights go out - and vice versa: headlights off, dash lights on.

Rather than find a harness to hook up the new radio with the existing plug, I spliced the wires. The only two wires that I haven't figured out yet - and which are probably causing the trouble - are:
[with the car] the red/grey (ILLUMI CONTROL) and the red/black (ILLUMI)
Which leaves
[with the stereo] the orange (Amplifier Remote or Power Antenna) and white (Dashboard Light Dimmer Switch)
To potentially be problematic as well.

Also, I haven't checked yet, but I don't think it's a blown fuse because the dash works when the headlights are off.

Thank you so much for your help!

[QUOTE=spicymonkey13]
Rather than find a harness to hook up the new radio with the existing plug, I spliced the wires. The only two wires that I haven't figured out yet - and which are probably causing the trouble - are:
[with the car] the red/grey (ILLUMI CONTROL) and the red/black (ILLUMI)
Which leaves
[with the stereo] the orange (Amplifier Remote or Power Antenna) and white (Dashboard Light Dimmer Switch)
To potentially be problematic as well.
QUOTE]

I would always recommend a plug kit over splicing, but since you've already started...

The white wire on the radio is used to dim the radio display when the lights are turned on (just like dimming the dash lights). The problem is that some cars use a dimmer control that goes to ground as the lights are dimmed, and others use a dimmer control that goes to 12V. And then some cars use something different altogether. I would guess that this is why you are having problems. My recommendation is to not hook up any of the illumination wires - cap them off so they don't short out. You won't be able to dim the lights on the radio, but at least the dash lights will work.

The orange wire from the radio should be used if you have a power antenna, otherwise it won't be needed (unless you have an aftermarket amplifier).

Hi spickmonkey13,

I read you question regarding the dashlight problem you were having with your accord.

I have a 99 accord and also have the same problem.

I recently installed a kenwood radio and the same thing happen to me. Headlights on, dashlights goes off and vice versa.

I brought the car to the dealership. They said they have no clue but would gladly charge me $85/hr until they can fix it ( up to 1 to 2 days!! According to them).

Did you ever get your problem straighten out? If you did, could you please let me know what was wrong so that I can do the same on my car?

Thank you so much.