How To Fix Aux Cables? – A Step By Step Guide

Fix Aux Cables Step 1: Identify the problem

So you have confirmed that the auxiliary or stereo cable isn’t working. However, you don’t know what exactly is the problem. It may be the cable that has broken internally or the connections between the wire and plug are loose. The first step is to unscrew the plastic cover that is found on the front and rears end. It normally protects the connections from dust, dirt, oil, moisture, water, and contact. This helps to ensure there is minimal interference, it does not rust or corrode, and improves the handling.

After unscrewing the unit, you will see three or two points of contact. These depend on the type of plug. Stereos type has 3 points and is signified by two black stripes. It will deliver sound to two different points. A good example is to the right and the left headphone. A mono unit has a single stripe and delivers sound to one point only.

Check the wires to make sure they are well soldered to the points. Do this to both sides. If all checks well, the next step is to use a millimeter. This helps to check the continuity. In something is broken, there will be no continuity. Set it to resistance signified by Ohms or horseshoe symbol. Attach one probe (red or black) on the Tip and then the other to the Tip on the other end. There should be reading. Do this to the Ring as well as Sleeve. In case a section doesn’t show any reading, chances are that part of the wire or cable is broken and will need to be replaced.

Fix Aux Cables Step 2: Replacing the wire

If you discover that the wire is at fault, you need to find a good wire. You have the option of going for a shorter or longer one depending on your preference as well as individual choice. However, the longer the wire the more likely the audio quality will be less reliable.

You should go for a high-quality wire that comes from a reputable brand. It will have good quality, proper sheathing to prevent any breakage, and handle the use. It normally features three wires, two are thinner and have a covering while the third one is thicker and has no covering. The protected ones will be of different colors and connect the Tip or Ring. The third one is the sheathing or ground and helps to combat interference.

Fix Aux Cables Step 3: Replacing the point

You may discover that wire/ cable is okay and the problem is the head. A part may have broken off or it may be corroded or rusty. Like the wire, you should also always pick a high-quality product. The top choices offer the best connectivity, which allows for better transmission of audio signals. It may come in silver or gold finish.

It is important it makes sure that it is similar to what you have. Using a stereo unit( has 2 stripes and 3 connecting points) instead of mono( has 1 stripe and 2 connecting points) will not work effectively. This also applies in the vice versa.

Fix Aux Cables Step 4: Soldering the pieces together

Insert the soldering iron or gun into a power socket and let it warm up. Next, you take the wire stripper and strip the ends. This exposes the wires (which are normally made of copper). By this time, the soldering will have heated up. Apply some solder onto the ends of the wires. This is what is known as tinning.

It helps to join the wire strands together for a more solid point. In addition, it makes it easier to join to the connector. Apply the solder to the head or the connectors. If the problem is the wire, you will need to do this on both ends. But if it is a connector, you may need to work on just one end.

Fix Aux Cables Step 5: Confirm everything’s okay

After the soldering, you can visually check to make certain everything is good. An even better approach is to use a Multimeter. This is the same as what you did earlier to test for continuity. If everything is okay, you then tighten the plastic sheath over the plug. Ensure it fits tightly to prevent leaving gaps.

NB: You should also check the plastic capping is in good condition. If it’s broken or loose, it may allow in moisture, oils, water, and other things. This may erode the parts and it may start to corrode again leading to the same problem. If in doubt, replace it as well.

Use the pliers to tighten the end, which features a metal strip with some jaws. It tightens on the wire to prevent the soldered points from coming loose in case its pulled hard.

Fix Aux Cables Step 6: test the unit and cleanup

Once done, test the aux cable to confirm its working okay. The sound quality should be good and it should not have any background noises. Clean up the place by removing the bits and pieces, throwing away the debris, and storing the soldering iron, solder wire, wire stripper, and plies. Wipe the area with a damp piece of cloth.