I've got a 90 tsi and the radio only works on the acc/on position but when its started and running does not work. I havent really had a chance to really look at it and wanted to get some ideas.

 

Sounds like the radio wiring or ignition wiring was screwed up at some point by the previous owner. I would say that the radio is wired incorrectly, but that doesn't explain why it doesn't work in the ON position...unless, the radio wiring is really screwed up.

 

Thats kinda what I was thinking that its losing power when the car is on the run position.

 

I don't think the radio is getting enough power at the ON position.

Test it with a volt meter on the on and started position,I wonder if there will be a drop.

 

Well I put a stock radio I had laying around in and it works fine. I was looking at how the guy ran the ground and betting thats the problem. I am gonna run a better ground w/ the radio that came w/ the car and see if it makes a difference.

 

Yeah that could very well be the problem. Irratic voltage